If you could shrink a lion down to handbag size, you’d get something close to the Chorkie. A cross between the feisty Yorkshire Terrier and the sassy Chihuahua, this little firecracker has a bark bigger than its body and a heart that’s all in. First appearing in the US in the 1990s, Chorkies quickly spread across the globe, bringing their scruffy charm and cheeky personalities to sofas and flats everywhere.
They’re the kind of dog that struts round the garden like they own Buckingham Palace, then curls up on your lap like a teddy bear. Not sure if you’re ready for all that sass in a tiny package? Try the Which Dog Breed Is Best for Me? Quiz before you leap in.
Pickles’ Aside: If you thought small dogs were quiet and dainty, think again — these pocket rockets run the show.
Great Names for a Chorkie
Chorkies deserve names that show off their cheeky spark.
Fiery little sparks: Zippy, Tizzy, Bolt, Chaos, Rascal, Noodle
Classic charmers: Alfie, Daisy, Ruby, George, Molly, Bella
Quirky comedians: Spud, Gizmo, Pickle, Biscuit, Buttons, Pogo
Heritage nods: Winston, Beatrix, York, Diego, Florence, Byron
Need more? The Dog Name Generator is full of surprises.
Exercise
Don’t be fooled by their handbag size. Chorkies are buzzing with energy and will happily keep up with far bigger dogs on a walk. They love dashing about, sniffing, and showing off their terrier toughness.
An owner shared: “She may be small, but she walks for miles. We sometimes forget she’s tiny because she never stops.”
Daily needs:
- 45–60 minutes of walking
- Indoor play for rainy days (fetch, tug, nose games)
- Secure garden zoomies (watch for gaps in the fence — they’re escape artists)
Pickles’ Aside: They don’t just run. They strut, bounce, and occasionally cartwheel.
Stubborn Streak / Terrier Trouble Warning
Without enough activity, Chorkies will bark, chew, or create chaos. Small in size, but big in drama.
Temperament
Living with a Chorkie is like having a pint-sized stand-up comedian crossed with a bodyguard. They’re affectionate and funny, but also protective and opinionated.
Traits you’ll notice:
- Loyal shadows who stick by their chosen person
- Bold to the point of bossy
- Surprisingly affectionate snuggle-bugs after play
- Protective — sometimes a little too much
One owner said: “He thinks he’s a Doberman. Every noise outside, he’s on guard.” Another added: “She’s the sweetest lapdog at night, but in the day she’s pure mischief.”
Pickles’ Aside: They’ve never heard the phrase “know your size.”
Training
Training a Chorkie is equal parts fun and frustration. They’re clever and quick to pick up tricks, but they also come with a stubborn streak and a love of barking. Patience (and treats) are your best friends.
How to succeed:
- Start socialisation early — they can be wary of strangers
- Work on barking control gently
- Keep sessions short, upbeat, and positive
- Reward generously — food and praise go a long way
An owner admitted: “She learns tricks so fast, but the barking is… constant.”
Need an edge? The World’s First AI Dog Trainer can help keep your training creative and stop you both from getting stuck in a rut.
Sensitive Soul Warning
Chorkies may act tough, but harsh training knocks their confidence. Keep it gentle and fun.
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
If you want a pint-sized alarm system, a Chorkie’s your dog. They’ll alert you to visitors, the postman, or a leaf blowing past the window. While they can be yappy, they’re usually quick to warm up once they know someone’s friendly.
Other Animals
Chorkies can get along with other dogs, especially if raised together, but they sometimes think they’re top dog regardless of size. With cats, it’s a gamble — some ignore them, others chase.
One owner shared: “Our Chorkie gets on fine with our lab, but she bosses him around like she’s in charge.”
Pickles’ Aside: Little dog, big boss energy.
Grooming
Chorkies inherit coat types from either side — short and sleek like a Chihuahua, or scruffier like a Yorkie. Either way, they’re not hard to groom, but they do shed a bit.
Routine care:
- Brush a couple of times a week (more if scruffy)
- Bath every few weeks
- Regular ear checks (floppy ears can trap dirt)
- Dental care is key — small breeds often get tartar quickly
Health
Chorkies are generally healthy little dogs, but like all mixes, they can inherit issues from either parent breed.
Common ones include:
- Dental problems (watch those tiny teeth)
- Patella luxation (knee issues)
- Collapsed trachea (causes coughing)
- Heart issues in later life
An owner said: “The vet always says keep an eye on her teeth — brushing is non-negotiable.”
Check breeders carefully and read the Best in Breeder Guide before you buy.
Cost of Ownership
In the UK, expect:
- Puppy price: £500–£1,000
- Insurance: £15–£40/month
- Food: £15–£30/month
- Grooming: £100/year average
- Vet bills: £200–£400/year, higher if dental issues crop up
Famous Owners & Moments
While Chorkies haven’t hit Hollywood in droves, they’ve found a loyal fanbase in the UK, thanks to their size and character. Their rise followed the boom in designer crossbreeds like Cavapoos and Cockapoos — except these guys come with extra sass.
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “They’re handbag dogs.” | They’re more terrier than toy — scrappy, playful, and bold. |
| “They don’t need much exercise.” | They may be small, but they’ve got energy to burn. |
| “They’re quiet.” | Let’s just say… earplugs might be handy. |
FAQs
Are Chorkies good for families?
Yes, with older children who understand their small size. They’re affectionate and playful.
Do they bark a lot?
Yes, barking comes with the package. Training helps, but it’s part of their charm.
Can they live in a flat?
Yes, if you manage their energy with daily walks and play.
How long do they live?
12–15 years is common with good care.
Thinking of Bringing One Home?
Bringing home a Chorkie is like adding a tiny sparkler to your family. They’re funny, loving, and endlessly entertaining, but they’re also noisy, bossy, and occasionally a bit dramatic. They need proper training, daily exercise, and consistent boundaries to thrive.
If you want a quiet, easy-going lapdog, this isn’t it. But if you’re ready for a pint-sized comedian who’ll keep you laughing, snuggle up at night, and patrol the garden like a guard dog, a Chorkie might be perfect for you. Get prepared with the New Puppy Paw-rent Planner, and capture your mini firecracker in style with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait.
Breed Stats
- Size: Small
- Weight: 3–6 kg
- Height: 15–25 cm
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Best Trait: Bold, affectionate, full of personality
- Challenging Trait: Barking, stubborn streak, dental issues