Morkie Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Morkie is a cross between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier. It is a tiny lap dog with a long, silky coat, a bright expression and a confident, affectionate personality.

Origins and appearance

The cross has been bred in the United States since the late twentieth century as a small companion. Morkies are tiny and compact, with a rounded head, small ears that stand or fold, dark eyes and a long, silky coat in colors such as tan, silver, black and tan, and cream.

Temperament

They are affectionate, lively and confident. They bond closely with family. They can be wary of strangers and bark at noises. They can be stubborn and bossy. They dislike being left alone and may develop separation problems.

Exercise

They need 20 to 40 minutes of daily exercise, with short walks and play. They adapt well to apartments. Mental games help.

Training

They are intelligent but can be stubborn. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. House training can take time, so be patient and consistent. See how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The silky coat needs brushing most days and a trim every four to eight weeks. See silky coat dog grooming guide. Wipe the eyes, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth daily if possible.

Health considerations

A cross can inherit conditions from either parent. Topics include:

• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Liver shunt, a vascular condition seen in some small breeds
• Tear staining and eye conditions
• Tracheal collapse and heart conditions
• Hypoglycemia in tiny puppies

Living with a Morkie

Morkies adapt to small spaces and love to be near people, so they suit retirees, couples and families with calm older children. Expect a dog that wants to be included in whatever you are doing, and plan some alone-time training from the first week.

A typical day

A Morkie often enjoys a brisk walk after breakfast, a nap on a cushion, a grooming session with a soft brush and an evening game of fetch with a small toy. Many are happy to settle on a lap afterward.

Puppies and the first year

Morkie puppies are tiny, with small stomachs and a risk of low blood sugar if they go too long without food. Feed several small meals, keep the puppy warm and stay close during early vet visits. Gentle introduction to grooming helps later.

Costs and commitment

Expect ongoing costs for grooming, tooth care, vaccinations, parasite prevention and a pet insurance premium if you choose cover. Some Morkies need dental extractions in later life, so set aside savings. See pet insurance guide.

Seasons and travel

Small bodies lose heat quickly, so a coat is wise in winter. In summer, walk at cooler hours and keep the long coat trimmed if the dog overheats. A well-ventilated carrier makes trips easier.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping dental care, overfeeding treats, letting children handle roughly and neglecting grooming.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about patella, liver and heart testing on both parents and meet them. Be wary of sellers advertising teacup sizes.

Long coat, short trim

Many owners keep Morkies in a short puppy cut because it is easier to maintain. Even a short coat needs brushing, and the groomer should check the skin and ears. A long coat looks lovely but mats quickly without daily care.

The teacup trap

Teacup is a marketing term, not a size standard. Extremely small dogs are more prone to injuries, low blood sugar and other problems. Choose a healthy dog over a tiny one, and ask about the parents' weights.

Daily care checklist

• A brisk walk or garden play.
• Light brushing to prevent knots.
• Tooth brushing.
• A look at the eyes, ears and paws.
• A quiet, warm place to rest.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Morkie suits owners who want a tiny, silky lap dog and will groom and provide dental care. It may not suit homes with young children. For a parent breed, see the Maltese.

The takeaway

Morkies are tiny, silky and affectionate, and they need grooming, dental care and gentle handling.