Activity Level: moderate
Shedding Level: low
Grooming Level: low
Trainability: high
Good for Novice Owners: moderate
Adaptability: high
Kid/Pet Friendly: sometimes
Prey Drive: low
Watchdog: very alert
Average Size: Small
Average Lifespan: 12-16 years

Yorkie Mix Dog Breed Information

Overview

Yorkie Mixes are not purebred dogs, but a mixed or designer breed. Before you decide to add a Yorkie Mix to your family, you may want to research both breeds of the mother and sire. Being knowledgeable about both dog breeds in the cross will help you make an educated and fair decision. You should also research the possible breeder or rescue to be sure they are reputable and reliable.

Many Yorkie Mixes have the positive characteristics of a Yorkshire Terrier. Most Yorkie Mixes are often loving, affectionate, and intelligent. They can also be headstrong, willful, and prone to barking if not trained properly. If you decide to adopt or buy a Yorkie Mix, you should educate yourself on possible training options and tips. Being well prepared for your new dog will make the transition easier for your puppy and your family.

Some Yorkie Mixes may have conflicts as well. Mixes like Yorkie-poos (Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle) and Yorkie-poms (Yorkies and Pomeranians) often have conflicting personality traits. That could mean a Yorkie-pom that is more of a couch potato than a ball of energy, or a prey-driven Yorkie-poo that would rather swim in the local pond than go to the dog park. With any mixed breeds, there will be some variations.

Most Yorkie Mixes are on the smaller spectrum of dog breeds. They are often happy anywhere as long as they have plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. So, if you have an apartment or condo, a Yorkie Mix could be perfect for you.

Before adopting, be sure you have a few hours every day to spend with your new friend. Yorkie Mixes are incredibly loyal and loving to their owners and need to be around them whenever possible. If you have long days at the office, see if you can bring your pup to work. Otherwise, you will want to be able to come home in the middle of the day for lunch and a walk – if this is not possible, you may need to look for a more independent pup.

Many mixed breeds are often healthy because they are drawing from a larger gene pool. They still need regular veterinary checks, a healthy and wholesome diet, and daily exercise. This will keep them happy and healthy. To keep them mentally occupied, you may also want to provide food puzzles and games. In doing so, they will not become bored or possibly destructive in the long run. As these pups age, they are prone to eye issues, epilepsy, skin problems, and exhaustion (if overexerted or left outdoors for too long). By staying up-to-date with veterinarian visits, you may avoid many of these ailments.

Yorkie Mixes are often easy to train for first-time pet owners. If you are focused and patient, you will be able to teach your pup the necessary commands in a matter of weeks. However, some dogs will be more stubborn than others. By learning about training techniques, and possibly working with a professional trainer, you will have the confidence to teach your new friend and they will be eager and happy to listen to you.

Mixed Yorkie breeds often need minimal grooming. You should brush your dog, at most, every other day or at least once a week and bathe them every other month or as needed. Then, you will want to have them groomed twice a year to stay happy and comfortable as the seasons change.

You will also want to trim your Yorkie Mix’s nails monthly, check their ears weekly, and brush their teeth or use an enzyme toothpaste daily. As a small dog breed, the Yorkie Mix is more prone to dental disease, but proper dental care for dogs can help prevent it.