Shorkie Walking On A Road

Shorkies are tiny lap dogs with big personalities. They’re part shih tzu and part Yorkie, which gives them their sassy vibe and a slightly stubborn attitude. These fluff beans will follow you from room to room and give you head tilts every time you try to explain something to them. They’re truly a joy to be around.

As double-coated pups, shorkies are more suited for mild climates. Extreme temperatures, especially in the summer, make them overheat fast. In Alabama, you’ll have to limit outdoor playtime, offer plenty of shaded spots, and keep your shorkie hydrated to prevent health problems.

If you’re ready to welcome a loyal shadow-dog into your life, bringing one of these snuggle monsters might be the sweetest decision you ever make. In this guide, we’ll explain how to adopt a shorkie in Alabama and share some interesting training tips, too.

Shorkie Adoption in Alabama

Shorkies may be pocket-sized, but they aren’t low-maintenance. They need daily brushing, hate being alone, and bark like the world’s listening. They also struggle with some health issues, like dental diseases and eye problems. If you’re considering adding one to your family, learn about them first.

As a designer breed, shorkies aren’t readily available in shelters. It will take some time to find an adoption agency with an available pup. The best approach is to broaden your search by reaching out to experienced owners, attending dog shows, and consulting local vets. You can also look for reliable leads on shorkie fan pages on Facebook.

Once you find an organization with a shorkie, immediately submit an adoption application on its website. Mention details about your home, family members, and daily routine. Shorkies do best in homes with older children and people who are home most of the day. If your profile matches the needs of a shorkie, the rescue team will call you for a meet-up.

Use this time to ask questions about the dog. You need to know about their behavioral quirks, training needs, and medical history. It’ll help you make an informed choice. If it’s your first experience with a small breed, ask the staff to help you make your space safer for them.

Next, you can spend some alone time with the shorkie. They might not come around right away, but don’t force the interaction. Give them time, call them politely, and offer treats to win their trust. If they like you, they’ll make eye contact and wag their tail. Now, you can pay the adoption fee and take your furry buddy home.

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Shorkie With A White Background

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shorkie in Alabama?

The adoption agencies in Alabama charge between $100 and $500 for shorkies. The fee includes the cost of microchipping, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering. Some shelters and rescues also give a starter kit with some food and toys at the same price.

The adoption fee is only the initial expense. You’ll also have to invest in basic supplies, such as a puppy pen or a crate, feeding bowls, chew toys, and puppy pads. Vet visits, professional grooming, and training sessions are all important, too. Overall, you’ll need around $1400 to $3500.

How Should I Train a Shorkie?

Shorkies are smart, stubborn dogs. They need regular training and consistent guidance to become well-behaved companions. Start with basic commands, like name recognition, “sit,” and “stay,” before moving to more advanced ones. Just make sure you keep training sessions short and enjoyable, so your pup doesn’t lose interest.

As small, lap dogs, shorkies don’t need a lot of exercise. A short walk around the block is enough to keep them fit. Indoors, give them puzzles and chew toys to keep them busy. Boredom can trigger unwanted behaviors, so make sure your pup stays busy.

Separation anxiety is a big problem with shorkies. These munchkins form deep bonds with their families and absolutely hate being alone. Crate training helps. If your routine requires leaving your shorkie alone for more than four hours a day, join Dog Academy’s Minimize Separation Anxiety program to understand how to make this time peaceful for your dog.

Dog Training with Dog Academy

Shorkie Out On A Walk

Find the Right Shorkie in Alabama for You

Adopting a shorkie in Alabama is a great way to give them a fresh start. They’ll bring a ton of love and joy to your home, and stick around through thick and thin. Just make sure you have enough treats, time, and patience to live with a barking machine disguised as a teddy bear.