Shorkie Puppy Overview
The shorkie is what we call peak innovation when it comes to dog breeding. Sure, they likely existed for a long time, but intentional interbreeding between Shih Tzus and Yorkshire terriers only began in the early 2000s. These dogs quickly became a hit because they’re essentially a more laid-back version of the Yorkshire terrier. While they still have a lot of that famous Yorkshire terrier sass, you get a more balanced temperament thanks to their Shih Tzu genes.
That said, shorkies are starting to blow up in popularity due to their adorable little bodies, big personalities, and willingness to have to cuddle up with their humans after a long day. Plus, their energy levels are manageable and they’re a bit easier to get a handle on than Yorkshire terriers, even for first-time dog parents.
In a state like Texas where your dog may need to spend some time inside during the hot summer months, shorkies are always a great option because they’re small enough to have a lot of fun inside the house. Unfortunately, due to how new the breed is, you have to be careful when purchasing or you can end up with the wrong dog and thousands of dollars down the drain. The good news is that we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about shorkie puppies for sale in Texas.
Shorkie Puppies for Sale: How Do You Buy a Shorkie Puppy in Texas?
If you want to buy a shorkie puppy in Texas it all starts with finding the right breeder, especially because the breed has only been around for a few decades. To find the best breeders in your area you can try out online adoption tools or speak with your vet to see if they have any recommendations. Since a lot of breeders work with vets for surgeries, vaccinations, and deworming, there’s a good chance that your vet will know a thing or two about good breeders in your area.
In Texas, most dog breeders who sell shorkies will need to have a license or a permit if they have 11 or more intact females and plan on breeding them for sale. Breeders in Texas who plan on selling more than 20 animals in a calendar year also need a permit according to the Texas Department of Licensing and Registration. Therefore, always look for breeders who are meeting these requirements to ensure that you’re buying a shorkie from a trustworthy breeder.
Once you know where you’ll buy a shorkie, the process is simple. You contact the breeder, arrange a meeting, and introduce yourself to the shorkie. If you love the puppy, then you can fill out the necessary paperwork, check their medical records, and bring them home. For breeders, this is typically what the process looks like.
While breeders are a great place to get shorkie puppies, you can also check shelters and rescues in Texas. Shelters will likely require references, a screening, and sometimes even a home check to ensure that you have the space necessary for a shorkie. Once approved, you can fill out the application, pay the adoption fee, and take them home.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Shorkie Puppy in Texas?
Shorkie puppies may be new, but you don’t have to worry about them costing a fortune. Most breeders in Texas will sell you a shorkie for between $1,000 and $2,000. That said, some more established breeders may charge more while different ages and coat types can influence that price.
Aside from buying a shorkie from a breeder, you can also buy them from rescues and shelters. In these cases, you only have to cover the adoption fee which tends to be around $350 to $750 in Texas. That said, the cost can vary based on the shelter.
Shorkies For Sale in Texas
How Should I Train a Shorkie Puppy?
When it comes to training your shorkie puppy the golden rule is positive reinforcement. Make sure you’re rewarding them for good behavior and avoid shouting at them to prevent them from getting even more stubborn. While getting started can seem like a hassle, that’s where Dog Academy comes into play.
We offer a wide range of puppy training classes that can help you form a training foundation you can build on later. One of our favorite options is the Puppy Kindergarten program because it doesn’t just help you train your dog it also helps you become a better trainer.
How Should I Puppy Proof My Home for a Shorkie Puppy?
Shorkie puppies like to do some chewing and investigating. On the inside of your home, remove any dangling or loose wires from areas they can reach along with anything else you don’t want them biting. Another good puppy-proofing method for the inside of your home is to use gates and barriers due to their small size, especially if you’re introducing them to other pets in your home.
On the outside of your home, make sure you have a fence, sources of water, and shady areas for your shorkie to relax in. This is especially true during the hot summer months in Texas.
Buy the Right Shorkie Puppy in Texas for You
The best way to buy the right shorkie puppy for you is to work with reputable breeders and ensure that all of their paperwork is in order. These same rules apply to private sellers, shelters, rescues, and other organizations that sell puppies in Texas.
That said, make sure you spend some time learning more about the breed to determine if they’re the right fit for you and your family.
