Chorkie: Yorkie & Chihuahua

The Chorkie is a small decorative dog, mixed breed Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier. The designer breed has gained popularity around the world due to its small size, unusual appearance, and attractive disposition.

History of Origin

Chorkie― is a designer breed of dog, which is obtained as a result of crossing purebred Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas. They were first discussed in the mid-90s in the United States. Soon they began to actively breed them in Europe.

Metis are not registered by any international canine organization, but there are breed clubs that make sure that breeders are responsible for matings and arrange exhibitions between similar hybrids. In addition, there is a group of enthusiasts who are engaged in the development of the Chorkie breed. For this, hybrids of the second and subsequent generations are crossed.

Appearance

Chorkie is a mestizo of two breeds, which means that they inherit the features of their parents in the most diverse combination. Some look more like a Chihuahua, others more like a Yorkie.

• Height at the withers – 15-23 cm.;
• Weight – 3.5-4.5 kg.

The coat can be short or long, straight or slightly wavy. No undercoat. Various colors, the most common:

• Black
• Black-brown
• Brown
• Auburn
• White.

Character and Behavior

Chorkie by all characteristics meet their purpose – a decorative companion dog. They are very social, playful, and loyal dogs with a lively temperament. Can be a little cheeky and requires a lot of attention. Quite sensitive. They are friendly towards others and get along well with other animals. On walks, you need to make sure that the Chorkie does not unleash conflicts with large dogs. Some show hunting interest in birds and small animals.

Chorkie, like bells, notifies the owner of the passage of guests. They do not tolerate prolonged loneliness. Not the best choice for families with very young children who can harm the dog inadvertently. Adult Chorkie, in a family where children have appeared, is difficult to adapt and can get angry because of the excessive manifestation of the baby’s love.

Yorkie and Chihuahua hybrids are very intelligent and curious, they are easy to learn and are happy to carry out various commands. Reacts best to positive reinforcement methods. Without proper upbringing, a Chorkie can develop “small dog syndrome”.

Conditions of Detention

Chorkie can live in a house or apartment, they are absolutely undemanding to the size of the living space, but it is desirable for them to equip a secluded corner (a small house or a couch) where the dog can retire and provide several toys. Mestizos are quite playful and energetic but do not require daily long walks. In bad weather, they can stay at home and play with a ball.

Feeding

Feeding can be natural or prepared food, but since many small dogs have sensitive digestion, owners are more likely to prefer holistic class complete dry or wet food. Chorkie is also prone to obesity and often suffer from food allergies.

Care

In general, the care is simple, it includes standard hygienic procedures:

• Combing 1-2 times a week;
• Bathing every 7-10 days;
• Weekly examination of eyes, ears, and teeth, cleaning as needed;
• Claw trimming every 3-4 weeks;
• Dogs that inherit the long Yorkie coat need a hygienic haircut.

Health

Chorkie is small, sensitive creatures that require grooming, a thrifty attitude, and careful selection of their diet. Life expectancy is 10-15 years. They can inherit genetic diseases of the original breeds:

• Dislocation of the patella;
• Ophthalmic diseases (progressive retinal atrophy, cataract);
• Hypothyroidism;
• Hypoglycemia;
• Various diseases of the digestive tract;
• Hydrocephalus;
• Open fontanelle;
• Urolithiasis disease;
• Insufficiency of the mitral valve;
• Diseases of the oral cavity.

To maintain the health of the dog, owners should strictly adhere to the schedule of vaccination and treatment against parasites.