Dorkies are a mix between a dachshund and a Yorkshire terrier. They are small, energetic dogs that make great companions. Dorkie dogs are intelligent and can be easy to train.
They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Let’s have a deeper look into this interesting crossbreed.
Dorkie temperament traits
To understand this crossbreed, we must consider the purpose of the contributing breeds in order to understand the characteristics you may expect to see in your dorkie.
Dachshunds were bred to scent, track, and flush badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals. This makes them keen diggers and if they’re not given an outlet for this such as a ball pit or other digging activity, be prepared for your dorkie to help to redesign the garden!
Yorkies were bred as ratters in 19th-century mills, so like the dachshund, they can have quite a high prey drive, meaning they love to chase small furries.
Both breeds are independent thinkers and can be quite vocal so dorkies can be tricky to motivate during training and fairly noisy dogs!
What kind of living needs does a dorkie have?
As a small breed, dorkies don’t have excessive living needs and are suitable for many types of home. They can live in an apartment provided they get enough exercise through short daily walks or playtime in the park. They can be quite vocal though so bear this in mind if your neighbours are noise sensitive.
Dorkie exercise requirements
For their size, dorkies can have high energy levels and need at least 30-60 minutes of exercise every day. This can be a combination of walks and playtime. They are also known to be good swimmers so if you have access to a pool or beach, they will love a paddle!
Are dorkies good with children?
Due to their small size, dorkies are not recommended for homes with very small children as they may be injured if mishandled. However, dorkies can be very good family dogs. They are typically gentle and playful and make great playmates for older children.
Are dorkies affectionate?
Dorkies are people-oriented dogs and love being part of the family. They don’t like being left alone for long periods of time and can become anxious which may lead to destructive behaviour. They are usually good with older children who are capable of handling them in a way appropriate for their size, and enjoy playing games. Dorkies are also typically very affectionate dogs and will want to be close to their family members as much as possible.
Dorkies grooming needs
Your dorkie will need regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles from forming in their coat. They will need to be brushed daily to remove any dead hair.
Dorkies are light shedders but their coat can become oily so it’s important to keep an eye on their skin health. Regular baths with a mild dog shampoo will help to keep their coat and skin in good condition.
What health problems do dorkies have?
Dorkies are generally a healthy crossbreed but like all dogs, they can be susceptible to some health problems and you should familiarise yourself with the common health issues in both daschunds and yorkshire terriers in order to understand the potential for health problems. Check what the recommended health tests are for each breed and ensure both your potential puppy’s parents have had those issues ruled out.
Some of the issues that may occur in dorkies include:
– Ear infections – due to their long ears, dorkies are prone to developing ear infections if not kept clean and dry.
– Hip dysplasia – a condition where the hip joint is not formed correctly, hip dysplasia can cause pain and lameness.
– Patellar luxation – this is a condition where the knee joint slips out of place. It can be painful and may require surgery to fix.
Caring for your dorkie
To keep your dorkie healthy and happy, they will need:
– A nutritious diet – provide your dorkie with a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein and essential fatty acids.
– Regular exercise – at least 30-60 minutes of exercise every day is necessary to keep them fit, help prevent obesity and give them sufficient mental stimulation.
– Grooming – brush their coat daily and give them a bath every few weeks to keep them clean and healthy.
– Veterinary care – take your dorkie for regular check-ups at the vet and have them vaccinated and dewormed as recommended.
With regular exercise, a nutritious diet and plenty of love, your dorkie will be a happy and healthy companion.
Dorkies are a fun, active breed that make great family pets. They need lots of mental stimulation such as food finding games, training, puzzles and other enrichment to keep them from making mischief. They are full of character and make brilliant companions if you can give them enough time and attention.
So, if you’re looking for an active, vocal and people-oriented dog that loves to play, the dorkie may be the perfect choice for you!
If you’re looking for a dorkie puppy, see my article on how to find a good dog breeder.
