Watch Them Grow: Before & After Puppy Transformations

Our approach to raising puppies

Every puppy starts small, but at Lil Luxe, they grow into so much more than a pretty face. This page celebrates the transformation of our Morkie, Yorkie, Shorkie, and Maltese puppies as they leave our arms and settle into their forever homes.

You’ll see the early days, fluffy coats, sleepy eyes, wobbly steps, followed by who they’ve become: confident, joyful, deeply bonded companions.

From traditional blue and gold Yorkies to rare chocolate or parti coats, from soft Shorkie coloring to those signature Morkie fades, each puppy’s appearance and personality evolve over time, and we’re honored to be part of that journey.

We’re often asked about coat changes, size, and color development, especially with teacup and toy breeds.

→ This is the real-life answer: every puppy is different, but with the right start and the right match, they become exactly who they were meant to be.

Genetic Colors Explained

Behind every beautiful coat is a fascinating mix of genetics. At Lil Luxe, we’ve spent over two decades studying both canine and human genetics to better understand how color is passed down, and how it should be managed responsibly. From blue and gold Yorkies to chocolate, parti, and merle, coat color is influenced by a range of genetic markers. We break down how those genes work, including traits like dominance, recessiveness, and what to avoid (like risky double merle pairings).

This is more than creating rare colors, it’s about responsible Yorkie breeding that prioritizes structure, health, and genetic integrity. Every pairing is chosen with intention to protect the breed and elevate the standard.

Coat Colors

Coat color is one of the most distinctive, and dynamic, features in Yorkshire Terriers. While many start with dark puppy coats, their coloring often softens or shifts as they mature. From timeless to rare, each shade is rooted in genetics and adds to what makes every puppy unique. Below is a breakdown of the most common and ethically bred Yorkie colors you’ll find in our program.

Blue & Gold

The most recognized Yorkie coloring — a rich steel blue body with warm gold on the face, chest, and legs. This classic combo usually appears as the puppy matures, replacing the darker black and tan of early puppyhood.

Black & Tan

Most Yorkie puppies are born black and tan. Some stay that way into adulthood, though many will transition into blue and gold. This is the base for many other color developments.

Chocolate Yorkie

Chocolate Yorkies carry a recessive gene that dilutes black pigment to a deep brown. These coats can vary from milk chocolate to dark cocoa and often lighten slightly with age.

Parti Yorkie

Parti Yorkies have a bi or tri-color coat — often white, gold, and black or chocolate. This unique coloring comes from a recessive gene and adds a vibrant, high-contrast pattern that’s striking and rare.

Merle Yorkie

Merle Yorkies have a marbled or mottled effect in their coat, often blending shades of blue, gray, or chocolate with tan or white. This pattern is caused by the merle gene and requires responsible, ethical breeding to avoid health risks. Lil Luxe Pups genetically tests all parents.

Blonde / Golden / Sable Yorkie

Some Yorkies lighten significantly over time and take on a soft blonde or golden hue throughout their coat. These are often Morkies or Yorkie mixes, but can appear in purebred lines as well.

Gallery

Yorkie colors

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Yorkie puppies change color as they grow?
Yes, most Yorkie puppies go through a noticeable color change as they mature. While many start out with black and tan coats, their fur can lighten or shift into traditional blue and gold, or even rare colors like chocolate, merle, or parti. Color change is completely normal and part of what makes each Yorkie unique. If you’re drawn to a specific look, check out our available yorkie puppies to see who might be a match! We also know the genetics of our parents and can help predict adulthood coat colors
What are the different Yorkie colors?
The most common Yorkie colors include traditional (blue and gold), chocolate, parti (white mixed with gold, black, or chocolate), and merle. These colors are determined by genetics and can evolve over time. You can learn more about Yorkie coloring in our Color Genetics blog post.
Do Morkies and Shorkies change color too?
Yes! Morkies, being part Yorkie, often experience similar color changes as they grow. Some lighten to silvery or golden hues. Shorkies may also change slightly, but their coats are typically influenced more by their Shih Tzu parent. Every puppy is different, and we’ll guide you through choosing the right fit when you’re on our reservation list.
Can I choose a specific Yorkie color when reserving a puppy?
Yes! Whether you’re hoping for a traditional blue and gold Yorkie, a chocolate Yorkie, or a rare parti coat, you’re welcome to note your preferences on our puppy application. While we can’t guarantee exact colors in each litter, we do our best to match families with puppies that align with their wishlist. As part of our reservation list, you’ll be contacted when a new litter arrives and have the option to wait for the perfect match if needed.