When you are looking to adopt a dog, you can sometimes be caught between getting a Jack Russell Terrier or a Yorkshire Terrier. They are both affectionate and playful, making them a popular choice. However, you do not have to worry too much about choosing one as you can get a mix of the two. Let me look at what are Jack Russell and Yorkie mix puppies called?
Quick Navigation
What Are Jack Russell and Yorkie Mix Puppies Called?
Jack Russell and Yorkie mix puppies are called Jorkies, Jack Russell Yorkie Mixes, and they are also called Yorkie Russells. Their names come from combining the name of their parents. Since their parents are both terriers, they inherit the characteristics that all terriers seem to have and those they get from their parents.
Yorkie Russells also combine the characteristics of their parents, such as high energy levels and loving nature, to become unique lapdogs that are bold and make great companions. Although they have small bodies, they can be quite vocal.
Appearance
Jorkies have an average height of between 8 -15 inches and a weight range between 5 to 18 pounds. The females tend to be a little shorter and lighter than the males. In most cases, a Jorkies will look like the parent whose genes were dominant. Their heads are small and round, and their muzzles are medium size.
Their ears are often floppy; however, some have erect ears. Their coats are smooth and can range from medium to long. They come in a variety of colors, including the following:
- White
- Brown
- Tan
- Black
Their colors can also be a combination of two or three. They also have bushy tails. While some Jack Russell Yorkie mixes can have beards and mustaches, others do not. Its body is rectangular and compact, and it has short and stocky limbs.
Temperament and Behavior
Yorkie Russells are friendly and loyal and love to show affection, especially to their loved ones. If you have children, they will develop quite a friendship. They also love getting a lot of attention; when they feel deprived, they will be vocal about it. Sometimes, when you do not nip this behavior in the bud, it can become destructive.
These dogs can also be stubborn. They are more stubborn than their parents, which can be challenging, especially during potty training. However, it can still be done. You can also choose to engage the services of a trainer to help you handle the challenges.
If you have other dogs, you will notice your Jorkie displaying signs of small dog syndrome. This can be avoided by having a strong pack leader or early training and socialization.
Health
A Jorkie could be relatively healthy if it came from healthy parents. However, they may inherit health problems common for mixed breeds or those their parents are genetically predisposed to. They include the following:
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Lens luxation
- Porto-systemic shunt
- Legg Perthes disease
- Joint problems
- Patellar luxation
- Tracheal collapse
- Obesity
It is not definite that your furry friend will contact the medical conditions above. However, to be safe, take it to the vet for regular check-ups.
Diet and Exercise
Jorkies require high-quality foods that give them the nutrients they need. They tend to be choosy and may stop eating because you feed them what they do not like. However, you should not give in. With time, they will earn to eat what you provide for them. You can also give them supplements to ensure they have all the necessary nutrients.
They also need daily exercise so they stay healthy and fit. Try to get them at least one hour of running, playing frisbee, or chasing a ball so that they can meet their exercise requirements. They may develop obesity when they do not exercise, which could lead to more health problems.
Grooming
Ensure you brush your Yorkie’s coat daily to prevent its fur from getting tangled. This will also help to retain its shine and glossy appearance. Their coats shed moderately, and brushing daily will do the trick. Bath it when necessary, as frequent baths will dry and irritate its skin. Ensure you get a mild and suitable shampoo for its coat type.
Brush its teeth daily or at least three times a week to prevent tartar buildup. Regular brushing will also help prevent tooth decay and bad breath. Vets recommend using a dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Trim its nails and clean its ears monthly. Use items and products that are dog friendly so as not to cause harm.
Related Questions
Other questions you may have are answered below.
What Is the Lifespan of a Jorkie?
The lifespan of Jorkie ranges between 12 to 16 years. The years they live to depend on how healthy it was and if they had good care.
Do Jorkies Get Along With Other Pets?
Jorkies can get along well with other pets as long as they are smaller than them, such as cats and other miniature dog breeds. They do not get along with bigger dog breeds.
Do Yorkie Russells Make Great Family Dogs?
Yorkie Russells can make good family pets, especially in families with older childer. Families with smaller children would be better if the small children were calm and did not like playing rough games with them.
Conclusion
You will not be sure about some things when you get a mixed breed. However, looking at the parents and their characteristics can give you an idea of what to expect from your hybrid. In this case, there is not much difference between a Jorkie and its parents.