Morkie
Designer Breed / Hybrid (Non-Sporting / Toy) · United States / United Kingdom — developed primarily in North America during the late 20th century (1990s) as a popular companion crossbreed. · Toy
Also known as: Morkie-Yorkie, Maltese-Yorkie cross
Breed Group
Designer Breed / Hybrid (Non-Sporting / Toy)
Size
Toy
Height
7-12 inches at the shoulder for both males and females.
Weight
4-10 lbs for both males and females.
Life Expectancy
10-15 years, influenced by genetics, dental health, and proper preventive care.
Origin
United States / United Kingdom — developed primarily in North America during the late 20th century (1990s) as a popular companion crossbreed.
Energy Level
Moderate; enjoys play sessions and interactive games indoors alongside daily short walks.
Trainability
Moderate; highly intelligent but can exhibit a stubborn or independent streak requiring patient, positive reinforcement training.
Description
The Morkie is a delightful and affectionate designer breed created by crossing a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier. Known for their expressive dark eyes, silky coats, and charming personalities, they make exceptional companion animals for individuals and families seeking a loving, lap-loving pet.
Key Features
Compact toy frame, round expressive eyes, floppy or semi-erect ears, and a soft, low-shedding coat often accessorized with bows.
Coat Type
Long, soft, single coat that can be silky or wavy, with low shedding characteristics making it often considered hypoallergenic.
Coat Colors
Black, brown, white, tan, grey, or multi-colored combinations reflecting parental lines such as traditional Yorkie tan and black or Maltese white.
Temperament
Affectionate, playful, confident, highly loyal, and sometimes vocal, combining the bold terrier spirit with the gentle sweetness of the Maltese.
Good with Children
Fair to Good; best suited for older children due to their tiny, fragile size and potential intolerance of rough handling.
Good with Other Dogs
Good; generally sociable with other household pets when properly socialized from an early age.
Grooming Needs
High; daily brushing is necessary to prevent tangles and mats, along with regular professional haircuts, eye cleaning, and dental hygiene.
Exercise Requirements
Low to Moderate; simple daily walks and indoor play are sufficient to keep them happy and physically healthy.
Health Considerations
Prone to dental issues, collapsing trachea, patellar luxation, reverse sneezing, and eye problems like tear staining.
Living Conditions
Ideal for apartment living and smaller homes due to their tiny size and minimal space requirements, though they thrive best in climate-controlled indoor environments.
History & Origin
Developed during the designer dog boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s in North America, bred specifically to combine the hypoallergenic traits and friendly disposition of two popular toy breeds.
Interesting Facts
Morkies are well known for forming incredibly strong bonds with their human companions and are frequently referred to as ultimate velcro dogs.
Similar Breeds
Maltipoo, Yorkipoo, Shih-Poo, and Maltese.