Carkie

He is not recognized by the F.C.I.

Origin
Great Britain -> U.S.A.
Translation
Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Carkie

Playful and energetic, the Carkie is an excellent companion for families. The Carkie is a hybrid breed developed from the Cairn Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. Although its exact time of origin is unknown, the result of the mix is wonderful. With its social and intelligent personality, the Carkie is a favorite with children and adults alike. Despite the breed's small size, it is courageous, alert and at ease in its environment. Although the Yorkshire Terrier is known for barking, the Carkie is a relatively calm breed that will use its vocal abilities when a stranger is nearby. Its soft, medium-length coat requires regular maintenance, while its high energy level demands constant action and exercise.

History of the Carkie

Although the Carkie is a relatively recent breed, its origins are murky and poorly documented. There is no known credit for the breed's development. The Carkie is descended from its parent breeds, the Cairn Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. The Carkie is the offspring of two wonderful companions with favorable dispositions.
        

A little of the Cairn Terrier

        
The Cairn Terrier, originally from the Isle of Skye in Scotland, is the result of a long history of division in the Terrier breed. There is evidence to suggest that early versions of the Cairn Terrier existed in the 15th century and were used to hunt foxes, badgers and otters. The name is derived from the breed's ability to hunt otters from cairns, piles of stones used as landmarks or memorials in those days. In 1873, the breed was divided into the Dandie Dinmont and Skye Terrier based on color. The Cairn Terrier was placed in the Skye Terrier category. In 1881, Wirehaired Terriers were identified as a breed distinct from Skye Terriers, again changing the categorization of the Cairn Terrier. Eventually, Wirehaired Terriers were separated into Scotch, West Highland White and what we know today as the modern Cairn Terrier. Many of the earliest Cairn Terriers were white, but many color variations have appeared in this breed since the early 1900s. It was recognized by the AKC in 1913. Famously, Toto from The Wizard of Oz was a Cairn Terrier.
Standard of the Cairn Terrier

A little of the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier descended from another breed, the Waterside Terrier. This elegant dog was a product of the working class with the initial aim of catching rats. At first, the Yorkshire Terrier was not desired by the upper classes. In 1872, the first Yorkshire Terrier was born in America. The breed was found to vary considerably in size. Enthusiasts preferred the Yorkshire Terrier with its small size and long coat. The Yorkshire Terrier was officially entered in the books of the American Kennel Club in 1885.
Standard of the Yorkshire Terrier

Appearance of the Carkie

The Carkie resembles both the Cairn Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier. It has erect ears with feathers around the ears. Measuring between 20 and 30.5 centimeters and weighing from 4.5 to 7 kilos, its stance is that of a determined curiosity as it is always on the move. Its body is slightly longer than it is tall, and it sports a tail with a plethora of high-set hairs. Its soft coat is medium to long and not water repellent. Colors can be black, gray, brown or sandy. Sometimes, the legs can be darker than the rest of the coat. The Carkie's smiling eyes are rounded and dark brown or hazel.

Temperament of the Carkie

Carkies are intelligent, energetic and always playful. This adventurous breed is always on the lookout for places to visit and see. It likes to be the center of attention and prefers to be in the company of others. This lively dog has high energy levels that require intense play to be comfortable. The Carkie is more than welcoming to owners and strangers alike. He can become overexcited during the meeting process, but practice in socialization can most likely calm this trait. If left alone for a few hours, your playful dog will also become anxious and may suffer from separation anxiety. This breed is known to form incredible bonds with its family and loves to cuddle. The Carkie would benefit from consistent training with rewards in order to accept other animals. Early training would also help curb behaviors linked to separation anxiety. Because of his high energy level, your affectionate and caring dog would enjoy running around the park, taking part in agility activities and, basically, spending time with you.

Needs and activities of the Carkie

Despite its small size, the Carkie has energy to burn and more. Daily walks are a must. An ideal environment for the Carkie would be an apartment or house with access to a yard and the outdoors. Being able to run around will make your dog happy. Curious, your Carkie will want to explore his environment and move quickly. Make sure your dog gets at least 45 to 60 minutes of playtime a day. Taking him to the dog park will increase his socialization skills and allow him to meet other dogs on neutral ground. It's important to take time to entertain the Carkie, as failure to provide the necessary exercise will increase the likelihood of property destruction caused by boredom.

Maintenance of the Carkie

The Carkie's two parent breeds, the Cairn Terrier and the Yorkshire Terrier, are said to be hypoallergenic. This breed contains low levels of excretion, does not drool and has no significant odor. The Carkie requires a regular grooming routine to reduce the risk of matting and keep the coat sleek and clean. Your fluffy dog will probably have a medium-length coat that will require daily brushing with a firm bristle brush and combing with a Greyhound comb. Bathing should be limited to every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid overproduction of oils in the skin. Ears should be waxed every 4 to 6 weeks and cleaned weekly. Nails and teeth are part of your dog's care, so brush daily and check nail length often. Cracks and tears can be painful.

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