The Fascinating History of Shorkie Breeding
Shorkies, also known as Shichons or Yorkie Chons, are small hybrid dogs that have gained immense popularity in recent years. But what were these adorable pooches bred for? To understand their purpose and development, we need to delve into their fascinating history.
The Parent Breeds: Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus
In order to comprehend why shorkies came into existence, it is crucial to explore the parent breeds involved in their breeding – Yorkshire Terriers (Yorkies) and Shih Tzus. Both these breeds have unique characteristics that make them popular among dog lovers around the world.
Yorkshire Terriers: The Dainty Lapdogs with a Huge Personality
Yorkshire Terriers originally hail from England and were bred during the 19th century to catch rats in mineshafts. They quickly transitioned into becoming cherished companion dogs due to their intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability despite their tiny size.
Shih Tzus: Ancient Chinese Royalty Companions
On the other hand, Shih Tzus have an ancient lineage dating back over 1,000 years. Originating from Tibet but perfected by Chinese breeders during the Ming Dynasty period, they were adored by Chinese royalty for centuries. These little lion-like canines are known for their regal appearance, friendly temperament, and being excellent lapdogs.
The Birth of a New Breed: Introducing the Shorkie
In an effort to combine desirable traits from both Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus, breeders started experimenting with crossbreeding the two breeds. The primary goal was to create a small, hypoallergenic dog that possessed the endearing qualities of both parent breeds.
Size and Appearance
Shorkies inherit their small size from Yorkshire Terriers, typically weighing between 5 to 12 pounds when fully grown. They often have long, silky coats which may come in various colors such as black, brown, tan or white – similar to Shih Tzus.
Temperament and Personality
When it comes to personality traits, shorkies are known for being loving, affectionate, and extremely loyal companions – just like Yorkshire Terriers. Additionally, they acquire the friendly nature of Shih Tzus along with their affinity for human company.
The Versatile Role of Shorkies Today
Beyond understanding what shorkies were originally bred for; it’s important to appreciate how this hybrid breed has evolved over time. Nowadays, these delightful dogs fulfill various roles due to their desirable characteristics:
Loving Family Pets
Owing to their friendly disposition and ability to form strong bonds with humans of all ages, shorkies make exceptional family pets. Their adaptability allows them to fit seamlessly into different households without much ado.
Energetic Playmates
If you’re an active individual who seeks a furry friend ready for adventures at any moment; look no further than a shorkie! Despite their small size (and thanks partly to Yorkie genes), these pups possess remarkable energy levels – always excited about playtime outdoors or indoors!
Hypoallergenic Companions
In consideration of individuals prone to allergies, shorkies inherited their hypoallergenic coat from their Shih Tzu lineage. While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, these mixed breeds tend to shed less and produce fewer allergens compared to other breeds.
Final Thoughts: Shorkies – A Perfect Blend of Charm and Personality
In conclusion, shorkies were specifically bred to combine the wonderful traits of Yorkshire Terriers and Shih Tzus into a single breed. Their small size, beautiful appearance, friendly temperament, and adaptability have made them incredibly popular as family pets. Whether you’re seeking a loving companion or an energetic playmate for your adventures, shorkies are sure to capture your heart with their unique blend of charm and personality!
