Appearance of the Torkie
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The Torkie is a charming mix of Yorkie and Toy Fox Terrier. It's a small, scruffy dog that looks a lot like a Yorkie, but with shorter hair. Its medium-length coat is silky and smooth. It is available in shades of black and tan. Its small ears are erect and alert. The Torkie's expression is always alert and its eyes bright. Many people say the Torkie has a fox face. His coat doesn't grow fast, so he rarely needs professional clipping. His posture is perky and proud, and his gait is full of determination. |
Temperament of the Torkie
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The gentle little Torkie adores his master. He's the ultimate lapdog. This little dog is happy to sit on his owner's lap or snuggle up to her. Unlike the Yorkie, he's highly intelligent and easy to housetrain. He can also learn tricks and loves to play ball. It needs very little exercise, making it an ideal apartment dog. The Torkie is not at ease with young children. He can become irritable and moody. This cute, compact dog is also extremely protective of its owner, and will often growl and bite to protect him if anyone gets too close. |
Needs and activities of the Torkie
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This little dog loves to play with his owner, but he's just as happy sitting on a warm lap. He needs very little exercise, but appreciates a daily walk where he can enjoy some fresh air. You need to be very careful when taking him to a dog park because of his small size. If a dog in the park becomes aggressive towards him, he won't remember that he's just a tiny dog and will fight back, which can prove fatal. He's not excessively barky, but will bark a warning if he hears a strange noise or sees a stranger. He'll be perfectly happy in any environment, provided he has a loving, patient master. |
Maintenance of the Torkie
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The Torkie's coat is virtually maintenance-free. A quick brushing with a long-haired brush once a day prevents tangles and knots. It almost never sheds. His coat is as smooth and soft as silk. He rarely needs to go to the groomer. Some owners shave this little canine, but it's not necessary unless you want to. Its little toenails need to be trimmed every month to keep them short, otherwise they become very sharp. The small, upright ears of this alert dog benefit from weekly wiping to remove debris. Some owners brush their dog's teeth to remove plaque and improve breath. Brushing also prevents the development of future gum disease. |