Mixed breed from United States
The Yorktese is a small mixed-breed dog, sometimes called a Morkie, developed in the United States by crossing a Yorkshire Terrier with a Maltese. It is classified as a toy breed and has a silky, low-shedding coat. Its temperament is described as affectionate, playful, alert, intelligent, gentle, and devoted. However, individual behavior can vary. The Yorktese is not recognized by major kennel clubs, and its recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 2 to 4 kg, height from 18 to 23 cm, and lifespan from 12 to 15 years. It has a moderate energy level (3 out of 5) and is considered highly suitable for apartment living (5 out of 5). Grooming needs are moderate (3 out of 5), and shedding is low (1 out of 5). Trainability is rated 4 out of 5. Suitability with children is low (2 out of 5) and with other dogs is moderate (3 out of 5).
The Yorktese is a modern designer crossbreed that originated in the United States. It was intentionally developed by crossing a Yorkshire Terrier with a Maltese, aiming to combine the low-shedding, silky coats of both parent breeds with a friendly and spirited temperament. The exact timeline of its development is not documented in available sources. The breed is not recognized by major kennel clubs, and its recognition status varies by registry. Because it is a mixed breed, its characteristics can be less predictable than those of purebred dogs. The Yorktese is sometimes also referred to as a Morkie, though this name is not universally used.
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Moderate compared with other breeds
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower shedding tendency
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
No Yorktese-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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The Yorktese is a toy breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 2 to 4 kg, and height from 18 to 23 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary.
The Yorktese is described as affectionate, playful, alert, intelligent, gentle, and devoted. However, not every dog will display all these traits, and behavior can vary by individual.
The Yorktese has a moderate energy level (rated 3 out of 5). It likely needs daily walks and playtime, but specific exercise requirements are not detailed in available sources.
Grooming needs are moderate (rated 3 out of 5). The coat is silky and low-shedding (shedding score 1 out of 5), so regular brushing and occasional professional grooming may be needed to prevent matting.
Yes, the Yorktese is rated highly suitable for apartment living (5 out of 5), likely due to its small size and moderate energy level.
Suitability with children is low (2 out of 5), so supervision and training are recommended. Compatibility with other dogs is moderate (3 out of 5). Individual temperament can vary.
The Yorktese originated in the United States as a modern designer crossbreed, intentionally developed by crossing a Yorkshire Terrier with a Maltese. It is not recognized by major kennel clubs.
Image source: No approved image attached. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.