The Morkie is a popular crossbreed combining the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. They make devoted, spunky little companions perfect for urban living thanks to their small stature and big personalities.
Introduction Morkie Dog Breed
A relative newcomer among hybrid dogs, the Morkie combines two classic toy breeds – the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. They first appeared in the 1990s in North America and have gained fans worldwide thanks to their cute size, lively nature, and affectionate temperament.
Weighing 4-8 pounds and standing just 6-10 inches tall, the embodies the best qualities of both parent breeds. Their small but sturdy build makes them well-suited for apartment living. However, they still need daily walks and playtime. Early socialization and training is vital for these lively hybrids.
Adaptability: ★★★★
Apartment: ★★★★★
Novice Owners: ★★★
Sensitivity: ★★
Alone Time: ★★★
Cold Weather: ★★
Hot Weather: ★★★
Friendliness: ★★★
Family: ★★★★★
Kids: ★★★
Dogs: ★★★
Strangers: ★★
Grooming: ★
Shedding: ★
Drooling: ★
Bathing: ★
Health: ★★
Weight Gain: ★★★
Size: ★
Trainability: ★★★
Easy Training: ★★★
Intelligence: ★★★
Mouthiness: ★★★
Prey Drive: ★★
Barking: ★★★
Wanderlust: ★
Exercise Needs: ★★
Energy Level: ★★
Intensity: ★
Exercise: ★★
Playfulness: ★★★★
Appearance
The Morkie typically measures between 6-10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 4-8 pounds. They have a compact, sturdy body covered by a long, flowing or soft wavy coat. Common coat colors include black, white, brown, gray, apricot, golden or tri-color combinations.
Characteristics
Intelligent, lively, and endearing, loves being close to their family. They’re alert and energetic indoors but only need short walks and play sessions each day due to their small size. Generally get along well with children, other dogs, and household pets when properly socialized.
This breed bonds deeply to their owner and can be protective despite their tiny stature. Some barking and separation anxiety may occur without enough companionship and activity. Training and socialization should begin early and be ongoing to nurture the Morkie’s delightful temperament.
Popularity
The Morkie is a very popular hybrid dog that continues to gain fans, especially among urban pet owners. They rank among the top 5 most popular designer dogs according to the American Canine Hybrid Club.
Temperament
Fun-loving and charming, the devoted aims to please their family. They thrive on being close to their owner as much as possible. Morkies are alert watchdogs who will sound the alarm at disturbances. Socialization helps moderate their wariness of strangers. This breed gets along wonderfully with respectful children.
Lifespan
10-15 years. Hybrid dogs often enjoy longer average lifespans than their purebred parents.
Coat Colors
Common coat colors include black, white, brown, gray, apricot, golden, silver, or combinations of colors. No one color or pattern is preferred over another. Multi-colored exemplify hybrid vigor.
Mixed Breed
The Morkie is a crossbreed, intentionally bred by crossing two purebred toy dog breeds – the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. Breeders aim to blend the best qualities from each breed.
Caring for a Morkie
Grooming
Morkies have long flowing coats needing thorough brushing 2-3 times per week to prevent mats and tangles. Many owners prefer to keep their in a short puppy clip for easier maintenance. Bath when dirty using dog shampoo.
Exercise
This active small breed needs 30-60 minutes of playtime and short walks daily. Morkies enjoy learning tricks and playing interactive games with their owner. A safely fenced yard provides space to expend energy, but they are well-suited to apartment living.
Training
Highly intelligent and eager to please but can be stubborn. Use positive reinforcement like food rewards and praise during short, engaging training sessions. Early socialization to new places, people and handling is essential.
Diet
High quality dry food formulated for toy breeds. Limit treats. 1/4 to 1/2 cup kibble divided into 2-3 meals daily to prevent hypoglycemia in small dogs. Always provide access to fresh water. Monitor weight carefully.
Environment
Morkies thrive in small living spaces like apartments. They should live indoors and sleep in a cozy dog bed. Climate control is important to prevent heat or chill sensitivity. Outdoor time should be limited in extreme weather.
Preparing for a Morkie
- Stock up on grooming tools
- Puppy-proof your home
- Buy a collar, harness, leash
- Invest in interactive toys
- Have a crate and carrier on hand
- Locate a vet, trainer, groomer
Health Issues
Patellar luxation, collapsing trachea, dental problems, hypoglycemia. Reputable breeders screen for health conditions common in the parent breeds.
Vaccines
Typical schedule but tailored to lifestyle. May include parvo, rabies, distemper, adenovirus, bordetella, leptospirosis, and influenza vaccines. Ask your veterinarian.
Naming
Good names for Morkies are short, upbeat, and distinct like Millie, Theo, Jojo, Loki, Bear, Archie, Mozart. Have fun choosing a cute name that fits your pup!
Finding a Morkie
Contact Morkie specific rescues or local shelters first if interested in adoption. To buy a puppy from a breeder, expect to pay $600 to over $2000+ from health-tested parents.
When adopting, review medical history, behavior, and past homes. Get copies of vet records. Sign an adoption contract and pay any required fee.
Buying a Puppy
Work with breeders doing health testing on parent dogs. Visit facilities in-person. See puppies interacting in a clean area. Get copies of health clearances. Secure a sales contract. Pay $600-$2000+.
In summary, a devoted, spunky companion perfect for urban living. When provided proper training, activity, and attention, they make delightful family pets.
How to stop Morkie bitting?
Use redirection, reverse timeouts, stop play, and reward gentle mouth habits. Provide proper chew toys.
How to train your Morkie?
Keep sessions short and upbeat using food rewards and praise. Morkies aim to please but can have a stubborn streak.
How long should we check for Morkie’s health with vet?
After adoption or purchase, schedule a vet exam. Follow your vet’s advice for vaccines and annual wellness checkups.
Are Morkie good family pets?
Yes, when properly trained and socialized starting young. Affectionate and charming. Supervise with very small kids.
Are Morkie dogs good with children?
Yes, when raised with children and taught good manners. Always supervise interactions due to small size and chance of injuries.
Are Morkie dogs good with other animals?
Can live happily with other dogs and pets when socialized early on. Their small size warrants caution and slow introductions.
Is a Morkie a Smart?
Yes, the Morkie tends to be quick learning and enthusiastic when positively motivated. Patience is key.
By following our website, you can find the perfect dog breeds for you and provide them with the best possible dog care. Remember that owning a dog is a lifelong commitment that requires time, money, and patience. But it is also a rewarding experience that will bring you joy and companionship. All information in Dog care tips.
