Top 10 Things to Know Before Adopting a Morkie Puppy

Morkies—an adorable mix of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier—are small in size but bursting with personality. Their affectionate nature, playful spirit, and teddy bear-like looks make them a favorite among dog lovers. But before you welcome a Morkie into your home, there are a few important things to understand about this delightful hybrid breed.

Here are 10 must-know facts that will help prepare you for the joys (and quirks) of raising a Morkie puppy:

1. They’re Tiny But Mighty

Morkies typically weigh between 4 to 8 pounds when fully grown. Despite their small size, they have big personalities. They’re energetic, brave, and will often act like they’re much larger than they really are.

🐾 Tip: Because of their small size, they’re not ideal for homes with rough play or very young children.

2. Morkies Thrive on Attention

Morkies are incredibly affectionate and form strong bonds with their humans. They love to be part of everything you do and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

🐾 Tip: If you work long hours away from home, consider doggy daycare or hiring a sitter.

3. Grooming Is a Must

Morkies have long, fine, and silky hair that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Daily brushing and monthly grooming appointments are recommended.

🐾 Tip: Use a detangling spray and a soft-bristle brush to keep their coat healthy.

4. They Can Be a Little Stubborn

Training a Morkie takes patience and consistency. While intelligent, they may show a bit of a stubborn streak—especially during potty training.

🐾 Tip: Keep training sessions short, positive, and full of praise or small treats.

5. Health Issues to Watch For

Like many small breeds, Morkies can be prone to certain health issues such as:

Tracheal collapse
Dental disease
Luxating patella
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar in puppies)

🐾 Tip: Regular vet checkups and a high-quality diet can prevent many of these problems.

6. They Don’t Need Much Space

One of the best things about Morkies is that they do well in apartments or small homes, as long as they get daily exercise and play.

🐾 Tip: Short walks, indoor playtime, and puzzle toys are great ways to keep them active.

7. Their Bark Is Louder Than Their Bite

Morkies can be alert and vocal, making them good little watchdogs. However, they may bark excessively if not properly trained.

🐾 Tip: Start training early to manage barking habits and reward calm behavior.

8. Nutrition Matters

Due to their small size, Morkies need high-quality, nutrient-dense food designed for small breed puppies. Overfeeding can quickly lead to weight issues.

🐾 Tip: Use a measuring scoop and stick to a feeding schedule to avoid overfeeding.

9. Socialization Is Important

Proper early socialization is crucial. Morkies need to be exposed to different environments, people, and other dogs to avoid becoming timid or reactive.

🐾 Tip: Puppy classes, playdates, and visits to the park help build a confident dog.

10. They’ll Steal Your Heart

Above all, Morkies are loving and loyal companions who want to be by your side through thick and thin. They’ll bring energy, affection, and laughs to your life.

🐾 Tip: Be ready for a lifelong snuggle buddy with a lot of sass and sweetness!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How big do Morkie puppies get?

Morkies usually reach 4–8 pounds when fully grown and stand about 6–10 inches tall at the shoulder. Their small stature makes them ideal for apartment living.

2. Are Morkies easy to train?

Morkies are intelligent but sometimes stubborn, especially during potty training. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and short training sessions work best.

3. How often should I groom my Morkie?

Daily brushing is recommended, and they should be professionally groomed every 4–6 weeks to prevent mats and keep their coat healthy.

4. Do Morkies shed a lot?

Morkies are considered low-shedding dogs, making them a good choice for people with mild allergies. However, their long hair requires regular grooming.

5. How much exercise does a Morkie need?

Despite their small size, Morkies are active and enjoy 20–30 minutes of play or walking per day. Mental stimulation like toys and puzzles also helps keep them happy.

If you’re thinking about adopting a Morkie, you’re in for a lively, loving, and loyal companion. With a little preparation and a lot of love, your Morkie puppy will become a cherished member of your family.