really
non-shedding?
Shorkies need much
grooming?
Shorkie
Health
Yes to the very most that a dog can be. But there is
no sucj thing as 100% non shedding dog. Be aware
that
even 'non-shedding' dogs do lose hair, just as you
do! But it tends to
come out during brushing and bathing, as opposed to
falling on the
floor or coming out on your clothes when you hug
them!
. They need to have their coats trimmed or
cut about every 12 ro 16 weeks unless you want to
grow them in full coat. But we always recommend a
puppy cut. Dogs that do not shed,
meaning their hair does not fall on the floor, do
tend to matt more
easily when the hait is really long , as the dead
hair remains in the coat until brushed out. So if
you want a Shorkie in full coat talk to your groomer
and see what it will take.
Shorkie Temperament
The
Shorkie
is an alert and
spunky little dog. Happy and hardy, with lots
character. They are gentle spirited and make friends
easily and responds well to training. Shorkies
do not make very alert watch dog.
They really welcome
eveyrone in their environment. .
Playful and lively,
this affectionate little dbuncle of fur likes
to be with people and are generally good with other
pets. Belly rubs are mandatory for this breed.
How important is health-testing of a Shorkie puppy's parents?
This is a very personal choice. Many puppies from
non-tested parents
will never have a problem. However, we do know that
there are health
problems of genetic origin that Shih tzus and
Yorkies share. Health problems can and do occur in
Shorkies , and in some cases can be very expensive
and emotionally devastating. Testing
doesn't guarantee the problems will not occur, but
it increases the
chances your Shorkie puppy will be healthy.
However, breeders who
health-test often charge more for their puppies and
often have waiting
lists. Everyone has to balance for themselves the
expense and time of a
Shorkie puppy from health-tested parents vs the
expense and time of a dog
with a significant health problem. The breeders in
the Shorkie Club Of America are required to
genetically test all the adults they are breeding
and are in home breeders only. No Kennels are
accepted.
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