Yorkshire Terrier mixes are the result of crossing a Yorkie with other dog breeds. They have gained popularity due to their unique appearance, mixed personality traits, and variety of options that can satisfy even the most demanding owner. These dogs combine the best qualities of two (or more) breeds, creating unique companions for different lifestyles.
What are Yorkie mixes?
*Yorkie Mix Photo
Mixes are dogs with one Yorkshire Terrier parent and the other from a different breed. This combination allows them to inherit both Yorkie traits and unique features from the other breed.
Yorkie mixes are known for their versatility: they can be compact and miniature or slightly larger, energetic or calm, with coats of varying textures and lengths. This unpredictability makes them appealing to many owners.
How Do Yorkshire Terrier Mixes Appear?
Yorkie mixes are created through intentional breeding with other breeds. The goals of such crossings include:
- Improved health: reducing the risk of genetic diseases common in purebred dogs.
- New personality traits: combining the Yorkie’s temperament with another breed to create the perfect companion.
- Unique appearance: producing dogs with unusual coat textures, colors, or body shapes.
Crossbreeding also helps adapt the breed to different living conditions, from city apartments to spacious countryside homes.
Which Breeds Are Most Commonly Crossed with Yorkies?
Yorkipoo (Yorkie + Poodle)
- They inherit the Poodle’s hypoallergenic coat and the Yorkie’s playfulness.
- Often called “teddy bears” due to their adorable appearance.
Shorkie (Yorkie + Shih Tzu)
- Playful and friendly personality.
- A plush appearance with thick, soft fur.
Chorkie (Yorkie + Chihuahua)
- Compact size, bold and energetic personality.
- Low maintenance, suitable for small apartments.
Yorkie-Griffon (Yorkie + Brussels Griffon)
- Emotional and cheerful personality.
- Unique appearance with a beard or “mustache.”
Yorkipom (Yorkie + Pomeranian)
- Fluffy coat and an adorable face.
- Highly energetic and loyal to their owner.
Yorkie-Beagle (Yorkie + Beagle)
- They inherit the Yorkie’s energy and the Beagle’s friendliness.
- Often have short, smooth fur and adorable, expressive eyes.
Maltie-Yorkie (Yorkie + Maltese)
- A unique combination with an elongated body shape.
- Intelligent and loyal.
Yorkie-Havanese (Yorkie + Havanese Bichon)
- A unique combination with an elongated body shape.
- Intelligent and loyal.
Yorkie-Havanese (Yorkie + Havanese Bichon)
- Thick undercoat and playful personality.
- Perfect for large families.
Yorkie-Pek (Yorkie + Pekingese)
- Compact size with a thick coat.
- Often become favorites of elderly people due to their calmer temperament.
Purposes of Creating Mixes
Crossbreeding Yorkies with other breeds has several key benefits:
Health
Mixing genetics reduces the risk of diseases such as dental or digestive issues, which are common in purebred Yorkies.
Temperament
Mixes can have a balanced personality, inheriting the Yorkie’s loyalty and either the calmness or energy of the other breed.
Appearance
A variety of coat textures, colors, and shapes allow everyone to find a perfect pet with a unique look.
Popular Yorkie Mixes and Their Characteristics
Yorkipoo (Yorkie + Poodle)
Characteristics:
- Size: Small, weight 3-6 kg.
- Coat: Hypoallergenic, curly or wavy.
- Personality: Playful, friendly, highly intelligent.
- Features: Yorkipoos inherit the intelligence of the Poodle, making them easy to train. They also retain the elegance and grace of the Yorkie. Thanks to their hypoallergenic coat, these mixes are perfect for people with allergies.
Ideal for:
Families with children, elderly individuals, and allergy sufferers.
Shorkie (Yorkie + Shih Tzu)
Characteristics:
- Size: Small, weight 4-7 kg.
- Coat: Thick, soft, often shiny.
- Personality: Calm, affectionate, enjoys playing but doesn’t require constant activity.
- Features: Shorkies look like tiny plush toys. They have a friendly nature, making them perfect companions for families or individuals.
Ideal for:
Apartment living and people looking for a calm pet.
Chorkie (Yorkie + Chihuahua)
Characteristics:
- Size: Very compact, weight 2-4 kg.
- Coat: Can be short or medium-length, depending on Chihuahua genetics.
- Personality: Brave, energetic, sometimes stubborn.
- Features: Chorkies inherit the Chihuahua’s loyalty and strong self-confidence. Despite their small size, these dogs act like true “big dogs.”
Ideal for:
Individuals or active people looking for a small but spirited companion.
Yorkie-Griffon (Yorkie + Brussels Griffon)
Characteristics:
- Size: Small, weight 3-5 kg.
- Coat: Coarse or silky, often with a beard.
- Personality: Cheerful, energetic, loves attention.
- Features: Yorkie-Griffons have very expressive faces, often with a “beard” or “mustache.” They are very sociable and easily get along with other animals and children.
Ideal for:
Families or people who appreciate a sociable and friendly dog.
Yorkipom (Yorkie + Pomeranian)
Characteristics:
- Size: Small, weight 2-5 kg.
- Coat: Fluffy, with a bright shine.
- Personality: Active, cheerful, always ready to play.
- Features: Yorkipoms have incredibly beautiful fur, making them look like tiny lion cubs. They are very loyal to their owners and love being the center of attention.
Ideal for:
People who are willing to dedicate time to coat maintenance.
Maltie-Yorkie (Yorkie + Maltese)
Characteristics:
- Size: Small, weight 3-6 kg.
- Coat: Silky, often white or with light shades.
- Personality: Gentle, affectionate, calm.
- Features: Maltie-Yorkies have an incredibly sweet nature. They are less active than purebred Yorkies but retain grace and elegance.
Ideal for:
Elderly people or families who appreciate calm and affectionate pets.
Yorkiebull (Yorkie + French Bulldog)
Characteristics:
Yorkiebull (Yorkie + French Bulldog)
- Size: Medium, weight 5-8 kg.
- Coat: Short, shiny.
- Personality: Bold, confident, friendly.
- Features: Yorkiebulls inherit the Yorkie’s compactness and the French Bulldog’s muscular build. They are great for active walks but also enjoy relaxing at home.
Ideal for:
Active people looking for a slightly larger dog than a typical Yorkie.
Yorkie-Husky (Yorkie + Siberian Husky)
- Size: Medium, weight 7-12 kg.
- Coat: Thick, often with a facial mask.
- Personality: Active, friendly, independent.
- Features: Yorkie-Huskies are a fascinating combination. They inherit the Husky’s energy and the Yorkie’s compactness, making them unique in both appearance and temperament.
Ideal for:
Families that enjoy an active lifestyle.
Advantages of Yorkie Mixes
Resistance to Certain Genetic Diseases
Purebred Yorkies, like other breeds, have a predisposition to genetic diseases such as dental problems, joint dysplasia, or digestive issues. Thanks to mixed genetics, Yorkie mixes often have higher immunity to such problems. This phenomenon is known as “hybrid vigor,” which enhances overall health and immunity.
Unique Appearance
Yorkie mixes offer a treasure trove of unique physical traits. Each mix can have a different coat texture, color, or body shape. For example:
- Yorkie-Poodle mixes can have curly coats.
- Yorkie-Maltese mixes have soft and silky fur.
- Yorkie-Shih Tzu mixes look like plush toys.
This unique appearance makes Yorkie mixes stand out among other dogs, adding to their individuality.
Unique Personality Combinations
Yorkie mixes combine the best personality traits of both breeds. For example:
- From the Yorkie, they inherit energy, loyalty, and playfulness.
- From the Poodle, intelligence and ease of training.
- From the Shih Tzu, calmness and friendliness.
These dogs adapt to different lifestyles, making them an excellent choice for both active families and elderly owners.
Grooming and Haircut Needs for Yorkie Mixes
Grooming for Yorkie mixes depends on the texture and length of their coat, which they inherit from both parents. This means each mix has unique care needs.
Coat Care Based on Type
- Curly Coat (Yorkipoo):
Requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent matting. Professional grooming is recommended every 6-8 weeks. - Thick and Soft Coat (Shorkie):
Needs frequent brushing as it tends to tangle. These mixes require regular baths with coat conditioners. - Short Coat (Chorkie):
Minimal care: brushing once a week and bathing as needed. - Wire Coat (Yorkie-Griffon):
Hand-stripping (removal of dead hairs) is recommended every few months.
Haircut Styles
Yorkie mixes allow for creative grooming options:
- Classic Cuts: Highlight Yorkie features (such as the “puppy cut”).
- Functional Cuts: Reduce coat volume for easier maintenance.
- Creative Cuts: Curly-haired Yorkipoos, for example, can have stylish and unique haircuts.
Routine Grooming Schedule
Care for Yorkie mixes depends on their individual needs:
- Brushing — 1 to 3 times per week.
- Bathing — Every 2-4 weeks, depending on activity level.
- Professional Grooming — Every 6-8 weeks.
Paw and Nail Care
Active Yorkie mixes may wear down their nails faster, so it’s important to check nail length and paw health regularly.
Ear and Dental Hygiene
Yorkie mixes often inherit a small mouth, making them prone to dental issues. Weekly teeth cleaning and regular ear checks help prevent health problems.
Conclusion
Yorkshire Terrier mixes are unique dogs that combine the best qualities of their parents. Their special charm, diverse personalities, and distinctive appearance make them a wonderful addition to any family. Thanks to their mixed genetics, they often enjoy better health and adaptability to various living conditions.
These dogs are ideal for both active individuals looking for a playful and energetic companion and those who appreciate a calm and affectionate friend. Their ability to adjust to different lifestyles makes them great pets for families with children, singles, or elderly owners.
If you’re looking for a dog with a unique personality, charming appearance, and endless loyalty, a Yorkie mix will be the perfect choice for you!
