The Cost of a Morkie
Last Updated on February 2, 2021 | Written by CPA Alec Pow
First Published on September 21, 2020 | Content Reviewed by 
CFA Alexander Popivker
A Morkie, also known as a Yorktese, is a crossbreed between a Maltese and Yorkshire terrier and is not seen as a purebred dog.
The dog gets combined characteristics of both breed types, making it really affectionate, lively, and active. Originating from a small-sized family tree, Morkies are very small, weighing 9 pounds at the most usually. Some are even smaller and are categorized as either a teacup, tiny toy, or mini. A Morkie has long smooth hair that needs everyday brushing to keep in good condition.
Just how much do Morkie pups cost?
Typically, a Morkie can cost anywhere from $450 to as much as $2,500. Like any pet dog type, the rate will boil down to the age, its family bloodline, the breeder, quality, and coat colors. With a lot of Morkie pups available for sale, the average price tends to be around $700 to $1,000.
At PuppyFind, a popular online pet ads directory, you can find almost 500 listings at the time of this writing from people selling a dog of this breed. Costs are all over the place, with some listings as inexpensive as $425 to as much as $2,500.
What should be included in the cost of getting a Morkie?
A respectable breeder must always offer, at least, the registration documents, a health warranty, a health examination done by a licensed veterinarian, and a travel cage if it’s going to be delivered.
Some breeders might also spay/neuter, add a microchip, and/or include a starter pack with pet food samples, toys, and other accessories.
What are the additional expenses?
Like for any other breed, be prepared for the typical periodic expenses such as food, toys, grooming, training, and routine/unexpected veterinarian checkouts. Given that these pet dogs are smaller sized than average, they will not eat as much when compared to bigger breeds; nevertheless, this does not mean that you will be able to save a great deal of money. The typical small pet dog can eat the equivalent of around $500 to $600 annually if healthy.
To avoid matting and/or tangling, it’s extremely recommended you stay top of its coat grooming. If you can’t, then it’s recommended you register for specialist grooming sessions.
Also read our articles about the cost of breeds like the Bernedoodle, Blue Heeler, and the Yorkie Poo.
Like the majority of pet dogs, the Morkie needs to be interacted socially at an early age given that it can be quite stubborn if the owner isn’t firm enough with it. You should at least plan to register for obedience classes when the pup is younger to teach it the fundamental commands like sit, stay, and lay down.
Tips to keep in mind
It’s difficult to identify the real size early because it will depend on the parents’ characteristics. Typically, however, the height tends to be within the 6 to 15-inch range, with many dogs staying within 5 to 10 pounds.
The coat, once again, depending upon the parents, will typically be straight, silk, fine or a mix of the 3. Normally, the hair will be longer and will be found in a range of popular colors such as white, tan, black, and sable.
Being the mix of a Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, it can frequently be a vibrant, lively, and extremely sweet pet dog. It will do very well with other family pets as long as they are introduced to one another at a young age.
Being a “mutt” designer pet dog, it can be difficult to know its life-span for sure; nevertheless, for the time being, it can be said for sure that they can live 12 to 14 years if we think about the Yorkie and Maltese.
Given that it won’t be considered a pure-blood, potential owners should know that this kind of pet dog can not be registered in the pure breed registry.
Being a crossbreed, a Morkie can experience hereditary health conditions and might require close observation, constant visits at the veterinarian, and very high medical expenses. It is extremely advised that you get a family pet insurance coverage to cover the expected expenses in the future.
This breed can do well in an apartment, condo, or small house as long as they get adequate exercise throughout the day.
Typical health problems, when we take a look at both the Yorkie and Maltese, can consist of slipping kneecaps, a collapsed trachea, retinal atrophy, retinal dysplasia, hydrocephalus, and breathing issues.
Due to their small size, it can be hurt in numerous ways if not taken care of appropriately. With this being said, it’s a good idea to raise this pet dog in a child-free home.
These dogs are seen as rather yappy, even when trained correctly. Similar to other breeds, the Morkie will be no exception.
How can you save some money?
Rather than paying a lot for one through a local breeder, think about adopting from a shelter or rescue group. Keep in mind, this is simply a glorified dog that’s a mix between 2 breeds. Adopting can help a great cause and provide a dog with a permanent home. Plus, if getting one for free isnàt possible, you can usually adopt one for just $50 to $100.
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