Yorkie Mix Breeds: A Complete Guide to Yorkshire Terrier Crosses
Explore popular yorkie mix breeds including the Yorkipoo, Morkie, Chorkie, and more.
The Yorkshire Terrier has been one of the most popular toy breeds in the United States for decades, and their influence on the designer dog world is enormous. Yorkie mix breeds — crosses between a purebred Yorkshire Terrier and another small or toy breed — have surged in popularity because they offer the Yorkie's bold personality in packages that vary in coat type, size, and temperament. But with that variety comes unpredictability, and prospective owners need to understand exactly what they're signing up for before bringing one of these mixes home.
This guide covers the most common Yorkie mix breeds, breaks down what you can (and can't) predict about them, and gives you the practical data you need to decide if one of these crosses fits your household.
The Parent Breed: Yorkshire Terrier at a Glance
Before evaluating any Yorkie mix, you need to understand what the Yorkshire Terrier brings to the genetic table. The AKC breed standard describes a compact toy terrier weighing no more than 7 pounds (3.2 kg), standing 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) tall, with a long, straight, silky coat in steel blue and tan.
Key Yorkie traits that frequently appear in mixes:
- Temperament: Bold, confident, vocal. Yorkies are terriers — they were originally bred to hunt rats in textile mills, and that feisty prey drive persists.
- Coat: Hair-like (not fur), single-coated, minimal shedding. This is why Yorkies are frequently used in "hypoallergenic" designer crosses.
- Health predispositions: Patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, portosystemic shunt (liver shunt), Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and dental disease due to small jaw size.
- Lifespan: 11–15 years, which is typical for toy breeds.
Understanding Designer Dog Generations
When you see terms like F1, F1B, or F2 applied to Yorkie mix breeds, here's what they mean:
- F1 (First Generation): One purebred Yorkie parent × one purebred parent of the other breed. These puppies show the widest trait variation — some may look almost entirely like one parent.
- F1B (First Generation Backcross): An F1 Yorkie mix × a purebred (usually the Yorkie or the other breed, depending on the breeder's goal). Often done to increase the likelihood of a low-shedding coat.
- F2 (Second Generation): Two F1 Yorkie mixes bred together. Trait predictability decreases further — you can get a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments in a single litter.
- Multigenerational (Multigen): Multiple generations of the same cross bred together. Some established designer lines (like certain Yorkipoo lines) reach multigen status, where traits become somewhat more consistent — but never as predictable as a purebred.
Key takeaway: Unlike purebred dogs governed by a breed standard, no Yorkie mix breed has a governing standard. Even multigen litters can produce puppies that look and behave quite differently from their littermates.
The Most Popular Yorkie Mix Breeds
Below are the most commonly encountered Yorkshire Terrier crosses, with data on size, coat, and temperament ranges drawn from breed registries and owner surveys.
| Mix Name | Other Parent Breed | Weight Range | Height Range | Coat Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yorkipoo | Toy or Miniature Poodle | 4–15 lb (1.8–6.8 kg) | 7–15 in (18–38 cm) | Curly to wavy; low-shedding |
| Morkie (Yorktese) | Maltese | 4–8 lb (1.8–3.6 kg) | 6–9 in (15–23 cm) | Long, silky, straight to wavy |
| Chorkie | Chihuahua | 5–12 lb (2.3–5.4 kg) | 6–10 in (15–25 cm) | Short to medium; moderate shedding possible |
| Shorkie | Shih Tzu | 7–16 lb (3.2–7.3 kg) | 6–14 in (15–36 cm) | Long, dense; low to moderate shedding |
| Snorkie | Miniature Schnauzer | 8–18 lb (3.6–8.2 kg) | 8–14 in (20–36 cm) | Wiry; low-shedding |
| Borkie | Beagle | 10–25 lb (4.5–11.3 kg) | 9–15 in (23–38 cm) | Short, dense; moderate shedding |
| Griffonshire | Brussels Griffon | 6–12 lb (2.7–5.4 kg) | 7–11 in (18–28 cm) | Wiry or silky; low to moderate shedding |
Notice the wide weight and height ranges. This is the defining feature of Yorkie mix breeds: even within a single named cross, size can vary dramatically depending on which parent the puppy favors and whether the non-Yorkie parent is a toy or miniature variety.
Temperament: What to Expect (and What You Can't)
Every Yorkie mix inherits genes from two breeds with distinct behavioral profiles. The resulting temperament is a spectrum, not a guarantee.
| Trait | Best-Case Scenario | Challenging Scenario | What Influences It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vocalization | Alert barker; quiets on command | Excessive barking at every stimulus; difficult to redirect | Both Yorkies and many cross partners (Chihuahuas, Schnauzers) are vocal breeds |
| Social Confidence | Outgoing, adaptable to new people and environments | Fearful or reactive toward strangers; may snap when cornered | Early socialization (8–16 weeks) is critical for all toy mixes |
| Prey Drive | Mild interest in small animals; manageable on walks | Chases squirrels, cats, small dogs; unreliable off-leash | Terrier heritage from the Yorkie side; amplified if crossed with another high-prey-drive breed (Beagle, Schnauzer) |
| Trainability | Quick learner; responds to positive reinforcement | Stubborn, easily distracted; house training may take 4–6 months | Individual variation; Poodle crosses tend to be easier to train than Chihuahua crosses |
| Separation Tolerance | Comfortable alone for 3–4 hours with proper conditioning | Severe separation anxiety; destructive or vocal when left alone | Toy breeds are predisposed to separation distress; early alone-time training is essential |
The single biggest predictor of temperament in any Yorkie mix is not the specific cross — it's the quality of early socialization and the individual puppy's genetic lottery. Meeting the parent dogs (at minimum the dam) gives you the best available signal about what a puppy's adult temperament might look like. If the mother is fearful, reactive, or aggressive toward visitors, there's a meaningful chance some puppies in the litter will share those tendencies regardless of breed mix.
Coat Types and the Hypoallergenic Question
Many people seek out Yorkie mix breeds specifically because they want a low-shedding or "hypoallergenic" dog. Here's the reality: no dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs produce dander, saliva, and urine proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. However, some coat types shed less, which means less dander distributed around the home.
Coat inheritance patterns in common Yorkie mixes:
- Yorkipoo (Yorkie × Poodle): Both parent breeds have hair-like, low-shedding coats. F1 puppies typically inherit a wavy to curly coat that sheds minimally. This is one of the more predictable low-shedding crosses, but individual variation still exists — some F1 Yorkipoos inherit a straighter, slightly higher-shedding coat.
- Morkie (Yorkie × Maltese): Both parents have long, silky, single coats with minimal shedding. Most Morkies inherit a similar coat type, making this one of the more reliably low-shedding Yorkie mixes.
- Chorkie (Yorkie × Chihuahua): This is where predictability breaks down. Chihuahuas come in smooth-coat and long-coat varieties. A smooth-coat Chihuahua × Yorkie cross may produce puppies with short, moderately shedding coats — a surprise for owners expecting the Yorkie's silky hair.
- Snorkie (Yorkie × Miniature Schnauzer): Both breeds are low-shedding, but the Schnauzer's wiry coat texture can dominate. Expect a wire-haired coat that requires hand-stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks.
- Borkie (Yorkie × Beagle): Beagles have short, dense double coats that shed moderately year-round. Most Borkies inherit some shedding — this is not a good choice for allergy-sensitive households.
If low shedding is your priority, Yorkipoos and Morkies are the most consistent options. If you're considering a Chorkie or Borkie, be prepared for moderate shedding regardless of what a breeder tells you about "hypoallergenic" puppies.
Health Considerations: The Hybrid Vigor Myth vs. Reality
One of the most persistent claims in the designer dog world is that mixed breeds are automatically healthier than purebreds due to "hybrid vigor" (heterosis). This claim requires nuance.
What the science actually says: Hybrid vigor is a real genetic phenomenon — it refers to the improved biological function seen when two genetically distinct populations are crossed. A 2013 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that mixed-breed dogs had a slightly lower incidence of certain inherited disorders compared to purebreds. However, the advantage is modest, not absolute.
What hybrid vigor does NOT do:
- It does not eliminate the risk of inherited diseases. If both parent breeds are predisposed to the same condition, the mix can inherit it too.
- It does not guarantee a longer lifespan. Lifespan in small dogs is influenced more by weight management, dental care, and preventive veterinary visits than by breed status.
- It does not protect against structural issues like patellar luxation or tracheal collapse, which are common across many toy and small breeds regardless of pedigree.
Here are the specific health conditions that Yorkie mix breeds may inherit from either parent:
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence/Notes | Typical Treatment Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patellar Luxation | Yorkie, Chihuahua, Poodle (toy/mini) | Very common in toy breeds; kneecap slips out of groove. Grades I–IV. | $1,500–$3,500 per knee (surgical) |
| Tracheal Collapse | Yorkie (very high prevalence), Pomeranian, Chihuahua | Progressive weakening of tracheal cartilage; honking cough. Often appears age 4–8. | $2,500–$5,000+ (stent surgery if severe) |
| Portosystemic Shunt (Liver Shunt) | Yorkie (one of the highest-prevalence breeds) | Congenital; blood bypasses the liver. Symptoms include stunted growth, seizures, disorientation. | $3,000–$7,000 (surgical correction) |
| Dental Disease | All toy/small breeds | Crowded teeth in small jaws lead to rapid tartar buildup and periodontal disease, often by age 3. | $300–$800 per professional cleaning; $200–$600 per extraction |
| Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease | Yorkie, Miniature Schnauzer, West Highland White Terrier | Degeneration of the femoral head; causes hind-limb lameness in puppies 4–12 months old. | $1,500–$3,000 (femoral head ostectomy) |
| Hypoglycemia (Toy Puppy) | All toy breeds, especially puppies under 4 months | Dangerously low blood sugar; can cause seizures and collapse. Requires frequent small meals. | Emergency visit: $200–$500 |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Poodle, Schnauzer (miniature) | Genetic; progressive blindness. DNA tests available for parent screening. | No cure; management only |
For any health concerns with your Yorkie mix, always consult your veterinarian. Mixed-breed dogs still need regular wellness exams, and early detection of conditions like tracheal collapse or dental disease can significantly change the prognosis and reduce long-term treatment costs.
Grooming Requirements by Coat Type
Grooming needs for Yorkie mix breeds depend entirely on which coat type the individual dog inherits. Here's a practical breakdown:
- Long, silky coat (Morkie, some Yorkipoos, Shorkies): Daily brushing with a slicker brush and metal comb to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks for a trim. Expect to spend $50–$85 per grooming session, or $600–$1,020 annually. Use a leave-in conditioning spray to reduce tangles.
- Curly or wavy coat (Yorkipoo): Brushing every 2–3 days minimum. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks. Curly coats mat close to the skin, so don't skip brushing even if the coat "looks fine" on the surface. Budget $50–$90 per session.
- Wiry coat (Snorkie): Weekly brushing. Hand-stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks. Wiry coats are lower-maintenance between groomings but require specific techniques — find a groomer experienced with terrier-type coats.
- Short coat (Chorkie with smooth-coat Chihuahua parent, Borkie): Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or bristle brush. Minimal professional grooming needed. These are the lowest-maintenance Yorkie mixes in terms of coat care, though they shed more.
Regardless of coat type, all Yorkie mixes need regular ear cleaning (weekly for floppy-eared individuals), nail trims every 2–3 weeks, and — critically — daily tooth brushing. Small breeds develop dental disease faster than any other size group, and home dental care is the single most impactful thing you can do to extend your dog's healthspan.
Cost: What You'll Pay for a Yorkie Mix
Designer dog pricing varies widely based on breeder reputation, location, and the specific cross. Here's what the market looks like in 2026:
| Yorkie Mix | Breeder Price Range | Rescue/Adoption Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yorkipoo | $800–$2,500 | $200–$500 | Most popular Yorkie mix; widely available from breeders and rescues |
| Morkie | $600–$2,000 | $150–$400 | Second most popular; frequently available in small-breed rescues |
| Chorkie | $400–$1,500 | $100–$350 | Common in shelters; often available for adoption |
| Shorkie | $500–$1,800 | $150–$400 | Moderately available; Shih Tzu rescues sometimes have Shorkies |
| Snorkie | $600–$2,000 | $200–$450 | Less common; Schnauzer rescue networks are a good source |
| Borkie | $500–$1,500 | $150–$400 | Less intentionally bred; more likely to appear in shelters as an accidental cross |
First-year ownership costs beyond the purchase price: Budget $1,800–$3,200 for the first year, covering initial veterinary exams, vaccination series ($200–$400), spay/neuter ($300–$700), microchipping ($50), crate and supplies ($200–$400), grooming ($400–$900), high-quality small-breed food ($300–$500), and pet insurance premiums ($30–$60/month for accident-and-illness coverage on a small dog).
Adoption is a genuinely viable path for Yorkie mixes. Small-breed rescue organizations — including breed-specific rescues for Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles, Maltese, and Chihuahuas — regularly take in designer mixes. Sites like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet allow you to search by breed mix and location. Adopted adult dogs come with the advantage of a known temperament and size, which removes much of the unpredictability of buying a puppy.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Get a Yorkie Mix
Yorkie mix breeds suit specific lifestyles and living situations. They are not universally "easy" dogs despite their small size.
These mixes are a strong fit for:
- Apartment dwellers and those with limited outdoor space — most Yorkie mixes need only 30–45 minutes of daily exercise, which can be split between short walks and indoor play.
- Experienced dog owners who understand small-dog handling, house-training challenges specific to toy breeds, and the importance of not reinforcing fearful or reactive behaviors.
- Households with older children (age 10+) who can be taught to handle a small dog gently. Many Yorkie mixes are fragile — a 5-pound dog can sustain serious injury from being dropped or stepped on.
- People who work from home or have flexible schedules — toy breeds are prone to separation anxiety and do best with someone present for most of the day.
- Allergy-sensitive individuals — specifically those considering Yorkipoos or Morkies, where the probability of a low-shedding coat is highest (though never guaranteed).
Think carefully before committing if:
- You have toddlers or very young children. The combination of a fragile toy-sized dog and unpredictable small children is a frequent cause of injury to the dog and bites to the child.
- You want an off-leash hiking companion. Terrier prey drive means most Yorkie mixes cannot be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas, regardless of training.
- You're a first-time dog owner drawn purely by the "cute factor." These dogs require consistent training, socialization, and grooming investment. Under-socialized toy dogs can develop significant behavioral problems including fear-based aggression.
- You want a completely predictable dog. If knowing exactly what you'll get in terms of size, coat, and temperament is important to you, a purebred from a responsible breeder — or an adult rescue with a known history — is a better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yorkie Mix Breeds
What two breeds make up a Yorkie mix?
A Yorkie mix is a cross between a purebred Yorkshire Terrier and any other breed. The most common crosses pair the Yorkie with a Toy or Miniature Poodle (Yorkipoo), Maltese (Morkie), Chihuahua (Chorkie), Shih Tzu (Shorkie), or Miniature Schnauzer (Snorkie). The specific combination determines the likely size range, coat type, and temperament tendencies — though individual puppies always vary.
How big will a Yorkie mix get?
Most Yorkie mixes fall in the 4–18 pound (1.8–8.2 kg) range, depending on the other parent breed. A Morkie (Yorkie × Maltese) typically stays under 8 pounds, while a Snorkie (Yorkie × Miniature Schnauzer) can reach 15–18 pounds. If the other parent is a larger small-breed like a Beagle, the mix can reach 20–25 pounds. There is no way to guarantee adult size in a mixed-breed puppy — paw size and parent weight offer rough estimates, but growth curves vary.
Are Yorkie mixes hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic. However, Yorkie mixes with Poodle or Maltese ancestry tend to shed very little, which reduces the amount of dander in the home and may be better tolerated by people with mild dog allergies. Crosses with Chihuahuas, Beagles, or other shedding breeds are less likely to be low-shedding. If you have allergies, spend time with the specific puppy or adult dog before committing — individual variation matters more than breed labels.
What health problems do Yorkie mixes have?
Yorkie mixes can inherit any condition common to either parent breed. The most significant risks include patellar luxation (knee dislocation), tracheal collapse, portosystemic liver shunts, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, and severe dental disease. These are not rare in toy breeds — the Merck Veterinary Manual notes that patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in small dogs. Ask your breeder for OFA health clearances on both parent dogs, and maintain regular veterinary checkups throughout your dog's life.
How much does a Yorkie mix puppy cost?
Breeder prices for Yorkie mixes range from $400 to $2,500 depending on the specific cross, breeder reputation, and geographic location. Yorkipoos and Morkies tend to be at the higher end ($800–$2,500), while Chorkies are often less expensive ($400–$1,500). Adoption fees through rescues and shelters typically range from $100 to $500 and often include initial vaccinations, spay/neuter, and microchipping — making adoption a significantly more affordable option.
Are Yorkie mixes good with children?
Yorkie mixes can do well with respectful, older children (generally age 10 and up) who understand how to handle a small dog gently. They are not recommended for homes with toddlers or very young children, who may accidentally injure a 5–10 pound dog through rough handling. Any interaction between a small dog and a child should be actively supervised — not just "being in the same room."
Do Yorkie mixes bark a lot?
Many do. Yorkshire Terriers are terriers, and terriers are vocal by nature. When you cross a Yorkie with another vocal breed — like a Chihuahua, Miniature Schnauzer, or Beagle — the likelihood of a barky dog increases. Consistent positive-reinforcement training from puppyhood, including teaching a "quiet" cue and rewarding calm behavior, can manage excessive barking but rarely eliminates it entirely. If you live in an apartment with thin walls or close neighbors, this is worth considering.
Marcus Aldridge
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
