Shorkie Puppy Laying Down

Some dogs are okay with being background characters in your life, but shorkies insist on being the center of your world. If you’ve always wanted a dog who sits beside you while you work, naps on your chest during movie nights, and gets excited every time you wake up, a shorkie won’t disappoint you.

This breed is a cross of the shih tzu and the Yorkshire terrier. They’re small with a sweet, confident personality. From neighborhood sidewalks to riverside picnic spots, they’ll enjoy exploring anywhere they can stay close to you.

Many people underestimate the physical and mental needs of these dogs because they’re small. The truth is, a bored or ignored shorkie can become vocal or mischievous. If you think you’re ready to match their energy, let’s take a look at how to adopt a shorkie in Kansas and give them the best possible life.

Shorkie Adoption in Kansas

Several city and county shelters, all-breed rescues, and small dog-specific or Yorkie/shih tzu mix rescues adopt into the state. Read each organization’s mission and policies carefully. Look for transparency about medical care, spay/neuter, and behavior assessments. This helps make sure the dog you bring home has received proper care.

Next, study the adoption requirements. One rescue may insist on a fenced yard, while another will happily give their dogs to apartment dwellers who commit to daily walks. Many Kansas rescues require veterinary references if you’ve had pets before, landlord permission if you rent, and proof that every adult in the household is on board.

When you find a shorkie that catches your eye, read their profile. Good rescues describe temperament, energy level, barking habits, grooming needs, and any medical conditions. If they mention that the dog doesn’t get along with children or certain pets, don’t take it lightly. If it’s a stubborn puppy, you’ll have to put in extra time and effort with potty training.

After some wait, you might be asked to schedule a virtual interview or home visit so that the rescue volunteers can see where the dog will live and talk you through routines, training plans, and expectations. Use this time to ask your own questions about the shorkie’s history, triggers, schedule, and favorite things.

If you’re approved, you’ll sign an adoption contract. It may outline things like returning the dog to the rescue if you can’t keep them, agreement to provide vet care, and sometimes a trial or foster-to-adopt period. You may also have to pay a small fee to seal the deal and help the rescue make sure your shorkie comes home healthy.

No data found.
Shorkie Puppies Posing For A Photo

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

Adoption fees for small dogs like shorkies in Kansas can be anywhere from $75 to $350. It covers initial vet care, such as vaccines, microchipping, or spay/neuter surgery, but you’ll have to pay for ongoing expenses yourself. This includes food, supplies, grooming sessions, and future vet visits.

Feel free to ask for recommendations on affordable vets, groomers, and supply options in your area. Some shelters may even be willing to throw in a few helpful extras, like a collar, leash, or coupons for grooming services.

How Should I Train a Shorkie?

Reward-based training works best with shorkies because they love attention, treats, and being made to feel like they did something right. If you’re a first-time dog owner, we recommend exploring our online course on basic obedience training.

One of the first things to teach your shorkie is not to panic when you leave the room. They’re velcro dogs, and once attached, they rarely let go. Drop a chew or snuffle mat before stepping out, and walk in calmly without eye contact for the first 10 seconds. This stops those big emotional reactions from forming, which is where most separation anxiety starts.

Another big part of shorkie training is managing energy. They don’t need full workouts, but they do need brain stimulation. A mentally satisfied shorkie is far less likely to bark, chew, or demand attention at inconvenient times. We suggest scattering treats through the house and letting your dog sniff them out, or teaching them to find a hidden toy in exchange for praise.

Dog Training with Dog Academy

Shorkie Walking On A Road

Find the Right Shorkie in Kansas for You

Finding the right shorkie in Kansas becomes easier when you know what to look for. Match the dog’s temperament and energy level with your household to prevent frustration and regrets later. Meet multiple dogs if possible and listen to the rescue’s suggestions.

When the right match comes along, you’ll feel it in the way they relax against you, follow you with their eyes, and start trusting you bit by bit.