Yorkshire Terrier Mixed With Chihuahua: The Complete Chorkie Guide

The Yorkshire Terrier mixed with Chihuahua — commonly called the Chorkie — is one of the most popular small designer dogs in the world. By crossing two of the tiniest and most opinionated toy breeds, breeders created a companion dog that packs a remarkable amount of personality into a very small package.

But a Chorkie is not simply a "mini Yorkie" or a "fluffy Chihuahua." Because it is a crossbreed, each puppy can inherit a different blend of traits from either parent. Two Chorkies from the same litter can look and behave quite differently. This guide explains what to expect, how to care for this crossbreed, and what to consider before bringing one home. If you are still comparing small breeds, our guide to the Yorkshire Terrier and the Yorkie Poodle mix offer useful comparisons.

What Is a Chorkie?

The Chorkie is a deliberate cross between a purebred Yorkshire Terrier and a purebred Chihuahua. Unlike purebred dogs, the Chorkie is not recognized by major kennel clubs such as the AKC, and it does not have a standardized breed standard. This means appearance and temperament can vary widely from one dog to the next.

Designer crosses like the Chorkie became popular in the 1990s and 2000s as people sought small, low-shedding companion dogs. The appeal is easy to understand: both parent breeds are tiny, loyal, and long-lived, so the resulting mix is usually a compact, affectionate lap dog with a lifespan that can stretch well past a decade.

Because the Chorkie is a first-generation cross, it is sometimes described as having "hybrid vigor," meaning it may inherit fewer genetic health problems than either parent breed. This is not guaranteed, however, and responsible breeding still matters enormously. You can learn more about what to look for in our guide to ethical breeding practices.

Appearance & Size of the Yorkie Chihuahua Mix

No two Chorkies look exactly alike. Some take strongly after the Yorkie with a silky, flowing coat and a terrier-like face. Others resemble the Chihuahua with a shorter coat, a rounded apple-shaped head, and large, expressive eyes. Many land somewhere in between.

Size and Build

Chorkies are among the smallest of all designer dogs. Most adults weigh between 4 and 12 pounds and stand just 6 to 9 inches tall. Their body shape may be slightly elongated like a Yorkie or more compact like a Chihuahua. Because they are so small, they are best suited to homes without large, boisterous dogs that could accidentally injure them.

Coat and Coloring

The coat is one of the most variable features. A Chorkie may inherit the long, silky, human-like hair of the Yorkshire Terrier, the short, smooth coat of the Chihuahua, or a medium-length wavy coat that falls somewhere in between. Common colors include black and tan, chocolate, fawn, cream, sable, and parti-color patterns. Many Chorkies have the classic Yorkie "blue and tan" look, while others show the solid or spotted patterns common in Chihuahuas.

Temperament & Personality

The Chorkie is a bold, alert, and affectionate little dog with a strong sense of self. Despite their tiny size, these dogs rarely see themselves as small. They are confident, curious, and often quite protective of their people.

What to Expect

• Loyal and attached: Chorkies tend to bond closely with one or two people and want to be near them constantly. This makes them excellent companions but can lead to separation anxiety if left alone too often.
• Alert and vocal: Both parent breeds are natural watchdogs. Chorkies bark at strangers, doorbells, and unusual sounds. Early training helps manage this instinct.
• Playful and energetic: Despite their small size, Chorkies are lively and enjoy play sessions, short walks, and games. They tire quickly but recover quickly too.
• Stubborn and confident: The Chihuahua side often brings a strong will, and the Yorkie side adds a feisty terrier attitude. Training requires patience and consistency.
• Affectionate but sometimes possessive: Chorkies love their owners deeply but may become jealous of other pets or people who demand attention.

Because both parent breeds can be wary of strangers, early socialization is essential. Puppies who are exposed to many different people, sounds, and environments between 3 and 14 weeks of age grow into far more confident adults. Without socialization, a Chorkie can become fearful and snappy.

Care Requirements for a Chorkie

Chorkies are relatively low-maintenance dogs compared to larger breeds, but their tiny size means they have specific needs that owners must not overlook.

Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, Chorkies are energetic and need daily activity. About 30 to 45 minutes of exercise per day is usually sufficient, split into two or three short walks and indoor play. Because they are so small, a brisk walk around the block can tire them out quickly. Avoid over-exercising puppies, whose joints are still developing, and be careful with stairs and jumping from furniture.

Feeding

Chorkies have tiny stomachs and fast metabolisms. They do best on a high-quality toy-breed or small-breed formula with real meat as the first ingredient. Feeding two or three small meals per day helps prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which is a real risk in very small dogs. Avoid free-feeding, as Chorkies can easily become overweight, which puts stress on their tiny joints. Our guide to weight control dog food explains how to manage portions properly.

Climate and Safety

Chorkies are sensitive to cold because of their small body mass and, in long-haired varieties, their single coat. In winter, a warm sweater is often necessary. In summer, avoid hot pavement that can burn their delicate paw pads. Many owners use protective footwear or paw balm. Read more in our guide to paw protection.

Training a Yorkshire Terrier Chihuahua Mix

Chorkies are intelligent dogs but can be stubborn. Training requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. Harsh methods will backfire with this sensitive, confident breed.

Training Tips

• Start early: Begin training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes are more effective than long, tiring sessions.
• Use positive reinforcement: Reward desired behaviors with treats, praise, and play. Chorkies respond far better to rewards than to punishment. Learn more in our guide to positive reinforcement training.
• Socialize extensively: Expose your Chorkie to new people, dogs, sounds, and environments in a positive way. This prevents fear-based aggression and excessive barking.
• Manage barking early: Teach a "quiet" command and reward calm behavior. Avoid yelling, which often makes barking worse.
• Work on potty training diligently: Small bladders mean frequent bathroom breaks. Take your puppy out every few hours and reward successful trips outside. Our guide on what to do when your dog has accidents offers helpful strategies.
• Consider professional help if needed: If your Chorkie shows signs of fear, aggression, or severe separation anxiety, a trainer or behaviorist can help. See our guide on when to hire a trainer.

Health Concerns for the Chorkie

Chorkies are generally healthy dogs with lifespans of 12 to 16 years, but like all breeds they are prone to certain conditions. Knowing what to watch for helps you catch problems early.

Common Health Issues

• Dental disease: Small breeds are especially prone to tartar buildup and gum disease. Daily brushing and professional cleanings are essential. See our guide to dog dental cleaning.
• Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap slips out of place. Common in both Yorkies and Chihuahuas. Keep your dog at a healthy weight and avoid excessive jumping.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can affect very small puppies and adults. Feeding small, frequent meals helps prevent this.
• Tracheal collapse: A weakening of the windpipe that causes a honking cough. Using a harness instead of a collar reduces strain on the neck. Browse our selection of dog harnesses.
• Luxating patella and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease: Both can affect the hip joint. Watch for limping or reluctance to jump.
• Eye problems: Chihuahuas are prone to dry eye and corneal ulcers. Yorkies can develop cataracts. Regular eye checks are wise.
• Fontanel (soft spot): Some Chihuahua-influenced dogs have an open fontanel on the skull. Handle the head gently and avoid rough play.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and preventive care go a long way toward keeping a Chorkie healthy. If you are considering supplements, talk to your vet first. Our guide to dog vitamins explains what is genuinely useful and what is not.

Grooming Needs

Grooming requirements vary widely depending on which parent breed your Chorkie takes after more.

Coat Care

• Long-coated Chorkies: Brush daily with a slicker brush and metal comb to prevent tangles and mats. Bathe every 2 to 3 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo. Regular trims around the eyes, ears, and paws keep the coat manageable.
• Short-coated Chorkies: Brush weekly with a rubber curry brush or soft bristle brush. Bathe every 4 to 6 weeks or as needed. These dogs shed moderately year-round.

Other Grooming Tasks

• Nails: Trim every 2 to 4 weeks. Long nails cause discomfort and gait problems.
• Ears: Check weekly and clean gently with a dog-specific ear cleaner. Floppy or hairy ears trap moisture and can develop infections.
• Teeth: Brush daily if possible. Small breeds are highly prone to dental disease, which can affect overall health.
• Eyes: Wipe discharge gently each day. Watch for redness, cloudiness, or squinting, which may indicate a problem.

Having the right tools makes grooming much easier. Browse our selection of dog brushes, dog shampoo, and nail clippers.

Is a Chorkie Right for You?

A Chorkie is an excellent companion for the right person, but it is not the right dog for everyone. Before bringing one home, consider whether your lifestyle matches their needs.

A Chorkie May Be a Great Fit If You:

• Want a small, affectionate lap dog who loves spending time with you
• Live in an apartment or small home with limited space
• Are prepared to handle a vocal, alert dog
• Have the time and patience for consistent training and socialization
• Can commit to daily grooming and dental care
• Have older, gentle children or no children at home

A Chorkie May Not Be Ideal If You:

• Have very young children or toddlers who may handle the dog roughly
• Work long hours and cannot provide companionship or midday potty breaks
• Live in a home with large, energetic dogs
• Are not prepared for a dog that may bark frequently
• Prefer a low-maintenance dog that requires minimal grooming
• Want a dog that can be left alone for long periods without training

Buying a Chorkie Puppy

Because the Chorkie is a designer crossbreed, it is not recognized by the AKC, and there is no breed standard. This means quality varies enormously between breeders. A responsible breeder prioritizes health, temperament, and transparency.

What to Ask a Chorkie Breeder

• Can I meet the parent dogs? Seeing the parents gives you a good idea of the puppy's likely size, coat, and temperament.
• What health testing has been done on the parents? Look for tests for patellar luxation, eye conditions, and other breed-relevant issues. See our guide to health testing for breeders.
• How are the puppies raised? Puppies raised in a home environment with early socialization are far better adjusted.
• What is included in the health guarantee? A good breeder offers a written contract. Read our guide to health guarantees for puppies.
• How old will the puppy be when I take it home? Puppies should stay with their mother and littermates until at least 8 weeks of age.

Avoid breeders who will not let you visit, who sell puppies before they are weaned, or who seem more interested in money than in the dogs. Our guide on red flags of a bad breeder can help you spot problems early.

Frequently Asked Questions