Pets

History

The Borkie is a relatively modern designer breed developed to blend two beloved companion dogs: the Yorkshire Terrier and the Beagle. The Yorkie, originally bred in England as a small but bold working terrier, is known for its silky coat and confident attitude. The Beagle, famous for its keen nose and friendly spirit, has long been one of America’s favorite family dogs. Combining these traits created the Borkie—a smart, affectionate, and lively companion perfect for various lifestyles. While the hybrid is newer, its popularity continues to grow due to its lovable personality and manageable size.

Personality

Borkies are cheerful, energetic, and affectionate by nature. They love interacting with their families and enjoy being active. With the Beagle’s friendliness and the Yorkie’s confidence, they tend to be outgoing and playful. Borkies are known for being loving lap dogs but also enthusiastic explorers. Their temperament is often described as loyal, curious, social, and fun-loving. Early training and socialization help them thrive, especially since they can inherit a bit of the Beagle’s stubborn streak.

Appearance

The Borkie’s look varies depending on which parent they take after. Many have the Yorkie’s silky coat combined with the Beagle’s signature facial expressions. Coat colors range from black, tan, and gold to white and brown combinations. Their ears may be floppy like a Beagle’s or semi-erect like a Terrier’s. They typically have soft, medium-length coats that benefit from regular brushing to prevent tangles and maintain shine.

Care

Feeding your Borkie a balanced diet suited to their age, size, and activity level is important for healthy growth. Puppies should be fed two to three small meals per day, while adults thrive on two daily meals. Borkies have moderate exercise needs—daily walks, playtime, or short bursts of activity help keep them healthy and happy. Routine grooming includes brushing several times a week, occasional baths, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and consistent dental care. Mental stimulation through toys and training helps prevent boredom and encourages positive behavior.

Life Expectancy

The Borkie usually stands 10 to 15 inches tall and weighs 7 to 25 pounds, depending on genetics.
Their average life expectancy ranges from 10 to 14 years.