Morkie pups are a delightful mix of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier breeds, known for their playful, affectionate nature. They typically weigh between 4-8 pounds and stand about 6-10 inches tall.
One of the most distinctive features of Morkie pups is their coat, which can be silky, soft, and hypoallergenic due to their Maltese heritage. This makes them a great choice for families with allergy concerns.
Morkie pups are often described as adaptable and easy-going, which makes them a great fit for busy families or those who live in small spaces. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
A Morkie pup's exercise needs are relatively low, but they do require daily walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy.
Discover more: How Many Pups Do Labradors Have
Puppies
Puppies are naturally friendly, but they'll need plenty of time with people and other animals to feel comfortable around them as adults.
A Morkie puppy's playful and curious attitude means they'll spend much of the day exploring your home.
They'll constantly crave attention, so be prepared to spend quality time with them.
It's a good idea to visit as many locations as possible to help them get used to new environments.
You'll also want to start getting them into training and grooming routines early on.
About and History
The Morkie is a relatively new designer breed that originated in the late 1990s. Breeders created it to be a low-shedding companion dog for people living in small apartments.
The Maltese parent is an ancient breed dating back over 2,000 years, while the Yorkshire Terrier got started in England during the Industrial Revolution. This mix of old and new breeds makes the Morkie a unique and interesting companion.
It is unclear who first coined the name “Morkie”, but this hybrid emerged from the United States in the past 20 years. The Morkie was bred for its low-shedding coat, which appeals to owners who are either allergic to pets or particularly house-proud.
The Morkie's teddy bear-like appearance belies its supreme confidence and potential for stubbornness. This combination of attributes has made the Morkie extremely popular, though this popularity has also led to the emergence of lines of Morkies that have been ill-bred and are susceptible to long-term health problems.
Temperament & Intelligence
Morkie pups are affectionate dogs that thrive on interaction and will constantly seek out your affection. They love to spend time with family members and often form strong bonds with them.
They're expert problem solvers and quick learners, making them easy to train, even for beginners. Their high intelligence and eager-to-please attitude make them plenty of fun to be around.
Morkies can be attention hogs and often bond with one person, so they might be well-suited for a one-person household. They like to be the center of attention and may insist on having you all to themselves.
Character and Temperament
Morkies have a big personality packed into a tiny dog, with lots of energy and character. They are smart, but can also become stubborn, so patience is key in the training process.
Their intelligence and eager-to-please attitude make them easy to train, even for beginners. They thrive on interaction and will constantly seek out your affection, so they won’t like to spend time alone.
Morkies are vigilant watchdogs, sometimes too vigilant, and will raise the alarm at the sound of approaching footsteps, closing car doors, or birds chirping in the garden. This can lead to nuisance barking.
They are devoted lapdogs and will accompany their owners everywhere, needing and demanding constant attention. They are also very playful and can spend hours running around a room chasing and retrieving a ball.
Morkies are generally sociable with other dogs, but they are easily injured, so they should only be left in the company of similarly diminutive companions. For the same reason, they are not really suitable pets for young children.
Their small size and fragile nature mean they can be injured easily, so it's essential to introduce them to new situations and animals slowly and with caution.
Smaller Isn’t Better
Tiny puppies may be adorable, but they have more health problems in general and are considered a less hardy pet.
Teacups are more sensitive to potential hazards around the house.
A jump from the couch can break a leg, a very real risk for small dogs.
Dogs under 4 pounds often suffer from digestive problems, including chronic diarrhea.
These issues can make life with a tiny pup a lot more complicated than it needs to be.
Good Family Dogs?
Morkie pups are wonderful family dogs, as they enjoy being around people and are surprisingly protective of the people and things that they care for.
They are easy to teach new tricks, making them a great addition to any family. However, their tiny size makes them vulnerable to injury, especially from children too young to know how to handle a dog properly.
Some Morkie parents may find their pets to be a bit stubborn or high-strung, especially if they take after their Yorkshire Terrier parent.
Pet Compatibility
Morkie pups can get along well with cats and other dogs if they spend time with other animals as puppies. Their friendly nature makes them good companions for other pets.
They may chase after animals smaller than them, especially mice, due to their strong prey drive. This is something to be aware of when introducing them to smaller pets.
Supervising playtime is crucial when playing with larger dogs, as their small size can leave them vulnerable to injury.
Related reading: When Does a Morkie Stop Growing
Pet Ownership Essentials
Bringing home a new puppy is a joyous occasion, and thoughtful preparations can make a big difference in their first 24 hours. Thoughtful pre-puppy preparations can give your new best friend a head start.
To ensure a smooth transition, it's essential to prepare your home for your new Morkie pup. Bringing a puppy home is truly one of life's joys.
A well-planned first 24 hours can make a big difference in your puppy's adjustment to their new home. This includes setting up a safe and comfortable space for your puppy to sleep and eat.
Puppies need plenty of exercise, socialization, and training to become well-adjusted adult dogs. Bringing a puppy home is truly one of life's joys.
To start, you'll need to puppy-proof your home by removing any hazardous items and securing toxic substances. Thoughtful pre-puppy preparations can give your new best friend a head start.
A Morkie pup's diet consists of high-quality dog food, and a well-planned feeding schedule is crucial to their growth and development. Puppies need plenty of exercise, socialization, and training to become well-adjusted adult dogs.
See what others are reading: Pup Peroni Dog Treats Recall
They're Technically Hypoallergenic
Morkies are considered hypoallergenic dogs because they have a low-shedding coat, which can be beneficial for people with allergies.
Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, and a good quality brush can help reduce loose hair.
The Morkie's low-shedding coat is a result of their parent breeds, the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier, both of which are known for their low-shedding qualities.
A daily brushing routine can help keep their coat healthy and reduce the amount of loose hair.
With regular grooming, Morkies can be a great choice for people with allergies, but it's essential to note that no dog is 100% hypoallergenic.
Consider reading: Morkie Hypoallergenic
Exercise
You'll want to set aside 30-60 minutes each day to play with your Morkie and keep them healthy and happy.
Playing with your Morkie for 30-60 minutes daily can be broken up into several sessions, making it easier to fit into your busy schedule.
Going for short walks is a great way to keep your Morkie active, and you can even play fetch to make it more fun.
Thirty minutes of daily walking should be sufficient for most Morkies, considering their tiny legs don't need to cover much distance to get warmed up.
Playing indoor interactive games is another way to keep your Morkie entertained and active, especially on days when you can't take them for a walk.
Morkies are very playful hybrids, and they'll enjoy games around the house and garden for much longer if given the opportunity.
Training
Training a Morkie pup is a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you start early. Morkies are great fun to train because they are eager to please and will try harder than many other dogs to figure out what you want from them and give it to you.
To get the best results, hold short scheduled sessions consistently each day, preferably right after playtime, when they’ve had a chance to burn off extra energy and will find it easier to stay focused.
Morkie pups are clever, but they can be stubborn at times. Training takes time and patience, so be prepared to put in the effort.
Socialisation training is crucial in puppyhood to ensure your Morkie learns to accept and welcome attention from other people and dogs. This can begin as soon as the Morkie pup has completed its course of primary vaccinations.
Training should always be approached in a positive light, with a focus on positive reinforcement rather than criticism and correction. This will help prevent your Morkie from becoming sullen and uncooperative.
Morkies are prone to separation anxiety, so it's essential to allow them to become accustomed to spending short periods alone from a young age. This will help prevent them from becoming a true handbag accessory later in life.
Appearance
Morkie pups have a low-shedding coat that requires regular brushing to prevent knots and tangles.
Daily brushing is essential to keep their coat free-flowing, and it's also a great way to bond with your Morkie.
You'll need to brush their fur regularly, ideally with a dog-specific brush, to keep it looking neat and prevent tangles.
A bath every several weeks with a high-quality dog-specific shampoo will help keep their fur shiny and odor-free.
Their nails will need to be clipped when you hear them clicking on the floor, as indoor dogs don't usually wear them down enough.
Regular nail trimming will prevent overgrowth, which can lead to discomfort and injury.
Their ears should be checked regularly for signs of wax buildup or infection, and kept clean and dry.
Brushing their teeth daily with a dog-specific toothpaste is crucial to guard against dental disease.
Their hair can grow to several inches in length, so trimming should be done every six to eight weeks to keep it relatively short and more easily managed.
You should use a mild dog shampoo when washing their coat, and avoid products developed for human hair, as they can dry and damage their coat.
Related reading: Silky Hair Terrier
Health
As you consider bringing a Morkie pup into your family, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can arise from breeding these adorable dogs.
Many conditions that can be inherited from the parent breeds are more common in the teacup varieties.
The parent breeds, Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, are generally healthy dogs, but some conditions can still be passed down.
Bearing in mind my earlier advice to avoid miniaturised Morkies, the following conditions can be inherited from the parent breeds, but are generally more common in the teacup varieties.
Morkies can be prone to dental issues, which can be a significant problem if not addressed properly.
Some owners have reported issues with their Morkies' eyes, which can be a sign of inherited conditions from the parent breeds.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing or managing these health issues.
Take a look at this: Pomeranian Dog Varieties
3 Little-Known Facts
Morkie pups are a cross between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier, and here are three little-known facts about them.
They are known to be excellent companions for people with allergies because they produce less dander than many other breeds.
Morkie pups are highly intelligent and can be trained easily, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
Their small size means they require less exercise than larger breeds, but they still need regular walks and playtime to stay happy and healthy.
Morkie pups are prone to dental problems due to their small jaw size, so regular dental care is essential to prevent issues.
Explore further: Cockapoo Puppies Pictures
Final Thoughts
The Morkie's small size makes them a great fit for apartment living, and their friendly nature means they'll get along with nearly anyone.
Their strong bond with family members is undeniable, but it's also worth noting that they can be surprisingly protective - just be mindful of their size when they're up against a larger dog.
Morkie pups are intelligent and easy to train, even for beginners, which makes them a great choice for any home.
Their playful personalities often bring out the same in their fellow household pets, and they're usually quick to initiate playtime.
Overall, the Morkie's gentle nature and adaptability make them a wonderful addition to any family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I pay for a Morkie puppy?
The cost of a Morkie puppy is typically between $800 and $3,000. Adoption from a rescue may be a more affordable option.
What are the issues with Morkies?
Morkies, a cross between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier, are prone to several health issues, including collapsed trachea, glaucoma, and dental disease, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate these risks.
How big do Morkies get?
Morkies typically weigh 5-7 pounds and stand 7-9 inches tall. Their size can vary, but they are generally small dogs.
Are Morkies high maintenance?
Morkies require regular grooming and dental care, making them a moderate to high maintenance breed. Regular baths, tooth brushing, and vet cleanings are essential to keep them healthy and happy.
Sources
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-dogs (vcahospitals.com)
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dental-disease-in-dogs (vcahospitals.com)
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/tracheal-collapse-in-dogs (vcahospitals.com)
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/luxating-patella-dog/ (akc.org)
- https://animalso.com/breeds/morkie/ (animalso.com)
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/morkie (petmd.com)
- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/yorkshire-terrier/ (akc.org)
- https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/maltese/ (akc.org)
- Morkie Breed Information, Characteristics & Heath Problems (dogzone.com)
- Morkies (amazon.com)
- Morkie Dog & Puppy Breed and Adoption Information (petfinder.com)
- YorkieTalks.com (yorkietalk.com)
Featured Images: pexels.com