Dorkie: Yorkie & Dachshund

Dorkie – a cross between a Dachshund and a Yorkshire Terrier – the result of presumably held at the end of the XX century. in the USA breeding works. The choice fell on these dogs since both of them belong to decorative – hunting breeds and fit each other in size. Dorkies are small dogs. Outwardly, they are similar to Dachshunds, but they have a wider muzzle and small, semi-erect, triangular ears.

Appearance

It is a small breed of dog, measuring 5 to 10 inches in height and weighing 5 to 12 pounds. Today, experts distinguish between two varieties of Dorkie, the main distinguishing feature of which is the coat. The first type has rather long, soft, and slightly wavy hair, easy to comb and not bristling in different directions, which gives the dog a more neat appearance. The second variety is distinguished by a shorter, but very stiff coat like that of a Dachshund, for which it is necessary not only to comb it out with a metal brush but also to cut a haircut at least once every six months.

Almost any color is acceptable at the present stage of development of the breed. But mostly black and tan with light “gray hair” is widespread.

Personality

Dorkie is an incredibly sweet and soulful dog, although it has some stubbornness in its character. Dorkie inherited this character trait from the parent breeds.

These are very intelligent animals that sometimes can even outwit their master. However, it is categorically impossible to be angry with them for this, since a more sweet and good-natured creature still needs to be sought. As a rule, Dorkie treats children well if they know how to behave with a dog. Very young children can harm your pet.

The owners should remember about the Dorkie hunting blood, it is because of it that some problems arise:

• tendency to constant barking and digging holes in the yard;
• the manifestation of the hunting instinct in relation to other small or similar sized animals;
• some manifestation of “jealousy” to other pets;
• periodic stubbornness and willfulness.

Such nuances are eliminated only when the owners choose the correct strategy for education and socialization.

Training

Dorkie is a dog that definitely needs education. These are small stubborn pets who sometimes do not want to listen to the owner at all and want to act in their own way. Especially when it comes to attacking a squirrel or cat, or if she needs to dig a hole in the garden. Be sure to teach your pet basic commands, train with patience.

The dog should see you as a leader, and therefore do not hesitate to temporarily deprive her of her favorite toy if you need to achieve obedience. But keep in mind that raising Dorkie will only be successful if you are her friend, and learn to accept some of the specific sides of this cute animal.

Care

Dorkie is great for home keeping and doesn’t require any extra effort from you. The amount of effort depends on which parent has the greatest influence on the coat. If your pet has short hair, brush his coat 2-3 times a month. Long-haired Dorkies should be brushed systematically (2-3 times a week) with a special brush.

Basic rules for caring for Dorkie:

• Use specially formulated shampoos for bathing. The frequency of water procedures is once every three to four months, not more often. It is not recommended to bathe small (up to six months) puppies. Washing dirty paws after a walk do not count.
• Clean your dog’s teeth regularly. This is the best prevention against tartar and possible gum disease.
• Ears, as they become dirty, are cleaned with a cotton swab dipped in a weak solution of hydrogen peroxide.
• Inspect your eyes and wipe with a clean cloth dampened with warm water to remove any accumulated dirt.
• Be sure to trim your baby’s nails every two weeks.

Feeding

Some Dorkie owners prefer to feed their pets with natural food, considering such food more natural and varied. Others believe that it is preferable to feed ready-made dry food with a balanced composition of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins.

When taking a puppy from its mother, it is important to ask the breeder what kind of food the baby is accustomed to. At first, the diet is left familiar to the baby. In the future, if the new owner wishes, a gradual transfer of the animal to a new type of food is possible.

Absolutely forbidden:

• Sausages, smoked meats.
• Fat, pork.
• Chicken bones, legs, heads. Beef, lamb ribs.
• Bakery products, pasta.
• Pickles, marinades, sauces.
• Sweets, including chocolate.
• Ice cream.
• Salt, sweeteners, spices.
• River bony fish.
• Raisins, grapes, citrus fruits, tropical fruits.
• Alcoholic drinks, coffee, tea.

Health

With proper care, Dorkie’s lifespan is 13-16 years. In general, these are healthy dogs, but they can be prone to frequent illnesses that Yorkies and Dachshunds suffer from. Among them:

• Ear infections
• Patellar luxation
• Cataracts
• Oral health issues
• Portosystemic shunt
• Retinal dysplasia
• Allergies
• Legg-Perthes disease
• Collapsed trachea

Conclusion

Dorkies are sociable animals that will feel great in a small apartment and delight the whole family with their perky and playful disposition!