The Morkie, also called the Morkshire Terrier, is a cross between the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier known for their affectionate personalities. As one might expect, this little dog inherits the best traits from both parent breeds. With a small stature and a beautiful, silky coat that often combines the colors and patterns of the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, the Morkie is an adorable addition to any family. Their playful and energetic nature makes them well-suited for indoor and outdoor activities, and they thrive on interaction with their human family members. Due to their small size, Morkies are often adaptable to apartment living, provided they receive the necessary daily exercise and mental stimulation.
In addition to their easygoing and devoted temperament, Morkies are known for being relatively low-shedding, making them a potential choice for individuals with allergies. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat’s health and prevent matting. Their affectionate demeanor and small size make them excellent companions for singles, families, or seniors looking for a loving and manageable pet.
Morkie characteristics
- Height: 7 to 10 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
- Lifespan: 10 to 14 years
Coat and color variations
Morkies exhibit a wide range of coat colors influenced by their parent breeds. Common colors include black and tan, often inherited from the Yorkie side, where the body is black with tan markings on the face, legs, and chest. Some Morkies are pure white or cream, reflecting their Maltese heritage, while others may be solid black, typically from a Yorkie parent. Golden or tan coats are also seen, sometimes blending with other shades. Tri-color Morkies can feature a black, tan, and white mix. Additionally, some Morkies develop gray or silver tones as they age, a trait associated with the Yorkshire Terrier breed. Their coat color can also change over time, with darker shades often lightening as they grow older.
Coat texture and type:
- Soft and Silky: Many Morkies inherit the silky texture of the Maltese parent, known for its soft, smooth coat.
- Straight or Wavy: The coat may be straight, like that of a Yorkshire Terrier, or wavy, blending traits from both parents.
- Non-Shedding or Low-Shedding: Morkies tend to have low-shedding coats, which makes them suitable for people with mild allergies. However, regular grooming is essential to prevent matting.
Coat length:
- Long: Both the Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese breeds can grow long coats, so many Morkies have long, flowing hair that requires trimming or maintenance.
- Medium: Some Morkies have medium-length coats that are easier to manage but still require grooming to keep them tangle-free.
Physical traits and appearance
Morkies are small, compact dogs with a delicate, yet sturdy build. Their physical traits are a blend of their Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese parents, giving them a cute, toy-like appearance. They often have a rounded head with expressive, dark eyes that give them a lively and alert look, along with a small black nose. Their ears can vary, sometimes standing erect like a Yorkie’s, or flopping over like a Maltese’s.
How big does a Morkie get?
The Morkie typically weighs 7 to 13 pounds and stands 7 to 10 inches at the shoulder.
Morkie personality
Morkies are known for their lively, affectionate, and playful personalities. They inherit a mix of traits from their Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese parents, making them loyal and social companions. Morkies are highly energetic and love to play, often displaying a fearless attitude despite their small size. They are curious and alert, making them good watchdogs, though they can sometimes be prone to barking, especially when they feel protective.
These dogs are incredibly loving and form strong bonds with their owners, often craving attention and affection. Morkies thrive on human interaction and don’t like to be left alone for long periods, as they can develop separation anxiety. They are intelligent and eager to please, though they can sometimes show a bit of a stubborn streak, especially if they inherit more of the Yorkie’s independent nature. With proper training and socialization, Morkies are adaptable and can get along well with children, other pets, and people, making them ideal companions for families and individuals alike.
Temperament and behavior
- Affectionate: Loves attention and forms strong bonds with owners.
- Loyal: Very devoted to their family and protective of their loved ones.
- Social: Thrives on human interaction, and enjoys being around people.
- Alert: Makes a good watchdog, quick to bark at unfamiliar sounds or people.
- Fearless: Often bold and confident, despite their small size.
- Curious: Loves to explore and investigate surroundings.
- Prone to Barking: Can be vocal, especially when feeling protective or anxious.
- Separation Anxiety: May become anxious or stressed if left alone for extended periods.
Training and socialization
Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial due to their intelligence and potential stubbornness. Of course, their intelligence allows them to pick up commands quickly, so early training is key to establishing good behavior from the start. Use praise, treats, and affection to reward desired behavior. Morkies respond well to positive reinforcement, and this approach will keep them motivated and engaged.
Training tips:
- Be Consistent: Consistency is crucial in training. Use the same commands and routines to avoid confusion. This helps your Morkie understand what is expected of them.
- Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun: Morkies are curious but can lose interest if training sessions are too long or repetitive. Keep sessions short (10-15 minutes) and engage with varied activities.
- Mental Stimulation: Incorporate puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games into their routine to challenge their mind. A bored Morkie can become restless or destructive. Once basic obedience is established, teach more advanced commands or tricks. Their intelligence makes them excellent candidates for agility training, fetch, or scent games.
Morkie care
As with all dogs, it’s important to keep up your Morkie’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
Morkie grooming needs
Morkies need regular grooming, including brushing, frequent trims, ear and eye cleaning, and regular nail and dental care. Due to their non-shedding coat, they require more maintenance than some breeds, but this also makes them a good option for people with mild allergies. Regular grooming keeps them looking their best and prevents issues like matting, infections, and dental problems.
How to groom a Morkie
Grooming a Morkie involves maintaining their coat, ears, nails, and teeth. Their grooming needs can vary depending on whether they inherit more of the Maltese’s coat or the Yorkie’s silky coat.
Coat care
Brushing:
- Frequency: Brush your Morkie 3-4 times per week to prevent matting and tangles.
- Tools: Use a slicker brush or pin brush for their curly or wavy coat, and a comb to detangle any knots.
- Tip: Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to matting, like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar.
Bathing:
- Frequency: Bathe your Morkie every 4-6 weeks or as needed. Frequent baths can dry out their skin, so stick to a gentle dog shampoo.
- Drying: After a bath, towel-dry and use a blow dryer on a low, cool setting if necessary. Make sure their coat is fully dry to prevent any moisture from causing irritation.
Trimming:
- Professional Grooming: Consider having them professionally groomed every 6-8 weeks. Groomers can shape the coat, keep it manageable, and trim around sensitive areas like the paws, face, and tail.
- Home Trimming: You can trim their coat at home using dog clippers or scissors for a tidy appearance, especially around the eyes and paws to avoid irritation.
Ear care
- Check for Dirt and Moisture: Morkies with floppy ears (inherited from the Maltese) are more prone to ear infections. Check their ears weekly for signs of dirt, wax buildup, or moisture, which can lead to infections.
- Cleaning: Clean their ears with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner and a cotton ball or pad. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push debris further into the ear.
Nail trimming
- Frequency: Trim your Morkie’s nails every 4-6 weeks, depending on their activity level. Active dogs may naturally wear down their nails, but indoor or less active dogs will need more frequent trims.
- Tip: Use a dog nail clipper or a grinder. Be careful not to cut too far down, as hitting the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail) can be painful and cause bleeding.
Dental and eye care
- Brush Regularly: Brush your Morkie’s teeth 2-3 times per week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. This helps prevent plaque buildup and dental issues.
- Dental Chews: Provide dental chews or toys to help reduce plaque and keep their teeth healthy.
- Clean Around the Eyes: If your Morkie’s coat grows around their eyes, regularly trim the hair to prevent irritation. Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe away any eye discharge or tear stains.
Check for skin issues
- Inspect Regularly: As you groom, check their skin for any signs of irritation, redness, or bumps. If you notice anything unusual, consult a vet.
Flea, tick, and parasite control
Keep up with flea and tick prevention treatments, especially if your Morkie spends much time outdoors. Regular grooming allows you to spot parasites early.
Early acclimation is key
Getting your Morkie accustomed to grooming procedures from a young age makes the process easier and more enjoyable for both of you. Handle their paws frequently, examine their mouth and ears, and reward them for good behavior during grooming sessions. This positive foundation sets the stage for stress-free veterinary exams and handling throughout their lives.
Feeding and nutrition
Feeding and nutrition for a Morkie require attention to their size, age, activity level, and any specific health needs. A well-balanced diet ensures they stay healthy, maintain a good weight, and have the energy to support their playful personality.
Diet and nutrition basics
- High-Quality Dog Food: Feed your Morkie a high-quality, small-breed dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Look for formulas with balanced protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as added vitamins and minerals.
- Protein: Morkies need a protein-rich diet for muscle development and maintenance. Ensure that the food includes high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb.
- Fats: Healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, support a shiny coat, healthy skin, and proper brain function.
- Carbohydrates: Choose dog food with wholesome carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes, rice, or barley, for energy.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Make sure the food contains essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and antioxidants to promote overall health and immune function.
Portion sizes for Morkies
The portion size for a Morkie depends on their age, weight, and activity level. Since they are small dogs, overfeeding can easily lead to weight gain, so it’s important to measure portions carefully.
General guidelines by weight:
- 4-6 pounds: Approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of food per day, divided into two meals.
- 7-9 pounds: Around 1/2 to 3/4 cup of food per day, divided into two meals.
- 10-12 pounds: 3/4 to 1 cup of food per day, divided into two meals.
Always adjust portion sizes based on the specific dog food you’re using, as different brands and formulas have varying calorie content. Check the feeding guidelines on the food packaging and monitor your Morkie’s weight to ensure they are eating the right amount.
Meal frequency
- Puppies (up to 6 months): Morkie puppies should be fed 3-4 small meals per day due to their higher energy needs and small stomachs.
- Adults (6 months and older): Once they reach adulthood, 2 meals per day (morning and evening) is ideal for maintaining their energy levels and preventing overeating.
- Seniors: Senior Morkies (around 7+ years) may need slightly smaller portions or food specifically formulated for older dogs to accommodate lower activity levels and slower metabolism.
Morkie and family compatability
Morkies are generally excellent companion dogs, thanks to their affectionate, playful, and social nature. They are a great match for families and individuals who can provide plenty of attention and affection. They’re ideal for homes with older children or responsible pet owners who understand their small size and grooming needs. With proper socialization, supervision, and care, Morkies can thrive in various family environments. While these charming dogs may be the perfect match, there are always some considerations.
Barking tendency
- Vocal Nature: Morkies can be prone to barking, especially if they feel protective of their family or environment. While this can make them good watchdogs, it may be a concern for families in close living quarters, such as apartments, unless they are trained to control their barking early on.
Easy to train but can be stubborn
- Best with Consistent Training: Families that can offer consistent, patient training will help their Morkie become a well-behaved, social family member.
- Smart and Eager to Please: Morkies are intelligent and respond well to training, especially with positive reinforcement. This makes them fairly easy to train, though they can sometimes show a bit of stubbornness, particularly if they inherit the more independent traits of the Yorkshire Terrier parent.
Morkie health issues
Like many small dog breeds and mixed breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here’s a concise overview of some common health concerns for Morkies:
- Dental problems: Due to their small mouths, Morkies can be prone to dental overcrowding and tooth decay.
- Patellar luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar, especially in puppies or very small adults.
- Eye issues: Including progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts.
- Collapsed trachea: A weakening of the cartilage rings in the trachea.
- Portosystemic shunt: A liver condition where blood bypasses the liver.
- Allergies: Both environmental and food allergies can be common.
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: A hip joint disorder more common in small breeds.
Morkie rescue groups
It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Morkies because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Maltese or Yorkshire Terrier breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:
