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
There’s something about a shorkie that makes your brain go straight from “aww” to “want.” Their teddy-bear face, the silky coat, and that little trotting walk make it look like they’ve stepped out of a storybook.
However, behind all that cuteness is a real dog with real needs, and in a state like Maryland, where your life may revolve around Baltimore rowhouses, Annapolis waterfront strolls, or quiet Eastern Shore evenings, you need to think carefully about how this tiny companion will fit into your daily routine.
That’s why understanding how to adopt a shorkie in Maryland is so important before you fall for the first pair of button eyes you see online. Adoption is a noble act, but it’s also a responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Remind yourself that once a shorkie walks into your home, they will never have to wonder where they belong again.
Shorkie Adoption in Maryland
You may not see shorkies at every shelter in Maryland, but you can find Yorkie mixes and shih tzu mixes with similar size and personality traits. Start with county shelters, humane societies, and reputable rescue organizations that place small dogs. You can also create alerts on adoption websites so you’re notified when a shorkie or a similar mix becomes available.
Once you spot a potential match, take the time to read the dog’s full profile. Many rescues include details like energy level, whether the dog is okay with kids or cats, and any medical or behavioral notes. If something in the description feels off for your lifestyle, honor that feeling instead of trying to make it work.
Honesty is the best policy when filling out the application form. The questions are usually about your work schedule, housing situation, experience with small dogs, and expectations for a shorkie. Don’t forget to mention your plan for daily walks, potty breaks during long workdays, and what you’ll do while traveling.
If your application looks promising, the shelter staff will schedule a phone interview or a virtual home check to make sure there are secure doors and windows and no obvious hazards. They may ask where the shorkie will sleep and play, and what safety rules you’ll follow. It’s okay to admit you’re still learning and open to feedback.
Once you’re approved, you’ll meet the dog in person. This is when you’ll have to be super attentive. Watch how the dog approaches you, walks on leash, takes treats, and responds to new sounds. If it’s a match, you’ll sign a contract and pay the adoption charges before preparing to take the dog home.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shorkie in Maryland?Be prepared to spend between $250 and $600 to adopt a shorkie in Maryland, with puppies usually costing toward the higher end. If you’re looking to adopt an emotional support or mental health service dog, the fees may be higher because these dogs require temperament evaluations, extra training, and official documentation. No matter what age or training you want your shorkie to have, adoption will always be cheaper than buying from a breeder. Rescues and shelters usually include $300-$500 worth of veterinary care (vaccinations, flea/tick prevention, microchipping, and spaying or neutering surgery) in that price alone. |
How Should I Train a Shorkie?The day you bring your furry baby home, focus on building a routine for wake-up time, potty breaks, meals, play, and bedtime. This will help them relax, and soon, they’ll start trusting you. Use treats, praise, and other rewards to your advantage when teaching manners and fun tricks, as this breed learns best through positive reinforcement. Early socialization is also important for your shorkie. These dogs bond with one or two people and may become overprotective if not introduced to guests, kids, or other pets. You should invite people over for calm interactions. Let visitors offer treats from an open palm, rather than reaching down or picking the dog up. Eventually, their confidence will grow. Initially, when you go for walks, your shorkie may pull on the leash, do zigzags, or stop to sniff everything. Small breeds tend to think they’re in charge. To prevent this, consider enrolling in our online training course that teaches small dogs to walk on a loose leash without lunging, pulling, or constantly redirecting your stride. |
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Find the Right Shorkie in Maryland for You
Maryland shelters and rescues are committed to matching each shorkie with the right home, so you can work with them to narrow down dogs based on personality, energy level, grooming needs, and training progress.
Above all, give yourself permission to wait for the right match. Maryland has a steady flow of dogs in need of loving homes, and your future shorkie might still be curled up in a foster home or waiting to be surrendered by someone who can’t meet their needs.
