Morkie: A Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier Mix, Not a Beloved Alien

The Morkie is a tiny dog with a big personality. A mix of the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, the Morkie blends the charm of both parent breeds into one affectionate companion. As a crossbreed, this little dog has won the hearts of pet parents looking for something small, smart, and full of playful spirit.

Though not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an official breed, the Morkie is an increasingly popular designer breed. It brings together two toy breeds known for their silky coats and outgoing nature.

Morkies love attention and thrive as affectionate dogs in homes where they can be the center of the family.

What to Expect from a Morkie

Morkies are part of the small breeds club—and they wear that title proudly. Their petite size makes them perfect for apartment living, but they do best with regular exercise like short walks and indoor play.

Despite their small stature, they often behave like much larger dogs. This "big dog energy" is typical of most small dogs, especially terriers like the Yorkshire.

Training and Socialization

Like many small breeds, the Morkie dog can develop a stubborn streak. Training Morkies takes patience and positive reinforcement.

Early socialization is key to helping them adjust to other dogs, pets, and even small children. Without it, they may become anxious or overly attached, leading to separation anxiety.

Grooming and Health

With a coat that draws from both Maltese and Yorkshire heritage, the Morkie's coat is usually long, silky, and low-shedding. Regular grooming is essential to avoid tangles, and regular brushing will keep their fur looking show-dog smooth.

As with many tiny dogs, Morkies are prone to dental problems and joint issues like patellar luxation (also called luxating patella).

Living With a Morkie

Morkie puppies from the same litter can look and act very differently, depending on which traits they inherit from their parent breeds. They tend to do well with older children and other pets, especially when introduced properly.

Though they are not working dogs, they are alert, making them decent watchdogs. Most of all, they are affectionate companions who love being with their people.

If you're looking for a furry friend that brings energy, affection, and just enough stubbornness to keep things interesting, the Morkie might be your perfect match.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.