Morkie
A cross of the Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. It's a mix, so we show ranges from the parent breeds rather than a single number.
Last updated: October 2026 · 6 sources · see sources
What it is
The Morkie is a mix, not a breed. The AKC, which recognizes purebred breeds only, doesn't register it, and there's no breed standard, so size, coat and temperament vary even within one litter. The ranges below come from the parent breeds' AKC profiles; a mix can land anywhere in or between them.
| Parent breed | Height | Weight | Life expectancy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maltese | 7-9 inches | under 7 pounds | 12-15 years [1] |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 7-8 inches | 7 pounds | 11-15 years [2] |
Combined parent range: weight about 7–7 lb, life expectancy 11–15 years. This is our arithmetic on the AKC figures above, not a measured Morkie average; no reliable published average exists.
Estimated costs
| Small dog | $273 – $1,110 (median $508) | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Health
A mix can inherit health issues from either parent, so read both parent breed pages and ask the breeder which health tests the parents had. Research comparing mixed and purebred dogs found some inherited problems were less common in mixes but many showed no difference. [6] More on mixed-breed health and DNA tests
Sources (6) — tap to show
- AKC – Maltese breed page
- AKC – Yorkshire Terrier breed page
- VetReceipt – Dog breed vet costs by size
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- Bellumori et al. 2013, Prevalence of inherited disorders among mixed-breed and purebred dogs (JAVMA)