Morkie Puppies for Sale in Ohio
The Morkie is a very popular designer breed that is a cross between the Maltese and the Yorkshire terrier. They originated in the United States to satisfy the desire for a small, teddy-bear-like dog that also didn’t shed, but it quickly gained international fame, becoming one of the most popular crossbreeds in Ireland and the UK over the past few decades. Because the Morkie is a designer breed, there are more variations — including size and coloring — between puppies, and overall appearance largely depends on which parent the puppy takes after the most.
Appearance and Grooming Needs
Morkies are tiny dogs and usually only weigh between 6 and 10 pounds and grow to be 8 to 10 inches tall, but so-called “teacup” versions can be even smaller. These dogs has an almost instantly recognizable toy-like face, usually very round-looking with an average-length muzzle. They have very big, dark eyes, which give them even more of a stuffed animal appearance. Their coats are very fluffy and tend to have more of the Maltese consistency, which is soft and fine. They usually also have a light curl to the hair, although puppies that take more after the Yorkshire terrier side can have straighter coats. Most Morkies are some combination of black and white, but they can also have some tan or gold from the Yorkie side.
Just like their Maltese and Yorkshire terrier parents, the Morkie is a very light shedder — some people even consider them non-shedding dogs. You shouldn’t notice hair on your clothes or furniture like you would with normal shedding dogs. However, their coats are prone to tangles and mats and need regular brushing to keep them smooth and silky. Many owners also opt for the even lower maintenance of having them shaved. They also need special care paid to their teeth because their small jaw size can cause dental problems. They need regular tooth brushing and veterinary dental checkups.
Temperament and Trainability
Morkies may look cute and cuddly, and for the most part, they are, but they do have some specific training challenges to be aware of. They have natural circus-dog personalities, which means they’re always ready to learn new tricks, and they generally respond very well to praise because they love making their owners happy. However, the Yorkshire terrier part can lead to a stubborn and independent streak that needs consistent training and boundaries to avoid problem behaviors like excessive barking and nipping.
Maltese dogs are known to be fearless and utterly unaware of their small size, and the Morkie is no different. This means they usually do fine with cats and other dogs of all sizes, but they may have to be protected around larger dogs because they don’t realize they can’t roughhouse with the Great Danes and St. Bernards of the world.
The Morkie is incredibly affectionate and is a very happy lapdog, content to lay with its owner and watch TV for hours at a time. They do need daily exercise, but they are easily appeased with a short walk or even just a game of fetch in the living room. They make excellent companion dogs for seniors or people who work primarily from home.
Health Concerns
While hybrid dogs are often considered healthier than their purebred parents overall, they can still be susceptible to breed-specific health problems on both sides. For Morkies this mostly comes down to injuries from their small size, dental issues, and eye problems. Periodontal disease is very common in these dogs, and elderly Morkies may need a soft, wet food diet to compensate for their lack of chewing ability. Glaucoma, cataracts and overall sight loss are also common in older Morkies. Their small stature means it’s very important for these dogs to be kept at a suitable weight as being obese can cause additional problems with breathing. Morkies have an average life expectancy of 13 to 15 years, which means regular veterinary care is key to helping them stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible.
If you’re drawn to their toy-like appearance and fun personalities, the Morkie may be the right choice for a new addition to your family. Contact Little Puppies Online to start searching for Morkie puppies near you.