Morkie
Breed Library

Morkie

Toy; 4–12 lbsModerate–high (in a tiny package)10–16 years lifespan

Who this breed is NOT for

Families with small children, people wanting a quiet dog, or anyone expecting a rugged, low-maintenance pet.

Bred to do

A designer cross of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, bred as a tiny, bold, affectionate companion.

Exercise needs

Small but spirited — short walks and play. They have real energy for their size, and mental games help.

Temperament

Confident, lively, affectionate, and often vocal. Big personality, little body.

Trainability

Clever but willful, with a terrier streak. Housetraining and barking need early, patient work.

With kids & pets

Best with calm older kids; too delicate for toddlers. Can be bossy with other dogs despite their size.

Living situation

Apartment-friendly, but the barking needs managing in close quarters.

Grooming & shedding

Low shedding, high upkeep — the fine coat tangles easily and needs regular brushing and grooming.

Health & costs

Watch dental disease, luxating patella, collapsing trachea (use a harness, not a collar), and low blood sugar in tiny pups.

Best fit

Owners who want a tiny, devoted companion with personality and will stay on top of grooming, dental care, and barking.

Free guide

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A note from Kerri

Morkies are hilarious, bold little characters — but people underestimate the terrier half. That bark and that stubbornness are real. Start training and gentle socializing on day one, and always use a harness; those little throats are fragile.

— Kerri, founder of Floyd's Love

Gear Kerri recommends

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Floyd's Love is educational. Our lessons, breed guides, and personalized assessments are for general information and preparation only — they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care or advice from a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviorist. Always consult your vet for medical concerns and a qualified professional for behavior issues.