Morkie

Crossbreed: Yorkshire Terrier × Maltese

Photo: adult dog of Morkie breed
Photo: puppy of Morkie breed
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Yorkshire Terriers are animated, lively, very intelligent dogs, who should never be treated like toys but like the true terriers they are. They are only suitable for families with children who are able to treat them gently. Even if they are mainly used as companion and show dogs today, they were originally bred as rat hunters. They can be good watchdogs by virtue of barking; ‘alarm dogs’ so to speak. They are the smallest of the terriers.

See the Yorkshire Terrier breed sheet

Maltese are small, cute, affectionate and very close to members of their family. They love being with them and don't like spending too much time alone. Their ideal owners should be present and available for them as often as possible. Docile, intelligent and happy, training them is easy and pleasant - don’t think the latter isn’t necessary simply because they're small.

See the Maltese breed sheet

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are animated, lively, very intelligent dogs, who should never be treated like toys but like the true terriers they are. They are only suitable for families with children who are able to treat them gently. Even if they are mainly used as companion and show dogs today, they were originally bred as rat hunters. They can be good watchdogs by virtue of barking; ‘alarm dogs’ so to speak. They are the smallest of the terriers.

See the Yorkshire Terrier breed sheet

Maltese

Maltese are small, cute, affectionate and very close to members of their family. They love being with them and don't like spending too much time alone. Their ideal owners should be present and available for them as often as possible. Docile, intelligent and happy, training them is easy and pleasant - don’t think the latter isn’t necessary simply because they're small.

See the Maltese breed sheet

Life expectancy

The Morkie has a life expectancy of between 10 and 16 years

Temperament

Size

Small

Adult size

Female Between 9 and 12 in
Male Between 9 and 12 in

Adult weight

Female Between 11 and 13 lb
Male Between 11 and 13 lb
Coat colour
Black White Brown
Type of coat
Long
Eye colour
Brown

Purchase price

The Morkie costs between £1200 and £3500

More details about the Morkie

Morkie: Origins and history

The Morkie, or Yorktese, is a hybrid between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Maltese, developed in the USA in the 1990s to combine the best qualities of these two popular breeds. The Yorkshire Terrier, originally from England, was used as early as the 19th century to hunt vermin, while the Maltese, an ancient breed, was prized by European nobility for its silky coat and sociable character. The Morkie inherits the intelligence and energy of the Yorkie and the softness and hypoallergenic coat of the Maltese. Although stubborn, they are relatively easy to train with patience and rewards. Small, adaptable and affectionate, the Morkie has become a popular choice for families and individuals looking for an adorable, easy-going companion. The charming nature of the Yorkie continues to win the hearts of dog owners around the world.

Training a Morkie

As with all dogs, it's important to educate and socialise your puppy from an early age. This will help your Morkie grow into a happy, well-balanced companion. It's important to be gentle and understanding during training sessions, using positive reinforcement techniques.

Morkie: Purchase price

Morkies are among some of the most fashionable designer dogs. Their popularity can lead to unscrupulous breeders neglecting the health of their puppies. Always ensure you look for a reputable breeder, or visit local shelters. There are likely to be many other small, similar crosses who will charm you with their adorable personalities. 

The average monthly cost of a Morkie can be estimated at between 50-100 pounds. This includes the cost of quality food, basic care and preventative treatment for ticks and fleas.

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