Morkie
The hybrid Morkie has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Origin
The Morkie is a designer breed and a cross between the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. The Morkie was developed in the United States in the 1990s and was originally called the Yorktese.
Size
The small Morkie weighs 3 to 12 pounds and measures 6 to 15 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Morkie has a long, flowing coat that sheds very little, but grows and grows. Most Morkies will have their hair cut to make it easier to manage. The hair around the eyes especially needs to be trimmed regularly to prevent any irritation. The Morkie should also be brushed daily and bathed every one to two weeks. Like all dogs, the Morkie needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Morkie has a spirited and playful nature.
Temperament
The Morkie adores their family members and loves cuddling up next to them. However, Morkies are as feisty as they are affectionate. The Morkie has the bold and energetic disposition that is characteristic of both the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier. Morkies like to think of themselves as the center of the universe and will demand attention if it is not given to them. They may be small, but Morkies have larger than life personalities.
The Morkie’s bold demeanor also makes them an effective guard dog. They will quickly and sometimes relentlessly bark to alert their family of strange noises and people.
Training Needs
The Morkie is intelligent and a quick learner. At times, the Morkie can be stubborn, especially when it comes to housetraining. The Morkie responds best to consistency and positive reinforcement in the form of praise and treats.
Activity Level
Although Morkies are small, they are very energetic. The Morkie can live well in an apartment, but needs a daily walk and regular play time.
