Information on Yorkie Mix Dogs

A soaking wet Yorkie playing with a hose.

Yorkshire terriers, or "Yorkies," possess strong personalities and an energetic nature. Mixed breed dogs that claim a Yorkie as a parent are likely to possess these traits as well.

Identification

The temperament of a mixed-breed dog relies heavily on examining its parentage. Identifying how the parents act gives a great deal of insight into how a Yorkie mix will behave.

Significance

Depending on what other breed types your Yorkie is mixed with, he may or may not possess the energy, loyalty and extreme personality that Yorkshire terriers are known for. A Yorkie and collie mix will behave much differently than a Yorkie and spaniel cross.

Considerations

Examine the health problems that are inherent to each breed your dog claims as heritage. Yorkies are subject to a long list of congenital defects including retinal dysplasias and tracheal collapse, which may or may not be present in a mixed breed dog.

Life Span

The life span of a Yorkshire terrier mix falls somewhere in between the average Yorkie life span of 10 to 15 years and that of the other breed it is mixed with.

Fun Fact

Pasha, a Yorkshire terrier, lived in the White House as a member of Richard Nixon's family.

References

• "The Adoption Option: Choosing and Raising the Shelter Dog for You"; Eliza Rubenstein, Shari Kalina; 1996
• "The Dog Breed Bible: Descriptions and Photos of Every Breed Recognized by the AKC"; D. Caroline Cole PhD; 2007
• "The Essential Yorkshire Terrier"; Ian Dunbar; 1999

Resources

• Canine Inherited Disorders Database: Yorkshire Terrier