Yorkie Chihuahua Mix (Chorkie) Breed information
Yorkshire Terrier Chihuahua Mix (Chorkie) Breed information
By Laura Ballarin
Last updated on January 19, 2023 | 10 min read
The Chorkie is a crossbreed between the Chihuahua and the Yorkshire Terrier. Though they are small in size, Chihuahua Yorkshire Terrier Mixes are big on personality. They are alert and active, and they enjoy being around people.
Yorkies Chihuahua Mixes are also relatively easy to train. However, they can be rather vocal and may bark excessively if not properly trained. As with any small breed of dog, Chorkies are prone to certain health problems, such as patellar luxation and tracheal collapse.
Chorkie Quick Facts
Name
Yorkie Chihuahua Mix
Nickname
Chorkie, Yorkiechi, Chiyorkie, Yorkie-chi, Yorkchi, York-chi, Chiorkie, and York Chi.
Breed group
Mixed breed
6 to 9 inches
Weight
8 to 15 pounds
12 to 15 years
Colors
brown, white, silver, blue, and black.
seniors, families with older children, apartment dwellers
like being the only pet of the house, experience separation anxiety
low
high
low
Chorkie Origins
The Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a popular dog, known for its small size and big personality. But where did this breed come from? While the exact origins of the Chihuahua are still unknown, there are several theories about its history. One theory suggests that the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi, a small dog that was once native to Mexico.
The Yorkie
The Yorkshire Terrier is a popular small dog originally from Yorkshire in England. The breed is believed to have been developed from a cross between the Welsh and Scottish terriers, with the addition of some Chihuahua blood. The resulting mix was a small, spirited dog with a long, silky coat that was particularly well-suited to ratting.
Yorkshire Terriers were brought to America in the 1870s, where they quickly became popular as pets and show dogs. Today, they are one of the most popular breeds in the United States.
The Chorkie
The Chorkie is a hybrid dog that is created by mixing a Chihuahua and a Yorkie. This crossbreed first became popular in the United States in the late 1990s. While this breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), it is becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers.
Chorkie Appearance
The Yorkie Chihuahua mix, also known as the Chorkie dog, is a small and sprightly dog that combines the best of both worlds.
Chorkies are typically small in stature, with an average height of around 9-10 inches.
Chihuahua Yorkies' coat is usually silky and smooth and can be either long or short depending on the individual dog.
The most common coat colors are black, brown, and white, but Chorkies can also come in more unusual color combinations such as blue and tan or red and white.
Chorkie Temperament
Chorkie dogs tend to be less energetic than purebred Chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers. They are also less likely to bark excessively or become aggressive.
As a result, Chorkie dogs make good companion animals for people who want a small, quiet dog. However, Chihuahua Yorkies Mixes can be difficult to potty train and may not do well in homes with young children.
Yorkie Chihuahua Mixes can be very loyal and affectionate dogs, but they can also be quite stubborn and independent.
They are intelligent dogs who are quick to learn new tricks, but they can also be manipulative and persuasive when they want something.
Chorkie and other pets
Chihuahua Yorkie Mixes are usually good-natured and playful, and they typically get along well with other pets. However, like all dogs, Chorkie dogs can sometimes be territorial and may bark or nip at other animals if they feel threatened. It's important to socialize Yorkie Chihuahua Mixes from a young age so that they learn to interact calmly and respectfully with other animals.
While they can make great companions for other dogs, it's important to introduce Chorkie dogs slowly and carefully.
Chihuahua Yorkshire Mixes that are not properly socialized may
be shy or fearful around other dogs, which could lead to aggression or bullying.
To prevent this, start by exposing your Chorkie dog to other dogs in short bursts. Let them sniff and explore each other while on leash, gradually increasing the amount of time they spend together. With patience and positive reinforcement, you can help your Chihuahua Yorkie Mix develop into a confident and well-rounded canine companion.
Chorkie Shedding
While Chihuahua Yorshire Mixes may not shed as much as some other breeds, they are not considered to be non-shedding dogs. This means that you will likely find some hair around your home, especially during shedding season. However, it is possible to reduce that shedding.
Regular brushing of your Chorkie dog will help getting rid of loose hair before is falls out on its own. In addition, using a quality shampoo and conditioner can help to reduce shedding and keep your Chorkie's coat healthy and strong.
Chihuahuas are not hypoallergenic dogs. Yorkies are not hypoallergenic dogs. Therefore, Yorkie Chihuahuas Mixes are not hypoallergenic dogs.
Chorkie Health
Though they are typically healthy, there are some health concerns that owners of Chihuahua Yorkie Mixes should be aware of. One potential issue is patellar luxation, which occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. This can be painful for the Chorkie dog and may require surgery to correct.
Another concern for Chihuahua Yorkie mixes is tracheal collapse, which is common in small breeds like the Chihuahua. This condition occurs when the cartilage surrounding the trachea weakens, causing the airway to collapse. While tracheal collapse can usually be managed with medication, in severe cases it may require surgery.
Chorkie Care
When it comes to Yorkie Chihuahua Mixes, or "Chorkies," there are a few things you need to keep in mind in terms of care.
Grooming
Chorkie dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but their coat does require some special care. Here are a few tips for keeping your Chorkie's coat healthy and looking its best:
- Brush your Chihuahua Yorkie Mix's coat regularly with a soft-bristled brush. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may be trapped in the fur.
- Give your Chorkie a bath every few weeks using a mild shampoo. Be sure to rinse the coat thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.
- Take your Chorkie dog to see a groomer every few months for a professional trimming. This will help to keep the coat looking neat and tidy.
Training
Chorkie dogs are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn and headstrong, so it's important to use positive reinforcement methods when training your Chihuahua Yorkie Mix.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Start with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Be consistent with your commands and use positive reinforcement - praise or treats - when your Chorkie obeys.
- Crate training can be helpful in teaching your Yorkie Chihuahua Mix to both stay in one place and not to bark excessively. Start by crate training for short periods of time and gradually increase the amount of time your Chorkie dog spends in the crate.
- Exercise is important for all dogs, even for low-energy breeds like Chorkies. A tired dog is a good dog, so make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for your Chihuahua Yorkshire Mix to run, play, and burn off energy.
Feeding
In general, Chihuahua Yorkie Mixes should consume between 20 and 30 calories per pound of body weight each day.
To ensure that your Chorkie dog gets all of the nutrients he needs, feed him a high-quality dog food that is specifically designed for small breeds.
You can also supplement his diet with occasional treats, but be sure to avoid feeding him table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. With proper nutrition and care, your Chorkie dog will enjoy a long, happy life.
Exercise
Chorkie dogs need some exercise to stay healthy. Here are some tips on how to exercise your Chihuahua Yorkie Mix:
- Take your Chorkie for a walk or run every day. This will help to keep their muscles and bones strong, and it will also give them a chance to socialize with other dogs and people.
- Make sure to visit the dog park or doggy daycare regularly. Yorkie Chihuahua Mixes love to play, and they'll burn off a lot of energy running around with their friends.
- Play fetch or catch with your Chorkie dog in the backyard. This is a great way to wear them out without having to go too far from home.
Male vs Female Chorkie
Though they share many similarities with their parent breeds, there are some key differences between male and female Chihuahua Yorkie Mixes. For one, male Chorkies tend to be larger than females, with an average height of 9-10 inches compared to 8-9 inches.
Male Chorkies also tend to have a more rugged appearance, with a thicker coat and longer snout. In terms of temperament, male Chorkie dogs are often more independent and assertive than their female counterparts. They are also more likely to mark their territory with urine and to be aggressive towards other dogs.
Finally, males Chihuahua Yorkie Mixes have a higher energy level than females and require more exercise.
Is it the Chorkie right for you?
Great for apartment living
The Chihuahua Yorkie Mix is a popular choice for couples with a low activity level.
Chorkies are small and compact, making them perfect for apartments or other small spaces. They are also low-maintenance, requiring only 30 minutes of exercise each day, whici is perfect for people living in apartments.
Not great with young children
For families with young children or toddlers, a small dog like a Chihuahua Yorkie mix may not be the best choice.
Chorkies can be easily injured by rough handling, and their temperament can make them difficult to control. In addition, Yorkie Chihuahua mixes are often wary of strangers, which can make them aggressive towards new family members or visitors.
If you're looking for a small dog that would be a better fit for a family with young children or toddlers, consider breeds such as the Cavalier King Charles spaniel or the Pug.
Right for you
You want an affectionate lap dog
You live in an apartment or small house
Your don't have another dog
Not right for you
You have young children or toddlers
You don't want a dog that barks
You don't have time or patience to train a dog
Chorkie FAQs
What is a Chihuahua Yorkie Mix called?
A Chihuahua Yorkie Mix is typically called a Chorkie, but he can also be called a Yorkiechi, a Chiyorkie, a Yorkie-chi, a Yorkchi, a York-chi, a Chiorkie, and a York Chi.
What does a Chihuahua Yorkie Mix look like?
Chorkies usually have the Yorkie's small size and erect ears, but they can also have the longer snout of the Chihuahua. They often have a smooth, short coat that is black and brown or black and tan in color.
How long do Chihuahua Yorkie Mixes live?
The average lifespan of a Chihuahua Yorkie Mix is 10-15 years.