Shorkie vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison

Shorkie vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed ComparisonBoth Shorkie and American Eskimo Dog are originated from United States. Shorkie may grow 24 cm / 9 inches shorter than American Eskimo Dog. Shorkie may weigh 9 kg / 19 pounds lesser than American Eskimo Dog. Both Shorkie and American Eskimo Dog has same life span. Both Shorkie and American Eskimo Dog has same litter size. Shorkie requires Moderate maintenance. But American Eskimo Dog requires High maintenance

History

shorkie - historyThe Shorkie is a mix between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Shih Tzu. This little dog actually thinks he’s quite big. He is a great watchdog and a barker, and he is a loyal and loving member of his family. He will let you know if he thinks something is going on that shouldn’t be.

This hybrid combines two breeds known for their good looks, cuteness and personalities. Shorkies get their watchdog instincts and their loyalty to their people from the Shih Tzu and their personalities and good looks from the Yorkie. This designer breed has no known standard and every puppy is different, but traits from its founding breeds will remain. Both breeds have great personalities.

Regardless of the differences within the litter, because the personalities and adorableness of the two founding breeds are equal, all of the puppies will have those characteristics. They will all be energetic, playful and think they are big dogs. They will all love people and especially kids – playing and watching over them.

The Shorkie is intelligent, trainable, and snuggly. They will also have the stubborn trait that the two founding breeds can show at times. Developed in the United States, this crossbreed is extremely popular even though they have been in existence for only ten years or so. Breeders in the U.S. began to mix these two breeds in order to develop a cute, friendly and intelligent little dog that will cuddle on your lap – perfect lap dog.

Even if we already have breeds similar to the Shorkie, its development allows breeders to diversify and improve the genetics of the dogs. It is important that these be responsible breeders whose intentions are not financial but to legitimately improve the positive traits of each breed while sorting out the undesirable or weak traits. This is the positive side of the new designer breeds.

Even though it is still being developed, at least the Shorkie seems to be a success story for designer breeds as a loving, popular little dog. It will take a lot more time and a lot more development before the Shorkie becomes an actual recognized breed. At the moment it remains a hybrid, a crossbreed, a so called designer dog.

It will be at least 7-10 generations of careful and quality breeding before the Shorkies are potentially recognized as its own pedigree breed. It is important to breed Shorkies to Shorkies in order to develop a standard that could be accepted for a new breed by the AKC and UKC. Over time the puppies must become more and more standardized in their conformity to that new breed standard. Their physical appearance and their temperament will be standardized. At this stage the second generation of Shorkies is rare. Their popularity is rising in the United Kingdom. Both Britain and Ireland have a growing interest in this hybrid.

american eskimo dog - historyThe American Eskimo is derived from the Nordic Spitz breed and most closely related to the German Spitz in particular. There were many German Spitzes in the United States at the time of the second World War and anti-German sentiment caused its name to change to the American Eskimo Dog. However, as the breed developed over time in the States, the American Eskimo became its own separate breed. In addition to the German Spitz, the American Eskimo is also related to the white Keeshond, the Samoyed, the white Italian Spitz and the white Pomeranian. The history is beginning to show that the Spitzes that were brought to the US in the early 1900’s was white. This color was not popular in Europe but was quickly the favorite in the United States. They were originally working dogs on farms and ranches. They have excellent herding instincts, make goo watch and guard dogs, and good law enforcement sniff dogs. However, their first introduction to the American public was through the Cooper Brothers’ Railroad Circus and Stout’s Pal Pierre at the Barnum and Baily Circus. Eskimo puppies were sold after the circus show.

It was then that the breed became one of America’s favorite breeds and they quickly became house pets. Following World War II, Japan exported the Japanese Spitz into America and it was crossed with the Eskimo also. The American Eskimo Dog breed was not recognized by AKC until 1985. Still in 1958 there was no official breed club in the States but there were growing numbers of the dogs. It was not until 1970 did the National American Eskimo Dog Association (NAEDA) come into being. They collected the pedigrees of the first 1750 dogs to be AKC registered.

Since the American Eskimo Dog is not recognized internationally, those wishing to participate in international competition such as England’s prestigious Cruft’s Dog Show must register their dogs a German Spitz. Despite this the American Eskimo and German Spitz remain two very different breeds.

Basic Information

Group:
Miscellaneous dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
United States
United States
Height Male:
18 - 24 cm
7 - 10 inches
23 - 48 cm
9 - 19 inches
Height Female:
16 - 22 cm
6 - 9 inches
23 - 40 cm
9 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
5 - 7 kg
11 - 16 pounds
4 - 16 kg
8 - 36 pounds
Weight Female:
4 - 7 kg
8 - 16 pounds
3 - 12 kg
6 - 27 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
1 - 5
Size:
Small dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Shorki • Shorkie • Yorkie Tzu Shorkie Tzu
, Spitz
Colors Available:
Black and tan • Brown and white • Gold • Red • Gold, black, and white • Particolored
White with cream or biscuit markings
Coat:
coat type soft and relatively long coats. They should be silky and never coarse
Heavy, thick, double
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Energetic, Friendly, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Responsive, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
High maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

shorkie puppy - descriptionThe Shorkie, being a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Shih Tzu, and as such has physical and temperament characteristics from both breeds. They could be 50-50 but most likely each puppy will be more like one of the founding parents than the other. Because there is a lot of similarity between the founding breeds there is a lot of similarity between the Shorkies.

Their hair is either wavy or straight, but it is soft. It can be a wide variety of colors and usually they have a darker mask on the face. Usually they have the eyes of the Shih Tzu – large -but not protruding. Their muzzle is short, and the skull is round with triangle ears. Their bodies are compact, small with plenty of muscle for their size. They also have fine bones and short legs, with a thin curled tail.

american eskimo dog puppy - descriptionThis small to medium dog is beautiful and resembles a miniature Samoyed. There are three sizes of American Eskimothe standard, miniature, and the toy. The Eskimo’s head is wedge shaped with tall, triangular, erect ears. It has a heavily plumed tail with a sharp curl over the back. The Eskimo can burst into bold action due to their good legs and feet.

The coat is a double one with a harsh outer coat and plush inner one. The coat is always white or white with cream or biscuit markings, and visible skin in gray or pink. The American Eskimo’s ruff or mane is very heavy, and the nose, eyelids, pads and gums are black. They have dark eyes and blue are not allowed.

Characteristics

1.Children friendliness – yes, they are very child friendly.

2.Special talents – Loyal and loving.

3.Adaptability – The Shorkie could happen.

4.Learning ability – Highly intelligent, but they can be stubborn.

american eskimo dog dog - characteristicsThe Eskimo is affectionate, playful and love children of all ages. They are intelligent and want to please you. They can be trained easily and are champions of the obedience trial. They are fun and confident. At the same time, they need a confident pack leader. He is prone to Little Dog Syndrome where the dog thinks they oversee the home and display all sorts of behaviors. Under these circumstances the American Eskimo can become obsessive, aggressive, and engaging in obsessive resource guarding and barking.

Health Problems

shorkie puppies - health problemsMany hybrids are in better health at least genetically than their parent breeds. Responsible breeders will breed any genetic issues out of their puppies. Still there are many health issues that the Shorkies are prone to. These include:

  • Tooth loss, tooth decay and gum disease caused by dental overcrowding.
  • Joint issues – can cause lameness.
  • Diabetes – high blood sugar.
  • Kidney stones.
  • Liver disease and potential shunt.
  • Progressive Retinal Apathy - visual imparity.
  • Patellar Luxation – can cause arthritis.
  • Hypoglycemia. – low blood sugar.
  • Collapsed Trachea.

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – “smashed face” causes problems with breathing, heat, flying and more.

• Glaucoma – Yorkshires have this, and it can be secondary to the lens Luxation.

american eskimo dog puppies - health problemsThe American Eskimo Dog is prone to hip dysplasia. Their eyes and tear ducts are potential issues with progressive retinal atrophy. They are allergic to fleas and have a tendency to be overweight.

We deal with PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) in greater detain in a following section but it is not as destructive as it used to be. It is much more treatable now.

There are potentially some dental issues that some American Eskimo Dogs are prone to.

Caring The Pet

shorkie dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy - The Shorkies need a high-quality, well-balanced dry kibble. Make sure it is a formula for small, active dogs. It should have lean meat and essential minerals and vitamins. Make sure it is puppy food not adult. The puppy needs 300 -550 calories a day in 3 meals.

2.Feeding the adult – Obesity is a problem for the Shorkie as it is for many small dogs. Don’t overfeed your adult but give her the same kind of high quality small breed dog food, only for adults. They need about 200-300 calories a day in 2 meals.

3.Points for Good Health – Few genetic diseases.

4. Games and Exercises – These are very active little dogs and need exercise every day. They needs walks, games, and time with you. They also love to cuddle with you at the end of the day. They love squeaky toys and playing fetch outside or inside.

Feeding

american eskimo dog dogs - caringYour American Eskimo Dog needs a high quality food so they will not get overweight. Make sure you know how much is appropriate for your particular dog and her specific age. The puppies should be fed twice a day but adults only once.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American Eskimo Dog is prone to eye issue such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy or (PRA) – this disease is inherited and used to cause blindness as the rods in the retina died. New medical discoveries mean this is no longer a hopeless disease. Their eyes are also susceptible to other issues so make sure you check them and the tear ducts regularly.

Like so many other breeds the American Eskimo is also susceptible to hip dysplasia and a moving patella in the knee. For this reason watch their weight. They can also be very allergic.

Exercise and games

This small dog has more energy than his size can handle. He needs a lot of exercise and a place to run. If he will become hyperactive and destructive. They are prone to disturbing behaviors such as spinning (spinning in circles) when they don’t get enough exercise. The American Eskimo Dog is smart and agile, Play games like catch or agility. They are also great at herding, competitive obedience or detection.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Shorkie vs Alopekis - Breed Comparison
  2. Shorkie vs Brug - Breed Comparison
  3. Shorkie vs Pomeranian - Breed Comparison
  4. Shorkie vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  5. Shorkie vs Pug - Breed Comparison
  6. Shorkie vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Shorkie vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Shorkie vs Maltipoo - Breed Comparison
  9. Shorkie vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  10. Shorkie vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  11. Shorkie vs Dachshund - Breed Comparison
  12. Shorkie vs Jack Russell Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Shorkie vs Cockapoo - Breed Comparison
  14. Shorkie vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Shorkie vs Cavapoo - Breed Comparison
  16. Shorkie vs Corgi - Breed Comparison
  17. Shorkie vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  18. Shorkie vs Cavachon - Breed Comparison
  19. Shorkie vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  20. Shorkie vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  21. Shorkie vs Papillon - Breed Comparison
  22. Shorkie vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Shorkie vs Japanese Chin - Breed Comparison
  24. Shorkie vs Miniature English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  25. Shorkie vs Miniature Dachshund - Breed Comparison
  26. Corgi vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Shetland Sheepdog vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Toy Australian Shepherd vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  31. Welsh Corgi vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  32. Pomeranian vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. Maltese vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. Pug vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  35. Boston Terrier vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  36. Maltipoo vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  37. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  38. Bichon Frise vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  39. Dachshund vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  40. Jack Russell Terrier vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  41. Cockapoo vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  42. Cavapoo vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  43. Miniature Schnauzer vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  44. Cavachon vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  45. Mal-Shi vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  46. American Eskimo Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  47. American Eskimo Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  48. American Eskimo Dog vs Australian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  49. American Eskimo Dog vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds