Dachshund and Yorkie Mix: The Complete Dorkie Breed Guide
Everything about the dachshund and yorkie mix: size, temperament, coat types, health risks, grooming needs, cost.
If you've been searching for a compact companion with outsized personality, the dachshund and yorkie mix — commonly called the Dorkie — probably landed on your radar. This designer cross pairs the tenacious, sausage-shaped Dachshund with the feisty, silk-coated Yorkshire Terrier, producing a small dog that punches well above its weight in charm and attitude.
But designer mixes are inherently variable. Unlike purebred dogs governed by a written breed standard, a Dorkie's appearance, coat, and temperament depend heavily on which parent's genes dominate. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect — and what you can't — when bringing a dachshund and yorkie mix into your home.
- Weight range: 5–15 lb (2.3–6.8 kg)
- Height range: 5–10 in (13–25 cm) at the shoulder
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Coat: Short and smooth, long and silky, or wiry — varies by individual
- Energy level: Moderate (30–45 minutes of activity daily)
- AKC recognition: Not recognized (hybrid); parents are both AKC-registered breeds
Parent Breed Breakdown: Dachshund Meets Yorkshire Terrier
Understanding a Dorkie starts with understanding its parents. Each breed contributes distinct physical and behavioral traits, and the mix can lean heavily toward either side.
| Trait | Dachshund | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany, 15th–17th century — bred to hunt badgers | England, mid-1800s — bred to catch rats in mills and mines |
| AKC Group | Hound | Toy |
| Weight | Miniature: ≤11 lb (5 kg); Standard: 16–32 lb (7–14.5 kg) | 4–7 lb (1.8–3.2 kg) |
| Height | Miniature: 5–6 in; Standard: 8–9 in | 7–8 in (18–20 cm) |
| Coat types | Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired | Long, silky, single coat |
| Temperament | Bold, curious, independent, can be stubborn | Affectionate, vocal, confident, spirited |
| Shedding | Low to moderate (smooth sheds least) | Very low — hair rather than fur |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 11–15 years |
The Dachshund contributes a long body, strong prey drive, and a certain stubborn independence. The Yorkie adds a silky coat, alertness, and a tendency to bond tightly with one person. According to the AKC Dachshund breed standard and the AKC Yorkshire Terrier standard, both breeds are known for boldness disproportionate to their size — a trait that reliably shows up in their offspring.
Generation Types: F1, F1B, and Multigen Dorkies
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Dachshund × one purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Maximum genetic diversity but highest trait variability. Puppies in the same litter can look dramatically different.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Dorkie bred back to one of the parent breeds — usually the Yorkie to push coat texture toward silky/low-shedding. Slightly more predictable but still variable.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Dorkies bred together. Genetic recombination increases unpredictability — you may get puppies that strongly resemble one grandparent breed.
- Multigen (F3+): Dorkie-to-Dorkie breedings over multiple generations. Rare for this mix; most Dorkies on the market are F1 or F1B.
Unlike popular doodle crosses where multigen breeding programs are well-established, the Dorkie is still primarily an F1 cross. Most breeders mate a purebred Dachshund to a purebred Yorkie, which means you should expect significant puppy-to-puppy variation even within a single litter. If a breeder advertises "multigen Dorkies," ask for documentation of at least three generations of Dorkie-to-Dorkie breeding — this is uncommon and should be verifiable.
Size Range: How Big Will a Dachshund and Yorkie Mix Get?
Size is one of the more predictable aspects of this mix, because both parents are small dogs. However, the exact outcome depends on whether the Dachshund parent is miniature or standard.
| Parent Combination | Expected Weight | Expected Height |
|---|---|---|
| Miniature Dachshund × Yorkie (most common) | 5–12 lb (2.3–5.4 kg) | 5–9 in (13–23 cm) |
| Standard Dachshund × Yorkie (less common) | 8–15 lb (3.6–6.8 kg) | 7–10 in (18–25 cm) |
Most reputable breeders pair a Yorkie with a miniature Dachshund to keep the offspring compact and reduce whelping complications. A Dorkie from a standard Dachshund parent will be stockier, with a longer body and heavier bone structure. If you're adopting a puppy and both parents aren't available for inspection, a DNA test like Embark or Wisdom Panel (typically $80–$200 in 2026) can confirm parentage and give breed-specific weight estimates.
Regardless of parentage, Dorkies reach roughly 75% of their adult weight by 6 months and full adult size by 10–12 months. Feed measured portions based on your vet's body condition score (BCS) assessment — small breeds are prone to obesity, which dramatically worsens spinal stress in long-backed dogs.
Coat Types and Grooming: What to Expect
Coat inheritance is one of the most variable aspects of this mix, and it has direct implications for your grooming routine.
The Three Coat Possibilities
- Short/smooth coat (Dachshund-dominant): Low-maintenance, weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush. Moderate shedding. Bathing every 4–6 weeks or as needed.
- Long/silky coat (Yorkie-dominant): Requires daily brushing with a pin brush or slicker brush to prevent mats. Minimal shedding but high maintenance. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($50–$80 per session). Some owners opt for a shorter "puppy cut" to reduce upkeep.
- Wiry/broken coat (if wirehaired Dachshund parent): Coarser texture, moderate maintenance. Hand-stripping or clipping every 8–12 weeks. Low shedding.
Is the Dachshund and Yorkie Mix Hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but a Dorkie that inherits the Yorkie's hair-like coat will be lower-shedding and may produce less dander. A smooth-coated Dorkie inheriting the Dachshund's fur will shed more noticeably. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the specific puppy before committing — allergic reactions vary by individual dog, not just breed type. Allergies to dogs are typically triggered by dander and saliva proteins (primarily Can f 1), not hair length.
Temperament Range: Best-Case and Challenging Scenarios
Both parent breeds are known for big-dog confidence in a small-dog body. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that terriers and hounds both carry strong prey drives and independent problem-solving tendencies — traits that combine interestingly in a Dorkie.
Best-Case Temperament Profile
A well-socialized Dorkie from health-tested, temperament-evaluated parents is typically:
- Affectionate and loyal, often forming a strong bond with one primary person
- Playful and entertaining, with a mischievous streak
- Alert and vocal — an excellent watchdog who will announce visitors
- Adaptable to apartment living given adequate daily stimulation
- Good with respectful older children who understand how to handle small dogs gently
Challenging Temperament Scenarios
Without early socialization and consistent training, Dorkies can exhibit:
- Excessive barking: Both breeds are vocal; without redirection, this becomes a persistent habit
- Stubbornness during training: Dachshunds were bred to work independently underground — they don't naturally look to humans for direction
- Resource guarding: Small dogs sometimes develop guarding behaviors around food, toys, or favored people
- Prey drive toward small animals: Both breeds were originally vermin hunters — cats, rabbits, and pocket pets may trigger chase behavior
- Separation anxiety: Tightly bonded Dorkies can struggle when left alone for extended periods
Socialization Window
The critical socialization period for puppies closes around 14–16 weeks. During this window, expose your Dorkie puppy to diverse surfaces, sounds, people, and other vaccinated dogs in controlled settings. Puppy kindergarten classes (typically $150–$250 for a 6-week course) are one of the best investments you can make in long-term behavioral health.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality
One of the most persistent myths in designer dog marketing is that mixed breeds automatically enjoy "hybrid vigor" — the idea that crossing two breeds eliminates inherited health problems. The reality is more nuanced.
Hybrid vigor (heterosis) can reduce the risk of recessive conditions that require two copies of a faulty gene. However, it does not protect against conditions that both parent breeds share, nor does it prevent structural issues inherited from either parent's conformation. A Dorkie can inherit health problems from either side of its pedigree.
Conditions Inherited From the Dachshund Side
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): The most significant health concern. Dachshunds are 10–12 times more likely to develop IVDD than other breeds due to chondrodysplasia (the genetic mutation causing their long backs and short legs). A Dorkie inheriting the Dachshund's elongated spine faces similar risk. IVDD treatment ranges from conservative management ($500–$1,500) to surgical decompression ($3,000–$8,000+).
- Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation common in small breeds. Grades I–II may be managed conservatively; Grades III–IV often require surgery ($1,500–$3,500 per knee).
- Dental disease: Small mouths crowd teeth, accelerating tartar buildup and periodontal disease. Daily tooth brushing and professional cleanings ($300–$700 under anesthesia) every 1–2 years are standard care.
Conditions Inherited From the Yorkie Side
- Tracheal collapse: Weakening of the cartilage rings in the windpipe, causing a characteristic honking cough. Affects up to 25% of toy breeds. Use a harness instead of a collar to avoid neck pressure.
- Portosystemic shunt (PSS): A congenital liver vascular abnormality. Surgical correction costs $3,000–$7,000; medical management is possible for some cases.
- Hypoglycemia in puppies: Toy-breed puppies can experience dangerous blood sugar drops. Feed small, frequent meals and monitor for lethargy or trembling in puppies under 4 months.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): Gradual vision loss with no cure. DNA testing of parent dogs can identify carriers.
Shared Risk: Obesity
Both breeds are prone to weight gain when overfed. Excess weight in a Dorkie is particularly dangerous because it increases spinal loading on an already vulnerable back. Maintain a BCS of 4–5 on the 9-point scale. For a typical 10-lb Dorkie, daily caloric needs are approximately 250–330 kcal depending on activity level — check your food's caloric density and measure portions with a kitchen scale, not a cup.
- OFA or PennHIP evaluation for patellar luxation
- Cardiac exam by a veterinary cardiologist
- Ophthalmologist evaluation for PRA and other eye conditions
- DNA panel for known breed-specific mutations (PRA, PSS markers)
- Spinal evaluation — while no screening eliminates IVDD risk, breeders should avoid breeding dogs with early disc calcification signs
Daily Care Requirements
Exercise
Dorkies need 30–45 minutes of daily activity, split into two or three sessions. A combination of leash walks, indoor play, and scent-based enrichment works well. Because of the IVDD risk, avoid activities that involve jumping on and off furniture — use pet ramps (a good quality ramp runs $30–$80) for couch and bed access. Stairs should also be limited or ramped for long-backed Dorkies.
Nutrition
Feed a small-breed-formulated diet that meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for your dog's life stage. Look for kibble sized for small mouths (brands like Royal Canin Small, Hill's Science Diet Small Paws, or Purina Pro Plan Small Breed offer appropriately sized pieces). For puppies, choose a food specifically labeled for small-breed puppy growth — these formulas have adjusted calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for proper skeletal development.
Dental Care
Brush teeth daily using a dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste (never human toothpaste — fluoride and xylitol are toxic to dogs). Supplement with VOHC-approved dental chews sized for small dogs. Plan for professional dental cleanings under general anesthesia starting around age 2–3, depending on your vet's assessment.
Cost: What You'll Pay for a Dachshund and Yorkie Mix
| Expense | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Puppy from a responsible breeder | $800–$2,500 |
| Adoption/rescue fee | $150–$500 |
| First-year veterinary care (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip) | $500–$1,200 |
| Annual routine care (checkups, preventives, dental) | $600–$1,500 |
| Professional grooming (if long coat, every 6–8 weeks) | $325–$650/year |
| Quality food (small-breed formula) | $240–$480/year |
| Pet insurance (accident + illness) | $30–$60/month |
| Emergency IVDD surgery (if needed) | $3,000–$8,000+ |
Dorkies from breeders who health-test parent dogs, provide early neurological stimulation, and raise puppies in-home tend to charge $1,500–$2,500. Lower-priced puppies ($400–$800) from online listings or pet stores often come from puppy mills or backyard breeders who skip health testing — the upfront savings are typically erased by veterinary bills within the first two years.
Rescue options exist but are less common for this specific mix. Check Dachshund-specific rescues (like the Dachshund Rescue of North America) and Yorkie rescues (like Yorkshire Terrier Club of America rescue network), as both sometimes take in mixed-breed dogs. Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet allow you to search by mix type and location.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Get a Dorkie?
This Mix Is a Good Fit For:
- Apartment dwellers who want an adaptable small dog with moderate exercise needs
- Single adults or couples who are home frequently (Dorkies struggle with long solo hours)
- Families with children ages 8+ who can be taught gentle handling
- Experienced dog owners comfortable with positive-reinforcement training of a stubborn breed
- People who enjoy an alert, vocal companion (they will bark at the doorbell, delivery drivers, and squirrels)
This Mix Is a Challenging Fit For:
- Families with toddlers or very young children — a 7-lb dog is easily injured by rough handling
- First-time owners unprepared for the patience required to train an independent thinker
- Households with pet rodents, birds, or small mammals (high prey drive risk)
- People who work 10+ hour days away from home without dog-walking or daycare support
- Those seeking a quiet dog — both parent breeds are vocal, and Dorkies tend to inherit this trait
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the dachshund and yorkie mix?
The Dorkie is a cross between a purebred Dachshund and a purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Most commonly, a miniature Dachshund is used to keep the offspring small. The mix is not recognized by the AKC as a distinct breed, though it may be registered with hybrid registries like the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) or the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC).
How big will my Dorkie get?
Most Dorkies from miniature Dachshund parents weigh 5–12 lb (2.3–5.4 kg) and stand 5–9 inches tall at the shoulder. Those from standard Dachshund parents may reach up to 15 lb (6.8 kg). Growth is typically complete by 10–12 months of age.
What will the temperament be like?
Expect a confident, affectionate, and alert dog with a stubborn streak. Dorkies tend to bond closely with one person and can be wary of strangers initially. Early socialization (before 16 weeks) is critical for a well-adjusted adult. Individual temperament varies significantly depending on which parent's traits dominate and how the puppy is raised.
Is this mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. A Dorkie inheriting the Yorkie's silky coat will shed minimally and may suit mild allergy sufferers. One inheriting the Dachshund's smooth coat will shed moderately. You cannot predict coat type with certainty in an F1 mix, so spend time with the specific puppy before committing if allergies are a concern.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
The most serious concern is IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) from the Dachshund side, which can cause pain, nerve damage, or paralysis. Other risks include patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, dental disease, and eye conditions like PRA. Always consult your veterinarian for a personalized wellness plan and ask breeders for documentation of parent health screenings.
How much does a dachshund and yorkie mix cost?
Expect to pay $800–$2,500 from a responsible breeder who health-tests parent dogs. Adoption fees for Dorkies in rescue are typically $150–$500. First-year expenses (vet care, supplies, food) add $1,000–$2,000+. Budget-conscious buyers should consider rescue rather than seeking a cheaper breeder, as low-cost puppies often carry expensive health and behavioral problems.
Are Dorkies good with other dogs?
They can be, especially when socialized early. However, both parent breeds have bold personalities and may not back down from confrontations with larger dogs — a dangerous situation for a small dog. Supervised introductions and controlled playgroups are safer than off-leash dog parks, where a Dorkie could be accidentally injured by a much larger playmate.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
