The Morkie is a small cross between the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. Their color can vary from black, brown, white, or a mix. They are happy-go-lucky pups who get along well with people and animals, but it is important to keep in mind that their small size means they shouldn’t play rough with bigger dogs or children.
Morkies are bright, but they require a lot of attention. For this reason, they do great in a single-pet household, although they can adapt to different scenarios. They can also be stubborn when it comes to training, but with consistency, they’ll catch on.
If you are looking for a perfect apartment dog, this breed may be for you. The Maltese and the Yorkshire breeds both are ideal for condo or apartment living because they need less space than many dog breeds. The Morkie will not like being alone because they love attention, and could become depressed or destructive if left alone for extended periods. Also, be aware of the fact that these breeds are very sensitive to their surroundings. Loud noises, large crowds or strangers, and unfamiliar surroundings may make the Morkie uneasy. This breed will also be sensitive to extreme temperatures.
Morkies have a lifespan of 10-14 years and are susceptible to many of the same diseases as their parent breeds. These include dental problems, hernias, glaucoma, and collapsed trachea. The health of their parents play a large role in this and regular vet visits can help to catch these problems early on.
The Morkie should be a suitable breed for a novice dog owner, as they will be fairly agreeable to training. The Morkie should be relatively easy to train, as long as they know who is boss. The Maltese is a submissive and intelligent breed that aims to please at all times. The presence of the Maltese in the Designer Breed should help curb the occasional stubbornness of the Yorkie. Either way, you can expect a good watchdog because they are both very alert and are never shy about barking, so the Morkie should be the same. Because the Morkie is likely to be sensitive and eager to please, they tend to respond best to positive training methods that focus on rewards, praise, and play.
Morkies are considered nonshedding/hypoallergenic. Their coats will need to be brushed regularly to keep their coats from matting. Grooming appointments may also be necessary to keep them looking sharp. As with all dogs, the Morkie’s nails should be trimmed monthly, teeth brushed regularly, and ears kept clean and dry.
Morkies don’t need a whole lot of exercise to stay happy. They do well with a short walk per day. They can also get their daily exercise from a few active playtimes. Because of the Morkie’s tender body, excessive exercise can actually be detrimental to their health.
The average Morkie stands at 9-12 inches and weighs 8.5-13 pounds.
A Morkie generally lives 12-15 years.
Although this designer breed originated in the United States, it has begun to become more popular in the UK and Ireland. The Morkie/Yorkie is also sometimes called a “Morkshire Terrier”.