Yorkie-Apso

Purpose

Companion

Breed Type : Crossbreeds

Breed Size: Small

The Yorkie-Apso is an endearing designer breed, created by crossing the Lhasa Apso with the Yorkshire Terrier. This small dog makes an excellent companion and is a joy to have as a family pet. Its compact size makes it ideal for apartment living or smaller residences. Typically, the Yorkie-Apso stands between 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs around 7 to 15 pounds. Unlike many other small breeds, this dog is known for its calm temperament and rarely barks. It thrives on daily attention, often leading to a pampered lifestyle where it feels like the ruler of the household.

Breed Origin

The Yorkie-Apso is an exemplary fusion of its parent breeds. The Lhasa Apso, a breed held in high esteem in Tibet, takes its name from the revered city of Lhasa. Historically, these dogs were treasured by Buddhist monks in monasteries, serving as both cherished companions and alert guardians. The Dalai Lama frequently gifted these small canines to distinguished visitors. In 1933, an American naturalist brought a pair of these tiny dogs to the United States, marking the establishment of the first Lhasa Apso kennel in the country. The breed gained recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1935, earning a place in the Toy Group. Conversely, the Yorkshire Terrier hails from Yorkshire, England, where it was bred as a determined ratter to control the rodent population in local mines. These lively dogs also found favor with hunters, who employed them to track foxes and badgers, often pursuing their prey into burrows. A prominent Yorkie named Huddersfield Ben became the breed's foundational stud. The first Yorkshire Terriers made their way to the United States in 1872, quickly becoming favored as pampered pets. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1885, also categorizing it within the Toy Group.

Breed Appearance

The small Yorkie-Apso often showcases a variety of attractive colors, including black, tan, reddish-brown, and brown. Its ears, while upright, may occasionally droop. The breed features a moderately long muzzle that pairs well with its rounded head. With soft, almond-shaped eyes, it usually has a black nose that resembles a tiny button, though a brown nose is also possible. Its delicate, cat-like paws are typically highlighted by black toenails. This delightful mix of its parent breeds exhibits a lively and energetic gait.

Care Routine

The Yorkie-Apso features a soft, fluffy coat that requires daily grooming. A slicker brush works particularly well for managing this hybrid's fur. Many pet owners opt for a professional trim once a month to maintain the coat's length and prevent tangles. Groomers can also trim the fur around the eyes if needed. To keep the dog's small nails short, it's advisable to clip them once or twice a month. Additionally, brushing his teeth several times a week is important to prevent plaque buildup, as smaller hybrids are more prone to dental problems and tooth loss. Lastly, his sensitive ears should be gently wiped with a soft washcloth every few weeks to remove any debris.

Behavior & Temperament

The Yorkie-Apso is a loyal companion, known for his affectionate demeanor, which makes him a perfect lapdog. Although he may appear aloof around unfamiliar faces, he showers his love on his immediate family. This small dog forms deep connections with his favorite person and may suffer from separation anxiety when left alone. He flourishes as the only pet in the home, relishing the attention, but may find it challenging to adjust to another animal's presence. However, if he is socialized with other pets during his early years, he usually gets along well with them. Owners should be prepared to show patience, as the Yorkie-Apso can be quite headstrong. It is highly recommended to enroll him in obedience training at an early age.

Play & Exercise

The Yorkie-Apso is relatively low-maintenance regarding its exercise requirements for a happy life. Usually, a short daily walk paired with some playtime suffices to fulfill its activity needs. This breed also enjoys visits to the dog park, where it can explore and interact with other dogs. With its keen intelligence, the Yorkie-Apso is well-suited for obedience training. Because it often suffers from separation anxiety, many owners choose to bring their small dogs along on outings. Overall, this little companion delights in car rides and adventures with its owner.

Things to Know

Cups Per Day

1.0 Cups

Daily Activity

30 Minutes

Average Lifespan

14 Years

Origin

Unknown

Type

Crossbreeds

Size

Small

Origin Country

Unknown

Brush Frequency

Daily

Coat Texture

Straight

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Height & Weight

Weight

11 lbs (5 kg)

Male: 11 lbs (5 kg) , Female: 10 lbs (5 kg)

Height

9 inches (23 sm)

Male: 10 inches (25 sm) , Female: 9 inches (23 sm)

6 Months

4 lbs

5 inches

4 lbs ( m 4 lbs, f 4 lbs )

5 inches ( m 5 inches, f 5 inches )

12 Months

10 lbs

9 inches

10 lbs ( m 10 lbs, f 10 lbs )

9 inches ( m 9 inches, f 9 inches )

18 Months