By Jennifer Graff | Las Vegas Realtor + Dog Mom Extraordinaire
I always suspected Maisie was one-of-a-kind.
She has the soulful gaze of an old soul — one single eye, to be exact — giving her the kind of expression that stops people in their tracks. Combine that with her fluffy, Yorkshire-inspired coat and a tail that seems to have a personality all its own, and you start to understand why people ask if she’s a boutique plush toy.
But recently, after a little curiosity and a cheek-swab DNA test, I got the official verdict:
Maisie is a Jorkie — a mix of Japanese Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier.
Suddenly, everything made sense.
The spunky bark? Terrier confidence.
The nap queen tendencies? Yorkie through and through.
The style? Completely original — Maisie doesn't follow trends; she sets them.
And this August, she’s bringing her signature look to none other than Aspen, Colorado. Stay tuned for photos from her next high-altitude adventure.
Maisie is living proof that mixed-breed dogs might just be the real designer dogs. And if you’ve ever considered adoption, here are a few heartfelt reasons why a mutt might be your perfect match:
Mixed-Breed Dogs Are Healthier
When it comes to genes, diversity is a superpower.
Unlike many purebreds, who are prone to hereditary health problems, mixed-breed dogs often dodge the common issues. Think fewer vet visits, less medication, and more worry-free playtime.
Maisie’s only medical emergency? Trying to eat a baguette the size of her entire body.
They Live Longer
Better health often means more time.
And let’s be honest — once you’ve fallen head over heels for a little creature like Maisie, you want them around for as long as possible. Her energy, her loyalty, and her quirky habits are the heartbeat of my day.
They’re More Affordable
Adopting from a shelter is kind to your heart and your wallet.
Compared to buying a designer pup, shelter adoption fees are modest — and the ROI? Off the charts.
Maisie came with a small adoption fee and a giant personality. Best investment I’ve ever made.
They’re Completely Unique
Let’s talk couture.
When you adopt a mixed-breed dog, you’re bringing home a one-of-one.
Maisie’s fluffy coat, soulful expression, and unbothered attitude are uniquely hers. You won’t find another dog with her exact makeup, and that’s part of the magic.
You’re Saving a Life
Maisie was rescued — but truthfully, I’m the one who got saved.
Every adoption clears space in a shelter and gives another dog a shot at life. It’s love, multiplied. And when you rescue a dog, you become part of a bigger story — one that’s rooted in kindness, second chances, and the belief that home can change everything.
Thinking of adding a little joy to your life?
If you’d like to consider adopting a mixed-breed dog or cat, click here to get in touch with Hearts Alive Village — a Las Vegas–based rescue doing incredible work to give every pet a second chance and a forever home.
Trust me: the love you’ll get in return is beyond anything you could ever expect.
Just ask Maisie.