The yorkie poo, a designer breed, is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle. The result of the cross is a fun-loving, affectionate mixed breed dog who is certain to lift your spirits.
Origin and History
Like other designer breeds with one Poodle parent, the yorkie poo -- also spelled yorkiepoo, and sometimes yorkipoo -- was created to be a hypoallergenic family dog. The overall goal was to develop a mixed breed that's healthier than the purebred Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle while adding in the loving demeanor of both breeds.
There are no yorkiepoo breed clubs or registries yet, but there is a work-in-progress that is expected to be available soon. This designer breed is also not registered with the American Kennel Club at this time.
Characteristics
The traits you might find in this designer mix are known to vary, depending on each dog's lineage.
Appearance
The yorkipoo's coat will vary from completely straight to curly. Regardless of type, it feels overwhelmingly soft. Although their coat is hypoallergenic, no dog, regardless of breed, is fully shedding-free. Rather, it implies they shed very little and produce very little dander, which is a desirable attribute for allergy sufferers.
The yorkiepoo can be a variety of colors:
- Cream
- Black
- White
- Red
- Sable
- Apricot
- Tan
- Gray
- Silver
- Chocolate
These colors can be assorted and their markings differ from dog to dog.
The yorkiepoo is a little dog, standing 7 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 3 to 14 pounds. Dogs vary in size, and their mature adult size generally depends on the size of the Poodle used in the crossbreeding.
Temperament
The Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle are both intelligent dogs with a moderate level of energy. Yorkiepoos and their parent breeds enjoy competing in agility and obedience events.
Keep in mind that the Yorkie is more independent than the Poodle, and mixing the two parent breeds produces a variety of personalities in their pups. Their personalities can range from wanting to be tied to your hip to being aloof.
Whether you live in an apartment or a palace, most yorkiepoos are perfectly content with any happy, healthy living environment. They're also friendly dogs who make wonderful therapy dogs for the elderly and disabled.
They do tend to have "small dog syndrome," thinking they're larger than they actually are. As such, they may lunge toward larger dogs who they feel are threatening, especially if they aren't well-socialized. To reduce the risk of this occurring, allow your pup to interact with other dogs on a regular basis under supervision.
Due to their small size, they aren't recommended in homes with young children. One accidental incident could seriously injure this designer breed. Older, responsible children can become the best of friends with the yorkiepoo.
Training
The yorkiepoo is easy to train and quick to learn. They can carry a stubborn streak, and even the most affectionate pup can become overwhelmed easily with harsh punishment. As with other dogs, maintain a calm environment and utilize positive reinforcement while training.
Exercise Requirements
Although the yorkiepoo enjoys exercise, a daily stroll or 30 minutes of yard play is generally plenty. Because this is a mixed breed, exercise requirements will vary from dog to dog, so be prepared for a range of energy levels, from calm to relatively energetic.
Health
Yorkiepoos are typically healthy, but may be susceptible to some health issues:
- Epilepsy: This seizure disorder can generally be managed with medication.
- Patellar luxation: A condition characterized by dislocation of the kneecap, resulting in discomfort.
- Portosystemic shunt: This condition occurs when there is a lack of blood flow to the liver.
- Hypothyroidism: This disorder is associated with the thyroid gland.
Lifespan
Since this is a relatively new designer mix, the yorkiepoo's lifespan may vary a bit, but most are thought to live up to 12 years.
Grooming
Even though they don't shed much, yorkiepoos require daily brushing to maintain their silky coat. Brush the hair away from their eyes to avoid irritation. You may even want to cut the hair near the eyes to prevent eye problems down the road.
Trim the coat to maintain the desired length. There isn't a standard, so there's no wrong way to maintain their coat. Bathing should only be done when necessary to avoid stripping the natural oils from the fur.
Fun Facts About the Yorkiepoo
The yorkiepoo is a recent designer dog mix, but here's what is known so far:
- Their feelings can be hurt easily.
- Yorkiepoos are great therapy dogs.
- Most absolutely love attention.
- Yorkiepoos are known to approach strangers and request their affection.
Purchasing or Adopting a Yorkiepoo
There's a distinction to be made between the intended breeding of well-selected Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles, and a Poodle mix without background on the parents. When the combination is done correctly, the Poodle's intelligence is combined with the fun-loving personality of the Yorkshire Terrier. Quality offspring can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,000 or more.
Rescue Organizations
If you're searching for a rescue dog, begin looking through the directories on PetFinder and Save-a-Rescue. You can also search these breed-specific rescue organizations:
- Poo-Mix Rescue: An organization dedicated to yorkiepoos and other breeds mixed with Poodles.
- Yorkie Rescue of America: A non-profit, volunteer-based rescue organization that often takes dogs in need of extensive medical care and attention.
- Poodle Rescue of New England: A non-profit rescue organization adopting Poodles and Poodle mixes of all ages and sizes in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and upstate New York.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
If you're searching for a small lap dog with a loving personality, this could be the mixed breed for you. They're also great for those who are usually allergic to other breeds. If you are searching for a dog that doesn't require much attention though, you will want to search for different designer breed.
