Dorkie

Dorkie Terrier

Purpose

Family pet

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Dorkie is an enchanting crossbreed that merges the Dachshund with the Yorkshire Terrier. Typically, this small breed reaches a height of about seven inches and weighs around eight pounds, showcasing a captivating look. Its coat is often long, straight, and dense, frequently displaying a blend of black and brown or brown and tan shades. Dorkies are characterized by their large, floppy ears, small heads, elongated bodies, and short legs. Their tails are medium to long and tend to be quite fluffy. Like all breeds, Dorkies are susceptible to specific health concerns, particularly related to their skin and eyes, making regular veterinary visits crucial for their health. They are generally affectionate towards children and other pets, but it’s advisable to supervise them around young kids due to their small stature.

Breed Origin

The Dachshund has its origins in Germany, dating back to the 1500s, where it was primarily bred for hunting small game, particularly badgers. This breed is believed to have developed from a combination of various French Basset Hounds, Braques, and Pinschers. The longhaired and wirehaired varieties emerged from different Spaniel and Terrier breeds. With their elongated bodies and sturdy little legs, Dachshunds were perfectly equipped to dig into badger burrows, aiding hunters in their pursuits. By the 1800s, they had become popular as household pets, a trend that intensified after they captured the interest of Queen Victoria's court. It was during this period that the miniature Dachshund was introduced, appealing to those who preferred a smaller companion. After World War I, some Dachshunds were imported from Germany, and the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1885. Today, Dachshunds are the 13th most popular dog breed in the United States. In contrast, the Yorkshire Terrier emerged in England in the 1800s, resulting from a blend of breeds such as the Maltese, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Skye Terrier, English Black and Tan Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, Paisley Terrier, and Waterside Terrier. Originally bred for their rat-catching abilities, they excelled in this task. Their distinctive looks soon made them popular as family pets, especially among the wealthy. They quickly gained fame in dog shows, leading to their registration by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Currently, the Yorkshire Terrier ranks as the 9th most popular dog breed in the United States.

Breed Appearance

The Dorkie bears a closer resemblance to a Yorkshire Terrier than to a Dachshund, yet it retains the Dachshund's distinctive long body, robust frame, and short legs. Its coat ranges from medium to long, akin to that of a Yorkshire Terrier, and boasts a thick, silky feel. Typically, Dorkies showcase colors commonly found in Yorkshire Terriers, including combinations of black and brown, red and black, or bluish and brown, though variations may arise depending on their ancestry. Their eyes are small, round, and dark, paired with large, floppy ears, a long, fluffy tail, a black nose, and a medium-length muzzle that often displays a cheerful grin. In general, these dogs are petite, measuring under 10 inches in height and weighing up to 12 pounds.

Care Routine

The Dorkie has a coat that requires minimal upkeep, but it's recommended to brush it with a metal comb and a stiff bristle brush about three to four times a week. If you come across any tangles or mats, gently work them loose with your fingers before using the brush. It's also essential to maintain their dental hygiene by brushing their teeth with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for dogs. While brushing a few times a week is sufficient, daily care is preferable. Regular nail trimming is necessary, and you should clean their ears weekly. Keep an eye out for any signs of redness, as moisture in the ears can lead to bacterial and yeast infections.

Behavior & Temperament

Your Dorkie is typically a serene and affectionate companion, often relishing long naps and comfortably curling up in your lap. They enjoy cuddling and appreciate being held, generally getting along well with both children and other pets. However, it's advisable to monitor their interactions until you have a clear understanding of their behavior. Training can be relatively straightforward, but this can differ among individual dogs, as some may be too laid-back to engage actively in learning. Consistency and positive reinforcement are essential, given that Dorkies can be quite sensitive. While they may bark from time to time, their small stature and easygoing demeanor make them well-suited for apartment living.

Play & Exercise

To keep your Dorkie happy and healthy, she needs 30 to 45 minutes of exercise every day. This breed can be a bit lazy, so you may have to encourage her with stimulating activities such as playing fetch or taking a walk around the neighborhood. You might also want to explore agility training, enter her in competitions, or enjoy a lively game of Frisbee at the park. Socializing with other dogs at a dog park can be advantageous as well. If she doesn’t get enough physical activity, she could become anxious and gain weight, making it essential for her to have at least half an hour of vigorous exercise daily.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

1.0 Cups

Daily Activity

45 Minutes

Average Lifespan

12 Years

Origin

1990

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

United States

Brush Frequency

Weekly

Coat Texture

Straight

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Height & Weight

Weight

9 lbs (4 kg)

Male: 10 lbs (5 kg) , Female: 8 lbs (4 kg)

Height

8 inches (20 sm)

Male: 9 inches (23 sm) , Female: 7 inches (18 sm)