Seven Key Facts About the Morkie Breed
If you’re after a pint-sized pup with a big personality, loving nature, and an adorable face, the Morkie might be just the match. This mix between a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier brings out the best of both breeds — and having spent time with dogs like this, I can tell you they’re as charming as they are energetic.
Here’s what you really need to know about living with a Morkie — the good, the tricky, and everything in between.
Tiny Body, Big Energy (and Fragility)
Morkies are true toy dogs — usually around 4 to 8 pounds and 6 to 8 inches tall. That means they’re super portable, great for apartments, and don’t need tons of space. But it also means they’re fragile. If you’ve got toddlers or larger dogs, be extra careful. A rough play session or accidental step can seriously hurt them.
Despite their small size, Morkies pack in a lot of energy. They love to play, but tire quickly. When we had a tiny Yorkie mix in our foster rotation, we’d go on short walks and always carry a bag just in case she got tuckered out halfway through. Morkies are the same — zoomies one minute, curled up asleep the next.
Velcro Dogs: They Love Hard and Need Love Back
Morkies are serious cuddlebugs. After some fetch or playtime, they’re happiest curled up in your lap. They bond closely with their people and tend to love everyone in the household equally — which is sweet, but it also means they hate being alone.
If you work long hours away from home and your Morkie doesn’t have company during the day, separation anxiety can be a real issue. This isn’t a breed that thrives with lots of alone time — they really need companionship.
Social but Needs Early Exposure
The good news? Morkies are naturally social and friendly — if they’re introduced to people, pets, and new environments early on. Socialization as a puppy makes a huge difference.
Skip this step, and they can become fearful or even snappy with guests, kids, or other dogs. It’s especially important with little dogs, since people often assume they don’t need the same training as big breeds — but trust me, they do.
Big Dog Confidence in a Small Package
Morkies often have no clue they’re tiny. They’ll bark at a Great Dane with the confidence of a lion. It’s hilarious, but it can get them into trouble if they’re not well-socialized or trained.
This “small dog syndrome” isn’t inevitable — it’s usually a result of owners letting bad behavior slide because, well, it’s a small dog. Don’t fall into that trap. Basic training and consistent boundaries are key.
They Can Be Yappy — But You Can Work on That
Yes, Morkies bark. It’s in their DNA — both Yorkies and Maltese are vocal breeds. But with early training and good routines, you can keep the noise to a minimum.
We’ve used positive reinforcement and redirection to help curb excessive barking in fosters. It takes time, but it works — and it’s so worth it when your dog can chill without barking at every leaf that blows by.
Low-Shedding, High-Maintenance Coat
One of the perks of a Morkie? They’re low-shedding. But that doesn’t mean low-maintenance. Their coats can range from silky to wavy, and come in all kinds of colors — white, gold, black, tan, and mixes of them all.
To keep their hair healthy and tangle-free, regular brushing is a must (daily, if it’s long), and monthly baths help too. Skipping grooming can lead to painful mats and even skin issues.
Generally Healthy, but Keep an Eye Out
Morkies can live 10–15 years with good care. Like all small breeds, they have some health quirks to watch for — including dental issues, collapsed trachea, glaucoma, and reverse sneezing.
Regular vet visits, good food, dental care (yes, brush those tiny teeth!), and safe play can go a long way. If you’re buying from a breeder, always ask for health screenings — and if you’re adopting, try to get as much medical history as you can.
So, Is a Morkie Right for You?
If you want a loyal, lively, affectionate companion who loves to be the center of your world, a Morkie will fit right in. But they’re not low-effort. They need regular grooming, training, and lots of attention. They’re better suited for homes where someone’s around most of the time — or at least where they’re not left alone all day.
In short, they’re little dogs with big hearts — and if you’re ready for the commitment, they’ll give you more love and laughter than you thought possible from something that fits in a tote bag.