From A designer cross of the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier, bred intentionally from the 1990s when designer dogs became fashionable; sources do not name a single country.1
A tiny dog with a soft, silky single coat that is long or medium in length and may be straight or wavy. It grows continuously like human hair and sheds very little. The colour of some Morkies lightens to grey or silver as they grow up.21
Coloursblack and tanwhitecreamblackgolden or tantricolour (black, tan and white)grey or silver21
Personality what they are like
Loving, social and full of fun, with plenty of self-confidence for such a small dog. Morkies bond closely with their favourite people, are curious and alert, and like to announce what is going on. A little stubbornness is common, so early socialisation and gentle, consistent training help.21
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate: about 30 minutes a day, for example two or three short walks of 10 to 15 minutes plus lively play and some brain games.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
A hair coat that needs frequent brushing (daily is ideal, at least three to four times a week), a professional trim every four to eight weeks, and regular nail, ear and tooth care.12
Home where they are happiest
A great fit for apartments. Happiest when someone is home most of the day, and suits singles, seniors and families with older children.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A high-quality small-breed food, split into two meals a day for adults, with treats kept to a minimum.21
Company who they like around
Very people-focused and does not like being left alone. Best with older, gentle children because of its small size; usually gets on with other pets when socialised early.12
The story where it all began
Maltese and Yorkshire Terriers have surely met by chance for a long time, but breeders began pairing them on purpose in the 1990s, when designer crossbreeds became popular. The result is a small, silky-coated companion that blends the Maltese's sweetness with the Yorkie's spirited character.1
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Many Morkies change colour as they grow, with grey or silver tones appearing in adulthood.2
2
Its Yorkshire Terrier parent came from 19th-century Yorkshire, where Scottish workers brought their terriers with them.3
3
A Yorkshire Terrier called Smoky, a famous World War II dog, is credited with sparking new interest in the Yorkie breed.3
4
Morkies go by several names, including Malkie, Yorktese and Morkshire Terrier.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Morkie' is a portmanteau of its parent breeds, the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier.4
This morning, I woke up and stretched my tiny legs before hopping onto the bed to give my human a kiss. Then we went for a short walk where I greeted every dog and squirrel with a happy bark. Back home, I played fetch with my favorite squeaky toy and did a little trick for a treat. After lunch, I curled up on the sofa for a nap, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. In the evening, I sat by the window and announced the mailman's arrival. A perfect, ordinary day!
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
American Kennel Club (AKC) / United Kennel Club (UKC)
Not recognised by the AKC or UKC; may be registered with designer breed clubs.1
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Morkie. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upevery year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Morkie tip
Because Morkies are toy-sized, even a few extra treats can tip the scales, so account for treats within daily calories and choose high-quality dry kibble to help keep their crowded teeth cleaner.
These simple, three-ingredient biscuits are full of fibre and antioxidants from blueberries, and are easy to make in small sizes for toy and small dogs.
You need
100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
a little water (as needed)
How
Preheat your oven to 175°C.
Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.
How much: Give one small biscuit per day for a toy or small dog, and reduce their main meal accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Morkie, and at what times?
Feed your Morkie a high-quality small-breed food split into two meals a day for adults. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Stick to regular times, and always follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts.215
What should a Morkie eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality small-breed food is best, with treats kept to a minimum. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give alcohol, yeast dough, or raw meat and eggs.216
How often should I bathe a Morkie?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if needed. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep the coat healthy.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Morkie need brushing?
Daily brushing is ideal for a Morkie's silky coat, but at least three to four times a week is good. This prevents tangles and keeps the coat looking lovely.127
How do I trim a Morkie's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Morkie need?
About 30 minutes a day is perfect, split into two or three short walks plus lively play and brain games. This keeps your Morkie happy and healthy.12
How do I look after a Morkie's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks. Never push anything into the ear canal. Regular care prevents problems and keeps your Morkie comfortable.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Morkie live?
Morkies typically live between 10 and 16 years. With good care, regular vet check-ups, and a loving home, they can enjoy a long, happy life.21
Is a Morkie good with children and other pets?
Morkies are best with older, gentle children due to their small size. They usually get on with other pets when socialised early. Early socialisation and training help them be confident and friendly.12
Can a Morkie be left alone?
Morkies are very people-focused and do not like being left alone. They are happiest when someone is home most of the day. If you must leave them, start with short periods and provide toys, but consider a pet sitter for longer absences.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Maltese
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkipoo
Maltipoo