Mixed breed from United States
The Morkie is a small mixed breed dog, resulting from crossing a Maltese with a Yorkshire Terrier. It is classified as a toy-sized dog, with an estimated adult weight of 1.8 to 4 kilograms and height of 15 to 23 centimeters. The breed is known for its long, silky coat that sheds very little, making it a low-shedding companion. Morkies are described as affectionate, playful, alert, energetic, and intelligent. Their energy level is rated 4 out of 5, indicating they are quite active. They are generally suited to apartment living (score 4/5) and are moderately compatible with children (score 3/5) and other dogs (score 3/5). Grooming needs are high (score 4/5) due to the long coat. Trainability is rated 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate ease of training. The estimated lifespan is 10 to 15 years. Note that these scores and measurements are modelled estimates, and individual dogs may vary.
The Morkie is a modern designer crossbreed that became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s in North America. It was developed by crossing purebred Maltese with Yorkshire Terrier to create a small, low-shedding companion dog. The breed originated in the United States. Its recognition status varies by registry; it is not recognized by major kennel clubs but is popular with designer breed enthusiasts. The history is based on the available information, and specific dates or health claims are not provided.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Morkie-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
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Morkies are toy-sized dogs. Estimated adult weight ranges from 1.8 to 4 kilograms, and height from 15 to 23 centimeters. Their estimated lifespan is 10 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may differ.
Morkies are described as affectionate, playful, alert, energetic, and intelligent. However, individual temperaments can vary. They are moderately compatible with children and other dogs (score 3 out of 5 each).
Morkies have an energy score of 4 out of 5, indicating they are quite energetic and need regular exercise. However, specific exercise requirements are not provided; owners should expect daily activity.
Grooming needs are high (score 4 out of 5) due to their long, silky coat that sheds very little (shedding score 1 out of 5). Regular brushing and maintenance are likely needed to prevent matting.
Yes, Morkies are well-suited to apartment living with a suitability score of 4 out of 5. Their small size and adaptability make them good for smaller spaces.
The Morkie originated in the United States as a designer crossbreed, developed by crossing a Maltese with a Yorkshire Terrier. It became popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s in North America.
Recognition status varies by registry. The Morkie is not recognized by major kennel clubs but is popular with designer breed enthusiasts.
Image source: No approved image attached. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.