Chorkie
Crossbreed: Chihuahua × Yorkshire Terrier
The Chorkie, a charming crossbreed between a Chihuahua and a Yorkshire Terrier, is known for its confidence and affectionate nature towards its family. Despite its tiny size, like its parent breeds, it boasts a bold and spirited character. Discover more about this delightful crossbreed.
While the Chihuahua shares its name with the largest state in Mexico, it is considered the smallest dog breed in the world. Intelligent, brave, and affectionate, the Chihuahua makes an ideal companion for many pet adopters, particularly those new to pet ownership. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in a wide range of lifestyles with ease.
Yorkshire Terriers are lively, intelligent dogs that deserve respect as true terriers, not toys. Best suited to families with gentle, respectful children, they make excellent companions. Originally bred as rat hunters, they remain alert and vocal, making them effective watchdogs. Though now often seen in shows or as pets, they’re the smallest but boldest of the terrier group.
Chihuahua
While the Chihuahua shares its name with the largest state in Mexico, it is considered the smallest dog breed in the world. Intelligent, brave, and affectionate, the Chihuahua makes an ideal companion for many pet adopters, particularly those new to pet ownership. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in a wide range of lifestyles with ease.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are lively, intelligent dogs that deserve respect as true terriers, not toys. Best suited to families with gentle, respectful children, they make excellent companions. Originally bred as rat hunters, they remain alert and vocal, making them effective watchdogs. Though now often seen in shows or as pets, they’re the smallest but boldest of the terrier group.
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Life expectancy |
The Chorkie has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Small
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Adult size |
Female
Between 6 and 9 in
Male
Between 6 and 9 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 4 and 9 lb
Male
Between 4 and 11 lb
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Coat colour
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Black
White
Brown
Blue
Sand
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Type of coat
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Short
Long
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Eye colour
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Brown
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Purchase price |
The Chorkie costs between £450 and £900 |
Chorkies are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and are confident little dogs. With the right training and socialisation, they can be well-mannered companions, making them a great choice for families or individuals looking for a loving, energetic pet.
More details about the Chorkie
Chorkie: Origins and history
The Chorkie, a small designer crossbreed, originated in the United States in the 1990s, though it is growing in popularity worldwide, including the UK. It is a mix of the Chihuahua (either long or smooth coat) and the Yorkshire Terrier.
Chorkies can vary in size, shape, coat type, and colour depending on whether they are first crosses, bred back to one of the parent breeds, or bred with other Chorkies. Despite being relatively uncommon in the UK, they are gaining recognition as an affectionate, compact companion dog.
Chorkie: Characteristics
The Chorkie is extremely affectionate, always seeking attention and cuddles from its owners.
The Chorkie is a very playful dog that loves interactive games and mentally stimulating activities.
Chorkies can be calm dogs when well-exercised, but they tend to lean towards being energetic and active.
The Chorkie is a highly intelligent dog that learns quickly and thrives on new challenges.
The Chorkie has a moderate hunting instinct inherited from its terrier ancestors.
Chorkies can be wary and fearful of strangers, making early socialisation essential for building their confidence.
Although Chorkies are very affectionate, they can also be independent and enjoy spending time alone.
Chorkie: Behaviour
Chorkies typically become very attached to their owners, so they don’t usually cope well with long periods of separation and may experience separation anxiety.
Thanks to its intelligence, the Chorkie is relatively easy to train, although it can be stubborn at times.
The Chorkie tends to bark frequently, especially when it hears unusual noises or wants to alert its owners to potential intruders.
Chorkies don’t usually wander far, but they may stray if their curiosity gets the better of them.
If left alone for too long or bored, Chorkies can become destructive.
The Chorkie can be a greedy dog, so its food intake should be monitored to avoid overfeeding.
The Chorkie can make a good watchdog thanks to its alert nature and tendency to bark at unfamiliar sounds.
Training a Chorkie
Training a Chorkie requires positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and affection to encourage good behaviour.
Keep training sessions short and engaging to match their attention span. Be consistent and patient, as Chorkies can be stubborn. Early socialisation is key to reducing fear of strangers, and interactive games help channel their energy productively.
Chorkie: Lifestyle
The Chorkie adapts well to living in a flat, provided it receives sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.
While Chorkies may not be endurance athletes, they are still highly active little dogs. In addition to daily walks, they benefit from mental exercises such as brain games.
The Chorkie’s small size makes it easy to carry and take along on trips.
Breed compatibility Chorkie
With proper socialisation from a young age, the Chorkie can live harmoniously with cats.
The Chorkie can be sociable with other dogs, especially if it has been well socialised from an early age.
The Chorkie gets along well with children, particularly when the children are taught to be gentle and respectful.
The Chorkie is especially well-suited for older people due to its affectionate nature and compact size.
The Chorkie is a great choice for a first dog due to its small size and affectionate nature.
Chorkie: Purchase price
Chorkies typically cost between £450 and £900, depending on the breeder, location, and the puppy's lineage. It is vital to research and select a reputable breeder to ensure your new pet is healthy and well cared for.
In addition to the initial purchase price, you should also budget for expenses such as food, insurance, vet check-ups, and accessories.
Chorkie: Shedding
Light
The Chorkie sheds very little, making it a suitable choice for allergy sufferers.
Chorkie: Grooming
Long-haired Chorkies require regular combing to prevent matting, while short-haired Chorkies are much easier to maintain.
Additionally, as both Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers are prone to tartar build-up, dental care, such as regular tooth brushing, should never be overlooked.
Chorkie: Health
The Chorkie is generally a hardy dog, but it can be prone to certain health issues inherited from its parent breeds.
While Chorkies can tolerate moderate heat, they require protection from extreme temperatures.
Due to their small size and fine coat, they are sensitive to the cold and may need warm clothing in colder weather.
Chorkies are prone to weight gain if not given enough exercise or if they receive too many treats.
Although mixed-breed dogs often benefit from greater genetic diversity, this does not guarantee better health than pedigree dogs. The following health conditions may occur in Chorkies:
- Patellar luxation
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Epilepsy
- Tracheal collapse
- Eye problems
- Dental issues
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