Yorkie and Dachshund Mix: Everything You Need To Know

If you’re a lover of hybrid dog breeds, then we’re quite sure you would like to know everything about the Yorkie and Dachshund mix. These two dog breeds look a lot different from one another. However, the mix of these two pooches has been around for a couple of decades.

What is the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix?

Ah, the Yorkie and Dachshund mix, lovingly known as the “Dorkie”!

Just imagine mixing the long, flowing locks of a Yorkie with the adorably elongated body of a Dachshund. You’ve got the Dorkie. These cuties often sport a medium-length coat that can either be silky like a Yorkie or slightly wavy, courtesy of the Dachshund genes.

Size of the Yorkie and Dachshund mix:

In terms of size, they’re petite, but not as tiny as a teacup – somewhere between the weight of their parent breeds. Those charming short legs from the Dachshund side are there, but with a bit of the Yorkie’s perky step. Their face? Well, it’s a heart-melter! 

Think expressive eyes, a snout that’s the perfect blend of pointy and stubby, and ears that can’t quite decide if they want to stand up tall or flop down adorably. Colors can vary, but it’s common to see a blend of tan, black, or even the golden hues of the Yorkie. If you ever see a Dorkie prancing down the street, good luck resisting those “aww” moments!

Distinctive look of the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix:

Yorkie:

Size: Tiny but mighty, these furballs usually weigh around 4-7 pounds.

Coat: Long, silky, and oh-so-flowy. It’s like they’ve just stepped out of a hair commercial!

Features: Small head, perky ears, and a tail that’s often docked.

Dachshund:

Size: Longer in body, they weigh between 16-32 pounds depending on if they’re standard or miniature.

Coat: Comes in three versions – smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. A coat for every mood, perhaps?

Features: That long body paired with short legs gives them the nickname “wiener dog” or “sausage dog.” And boy, do they rock it!

Personality of the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix:

Yorkie:

Temperament: Bold, confident, and sometimes thinks they’re a lion, not a dog. Total Napoleonic vibes.

Intelligence: Quick learners but sometimes too smart for their boots.

Social Skills: Love being the center of attention, can be a bit yappy.

Dachshund:

Temperament: Playful and stubborn. When they dig in their heels, they really dig in.

Intelligence: Clever little pups, but can use that brainpower to be mischievous.

Social Skills: Can be a tad reserved around strangers but are usually pretty chill once they get to know you.

Health Issues of the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix:

Are Dorkies Healthy?

First things first, let’s bust a myth: No dog breed, pure or mixed, comes with a 100% health guarantee. It’s just not how nature works. But here’s the deal with Dorkies. Because they’re a blend of two distinct breeds – the Dachshund and the Yorkshire Terrier – they can inherit health issues from either parent.

Mixed breeds like Dorkies often benefit from what’s called “hybrid vigor.” It’s a fancy way of saying that mixing genetic pools can lead to healthier offspring. So, some Dorkies might dodge the health bullets altogether and live a relatively problem-free life.

Yorkie:

Common Issues: Dental problems and delicate digestive systems.

Lifespan: With good care, these munchkins can live 13-16 years.

Dachshund:

Common Issues: Thanks to their elongated bodies, Dachshunds are prone to spine problems. Watch out for obesity; it can exacerbate the issue.

Lifespan: These pups also have a good run, living around 12-15 years.

Exercise and Play of the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix:

Yorkie:

Needs: They have loads of energy and love a good game of fetch or tug-o-war. Daily walks are a must to keep them from bouncing off the walls.

Fun Fact: They’re pretty good at agility courses!

Dachshund:

Needs: They’re surprisingly active. Play sessions and walks are great, but avoid too much jumping or stair-climbing because of their backs.

Fun Fact: They were originally bred to hunt badgers, which explains the digging and determination!

Are Dorkies smart?

When you’ve got the genes of a Yorkie and a Dachshund running through your veins, you’re bound to have a few light bulbs going off upstairs. Yorkies are known for their quick wit and alertness. On the other hand, Dachshunds are clever. Combine the two, and you’ve got a Dorkie – a pup that’s not just smart but also bursting with personality.

Don’t be surprised if your Dorkie figures out where you hide their treats or learn new tricks with just a few tries. And while they’re smarty pants, they can sometimes use their intelligence for mischief. Ever found your shoes mysteriously moved or your snacks suspiciously sniffed out? Yep, that’s the Dorkie intelligence at play!

We also need to note that Dorkies need mental stimulation. Bored Dorkie = Naughty Dorkie. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and regular play sessions can keep that bright mind occupied.

If you decide to own a Yorkie and Dachshund mix, then you gotta be prepared to buy lots of toys.

Is the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix Easy To Potty Train?

When it comes to potty training, Dorkies can be a mixed bag – and I’m not talking about the one you use for clean-up duty! Given their lineage, these pups can inherit the training traits of either the Yorkie or the Dachshund, or sometimes, a bit of both.

They’re smart little cookies but can sometimes flaunt a diva streak. In other words, they decide when they want to go potty – and it might not always be outside! Dachshunds, on the other hand, are known for their stubbornness. If a Dachshund doesn’t want to do something, they’ll plant those short legs firmly and give you the “try me” look.

So, with the Dachshund and Yorkie (mix), you might get a quick learner, or you might get a pup that’ll test your patience. But here’s the silver lining: Consistency is your BFF! With a regular routine, lots of praise for outdoor business, and maybe a treat or two as rewards, most Dorkies will catch on.

How Much Exercise Does a Dorkie Need?

Dorkies, might be small, but they pack a punch of energy! Think of them as those pocket-sized energy drinks, but in dog form. But before you imagine them running marathons with you, let’s set some expectations.

First off, their tiny legs. Those adorable, short little pins might be all kinds of cute. However,  they also mean that Dorkies aren’t built for super long runs or intense hiking trails.

Although they’re small, they still need their daily dose of exercise to burn off energy and stay in tip-top shape.

A brisk walk around the block, some playtime in the yard, or a session of fetch (yes, they love chasing after those tiny balls!) can be just the ticket for these pups. Around 20-30 minutes of active play or walking, maybe split into two sessions, should do the trick.

Indoor games are equally important. The Yorkie and Dachshund Mix is the champ at playing hide-and-seek or tug-of-war with their toys. Its sharp little minds also love puzzle toys, which can give them both mental and physical stimulation.

Be careful about taking them outside in the summer

Despite their bursts of energy, Dorkies can be prone to overexertion, especially in hot weather. Those little bodies can heat up pretty quickly, so always ensure they’re not overdoing it and have plenty of water on hand.

What Are the Grooming Requirements for a Dorkie?

Well, Dorkies need a bit of grooming love to look their absolute best.

Hair Grooming of the Yorkie and Dachshund Mix:

Depending on which parent’s genes are dominating the fur game, your Dorkie might have a coat that’s silky like a Yorkie or a bit more wiry like a Dachshund. If it’s on the longer side, daily brushing is a good idea to avoid tangles and mats. Got a short-coated Dorkie? A few brush-downs a week should suffice. And remember, regular brushing isn’t just about looks – it’s a great way to keep their skin healthy and check for any unexpected bumps or critters.

Bath Time of Yorkies and Dachshunds: 

These little guys don’t need a bath every other day – that could dry out their skin. But every few weeks, or when they decide to roll in something suspicious, a gentle doggy shampoo and a warm bath can work wonders.

Regularly Brush Your Dorkie’s Teeth:

Tooth brushing is of great importance for Yorkie’s teeth. Those tiny mouths can be a hotspot for plaque buildup. Regular brushing (with dog-specific toothpaste, please!) and dental chews can help keep those pearly whites, well, pearly.

Regular Nail Trimming:

Those tiny tapping sounds on your floor? It’s nail-trimming time! Dorkies’ nails can grow pretty quickly, so regular trims are a must to prevent overgrowth and splitting.

Ear Inspection of Your Dorkie: 

Thanks to their floppy ears, the Yorkie and Dachshund mix can be prone to ear infections. A regular check and gentle clean (no deep diving!) can keep them free from buildup and any pesky issues. To keep your dog’s ears clean, we recommend you take a look at the Yorkie Ear Cleaning Solution. It prevents ear infections caused by bacteria, parasites and fungi. Thanks to the practical pipe, you’ll be able to keep your dog’s ears healthy and odor-free.

Eye Cleaning: 

Those expressive Dorkie eyes can sometimes get a bit goopy. A soft, damp cloth can help clean away any debris or discharge.

We recommend you use the Yorkie Eye Tear Stain Remover once a week to remove and prevent ugly tear stains. It contains only natural ingredients, and can successfully remove tear stains in only two weeks. 

If you want to remove old tear stains, we recommend you use it twice a week.

Does The Yorkie and Dachshund Mix Make a Good Family Dog?

Kid-Friendly: 

Generally, Dorkies are affectionate and can be great with kids. However, because of their petite size, they’re delicate. So, while they might love playing with kiddos, it’s super important that playtime is gentle. 

Older kids will understand the “gentle touch” rule. But with very young kids who are still mastering their motor skills, it’s a good idea to supervise any interactions.

Sociable Squirts: 

Dorkies can be quite sociable, loving the company of their human family. They’ll likely be right there with you during movie nights, wanting a piece of the popcorn action. 

However, they might inherit the Yorkie’s yappy tendencies or the Dachshund’s stubborn streak, so early socialization is key.

Lap Lovers: 

If you’ve got a lap, a Dorkie will want to be on it. They’re the kind of pups that’ll snuggle up with anyone who’s up for some cuddle time. This makes them fantastic companions for families who love a good snuggle session on the couch.

Protection Guys: 

They might be tiny, but many Dorkies come with a big-dog attitude. They can be quite protective of their families. But sometimes, this protective nature can come out as barking at every passerby. A bit of training can help manage any over-enthusiastic watchdog tendencies.

The Yorkie and Dachshund Mix Is Not For Everyone

The Yorkie and Dachshund mix, affectionately dubbed the “Dorkie,” is like getting the best of both worlds in a pint-sized package. With the sass and elegance of the Yorkie mixed with the spunk of the Dachshund, this little dynamo brings a witty personality into any home. They’re lovable, adaptable, and adorable. These features make them a hit both for singles and families.

But remember, they come with their quirks. With a little patience, early training, and heaps of love, you’ll get yourself a fur-buddy for life.

Dorkies can be fantastic family dogs if they get the right environment and training. They’re loving, loyal, and bursting with personality. But as with any dog, it’s essential to ensure that they fit into your family’s lifestyle and that you can meet their needs.