Yorkipoo (Yorkshire Terrier & Toy Poodle Mix) Info, Pictures, Facts, Traits

If you are looking for a tiny, spirited dog that’s easy on the allergies—a Yorkipoo may be a fine selection to consider. So, what is there to know about this fierce little braveheart?

Breed Overview

Yorkipoos are a mix between a toy or miniature Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier. Because of the combination, they can vary quite drastically in looks and personality. But these dogs are always cute as a button and busy as a bee.

One thing is for sure—there will never be another dull moment in your house with a Yorkipoo around. Not to mention, you can minimize the amount of dog hair around your place, since Yorkipoos rarely shed.

An itty bitty Yorkipoo won’t work in every household. These dogs can be yappy, a touch defiant, and sometimes hard to house train. So, let’s learn all the ins and out about the breed before you make your final decision!

Yorkipoo Characteristics

Yorkipoo Puppies

Yorkipoo puppies are considered a “mixed” breed. As with many designer dogs, they can be quite expensive. When you're looking for a Yorkipoo, take your time to look for reputable and ethical breeders who will let you meet the puppy's parents, visit the breeding facilities, and share health information regarding the puppy with you. Please keep in mind to also check at rescues. They usually have application processes and waiting lists, but it can be worth the time. You can save a boatload of money and change the life of a lucky pup.

When you welcome a Yorkipoo into your home, you can expect to have a friendly and playful dog by your side. Early socialization and training are essential so they get along with other pets. Their sassy temperament might get in the way of training sessions, so be prepared to correct them when necessary.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Yorkipoo 🧠

There are a lot of factors that play into the Yorkipoo’s personality. You have the loving nature and intelligence of a Poodle meshed with the bravery and spunk of the Yorkshire Terrier.

While specifics can be up in the air, you can expect a few things for certain—one of which being, you’re no longer the boss. These tiny tots will assume the role of the head of the household pretty fast. If you let them reign supreme, they will (and they’ll be brilliant about it).

When you have a Yorkipoo in your home, expect talking back, attitude, and no backing down. This combination gives you an intellectual genius of spicy vigor. Without question, your Yorkipoo will keep you on your toes.

They are happy-go-lucky and very high energy—always wanting to go, go, go. Their enthusiasm is an admirable attribute because we all wish we had that kind of get-up-and-go energy on a daily basis.

In less likely chances, you could get a soft, sweet, quiet companion. Dogs are individuals with unique personalities. But, realistically, the likelihood of you getting a fun little spitfire is much higher.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

Yorkipoos like being spoiled and pampered, so they will take all the love they can get. The Yorkipoo, when they’re not giving orders, are incredibly loving and pretty good with kids. Usually, if you socialize early, Yorkipoos make very compatible playmates for children.

But because they bark until the cows come home, they may try to rough up a stranger to show them who’s boss. And if that person shows any submission, your Yorkipoo will always feel like the king or queen.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets? 🐶 😽

Most of the time, Yorkipoos love to make new furry friends. They thrive with a good playmate or two. Quite often, Yorkipoos have a special affinity for cats.

But because of their overwhelming desire to be the head honcho, they may trigger other dogs to respond negatively. Always supervise playtime, because these small dogs could get hurt quite easily if disagreements arise.

Things to Know When Owning a Yorkipoo:

Food & Diet Requirements

Yorkipoos can be kind of—well, let’s just say particular. They may not like just any kibble you put in front of them. While high-protein, top quality dry dog kibble is best, their pickiness may require creativity.

Yorkipoos have a history of dental genetic issues. Feeding your Yorkipoo wet dog food regularly can lead to gum disease, bad breath, tartar, and periodontal disease.

Try a combination of wet/dry food to stimulate appetite while cleaning teeth. That way, they’re getting a nice crunch to get rid of plaque, but also the aroma and moisture of wet food.

Exercise 🐕

Because of their peppiness, you’d think these dogs would require a lot of exercise. But thanks to their size, they can burn most of their energy in small spaces.

If you toss around their favorite toy or let them bug the family cat, they’ll be ready to wind down in your lap in no time. Yorkipoos only need about 30 minutes total of exercise per day.

Training 🦮

Training can prove to be a bit of a task with the Yorkipoo. Because they’re so unbashful and bold, they may feel as if they don’t have to listen. Asserting dominance can be hard, but they need to take your rank seriously in order to be properly put in their place.

And good luck with house training! The Yorkipoo is definitely smart enough to know where to potty. But it doesn’t always mean they follow through. If it is more convenient to pee on the carpet, they just might do that instead.

They have quite the mind of their own, but don’t think you can’t bribe them with treats. However, offering a snack in exchange for good behavior works to the benefit of you both.

Grooming ✂️

Grooming can get interesting. Your Yorkipoo will have curly or straight locks of hair (depending on the traits the pup picks up).

Since the Yorkipoo could have several hair possibilities, and you can style them accordingly. But their coats are generally very low-maintenance.

You will need to brush them a few times a week to prevent matting or tangling. If you want a special hairdo for your buddy, you can tack a monthly appointment cost onto that.

Health Conditions ❤️

When you join these two breeds, the pup can take on health issues from either side of the coin. Luckily, these dogs are quite problem-free most of the time. However, certain ailments appear more commonly in Yorkipoos, such as the following:

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder where unprovoked seizures occur in the body due to abnormalities of the brain.

A portosystemic shunt is a genetic condition that affects how the blood is pumped through the liver, filtering toxins and impurities. Sometimes, this condition is a congenital disability. Other times, it is a condition that comes with age, often from cirrhosis.

Patellar luxation is a condition where the kneecap dislocates. Essentially, the knee pops out of its original palace, and you have to pop it back in.

Male vs Female

While both genders have overlapping similarities, they are each a little different in how they act and show off.

Male Yorkipoos tend to be more playful, active, and silly. Female Yorkipoos are usually a bit more physically affectionate and selective of who they love.

Both genders are highly social and love company. But the males are the likelier ones to romp with newcomers while females take a little longer to assess the playmate.

Females are a bit moodier and more particular than males. The girlies may also take to one person in a home over all else, whereas males are a bit more freely loving.

Females are slightly more passive than males, though they both try to assert their dominance.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Yorkipoo

1. Yorkipoos Come in Two Sizes

Yorkipoos can be teacup or miniature. If a Yorkipoo is mixed with a miniature poodle and Yorkshire Terrier, they are miniature. If they are mixed with a toy poodle, they’re considered a teacup Yorkipoo.

2. Yorkipoos Are Allergy-Friendly

Both the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle are hypoallergenic, making these pups perfect for those with dog allergies. Remember, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, but these are as close as they come.

3. Yorkipoos Have Many Nicknames

Yorkipoos have other nicknames, including Yoodle, Yorkapoo, or Yorkiedoodle.

Final Thoughts

In the right home, a Yorkipoo would make a wonderful friend for people of all ages. Yorkipoos are compatible with apartment and country living, multi-pet and multi-family homes, and all age groups. They’re even compatible with folks who have pet allergies.

They truly are a versatile breed. If you can handle their little dog power trips and frequent barking, everything else will be a breeze. Give your Yorkipoo patience, love, and understanding—they’ll surely reciprocate.

See also:

• 11 Best Tasting Dog Foods for Picky Eaters – Reviews & Top Picks

• 10 Best Dog Foods for Yorkie Poos – Reviews & Top Picks

Featured Image Credit: zulkarnisezer, Shutterstock