Introducing a new puppy to your current dog is often an exciting process, and many dogs will become fast friends and eas...
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How to Introduce a New Puppy to Your Dog
Everything about a shorkie, from their teddy-bear face and button eyes to their silky coat and determined little bark, makes them easy to love. Since they’re so irresistibly cute, many people hit “apply” after falling in love with a photo on an adoption listing.
Before learning how to adopt a shorkie in Maine, remind yourself that you’re signing up for a long-term relationship that has to work with your schedule, your climate, and your budget. After all, Maine’s long winters, messy springs, and busy summers can influence even the smallest daily routines.
Fortunately, it’s a very dog-friendly state, with well-run shelters and rescues that take matching seriously. Once you understand how the adoption system works, what it costs, and how to prepare for your shorkie’s training needs, the process becomes a lot more exciting.
Shorkie Adoption in Maine
You’ll have to check local shelters and humane societies, plus small-breed rescues that serve New England and occasionally transport dogs into the state, to find a shorkie. Many organizations list adoptable dogs on their own websites, and new arrivals can be posted (and adopted) very quickly, especially when they’re small, designer-type mixes.
Once you’ve spotted a possible match, submit an application. Most rescues want to know about your lifestyle, including how long the dog would be alone, whether you have a secure yard, your previous pet experience, and how you will handle grooming and training a shorkie. It’s tempting to rush, but thoughtful answers show you are adopting with intention.
If your application looks good, the next step is a meet-and-greet. Some groups will ask the whole household to attend, including resident dogs, to see how everyone interacts in person. Shelters in Maine often encourage or require dog-dog introductions on neutral ground before finalizing adoptions.
During the visit, don’t just focus on how cute the shorkie is. See how they respond to handling and loud noises. Do they relax after a few minutes, or stay wound tight? You can also talk to the shelter staff/foster parents and ask as many questions as you like to better predict how well they’ll fit into your home and daily routine.
Depending on the organization, you may be approved on the spot or put on a waiting list while staff check vet references or confirm that your landlord allows pets. Some rescues also do virtual or in-person home checks before finalizing the adoption.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shorkie in Maine?When comparing adopting vs. buying from a breeder, one of the biggest differences you’ll notice is cost. Breeders sell shorkies for thousands of dollars, while most rescues and shelters charge a few hundred at most, often with vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, and microchipping already included. This means when you adopt a shorkie in Maine, you only have to worry about buying basic supplies, such as food, bowls, toys, a bed, a crate, and a leash, after bringing your furry friend home. |
How Should I Train a Shorkie?Mealtime is training gold for this breed. Instead of serving food in a bowl, scatter 10 pieces of kibble on the floor and reward your pup every time they come back to you between bites. You can also hand-feed part of the meal while teaching eye contact, patience, or a loose sit. Food is the ultimate attention tool, and shorkies are quick to learn when the reward system is consistent. Clicker or marker training also works wonders for these dogs. Every time your furry baby behaves the way you want, click or say “good” and then give a treat. This method is great for teaching sit, stay, and recall. Feel free to check out our online course on clicker training to learn this method, as it shows exactly when to mark, reward, and build good habits. These dogs inherit long, silky coats, so brushing training is essential. Tap your dog with the brush, give a treat, and stop. As they get comfortable, brush a little more each time while giving them something tasty to focus on. Also, practice touching their paws, ears, and mouth to make things easier for snowy and muddy weather. |
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Find the Right Shorkie in Maine for You
Finding the right shorkie becomes easier when you create a simple checklist before you visit a shelter. Decide what matters most to you, whether it’s the dog’s age, shedding level, energy needs, training history, or friendliness with kids or other pets.
Bring that list with you and use it as you meet different pups, so your heart doesn’t make the decision alone. Talk to volunteers, ask how the dog reacts during grooming, and notice how they behave in a busy room versus a quiet one. It’s only a matter of time before you find a shorkie who feels like a natural match.
