Yorkie Apso (Yorkshire Terrier & Lhasa Apso Mix)

Introduction

The Yorkie Apso is a charming designer dog breed that combines the Yorkshire Terrier and the Lhasa Apso. This hybrid breed inherits traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a small, affectionate, and energetic companion dog. Yorkie Apsos are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and adorable appearance, making them popular choices for families and individuals alike. These dogs typically have a long, silky coat that can come in various colors, including black, tan, gold, and white.

Key Facts

Size: Small (7-14 inches tall, 7-15 pounds)
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Coat: Long, silky, and hypoallergenic
Colors: Black, tan, gold, white, or a combination
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, intelligent, and energetic
Good with: Families, seniors, apartments
Exercise needs: Moderate
Grooming: High maintenance
Training: Moderately easy to train, can be stubborn
Barking tendency: Moderate to high

Character Traits

Yorkie Apsos inherit a blend of personality traits from their Yorkshire Terrier and Lhasa Apso parents, resulting in a unique and endearing temperament. These small dogs are known for their affectionate nature and strong bonds with their families. They are typically loyal, loving, and enjoy being close to their owners, often seeking attention and cuddles.

Despite their small size, Yorkie Apsos have a confident and sometimes feisty personality. They can be protective of their families and may bark to alert their owners of potential threats or unfamiliar situations. This trait, combined with their intelligence and alertness, makes them excellent watchdogs.

Yorkie Apsos are generally friendly and sociable, but they may be reserved or cautious around strangers initially. Early socialization is important to help them develop into well-rounded adult dogs. They usually get along well with children and other pets when properly introduced and raised together.

These hybrid dogs are known for their playful and energetic nature. They enjoy interactive playtime with their owners and can be quite entertaining with their antics. Yorkie Apsos are intelligent and quick learners, which can make training enjoyable, but they may also inherit a stubborn streak from their Lhasa Apso parent.

While generally adaptable, Yorkie Apsos can be sensitive to changes in their environment and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They thrive on companionship and do best in homes where they receive plenty of attention and interaction.

History & Origins

The Yorkie Apso is a relatively recent designer dog breed, likely originating in the late 20th or early 21st century when crossbreeding became popular to create dogs with desirable traits from both parent breeds. To understand the Yorkie Apso’s history, it’s essential to look at the backgrounds of its parent breeds: the Yorkshire Terrier and the Lhasa Apso.

The Yorkshire Terrier, often called “Yorkie,” originated in Yorkshire, England, during the 19th century. They were initially bred as working dogs to catch rats in textile mills and coal mines. Over time, they transitioned from working dogs to popular companion animals, especially among the upper classes. Yorkies are known for their small size, silky coat, and confident personality.

The Lhasa Apso has a much older history, originating in Tibet over 4,000 years ago. These dogs were bred as indoor sentinel dogs in Buddhist monasteries and palaces. Lhasa Apsos were highly valued in Tibetan culture and were often given as gifts to nobility and visitors. They are known for their long, heavy coat, which protected them from the harsh Tibetan climate, and their loyal, alert nature.

The exact timeline and location of the first Yorkie Apso breeding are not well-documented, as is the case with many designer dog breeds. The intention behind creating this mix was likely to combine the Yorkshire Terrier’s small size and affectionate nature with the Lhasa Apso’s alertness and hypoallergenic coat.

While not recognized by major kennel clubs as a purebred dog, the Yorkie Apso has gained popularity as a companion dog due to its appealing blend of characteristics from both parent breeds. As with many hybrid dogs, the traits of individual Yorkie Apsos can vary depending on which parent breed’s genes are more dominant in each puppy.

Health Concerns

The Yorkie Apso, like many mixed breeds, can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Common concerns include:

Eye problems: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and dry eye
Respiratory issues: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, especially in dogs with shorter muzzles
Dental problems: Tooth decay and gum disease due to small mouths
Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates
Skin allergies: Can lead to itching, rashes, and hot spots

Regular veterinary check-ups, proper dental care, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for preventing and managing these issues. Genetic testing can help identify potential inherited conditions.

Exercise Needs

Yorkie Apsos are energetic dogs with moderate exercise needs. They require:

Daily walks: 20-30 minutes, twice a day
Playtime: Interactive games and toys for mental stimulation
Indoor activities: Suitable for apartment living, but still need physical activity

While they don’t need intense exercise, regular activity helps maintain their physical and mental well-being. Puzzle toys and training sessions can provide mental stimulation. However, be cautious of overexertion, especially in hot weather, due to their small size and potential for respiratory issues.

Space Requirements

Yorkie Apsos are adaptable and well-suited for various living situations:

Apartment living: Ideal due to their small size
Houses: Thrive in both small and large homes
Outdoor space: Appreciate a small yard but not necessary
Indoor space: Need a designated area for bed, toys, and feeding

While they don’t require large living spaces, they do need a safe, comfortable environment. Secure fencing is important if there’s outdoor access, as these curious dogs may wander. Indoor spaces should be puppy-proofed to prevent accidents or ingestion of small objects.

Nutrition & Feeding

Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and longevity of Yorkie Apsos:

High-quality dog food: Choose a brand formulated for small breeds
Portion control: Follow feeding guidelines based on age, weight, and activity level
Meal frequency: 2-3 small meals per day to prevent hypoglycemia
Treats: Limit to 10% of daily calorie intake
Fresh water: Always available

Avoid human foods that can be toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions. Due to their small size, Yorkie Apsos can be prone to obesity, so monitor their weight closely. Consult with a veterinarian for personalized dietary advice, especially if your dog has specific health concerns or allergies.

Grooming Tips

The Yorkie Apso requires regular and thorough grooming due to its long, silky coat inherited from both parent breeds. Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting and tangling, using a pin brush or slicker brush. Regular baths every 2-3 weeks are recommended, using a gentle dog shampoo to maintain coat health. Pay special attention to the facial area, cleaning around the eyes daily to prevent tear staining. Trim the hair around the paws and ears regularly to keep them neat and hygienic. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks can help maintain the coat’s length and shape. Nail trimming should be done every 2-3 weeks, and teeth should be brushed several times a week to maintain good oral health. The Yorkie Apso’s coat may be kept long for show purposes or trimmed shorter for easier maintenance, depending on the owner’s preference and lifestyle.

Training Approach

Training a Yorkie Apso requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. These intelligent dogs can be stubborn at times, a trait inherited from both parent breeds. Early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults. Use short, engaging training sessions to maintain their interest, as they can have a short attention span. Reward-based training with treats, praise, and play works best for this breed. Focus on basic obedience commands, leash training, and house training from an early age. Address potential small dog syndrome by establishing clear rules and boundaries. Incorporate mental stimulation exercises to keep their minds engaged. Consistency is key in training, as Yorkie Apsos can pick up on inconsistencies and may try to manipulate situations. Be patient with housebreaking, as small breeds can sometimes take longer to fully master this skill. With proper training and socialization, Yorkie Apsos can become well-behaved, loving companions.