Mixed breed or mestizos dogs

Origin story

Chorkie is a designer dog breed that was obtained by crossing purebred Yorkshire terriers and Chihuahuas. They were first talked about in the mid-90s in the USA. Soon they began to be actively bred in Europe.

People who cannot choose between a Chihuahua and a Yorkie can consider the Chorkie. Metis combines the qualities of the original breeds, is less susceptible to hereditary diseases and is an order of magnitude lower than its purebred relatives.

Mixed breeds are not registered by any international canine organization, but there are breed clubs that ensure that breeders take a responsible approach to breeding and organize exhibitions between similar hybrids. In addition, there is a group of enthusiasts who are breeding the Chorkie breed. To do this, hybrids of the second and subsequent generations are crossed.

The appearance of the Chorkie

The popularization of Yorkies and Chihuahuas eventually led to the emergence of crossbreeds, the so-called mixed-breed dogs.

Chorks, which are the result of crossing two individuals of different breeds, can be classified as such mestizos. To name these dogs in the professional literature, such terms as: Yorkie-Chi, Chia-Yorkie, Yorkie-Huahua are also used.

The exact date of the appearance of mixed breeds of both breeds is unknown; they presumably appeared in the early 90s of the last century, as an ideal animal for keeping in an apartment.

Character and behavior

Chorkies meet their intended purpose in all respects - a decorative companion dog. They are very social, playful and loyal dogs with a lively temperament. Can be a little cheeky and requires a lot of attention. Quite sensitive. They are friendly towards others and get along well with other animals. During walks, you need to make sure that the Chorkie does not start conflicts with large dogs. Some show a hunting interest in birds and small animals.

Reviews from owners describe Chorkies as cheerful, affectionate and playful dogs that strive to be close to their owners and love attention.

Chorks, like bells, notify the owner of the passage of guests. They do not tolerate prolonged loneliness well. Not the best choice for families with very young children who could inadvertently harm the dog. Adult Chorkies who have children in a family have difficulty adapting and can snap at the child’s excessive display of love.

Yorkie-Chihuahua hybrids are very smart and curious, they are easy to train and happily follow various commands. Many dogs are even capable of making simple cakes. Responds best to positive reinforcement methods. Without proper training, a Chorkie can develop “small dog syndrome.”

Character

The Chorkie is a very smart, but extremely stubborn dog that is difficult to train, precisely because of its character.

More than anything else, the dog loves to play with people and other animals, but you shouldn’t flirt with it too much; you can get a good rebuff in the form of a bite from sharp teeth.

It is better not to let her near small children; she does not like having her ears or tail pulled, and, as mentioned above, she is capable of biting a child.

Naturally, this does not apply to all Chorkis; among them there are quite peaceful and extremely patient individuals.

Chorkies have absolutely no sense of fear, so when going for a walk with them it is better to hold them by the leash . Since it is possible that she will try to attack a pit bull passing by, or someone else larger.

It is better not to leave your pet alone for a long time, as they tolerate separation very poorly, become nervous and wild, and a long recovery will be required before the dog returns to normal.

In addition, the dog is considered to be very touchy; an attempt to shout at it for any offense may result in a refusal to communicate with the owner throughout the next day.

A similar character trait was passed on to the Chorkie from the Chihuahua.

In general, the character of a mestizo is most suitable for those who lead an active lifestyle, walk a lot and play sports; small dogs will be happy to keep their owner company, not missing the opportunity to have plenty of frolic.

It should be noted that pets are difficult to retrain, so the rules of behavior in an apartment need to be explained to the dog from birth.

Content Features

Chorkies can live in a house or apartment; they are absolutely undemanding when it comes to the size of their living space, but it is advisable for them to arrange a secluded corner (a small house or a bed) where the dog can retire and be provided with several toys. Mestizos are quite playful and energetic, but do not require long daily walks. In bad weather they can stay at home and play with a ball. They quickly get used to relieving themselves in a diaper.

Chorkies are sensitive to cold and drafts, so with the onset of cold weather they should be dressed according to the weather. In severe frost, the duration of walking is reduced to a minimum.

Feeding

Feeding can be natural or prepared food, but since many small dogs have sensitive digestion, owners often prefer complete dry or wet food from a holistic class. Chorkies are also prone to obesity and often suffer from food allergies.

Care

In general, care is simple and includes standard hygiene procedures:

• Combing 1-2 times a week;
• Bathing every 7-10 days;
• Weekly examination of eyes, ears and teeth, cleaning as necessary;
• Nail trimming every 3-4 weeks;
• Dogs that inherit the Yorkie's long coat require a hygienic grooming.

Maintenance and care

Cherki are small dogs that need care, care and year-round living in an apartment/house . They, just like their parents, should not jump from heights and be in drafts. In autumn-winter, your pet needs to be dressed in warm overalls. The big advantage is that the four-legged animals are well accustomed to the tray and walks can be tolerated depending on the weather.

Health and life expectancy

Chorkies are small, sensitive creatures that require care, careful treatment and careful selection of diet. Life expectancy is 10-15 years. They can inherit genetic diseases of the original breeds:

• Dislocation of the kneecap;
• Ophthalmological diseases (progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts);
• Hypothyroidism;
• Hypoglycemia;

• Various diseases of the digestive tract;
• Hydrocephalus;
• Open fontanel;
• Urolithiasis disease;
• Mitral valve insufficiency;
• Diseases of the oral cavity.

To maintain the health of the dog, owners should strictly adhere to the schedule of vaccination and treatment against parasites.

How to care for a newly purchased puppy

Even before the puppy arrives, you need to take care of the necessary care items and prepare the place. In a new home, the terrier may be frightened by the new environment, but gradually he will begin to get used to it and master the territory.

It is better to buy all products for the maintenance and care of the Yorkshire Terrier in pet stores or at large exhibitions.

READ How to Calm a Dog or Puppy When They're Mad

For York you will need:

• enclosure (to create a cozy and safe place in the puppy’s home);
• bed;
• carrying bag;
• collar with leash and tape measure;
• bowls, at least two pieces;
• feeder and drinking bowl (necessarily heavy, ceramic or earthenware);
• latex and edible toys made from veins (bones, balls, squeakers);
• specialized cosmetics (shampoos, balms, sprays);
• Terry towel;
• combs of several types: metal with a comfortable handle and frequent rounded teeth; massage brushes;
• papillots with elastic bands;
• small scissors with rounded ends, which are convenient for trimming the hair on the ears and between the toes;
• nail clippers or nail clippers;
• file for sharpening claws;
• various clothes;
• bows, hairpins and various accessories for creating hairstyles

For the puppy, you need to secure the quietest place in the house. Do not give it a place where drafts are possible. You cannot assign the puppy a place near the radiator, in the corridor where people often walk.

Remove all small toys and things from the house that an inquisitive dog might chew or swallow. It is better to purchase a special playpen, the dog will be safe in it, but do not put it in a dark corner. Give your Yorkie a bed to sleep on.

Where to buy a puppy

Chorkies are one of the most popular designer breeds. You can find a breeder in almost every European country, not to mention the USA, where they are especially common. Breeders are often owners of nurseries of small decorative dogs. Advertisements for the sale of mixed-breed puppies regularly appear on sites like Avito. Preference should be given to those breeders who use dogs for mating that are allowed to breed in accordance with generally accepted rules. Testing for common genetic diseases in the breed is encouraged.

Price

The average cost of a mixed Chihuahua and Yorkshire terrier in Russia is 6,000 rubles. In Europe, the average price is 400 euros, in America - 500-800 dollars.

Other mestizos

In addition to the Yorkie and the Toy Terrier, there are a number of other dogs with which the Chihuahua is crossed. Now such mestizos receive a special name and are considered “designer breeds.” Unfortunately, many people perceive such animals as accessories, like a new handbag, although they require much more care than purebred dogs. Their lifespan is greatly reduced and they sometimes do not get along well with people. Therefore, if you want to get such a puppy, you need to be aware of the full responsibility of such a decision.

• Run. This funny name was given to a cross between a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua. Naturally, Pomchi has characteristic differences from both of its “parents”. This is a small dog (no taller than 20 cm) with a muscular body, rounded ears and short legs. Her tail is small and curls into a ball. The coat can be both long and short. Doesn't get along well with children and strangers in general, but he loves to play with his owner.

Related article: When does shedding occur and what to do about Chihuahua shedding?

• Chiweenie (or Chihuaxa). This is the name given to a cross between a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. These are very cute dogs, but they look more like a dachshund than a chihuahua. However, Chiweenies tend to have ears that stand up rather than droop like those of dachshunds. The character of the Chiweenie is similar to both of its “parents”.
• Chagi. A cross between a Chihuahua and a Pug. Outwardly, they look more like a Chihuahua, but they often inherit a wrinkled muzzle from a pug. They are very petite and incredibly playful.
• Jack-Chi. Hybrid of Chihuahua and Russell Terrier. Small cute dogs, which are often bought precisely because of their small size.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua's homeland is Mexico. The breed was bred in the mid-19th century and very quickly found its admirers. The body is compact, strong on strong legs, a medium-sized saber-shaped tail is cheerfully curled into a ring. The head is quite large with high-set ears and a wide forehead. The neck is strong, in boys it is much thicker. The length and color of the coat can be any, and you should note its rare quality - it does not have a specific dog smell. The little dog is energetic, brave and completely self-confident. She is smart, easy to learn, constantly proves to others that she is also a person and has her own opinion, loves walks, and willingly plays with children. Purebred animals are silent and bark only as a last resort. The breed standards are: weight from 500 grams to 3 kilograms, height and color are not clearly marked.

Lives on average up to 15 years, but there are also long-livers; there have been cases where dogs lived up to 20 years.

Yorkie and Chihuahua mix

A Yorkie and a Chihuahua produce a cross called a Cherki - it has a round head, erect ears, and thick, long hair. In size, such dogs are closer to the Yorkshire Terrier - just as miniature. However, it should be remembered that the appearance of mestizos is often unpredictable, so you need to be prepared for possible surprises.

As a rule, Chihuahua genes are dominant in terms of color and coat length - breeders mainly focus on them. However, there are exceptions to this rule that are not so rare that we can talk about confident forecasts.

Each new breed gets its own unique character and disposition.

As for character, Blacks can be as playful and friendly as Yorkies, but in the heat of play they can bite quite seriously. They have a very developed sense of self-esteem, they strive to assert themselves, but they are very devoted to their owner. Cherkis treat other family members more patiently than with love.

Therefore, it is not recommended to let them off leash in places where there are a lot of dogs. This deficiency can only be overcome through patient training and persistent socialization of the puppy from an early age.

As for care, mixed breeds remain the same decorative indoor breed as their parents - they need warmth and should live in the house, not outside. They should be protected from drafts and cold - the need for a haircut should be judged by the condition of the coat. Some individuals need regular hair trimming, while there are others that can do without it.

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Irina Kutsak Education University: Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine. Year of graduation: 2010. Specialty: Veterinary medicine, Veterinary medicine. Experience I have experience working in a veterinary clinic for more than 7 years. Experience of the Federal State Budgetary Institution "All-Russian State Center for Quality and Standardization of Medicines for Animals and Feed"

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