Shorkie

Do Shorkies shed?

No — Shorkies shed very little. This is one of their most appealing traits for people who'd rather not hoover twice a day. They're also considered hypoallergenic, making them a good option for people with mild dog allergies. You'll still want to brush them regularly to keep their coat healthy, but you won't find hair on every surface you own.

Are Shorkies good with kids?

Shorkies can be hit or miss with young children. They tend to do better with older kids (8+) who know how to approach dogs calmly. They can be wonderful companions — but early socialisation and teaching children how to interact with dogs properly is essential.

Are Shorkies good with cats?

Shorkies can get along well with cats, especially if raised together from puppyhood. Their loyal nature means they're generally not fixated on chasing. Introduce them slowly — keep the cat's exit routes open and never force interaction. Most Shorkies and cats eventually settle into an easy coexistence, sometimes even becoming friends.

Are Shorkies easy to train?

Shorkies are honest work to train — they have an independent streak and won't follow a command unless they understand why it benefits them. Patience and consistency are non-negotiable. Short sessions with high-value treats (think chicken, not dry kibble) get better results than long frustrating drills. Puppy classes are strongly recommended — not because they need it more than other breeds, but because early foundations make life significantly easier.

Do Shorkies bark a lot?

Shorkies bark at a moderate level — they'll alert you to strangers or unusual sounds, but won't bark continuously for no reason. Separation anxiety can increase barking in any breed. If left alone too long, a Shorkie may become vocal — something to factor in if you work long hours. With consistent training ("quiet" command + reward), most Shorkies can be taught when barking is and isn't appropriate.

Are Shorkies hypoallergenic?

Shorkies are considered hypoallergenic — they produce significantly less dander than most breeds. No dog is 100% allergen-free (the allergen is a protein in saliva and skin, not just hair), but Shorkies are much better tolerated by people with dog allergies. If allergies are a concern, spend time with a Shorkie before committing. Visit a breeder or a friend who owns one — if you're fine after an hour, you'll likely be fine long-term.

How much exercise does a Shorkie need?

Shorkies need 60–90 min/day of exercise daily. A couple of decent walks per day plus some off-lead time in a park will keep them happy. They're active enough to enjoy longer adventures at weekends, but calm enough to cope with normal weekday routines.

Mental exercise matters as much as physical. A Shorkie with a bored brain will find its own entertainment — usually involving your sofa or your shoes. Training sessions, puzzle feeders, and nose-work games all count.

Shorkie health problems

Like all breeds, Shorkies are prone to certain conditions. Knowing about them upfront means earlier detection, better outcomes, and fewer surprise vet bills.

• Dental disease. Smaller breeds have crowded teeth and are prone to periodontal issues. Brush teeth regularly.
• Luxating patella. Kneecap slipping, especially common in small breeds.
• Obesity. The most preventable health problem across all dog breeds. Keep them at a healthy weight.
• Annual vet checks. Catching problems early makes all the difference.

How long do Shorkies live?

Shorkies typically live 12–16 years. Smaller breeds generally live longer — one of the genuine advantages of a small dog.

Lifespan is heavily influenced by weight management, exercise, genetics, and access to regular vet care. A Shorkie at a healthy weight, with good genetics and regular check-ups, will typically live toward the top of that range.

How much does a Shorkie cost in the UK?

A Shorkie puppy from a reputable KC-registered UK breeder typically costs £700–£1 800.

If you see a Shorkie puppy advertised for significantly less than £700, be very cautious. Low prices are the most common red flag for puppy farms.

The purchase price is just the start. First-year costs typically include:

• Vaccinations: ~£80–120
• Neutering/spaying: £200–400 depending on size and vet
• Microchipping (mandatory in UK): ~£20–30
• Bed, crate, leads, collar: £100–250
• Food (per year): £400–£1,200+ depending on size and diet
• Pet insurance: £20–£45/month (see below)
• Routine vet visits: £50–200/year

Total first-year cost beyond the puppy price: typically £1,500–£3,000.

Shorkie pet insurance

Pet insurance for a Shorkie in the UK typically costs £20–£45/month for comprehensive lifetime cover.

Lifetime cover is strongly recommended over cheaper time-limited or maximum-benefit policies. Once a condition is diagnosed and treated, lifetime cover continues to pay for it every year. Time-limited policies exclude it after 12 months — exactly when chronic conditions become expensive.

Compare quotes from Petplan, ManyPets, Waggel, and Animal Friends — all have strong reputations for actually paying out claims. Always check the annual limit (aim for £7,000+ per condition) and whether hereditary conditions are covered.