All about Yorkinese dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Yorkinese" Breed (parent breeds: "Pekingese" × "Yorkshire Terrier")

The average weight for an adult Yorkinese typically falls between 6 to 10 pounds. While there isn't a significant weight difference between males and females, individual genetics from the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier parent breeds can cause some variation. To maintain a healthy weight for Yorkinese, ensure proper diet and exercise.

Wondering about the Yorkinese height? The average size of a Yorkinese typically ranges from 6 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder. This adorable designer breed, a mix of the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier, generally inherits a compact and sturdy build.

For prospective owners researching Yorkinese colors, understanding the range of coat variations is key. As a mixed breed, the Yorkinese can inherit a diverse palette from both the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier.Common and AKC-Recognized Yorkinese Colors:You'll most frequently find Yorkinese in shades of black and tan, steel blue and tan, gold, and parti (often white with patches of other colors like black or tan). The "tan" can range from a light cream to a rich mahogany. While there isn't a specific AKC standard for Yorkinese (as they are a hybrid), these are the most accepted and prevalent colors seen, reflecting the parent breeds' recognized coats. These classic combinations are generally the most affordable and readily available.Rare and Exotic Yorkinese Variations:Occasionally, more rare coat types and exotic Yorkinese variations emerge due to recessive genes. These can include:* Fawn: A light, yellowish-brown.* Cream: A very light, off-white.* White: While not a common solid color, it can appear in parti coats.* Brindle: A tiger-striped pattern, though less common in Yorkinese than in some other breeds.* Chocolate/Liver: A rich brown, sometimes with amber or green eyes, considered rarer and can command a higher price.* Blue/Dilute: A grayish-blue coat, often with lighter eyes and nose. This is a dilute of black and is considered a rarer and sometimes more expensive color.* Lilac/Isabella: A dilute of chocolate, appearing as a pale, grayish-tan or light purple-brown. Extremely rare and typically the most costly.* Merle: A pattern of irregular patches of diluted color. While striking, merle is not a naturally occurring color in either Pekingese or Yorkshire Terriers and its presence in a Yorkinese often indicates the introduction of another breed into the lineage or a deliberate cross with a merle-carrying dog. It's important to research breeders carefully if considering a merle Yorkinese, as the gene can be associated with health issues, especially if two merle parents are bred together.When looking for AKC recognized Yorkinese colors, remember the AKC recognizes individual parent breeds. For the Yorkinese, breeders aim for coats consistent with the established standards of the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier. Pricing for Yorkinese puppies can vary significantly based on these coat types, with rare and exotic variations generally being more expensive due to their infrequent occurrence. Always prioritize a reputable breeder who focuses on health and temperament over specific coat colors.

The Yorkinese personality is a delightful blend of its Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier parents, resulting in a charming and affectionate companion. Known for their loyal and friendly temperament, Yorkinese are deeply devoted to their families and often form strong bonds with their primary caregivers. They are generally sociable and enjoy being part of family activities, displaying a playful yet sometimes spirited demeanor.

Yorkinese Temperament & Personality TraitsThe Yorkinese temperament is a delightful blend of its Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier heritage, making for a charming and spirited companion dog behavior. Expect a loyal and affectionate companion deeply devoted to its family. They are generally friendly and sociable, enjoying interaction with people and often displaying a playful, endearing nature. Their small size makes them highly adaptable to apartment living, thriving indoors where they can be close to their loved ones.Regarding children, a well-socialized Yorkinese can be good with older, respectful children who understand how to interact gently with a small dog. Due to their delicate stature, supervision is always recommended with very young children. With other pets, especially those introduced early on, they can co-exist peacefully, though their terrier lineage might occasionally spark a playful chase instinct with smaller animals.While intelligent and eager to please, the Yorkinese can exhibit a touch of stubbornness, a characteristic often seen in both parent breeds. Consistent, positive reinforcement training is key to managing this. They can also be a bit sensitive to harsh tones or overly boisterous environments, preferring a calm and loving home. Overall, the Yorkinese is a spirited, loving, and adaptable little dog, perfect for individuals or families seeking a devoted and engaging companion.

Yorkinese Care: Essential Guide for Prospective OwnersCaring for a Yorkinese, a charming mix of Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier, involves understanding their unique needs. This "how to care for a Yorkinese" guide covers key aspects for daily maintenance and long-term well-being.Grooming Needs: Your Yorkinese will require regular grooming due to their likely long, silky coat, inherited from both parents. Expect daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for a trim will also help maintain their coat and keep them comfortable. Pay special attention to their eyes, as tear staining can be an issue.Exercise Limitations: The Yorkinese is a relatively low-energy dog breed. They thrive on short, gentle walks of 15-30 minutes daily and indoor playtime. Avoid strenuous activities, especially in warm weather, due to their potential for brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy inherited from the Pekingese, which can lead to breathing difficulties.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality small-breed dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Due to their small size, they are prone to weight gain, so portion control is crucial for weight management. Discuss specific dietary needs with your veterinarian to prevent obesity and related health issues.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning: If your Yorkinese inherits the Pekingese's facial wrinkles, daily wrinkle cleaning with a damp cloth is essential to prevent skin fold dermatitis. Similarly, regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.Climate Sensitivity: Due to potential brachycephaly, Yorkinese are highly sensitive to extreme temperatures, especially heat. They are prone to overheating, so avoid outdoor activities during hot weather. Provide a cool, indoor environment with access to fresh water at all times.Common Health Concerns & Health Tips for Yorkinese: Regular veterinary check-ups are vital for early detection and prevention. Be aware of potential skin issues (e.g., allergies, infections), which can be managed with proper grooming and diet. Dental care is paramount; daily brushing or dental chews are recommended to prevent periodontal disease, a common problem in small breeds. As mentioned, weight management is crucial to prevent strain on their joints and organs. Monitor for respiratory distress, especially during exercise or in warm climates, as this can indicate brachycephalic airway syndrome. Responsible breeding practices also help minimize the risk of luxating patella and eye conditions seen in both parent breeds.

Yorkinese Activity Level: How active are Yorkinese? The Yorkinese is a delightful companion breed that generally falls into the low-to-moderate activity level category. Combining the charming traits of the Pekingese and the Yorkshire Terrier, these small dogs are not built for extensive athletic endeavors but do enjoy regular, gentle engagement.

Yorkinese Health & Care: What to Know

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the "Yorkinese" breed a 2 out of 10.The Yorkinese is a very small companion dog, inheriting its diminutive size from both the Pekingese and the Yorkshire Terrier. You can expect an average weight typically ranging from 5 to 12 pounds and a height of around 6 to 9 inches at the shoulder. Their body structure is compact and light, making them one of the smallest dog breeds available. Compared to other companion dogs, they are definitely on the "toy" end of the spectrum, much smaller than even many other small breeds like Beagles or Corgis. This extremely small size makes the Yorkinese exceptionally well-suited for apartment living, frequent travel, and households with significant space constraints. They require very little physical space and are easy to transport.

I would rate the grooming requirements of a Yorkinese at an 8 out of 10.This breed is definitely on the higher-maintenance side. Both parent breeds contribute to a long, often silky coat that, while beautiful, is prone to tangling and matting without daily brushing. While shedding frequency can vary, it's generally moderate, but the long hair makes any loose fur quite noticeable. They are also susceptible to skin issues and allergies inherited from both sides, which can necessitate specialized shampoos or more frequent bathing. Ear cleaning is crucial due to the potential for floppy ears and hair growth within the ear canal, and nail trimming is a regular necessity. While they might not have the extensive skin folds of a purebred Pekingese, some individuals may inherit enough facial wrinkling to require attention to prevent irritation. Overall, the Yorkinese requires frequent, dedicated grooming – often daily brushing, regular bathing, and consistent attention to ears, nails, and any potential skin issues – making them far from an easy-care companion when it comes to their coat and general hygiene.

The Yorkinese, a cross between the Pekingese and the Yorkshire Terrier, receives a rating of 3 for its exercise requirements. This breed generally possesses low to moderate energy levels. The Pekingese parent contributes to a more laid-back disposition and the inherent respiratory limitations of a brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed. While the Yorkshire Terrier can be more active and playful, its small size and often delicate structure mean it also has moderate, rather than high, exercise needs.A Yorkinese will thrive with daily short walks, typically 15-30 minutes, spread throughout the day. They enjoy interactive playtime indoors or in a secure yard, engaging with toys or their owners. However, they are not built for sustained, vigorous activity like long hikes or jogging. Their brachycephalic features make them prone to overheating and breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather or during intense exertion. They are well-suited for a more sedentary lifestyle and are content with being lapdogs or participating in low-impact activities. Over-exercising a Yorkinese can be detrimental to their health, particularly their respiratory system. While mental stimulation through puzzle toys and short training sessions is beneficial, structured and demanding exercise routines are generally unnecessary and potentially harmful for this breed.

I'd rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the "Yorkinese" at a 7 out of 10.The Yorkinese, inheriting traits from both the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier, is likely to be a highly alert and vocal little dog. Both parent breeds are known for their awareness of their surroundings and their propensity to bark at anything they deem unusual or a potential threat. This means a Yorkinese will almost certainly provide early warnings to unfamiliar sounds or people approaching the home. Their barking behavior, while sometimes excessive, is their primary method of "deterring" or at least announcing the presence of an intruder. They possess territorial instincts typical of small companion breeds that view their home and family as their domain. While they aren't going to be physically imposing or "attack" an intruder in a truly protective sense, their persistent and often surprisingly loud barking can certainly act as a significant deterrent, especially for someone looking for an easy, quiet entry. They are much more than a passive companion in this regard, actively participating in the home's security through their vocal alerts, making them quite capable of providing meaningful early warnings.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Yorkinese a 6 out of 10. While generally not overtly aggressive, both parent breeds can exhibit a degree of terrier feistiness and Pekingese "royal" aloofness that translates to a "take it or leave it" attitude towards other dogs. They aren't typically the first to initiate play with unfamiliar canines and may be more inclined to assert their space if another dog is overly boisterous. With proper early socialization, they can certainly coexist peacefully in multi-dog households and even form strong bonds, especially with dogs of similar size and energy levels. However, their small size can make them vulnerable to injury from larger, more boisterous breeds, and their independent streak might mean they tolerate rather than thrive in constant canine company. They require careful introductions to new dogs and consistent training to ensure peaceful coexistence, especially with dogs that challenge their perceived dominance or personal space. They are unlikely to be the type of dog that joyfully greets every canine they meet at the dog park without prior conditioning.

I would rate the Energetic trait of the Yorkinese breed at a 6 out of 10.While the Yorkshire Terrier parent brings a lively, curious, and often tenacious energy to the mix, the Pekingese contributes a significantly more laid-back, independent, and often quite sedentary temperament. The Yorkinese will likely fall somewhere in the middle. They will undoubtedly enjoy playtime, short walks, and engaging with their families, displaying bursts of playful energy characteristic of the terrier side. However, their endurance and overall activity level will be moderated by the Pekingese influence. They are not naturally inclined towards extended athletic pursuits and would likely tire quickly from high-impact activities. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy, inherited from the Pekingese, is a crucial factor. This can significantly affect their stamina and exercise tolerance, especially in warmer weather or during vigorous activity, as it can make breathing more challenging. Therefore, while playful and certainly not a complete couch potato, the Yorkinese is generally more active than a purebred Pekingese but less demanding of constant physical stimulation than many other small terriers, making them a good fit for families who enjoy moderate activity and indoor play.

I would rate the training requirements for a Yorkinese at a 6 out of 10.While generally intelligent and eager to please their owners, the Yorkinese inherits a degree of stubbornness from both parent breeds, particularly the Pekingese. This means they aren't always immediately responsive to commands and can have a short attention span, especially as puppies. Consistency is absolutely crucial; even a few missed training sessions can set back progress significantly. Positive reinforcement, with high-value treats and enthusiastic praise, is highly effective, as they respond poorly to harsh corrections. They are not entirely beginner-unfriendly, but a novice owner will need to be prepared for dedication, patience, and a structured routine to see the best results. An experienced handler will find them more straightforward, but even then, vigilance against their independent streak is necessary.

I'd rate the Playful trait of the Yorkinese a 7 out of 10.The Yorkinese inherits a delightful blend of personalities from its parent breeds. From the Yorkshire Terrier side, there's a definite spark of vivacity and a love for interaction. They tend to be quite active for a small dog, often enjoying games of fetch or chasing toys around the house with enthusiasm. The Pekingese influence, while bringing a more laid-back quality, doesn't completely extinguish their playful spirit; rather, it often translates into bursts of playful energy interspersed with periods of calm. They are generally responsive to toys and will readily engage in playtime, though they might not have the same endless stamina as some other terrier mixes. Their attention-seeking behavior is often expressed through playful nudges or bringing toys to their owners, showcasing a moderate but consistent desire for interaction and fun in their daily lives. They are naturally spirited but also appreciate a good cuddle session, making them a wonderfully balanced companion.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Yorkinese a 9 out of 10.The Yorkinese is a designer breed stemming from two highly affectionate parent breeds, the Pekingese and the Yorkshire Terrier, both of whom thrive on human companionship. This hybrid is likely to inherit a strong desire for human interaction and will typically be very loving and people-oriented. They will almost certainly exhibit a strong tendency towards physical closeness, enjoying cuddling, lap-sitting, and following their family members from room to room. Their small size makes them ideal for close physical contact, which they will likely actively seek out. They are also expected to be loyal and sensitive to their owner's emotions, offering comfort and seeking reassurance. This breed definitely thrives on affection and would likely be quite unhappy if left alone for extended periods, preferring to be a constant companion rather than an independent observer.

Rating: 6/10The Yorkinese, a charming mix of Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier, generally falls in the middle range for "Good with Other Pets." Both parent breeds can have strong personalities despite their small size, influencing the Yorkinese's temperament.Explanation:* Pekingese Influence: Pekingese can be quite independent and sometimes aloof, preferring the company of their human companions to other animals. They can also exhibit a degree of resource guarding, particularly with their favorite people or belongings, and may not appreciate sharing attention or space with other pets. Their low prey drive is a plus when it comes to smaller, non-canine pets, but their potential for stubbornness means they may not readily accept other animals into their "pack" without proper introduction.* Yorkshire Terrier Influence: Yorkshire Terriers are known for their feisty and sometimes bossy nature. They can have a moderate prey drive, especially towards smaller, fast-moving animals, which might be an issue with cats or other small pets if not properly socialized. While they can be playful, they can also be prone to asserting dominance over other dogs, regardless of size. Like the Pekingese, they can also be possessive of their owners.Combined Outlook for Yorkinese:A Yorkinese's compatibility with other pets will largely depend on which parent breed's traits are more dominant and, crucially, on early and consistent socialization. They are generally not naturally sociable with all other animals from the get-go and often require dedicated training and supervision to coexist peacefully in a multi-pet household.* Around Other Dogs: With early and positive introductions, many Yorkinese can learn to get along with other dogs, especially those of similar size and energy levels. However, their potential for bossiness or territoriality means they might challenge larger, more submissive dogs or get into squabbles with equally assertive ones. Dog parks might be a mixed experience.* Around Cats and Small Pets: Their prey drive tends to be moderate rather than high, so with careful introductions and supervision, some Yorkinese can live with cats. However, their terrier instincts might lead them to chase or harass a cat if not trained to respect boundaries. Small rodents or birds would likely be seen as prey by many Yorkinese and are not recommended cohabitants.* Resource Guarding: Both parent breeds can exhibit resource guarding. This means a Yorkinese might guard toys, food, or even their owners from other pets, necessitating management and training to prevent conflicts.* Socialization Needs: Extensive and positive early socialization is paramount. This includes exposure to a variety of well-behaved dogs and cats from a young age, controlled interactions, and consistent reinforcement of calm and appropriate behavior. Without it, a Yorkinese is more likely to be reactive, fearful, or dominant towards other animals.While a well-socialized and trained Yorkinese can certainly thrive in a multi-pet household, it's not a given. They are not typically a breed that will instantly embrace all other animals. Potential owners should be prepared to invest significant time and effort into training, supervision, and managing interactions to ensure a harmonious environment for all pets.

The Yorkinese rates a 6 out of 10 for its "Good with Children" trait.This hybrid can be a good companion for families, but generally thrives best with older, more considerate children or those who have been taught how to interact gently with a small dog. The Pekingese parent often brings a more independent and sometimes less tolerant nature to the mix, especially regarding rough handling or excessive noise. While the Yorkshire Terrier's influence can introduce more playfulness and affection, the combined small size of the breed means they are inherently more fragile and can be easily injured by boisterous toddlers or young children who haven't learned boundaries.They can be playful and enjoy interaction, but their patience for prolonged, high-energy play from very young children might be limited. They can also be prone to snapping if they feel threatened or overwhelmed, particularly if not properly socialized from a young age. While not naturally aggressive, their small stature can make them feel vulnerable. Therefore, consistent training, early socialization, and constant supervision are crucial when a Yorkinese lives with children. They are more likely to be naturally affectionate and gentle with respectful handling, but require careful management to ensure a positive and safe environment for both dog and child.

The "Good with Strangers" trait for a Yorkinese would likely rate around a 6.This breed, inheriting tendencies from both the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier, often exhibits a cautious friendliness rather than an immediate embrace of strangers. While neither parent breed is inherently aggressive, both can be wary. The Pekingese often maintains a dignified aloofness, observing new people before accepting them, and the Yorkshire Terrier, despite its small size, can be prone to alert barking and a "big dog" attitude, sometimes needing to assert themselves.A Yorkinese is unlikely to be overtly unfriendly, but they are also not typically the type to rush up and greet every new person with an open paw. They will likely be polite but reserved at first, perhaps offering a sniff or a cautious tail wag. They might exhibit some initial barking or guarding behavior, especially if not well-socialized from a young age, as they can be protective of their family and territory. With proper and consistent early socialization, exposing them to a variety of people and environments, a Yorkinese can become quite comfortable and adaptable in public or guest-filled settings, but they are unlikely to ever be as universally outgoing as some more naturally gregarious breeds. They require proactive training and exposure to overcome their inherent caution rather than being naturally outgoing.

I would rate the Yorkinese's winter tolerance as a 3.The Yorkinese inherits characteristics from both the Pekingese and the Yorkshire Terrier, neither of which are well-suited for cold weather. The Yorkshire Terrier has a single, fine coat that offers little insulation, and while the Pekingese has a double coat, their brachycephalic (short-nosed) anatomy significantly hinders their ability to regulate body temperature in the cold, making them highly susceptible to respiratory issues and hypothermia. The Yorkinese, being a small breed, has a high surface area to volume ratio, leading to rapid heat loss, and likely possesses a thin body fat layer. Their small size further limits their ability to generate and retain warmth. While they might tolerate brief excursions in mild winter conditions with appropriate attire, prolonged exposure or activity in genuinely cold climates would be dangerous. They definitely require special care during winter months, including warm indoor environments, protective clothing like sweaters or coats for any outdoor trips, and close monitoring for signs of discomfort or hypothermia, much more so than many other companion dogs.

I would rate the "Summer" tolerance of the Yorkinese breed at a 3 out of 10.The Yorkinese, like its Pekingese parent, inherits a degree of brachycephaly (shortened snout), which significantly compromises its ability to regulate body temperature through panting. This anatomical feature makes them highly susceptible to overheating and heatstroke. While the Yorkshire Terrier contributes a less severe brachycephalic tendency and a single coat, the influence of the Pekingese's flattened face and potentially dense undercoat (depending on the individual) is a major concern. Their small size means they have a relatively high surface area to volume ratio, but this doesn't outweigh the respiratory limitations. Recommended outdoor activity levels in warm weather should be minimal and limited to the coolest parts of the day, if at all. They absolutely require climate control during hot weather, meaning air conditioning is a necessity indoors. This breed requires significant special care in summer months compared to many other companion dogs, often needing to be kept indoors in cool environments and having outdoor activities severely restricted or eliminated to prevent life-threatening heatstroke.

I would rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Yorkinese a 6 out of 10. While not exceptionally robust, they are generally considered healthier than some of their parent breeds, particularly the Pekingese. This is due to the hybrid vigor effect, where the diverse gene pool from two different breeds can sometimes dilute the prevalence of specific inherited diseases.However, the Yorkinese is still prone to several health issues inherited from both the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier. From the Pekingese side, they can inherit brachycephalic airway syndrome, leading to breathing difficulties, especially in warmer weather or during strenuous exercise. They may also be susceptible to eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy and luxating patella, a common joint problem in smaller breeds. From the Yorkshire Terrier side, they can inherit dental issues, a predisposition to hypoglycemia as puppies, and various skin allergies.Life expectancy is generally good for a small dog, typically ranging from 12 to 15 years, given proper care. Responsible breeding plays a crucial role in mitigating these risks, with reputable breeders screening parent dogs for genetic conditions. Preventative care, including a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and dental hygiene, is essential for maintaining their health. They can be considered moderately high-maintenance due to potential grooming needs and the need to be vigilant for the aforementioned health concerns, but they are not as fragile as some purebred toy breeds.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Yorkinese breed a 6 out of 10.The Yorkinese inherits a good degree of alertness and loyalty from both parent breeds. The Pekingese, despite its small size, has a history of being a watchful companion, often described as having a "big dog" personality in a small body, and will readily alert to anything out of the ordinary. The Yorkshire Terrier is also known for its feisty and brave nature, and its propensity to bark at anything perceived as a threat. This combination means a Yorkinese will likely be an excellent watchdog, highly alert to strangers approaching the home and quick to announce their presence with persistent barking. They are fiercely loyal to their owners and will position themselves between their loved ones and perceived threats, exhibiting a surprising amount of courage for their size.However, while their vocal alerts and assertive demeanor are valuable for deterring minor intrusions or signaling an owner to a potential issue, they are ultimately a small companion breed. Their physical size and strength limit their ability to offer meaningful guard dog protection beyond being a very effective alarm system. They might nip or growl defensively if a stranger ignored their warnings and tried to physically harm their owner, but they lack the physical capability to truly deter a determined intruder. Therefore, while highly protective in a "watchdog" sense due to their alertness and vocalizations, and possessing a strong loyalty that drives their protective instincts, their physical limitations prevent a higher rating for actual "guard dog" capabilities. They are primarily a companion dog that excels at making its presence known.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Yorkinese breed a 7 out of 10.The Yorkinese, inheriting genes from both the Pekingese and Yorkshire Terrier, benefits from a generally robust genetic background concerning longevity. Both parent breeds are considered to have good lifespans for small dogs, with Yorkshire Terriers often living 12-15 years and Pekingese frequently reaching 12-14 years, sometimes even longer. This suggests the Yorkinese will likely fall within a similar range, making them a long-lived breed compared to many other companion dogs.While small breeds, in general, tend to live longer than large breeds, the Yorkinese isn't entirely without potential health concerns that could impact lifespan. They may be predisposed to some of the conditions seen in their parent breeds, such as patellar luxation, dental issues, respiratory problems (especially if they inherit a more brachycephalic-like snout from the Pekingese side), and certain eye conditions. However, these are often manageable with proper veterinary care. Responsible breeding plays a crucial role in mitigating the risk of inherited diseases, and good nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative healthcare (including dental hygiene) can significantly contribute to a long and healthy life for a Yorkinese. They are generally considered to have an average to above-average lifespan among companion dogs, leaning towards the longer end for small breeds.