Playful, affectionate, and spirited, the Morkie is a designer hybrid created by crossing a Maltese with a Yorkshire Terrier. This small companion dog typically weighs 7–13 pounds and stands 7–9 inches tall. Known for its soft, fluffy coat and lively personality, the Morkie is a great choice for families, singles, and seniors seeking a loyal lap dog with plenty of energy.

The Morkie emerged in the early 2000s as part of the growing popularity of Poodle and other hybrid dogs. Breeders aimed to combine the Maltese’s gentle, loving temperament with the Yorkshire Terrier’s feisty, adventurous spirit. Since then, the Morkie has gained popularity as a devoted companion dog for those who want a small but personality-filled pet.

Developed as a family-oriented companion, the Morkie inherits desirable qualities from both parent breeds. Its silky, long coat can come in a variety of colors, including black, tan, cream, and combinations of these shades. Breeders selected for traits such as friendliness, intelligence, and adaptability, resulting in a dog that is both affectionate and easy to live with in many environments.

Morkies are affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their families. They enjoy being the center of attention and can be quite playful and energetic. While they are usually good with children and other pets when socialized early, Morkies can inherit the Yorkshire Terrier’s feisty nature and should be handled gently. Positive reinforcement and patience are key during training, as the breed can also have a stubborn streak.

Morkies adapt well to apartment living but need daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. Short walks and indoor play sessions are usually sufficient to meet their needs. Their long, silky coat requires brushing several times a week to avoid mats and tangles, and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is recommended. Morkies thrive in households where they are not left alone for long periods, as they can develop separation anxiety.

Yes. Morkies are naturally alert and may bark frequently, especially if left alone or bored. Training and mental stimulation can help reduce excessive barking.

They can be, provided the owner is ready to commit to regular grooming and training. Their affectionate nature and small size make them a good match for many first-time owners.

About 30–45 minutes of daily activity, including walks and playtime, is usually enough to meet a Morkie’s exercise needs.