Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix: The Complete Shorkie Breed Guide

If you've spent any time scrolling through small-dog rescue pages or browsing designer breeder websites, you've likely encountered the Shih Tzu Yorkie mix — often marketed under the name "Shorkie," "Shorkie Tzu," or "Yorkie Tzu." This compact crossbreed blends the affectionate, lap-loving Shih Tzu with the feisty, confident Yorkshire Terrier, producing a dog that typically weighs between 7 and 16 pounds and packs an outsized personality into a very small frame.

But mixed-breed dogs are inherently variable. One Shorkie may inherit the Shih Tzu's easygoing nature and flowing coat, while a littermate might get the Yorkie's high-strung alertness and wiry, low-shedding fur. This guide breaks down exactly what you can — and can't — predict about this popular designer mix, so you can decide whether a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix is the right fit for your household.

Parent Breed Breakdown: Shih Tzu Meets Yorkshire Terrier

Understanding a Shorkie starts with understanding its two parent breeds. The Shih Tzu, an ancient Chinese companion breed recognized by the AKC, was developed over centuries as a palace lap dog. The Yorkshire Terrier, by contrast, originated in 19th-century England as a ratting dog in textile mills before becoming a fashionable companion. These very different origins produce a crossbreed with a wide behavioral spectrum.

Parent Breed Comparison

Trait	Shih Tzu	Yorkshire Terrier
AKC Group	Toy	Toy
Weight Range	9–16 lb (4–7 kg)	4–7 lb (2–3 kg)
Height	9–10.5 in (23–27 cm)	7–8 in (18–20 cm)
Coat Type	Long, double coat, hair-like	Long, single coat, silky
Shedding	Low (hair, not fur)	Very low (hair, not fur)
Energy Level	Low to moderate	Moderate to high
Barking	Moderate	High — alert and vocal
Trainability	Moderate; can be stubborn	Moderate; intelligent but independent
Lifespan	10–18 years	11–15 years

Both parent breeds fall into the Toy group, which means a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix will always be a small dog. However, the Shih Tzu is substantially heavier and calmer than the Yorkie, so the mix's exact size and personality depend heavily on which parent's genes dominate.

Understanding Generations: F1, F1B, and Multigen Shorkies

Most Shih Tzu Yorkie mixes you'll encounter are F1 crosses — a purebred Shih Tzu bred to a purebred Yorkshire Terrier. This is the most common pairing because both parent breeds are widely available. Multigen Shorkie programs do exist but are relatively rare compared to designer breeds like Labradoodles or Goldendoodles. If a breeder advertises "multigen Shorkies," ask for documentation of at least three generations of Shorkie-to-Shorkie breeding.

Size, Coat, and Physical Appearance

Because both parent breeds are toy-sized, the Shorkie's overall dimensions fall within a fairly narrow band — but there's still meaningful variation within that band.

Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Size Range

Measurement	Minimum	Maximum	Most Common Range
Weight	6 lb (2.7 kg)	16 lb (7.3 kg)	8–12 lb (3.6–5.4 kg)
Height (at shoulder)	6 in (15 cm)	11 in (28 cm)	8–10 in (20–25 cm)
Body Length	10 in (25 cm)	16 in (41 cm)	12–14 in (30–36 cm)

Puppies leaning toward the Yorkie parent tend to land at 6–9 lb, while those inheriting more Shih Tzu build often reach 11–16 lb. The Shih Tzu's stockier bone structure and broader chest can show up even in a small-framed Shorkie.

Coat Type Possibilities

Both parent breeds have hair rather than fur (a continuous-growth coat similar to human hair), which influences what you'll see in a Shorkie:

• Straight, silky coat (Yorkie-dominant): Fine, flowing hair that parts along the spine. Minimal shedding. Requires daily brushing to prevent tangles.
• Slightly wavy, denser coat (Shih Tzu-dominant): Softer undercoat with a longer topcoat. May have a slight wave. Low shedding but prone to matting near the ears, armpits, and hindquarters.
• Blended coat: The most common outcome — a medium-length, slightly wavy coat that combines textures from both parents. Moderate maintenance.

Common coat colors include black and tan (Yorkie influence), gold and white (Shih Tzu influence), parti-color (white with patches), and sable. Puppy coats frequently change color as the dog matures — a black puppy may fade to silver or blue by age two, which is normal for breeds carrying the greying gene common in Yorkshire Terriers.

Is the Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Shorkie is generally a low-shedding dog. Both parent breeds produce hair rather than fur and shed minimally, which means less dander distributed around the home. Many people with mild dog allergies tolerate Shorkies well. However, allergens are found in saliva and skin cells, not just shed fur — so spending time with a specific dog before committing is always wise. If allergies are a primary concern, an F1B Shorkie bred back to the Yorkie parent will typically produce the lowest-shedding coat.

Temperament: What to Expect (and What You Can't Predict)

Temperament is where the Shih Tzu Yorkie mix shows its widest variability. The two parent breeds have meaningfully different behavioral profiles, and a Shorkie can land anywhere on that spectrum.

Temperament Variability Chart

Trait	Shih Tzu-Leaning	Yorkie-Leaning	Blended (Most Common)
Energy	Calm, content with short walks	Active, wants play sessions	Moderate; enjoys walks and play
Barking	Occasional alert barks	Frequent, triggered by sounds/movement	Moderate; barks at door, settles after
Stranger Reaction	Friendly, outgoing	Wary, may bark or retreat	Cautious at first, warms up quickly
Independence	Clingy, follows owner everywhere	Confident, self-directed	Affectionate but not needy
Child Tolerance	Gentle, patient	May snap if handled roughly	Good with gentle, older children
Other Pets	Generally sociable	May chase small animals (prey drive)	Usually fine with dogs; watch around cats

Best-Case Scenario

A well-socialized Shorkie with a balanced temperament blend is an affectionate, moderately playful companion who greets you enthusiastically, enjoys a 20–30 minute daily walk, plays a short indoor fetch session, and then settles on the couch for the evening. They alert-bark when someone approaches the door but quiet once you acknowledge the visitor. They're confident enough to handle new environments without trembling but not so bold that they pick fights with larger dogs.

Challenging Scenario

A Shorkie that inherits a strong Yorkie prey drive combined with Shih Tzu stubbornness can be difficult to recall off-leash, prone to chasing squirrels or small dogs, and resistant to training commands they don't find rewarding. Dogs that lean heavily Yorkie may develop nuisance barking if under-stimulated. Those that inherit the Shih Tzu's brachycephalic (short-faced) structure may have exercise intolerance and struggle in heat. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training starting at 8 weeks significantly reduce these risks.

Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality

A common claim in designer dog marketing is that mixed breeds automatically enjoy "hybrid vigor" — the idea that genetic diversity eliminates inherited health problems. The reality, according to research published in the Merck Veterinary Manual and studies from the UC Davis Canine Genetics laboratory, is more nuanced. Mixed breeds can benefit from reduced risk of recessive conditions that are concentrated within a single breed's gene pool. However, they can still inherit any condition that affects both parent breeds. For the Shih Tzu Yorkie mix, the overlap is significant.

Conditions Inherited from Both Parent Breeds

• Patellar Luxation: The kneecap slips out of its groove. Both Shih Tzus and Yorkies have high rates of this condition. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) reports patellar luxation in approximately 5–7% of Yorkshire Terriers and 4–6% of Shih Tzus screened. Severity ranges from Grade I (intermittent, no surgery needed) to Grade IV (constant dislocation, surgical correction required). Surgery costs $1,500–$3,500 per knee.
• Dental Disease: Both breeds have crowded teeth in small jaws, leading to early tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth loss. Many Shorkies need professional dental cleanings ($400–$800) by age 3–4, and tooth extractions ($150–$400 per tooth) are common by age 7–8. Daily tooth brushing with a veterinary-formulated enzymatic toothpaste is the single most impactful preventive measure.
• Tracheal Collapse: Weakening of the cartilage rings in the windpipe, causing a honking cough. More common in Yorkies (up to 20% of the breed, per some estimates) but also seen in Shih Tzus. Using a harness instead of a collar reduces tracheal pressure. Advanced cases may require surgical stenting ($3,000–$5,000).
• Eye Conditions: Both breeds are predisposed to cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). The Shih Tzu's prominent eyes also add risk for corneal ulcers and proptosis (eye displacement from trauma). Annual veterinary ophthalmologic exams are recommended.
• Portosystemic Shunt (PSS): A vascular abnormality where blood bypasses the liver. More common in Yorkies but documented in Shih Tzus. Symptoms include stunted growth, disorientation after eating, and seizures. Surgical correction costs $3,000–$6,000; medical management is a lifelong alternative.

Conditions Primarily from One Parent

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — from the Shih Tzu side. If the Shorkie inherits a shortened muzzle, they may have stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), an elongated soft palate, and breathing difficulty. Signs include snoring, exercise intolerance, and heat sensitivity. Consult your veterinarian if your dog struggles to breathe during mild exercise.
• Hypoglycemia — from the Yorkie side, particularly in puppies under 4 months. Toy breed puppies have limited glycogen reserves and can develop dangerous drops in blood sugar if meals are missed. Feed puppies 3–4 small meals per day and keep a glucose gel (like Nutri-Cal) on hand.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) — both breeds carry some risk due to their long backs relative to leg length. Avoid letting your Shorkie jump on and off high furniture; use pet ramps for couch and bed access.

Recommended Health Screening for Shorkie Puppies

Responsible breeders should provide documentation of the following screenings performed on both parent dogs:

• OFA or PennHIP patellar evaluation (both parents)
• Canine ophthalmologic exam by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist (both parents)
• Bile acids test to screen for portosystemic shunt (both parents, especially the Yorkie parent)
• Cardiac auscultation by a veterinarian (both parents)

Grooming and Daily Care Requirements

Regardless of which parent's coat your Shorkie inherits, plan for a meaningful grooming commitment. This is not a wash-and-wear breed mix.

Brushing

Daily brushing with a slicker brush and a metal comb is necessary for most Shorkies to prevent mats. Pay particular attention to the areas behind the ears, under the front legs, and around the hindquarters. If your Shorkie has a denser, Shih Tzu-leaning coat, a pin brush followed by a comb-through works best. For silkier Yorkie-type coats, a wide-toothed comb and a boar-bristle brush help maintain shine without breakage.

Professional Grooming

Plan on professional grooming every 4–8 weeks, depending on the coat length you maintain. A full groom (bath, blowout, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression) typically costs $55–$90 per session for a dog this size. Popular clip styles include the "puppy cut" (1–2 inches all over, low maintenance) and the "teddy bear face" (rounded face with a shorter body clip). If you prefer a long show-style coat, expect more frequent visits and higher costs.

Eye and Ear Care

Shorkies with Shih Tzu-influenced facial structure often have prominent eyes and shallow eye sockets. Wipe the eye area daily with a damp, soft cloth or veterinary eye wipe to prevent tear staining. Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed short to avoid corneal irritation. Check and clean ears weekly with a veterinarian-approved ear cleanser — the drop ears common in this mix trap moisture and increase infection risk.

Nail Trims

Trim nails every 2–3 weeks. Small dogs often don't wear their nails down naturally through walking. Overgrown nails alter the foot's angle and contribute to joint strain. If you're uncomfortable trimming at home, most groomers include this in a basic nail-trim visit ($10–$20).

Exercise, Training, and Mental Stimulation

A Shih Tzu Yorkie mix needs approximately 30–45 minutes of daily activity, split between walks and play. This is less than many breeds, but it's not a zero-exercise dog — under-stimulated Shorkies often develop nuisance barking, destructive chewing, or hyperactive behavior indoors.

Exercise Breakdown

• Two leash walks per day: 15–20 minutes each, at the dog's pace. Avoid midday walks in heat above 80°F (27°C), especially if your Shorkie has a shorter muzzle.
• Indoor play sessions: 10–15 minutes of tug, fetch in a hallway, or flirt pole. Yorkie-influenced Shorkies often enjoy chasing games.
• Mental enrichment: Food puzzles (like a Kong Classic Mini or Outward Hound Dog Brick), sniff mats, and short training sessions burn mental energy more effectively than physical exercise alone.

Training Approach

Shorkies respond best to positive reinforcement methods — high-value treats (small pieces of freeze-dried chicken or cheese), verbal praise, and short sessions of 5–10 minutes. Both parent breeds can be independent thinkers, so patience and consistency matter more than repetition. Never use aversive methods like shock collars, prong collars, or alpha rolls — these damage the trust bond and can increase fear-based barking and aggression in small dogs.

Key training priorities for Shorkies:

1. Housetraining: Toy breeds have small bladders and higher metabolisms. Take puppies out every 1–2 hours initially, and consider indoor potty pad training as a backup for bad weather. Consistency with a designated spot is more important than the method.
2. Quiet cue: Teach a "quiet" command early to manage barking. Reward silence, not barking. If nuisance barking develops, consult a certified force-free trainer rather than using bark collars.
3. Handling exercises: Gently handle your Shorkie's paws, ears, and mouth daily from puppyhood. This makes grooming and vet visits far less stressful for a dog that will need frequent handling throughout its life.
4. Recall: Because of potential Yorkie prey drive, practice recall in fenced areas before trusting off-leash freedom. A long-line (15–20 ft training leash) allows safe distance practice.

Cost of a Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix

Shorkie pricing varies significantly depending on whether you buy from a breeder or adopt from a rescue.

Shorkie Cost Breakdown

Source	Price Range	What's Typically Included
Responsible breeder (health-tested parents)	$800–$2,000	Health records, first vaccines, deworming, health guarantee, take-back clause
Backyard breeder / online listing	$300–$800	Often minimal documentation; no health testing
Rescue / shelter adoption	$100–$400	Spay/neuter, vaccines, microchip, sometimes dental work

First-Year Estimated Costs

Beyond the purchase price, budget for these first-year expenses:

• Veterinary exams and vaccinations (puppy series + rabies): $300–$500
• Spay or neuter: $300–$600 (if not included in adoption fee)
• Professional grooming (6–8 sessions): $330–$720
• High-quality small-breed kibble or wet food (AAFCO complete and balanced): $200–$400/year
• Preventive medications (heartworm, flea/tick): $150–$300/year
• Dental cleaning (if needed by year 1–2): $400–$800
• Supplies (crate, harness, leash, bed, toys, grooming tools): $200–$400
• Pet insurance (recommended for small breeds prone to dental and orthopedic issues): $300–$600/year

Total first-year cost estimate: $2,500–$5,500+ depending on the source of your dog and any unexpected health needs.

Breeder vs. Rescue Availability

Shorkies are a relatively common designer mix, so both breeder and rescue options exist. When evaluating breeders, insist on seeing OFA or equivalent health test results for both parent dogs — not just "vet-checked" paperwork, which only confirms the dog was healthy on the day of the visit, not that it was screened for inherited conditions. A responsible breeder will also have a take-back clause requiring you to return the dog to them if you can no longer keep it.

For rescue options, check small-breed-specific rescues (many Yorkie and Shih Tzu breed rescues also take in mixed breeds), Petfinder, and local humane societies. Adult Shorkies occasionally appear in rescues when owners underestimate the grooming commitment or barking tendency. Adopting an adult dog gives you the advantage of knowing the dog's full-grown size, coat type, and established temperament.

Who Is the Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix Best Suited For?

The Shorkie is an excellent match for specific lifestyles and a poor match for others. Here's a realistic assessment:

Ideal households:

• Apartment or condo dwellers — their small size and moderate exercise needs suit smaller living spaces well
• Single adults or couples without young children — Shorkies bond closely with their people and thrive on consistent routines
• Families with children age 8+ who understand how to handle a small dog gently
• Retirees or work-from-home owners who can provide companionship throughout the day — this mix is prone to separation anxiety if left alone for 8+ hours
• First-time dog owners willing to invest in positive reinforcement training and early socialization
• People with mild dog allergies who want a low-shedding companion (with the caveat that no dog is guaranteed hypoallergenic)

Less ideal for:

• Families with toddlers or very young children — a 7–12 lb dog can be seriously injured by a child who falls on, drops, or squeezes them
• Owners who work long hours away from home without a dog walker or pet sitter
• People seeking a jogging partner or highly athletic dog — Shorkies, especially those with brachycephalic features, are not built for sustained high-intensity exercise
• Owners unwilling to commit to regular professional grooming — matted coats cause skin infections, pain, and veterinary bills
• Households with pet rodents or birds — the Yorkie prey drive can make cohabitation risky

Frequently Asked Questions

What two breeds make up a Shorkie?

A Shorkie is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier. Both are AKC-recognized Toy breeds. The mix is sometimes called a Yorkie Tzu, Shorkie Tzu, or simply a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix.

How big will a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix get?

Most adult Shorkies weigh between 8 and 12 pounds (3.6–5.4 kg) and stand 8–10 inches (20–25 cm) at the shoulder. However, individuals can range from as small as 6 lb to as large as 16 lb depending on which parent breed's genes are more dominant. You generally won't know the exact adult size until the dog is 10–12 months old.

What is the temperament of a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix?

Temperament varies widely. Shih Tzu-leaning Shorkies tend to be calm, affectionate, and easygoing. Yorkie-leaning Shorkies are more energetic, alert, and vocal. Most Shorkies fall somewhere in the middle — friendly with their family, moderately playful, and somewhat wary of strangers initially. Early socialization (exposure to diverse people, environments, sounds, and other animals between 8 and 16 weeks) is the single most influential factor in shaping a confident, well-adjusted adult dog.

Is the Shih Tzu Yorkie mix hypoallergenic or low-shedding?

Shorkies are generally low-shedding because both parent breeds have hair rather than fur. This makes them a reasonable choice for people with mild allergies. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic — allergens are present in saliva and skin cells, not just shed hair. Spend time with the specific dog before committing if allergies are a concern.

What health issues might a Shorkie inherit?

The most common inherited health concerns include patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), dental disease, tracheal collapse, eye conditions (cataracts, PRA, dry eye), and portosystemic shunt. Shih Tzu-influenced Shorkies may also develop brachycephalic airway issues. Yorkie-influenced Shorkies may be prone to hypoglycemia as puppies. Regular veterinary checkups, dental care, and maintaining a healthy weight are the most effective preventive strategies.

How much does a Shih Tzu Yorkie mix cost?

From a responsible breeder who health-tests both parent dogs, expect to pay $800–$2,000. Rescue adoption fees typically range from $100–$400. First-year total costs including veterinary care, grooming, food, supplies, and insurance generally fall between $2,500 and $5,500.

How long do Shorkies live?

The typical lifespan is 12–16 years, with some individuals living to 18 or beyond. Small breeds generally outlive large breeds, and the Shorkie benefits from the longevity common to both parent breeds. Dental care, weight management, and regular veterinary screening for inherited conditions are the most impactful factors in maximizing lifespan.

Are Shorkies good apartment dogs?

Yes, their small size and moderate exercise needs make them well-suited to apartment living. The main consideration is barking — Yorkie-influenced Shorkies can be vocal, which may create friction with neighbors. Teaching a "quiet" cue and providing adequate mental stimulation help manage this. Ensure your apartment allows dogs in the 7–16 lb range (most do, but some have breed-specific restrictions).