Morkie

Morkie
A Morkie on a walk
Other names Yorkese
Origin United States of America
Breed status Not recognized as a standardized breed by any major kennel club.
Traits
Weight Male 4–15 lb (1.8–6.8 kg)
Female 4–12 lb (1.8–5.4 kg)
Litter size avg. 3 to 5 puppies
Life span 14-16 years
Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

The Morkie is a cross between a purebred Yorkshire terrier and a purebred Maltese. This crossbreed originated in the United States. In addition, Morkies can be bred with each other. The Morkie hybrid is not recognized by the American Kennel Club as a “bona fide” breed.[1][2] Although commonly called a Morkie, this breed can be called a Morkshire Terrier, since the Maltese was for a time also called a terrier (even though it is not).[3]

Appearance

Morkie appearance varies widely, some expressing more of a Yorkshire terrier appearance and some more of a Maltese look. They are a small breed dog, typically weighing between 4–15 lb (1.8–6.8 kg). Common coat colors are: Black, brown, and white. The coat is usually long and soft. Morkie ears can be pointed, like that of a Yorkie, or floppy, like that of a Maltese.[4]

Maintenance

Morkies must be brushed every day to prevent their fine hair from knotting and matting and they must be groomed regularly. Haircuts are recommended every 6–10 weeks. Use dog shampoo only, not shampoo for people.[5] It is also important to pay particular attention in keeping the areas around the dog's eyes clean because of debris buildup in this area.[6] Teeth should be brushed a few times each week in order to maintain good dental hygiene. Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese are considered non-shedders, because they have hair instead of fur. However, all animals shed to some degree, so they cannot be called hypoallergenic. People with mild allergies may be able to tolerate a Morkie, but others may still have allergic reactions.

Temperament

Morkies are active and playful. They form strong attachments to owners as well as desire a lot of attention from their owners. Morkies are very social and love to be played with. They are excitable, energetic, confident, and loyal. This breed can be very difficult because of their stubbornness, which comes from the Yorkshire Terrier side, but they very quickly get the point of what you want so it is important to begin training early on in its life.[7]

Morkies normally get along well with other dogs and non-canine pets that they have been brought up with. Morkies can be destructive if left alone for extended periods, and at such times can be prone to excessive barking. Like many dogs, Morkies are suspicious of strangers or unusual sounds in their environment and are quick to alert owners.

Health

Common health problems for the Morkie are mainly seen in the eye, ear, or oral region.[1] More health issues this breed is prone to are collapsed trachea and reverse sneezing. Morkies may suffer from the same ailments which Yorkies or Maltese suffer from, which are: tracheal collapse,cataracts, medial patellar luxation, hydrocephalus, valvular heart disease, kidney failure, and glaucoma.

References

  1. 1 2 "Morkie". petguide.com.
  2. ↑ "So What's a Morkie?". AboutMorkies.com. Retrieved 15 November 2013.
  3. ↑ Coile, D. Caroline (1998). "Adopt a Maltese". Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds (2005 ed.). Barron's Educational Series, Inc. Retrieved November 20, 2017 – via Petfinder.com. ...they were called Maltese terriers, despite the lack of terrier ancestry or characteristics.
  4. ↑ Roper, Kelly. "Morkie Puppies". Love to know Dogs. Retrieved 15 November 2013.
  5. ↑ "Can I use my shampoo on my dog?". AboutMorkies.com. Retrieved 2017-03-17.
  6. ↑ "Clean stains around your Morkie's eyes". AboutMorkies.com. Retrieved 2017-03-17.
  7. ↑ "Morkie Information". MorkieDaily.com. Retrieved 15 November 2013.
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