Shorkie-Poos are small dogs known for their lively personalities and affectionate nature. They adore their families and thrive on attention, often seeking to be the center of affection. While they integrate well with children, other pets, and strangers when properly socialized, supervision is crucial during playtime due to their small size. Shorkie-Poos have a tendency to bark as a form of alertness, which can be managed through early training to prevent it from becoming excessive.

A Shorkie-Poo is a highly adaptable dog breed. They thrive in apartments as well as larger homes with yards. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. And, because they are so small, they are also sensitive to the cold.

Bundling them up with the right mix of winter dog products when the temperatures start dropping can help keep them warm while out on walks. As a true companion breed that bonds closely with their families, these little dogs do not do well with long periods of time alone and they can be prone to developing separation anxiety.

Mixed-breed dogs like the Shorkie-Poo may inherit various health conditions from their parent breeds, including luxating patella, allergies, anesthesia sensitivity, kidney stones, liver disease, hypoglycemia, progressive retinal atrophy, and collapsed trachea. Responsible breeding practices, including health screenings, help mitigate these risks. When choosing a Shorkie-Poo, inquire about the health and genetic history of the parents and any conducted health tests to ensure your future pet’s well-being.

Shorkie-Poos are moderately trainable dog breeds. Although they are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly, they can also be stubborn at times. They may also attempt to push boundaries at times, which makes consistent and clear signals during training even more important.

They do tend to be a good fit for owners of any experience level. However, first-time owners can find them challenging at times, so puppy training classes are recommended. These classes can help you strengthen the bond you have with your puppy, reinforce training, and also provide some opportunities to socialize a puppy.

The Shorkie-Poo can have either a short or longer coat, ranging from curly to silky, but is consistently low-shedding. Care involves daily brushing to prevent tangles, occasional baths, and grooming every 4-6 weeks. Maintenance extends to nails, ears, and teeth, with the groomer addressing some during visits. Regular nail trims, weekly ear checks and cleanings, and daily tooth brushing or enzyme toothpaste use are essential for overall canine care and dental health, preventing issues like dental disease later in life.

Shorkie-Poos typically exhibit moderate energy levels, enjoying bursts of activity during playtime but generally staying within a lower activity range. Daily walks coupled with some play sessions suffice to meet their exercise needs, making them well-suited for households seeking a companion with manageable activity requirements.

A mature Shorkie-Poo typically stands between 6 to 14 inches tall and weighs approximately 7 to 15 pounds.

On average, Shorkie-Poos have a lifespan of approximately 12 to 15 years.