When it comes to small dogs, you can’t find many that are cuter than the teacup Morkie. This is the ultimate petite lapdog, a mix between the extremely popular Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier. This pint-sized pooch is a designer breed that combines the best traits of the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier, resulting in a furball of cuteness that’ll steal your heart.
The Teacup Morkie, a luxury canine companion for the committed dog owner, requires a cozy and supportive sleeping area to accommodate their delicate little bodies.
However, because of their small size, one needs to thoroughly research this dog before searching for Morkie Puppies for sale near you. As undeniably gorgeous as they are, they come with a few extra demands, and future pet parents must be prepared to meet their needs. To answer your questions on the Teacup Morkie, we consulted The Complete Guide to Morkies by David Anderson.
So, What Is The Teacup Morkie?
A Teacup Morkie is a small and charming crossbreed dog that is a mix between a purebred teacup Maltese and a purebred teacup Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie). As the name suggests, Teacup Morkies are exceptionally small, often weighing between 2 to 5 pounds (0.9 to 2.3 kgs) when fully grown. They are called “teacups” due to their tiny stature.
History Of The Teacup Morkie
To understand the Teacup Morkie, we need to rewind the clock and explore the roots of its parent breeds. The Maltese, a breed with a history spanning over 2,000 years, originates from the Mediterranean island of Malta. Ancient civilizations cherished these elegant canines, and even appeared in Greek and Roman artwork. Renowned for their luxurious white coats and playful personalities, Maltese dogs quickly found their way into the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.
Let’s hop over to Yorkshire, England, in the 19th century, where the Yorkshire Terrier debuted. These feisty little fellows were bred to be vermin hunters, patrolling mines and textile mills. Despite their small size, Yorkies were fearless and determined, earning them a reputation as loyal and tenacious companions.
Fast forward to modern times, where the allure of “designer breeds” emerged in the 90s, where popular breeds are mixed to create what some call a hybrid, like the Goldendoodle. Around the same time, “teacup” dogs, or extremely tiny dogs, became more popular. And so the Teacup Morkie, a tiny version of the Maltese Yorkie mix was born.
However, it’s important to note that major kennel clubs don’t officially recognize the “teacup” classification, as it refers more to size than to a specific breed. Teacup dogs are usually the result of selectively breeding smaller-sized individuals within a breed.
What Does The Teacup Morkie Look Like?
Teacup Morkies inherit characteristics from both parent breeds. They have a soft and silky coat, similar to the Maltese, and can come in a variety of colors, including:
- White
- Black
- Tan
- Chocolate
- Silver
- Apricot
- Lemon
- Cream
- Blonde
- Brown
- Black and white
- Black and brown or apricot
- Part-colored or tricolored
Their coat is often darker on their points, such as their ears and backs. These adorable dogs are known for their big, expressive eyes.
In terms of shedding, Teacup Morkies typically have a low-shedding coat. While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, Morkies, including the Teacup variety, are often considered more hypoallergenic than other breeds.
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How Big Does The Teacup Morkie Get?
Teacup Morkies and standard Morkies differ in terms of size. When fully grown, a Teacup Morkie is exceptionally small, usually weighing between 2 to 5 pounds (0.9 to 2.3 kilograms). On the other hand, the standard Morkie tends to be slightly larger, weighing around 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kilograms).
Teacup Morkie Intelligence & Personality
Teacup Morkies have a delightful temperament that are full of charm and love. They are known for being affectionate, loyal, and devoted companions. Despite their small size, they often possess a big personality and are unafraid to show their playful and adventurous side. Teacup Morkies thrive on human companionship and enjoy being a part of family activities.
These dogs may be shy or wary of strangers and prone to separation anxiety. They can be prone to barking if left alone and are sometimes challenging to potty train because of their tiny bladders. However, they are also highly intuitive and sensitive and make great emotional support dogs.
In terms of intelligence, Teacup Morkies are generally intelligent dogs. They can be quick learners and enjoy mental stimulation. Their intelligence, combined with their eagerness to please, can make them responsive to training. However, it’s important to note that individual Teacup Morkies may have their unique traits and may vary in their learning speed.
Care And Maintenance Of A Teacup Morkie
Housing Needs
Due to their small size, Teacup Morkies are typically indoor dogs suitable for apartment living. They should not live outdoors as they are vulnerable to cold and heat and cannot regulate their body temperature like bigger dogs. These dogs must be close to their owners, and they do not do well alone.
Exercise Needs
The Morkie is a tiny dog, but don’t neglect to exercise them to keep them healthy. Aim for at least two 10 to 15-minute walks a day, and try to give them regular playtime to keep their little bodies active and healthy.
Grooming Needs
The Teacup Morkie needs quite a bit of dedicated grooming. Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, and occasional professional grooming may be necessary to maintain their appearance. Trimming their coat to a shorter puppy or teddy bear cut can make it easier to manage since long-haired Morkies need daily brushing. Protect their skin with canine shampoo for sensitive skin and wash them about once every six weeks.
Pay special attention to their eyes, as they can be prone to tear stains. Gentle cleaning with appropriate products can help remove any tear stains and keep the area around the eyes clean. Regular dental care is crucial to maintaining good oral health, including brushing and considering dental water additives. Additionally, it’s important to clip their nails monthly to prevent overgrowth from their less active lifestyle.
Dietary Needs
Teacup Morkies usually need a high-calorie diet for small breed puppies while they are puppies as they have a speedy metabolism. They will need regular meals throughout the day to avoid hypoglycemia. Morkie puppies must eat every 3 to 4 hours (and sometimes every two hours if they are very tiny!). Adults can eat 3 to 4 meals daily.
Their dietary needs change as they get older. Specific health conditions like obesity, hypothyroidism, and heart or liver problems require a special diet. So keep on top of your Morkie’s health to establish the best diet for them.
Ideal home for the Teacup Morkie
The most suitable home for a Teacup Morkie is one that provides a safe and loving environment with plenty of attention and companionship. Since Teacup Morkies are small and delicate, they are better suited for households without young children who may unintentionally handle them roughly. Older, considerate children who interact gently with the dog can be a good match.
Teacup Morkies are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, including apartments or houses with small yards. However, they are indoor dogs and should not be left alone outside for extended periods.
Do Teacup Morkies Get Along With Kids And Other Animals?
Teacup Morkies can get along well with children and other animals if properly socialized from a young age. However, these dogs are so small that larger animals and children can easily hurt them, even breaking bones. It’s better to keep them in homes with older, responsible children and avoid larger animals to avoid accidents.
Health Problems in Teacup Morkies
Morkies are usually relatively healthy dogs, but when they come in Teacup sizes, they are more prone to certain conditions, such as low blood sugar for hypoglycemia, which we discussed above. Not to mention that despite hybrid vigor, they are still prone to genetic breed conditions from their parent breeds.
Teacup Morkies, like many small dog breeds, can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Here are some of the health issues that can affect Teacup Morkies:
Orthopedic Diseases
- Luxating Patella: This condition involves the dislocation or misalignment of the kneecap. It can cause lameness and discomfort.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease: This condition affects the hip joint and involves the degeneration of the femoral head, leading to pain and limping. Pay attention if it looks like your dog’s leg falls asleep and they limp when they wake up.
- These dogs also have very fragile bones that are easy to break accidentally. It is common for groomers or children to accidentally break a teacup dog’s bones without meaning to. So always be careful with who handles your dog.
Heart Diseases
- Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease (DMVD): This is a common heart condition in small breeds, where the mitral valve in the heart gradually degenerates, leading to heart murmurs, heart enlargement, and potential heart failure.
Respiratory Conditions
- Collapsing Trachea: Teacup Morkies can be prone to a collapsing trachea, where the windpipe becomes weak and collapses, causing coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Never walk your Morkie in a collar as it applies pressure to their delicate throat; always choose a good dog harness.
Dental Disease
- Small dog breeds, including Teacup Morkies, are more susceptible to dental problems like periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Regular dental care is essential to maintain good oral health.
Liver Shunts
- Liver shunts occur when the blood vessels bypass the liver, leading to improper detoxification. It can result in various symptoms, including stunted growth, poor appetite, and neurological issues.
Neurological Conditions
- Hydrocephalus is a condition that involves an excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain, causing an enlarged head, seizures, and neurological problems.
Other common problems in Teacup Morkies involve:
- Allergies
- Skin problems
- Ear infections
- Eye problems such as corneal ulcers, glaucoma, cataracts, and progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Certain kinds of cancer
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism
- Obesity
Not all Teacup Morkies will develop these conditions, and responsible breeders strive to minimize the risk by conducting health screenings and genetic testing. Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, exercise, and a safe environment can significantly contribute to their overall well-being and reduce the chances of health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Teacup Morkie Difficult To Train?
Teacup Morkies are generally intelligent and eager to please, making training easier. However, their small size might sometimes result in a stubborn streak. Remember that their tiny bladders can make potty training very difficult. Consistent and positive training methods, patience, and reinforcement can help overcome any training challenges.
How Long Do Teacup Morkies Live?
Standard Morkies have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, but Teacup Morkies can often only live 6 to 9 years. As they often have more health problems, they can have shortened lifespans.
How Much Are Teacup Morkie Puppies?
You can expect to pay between $1500 and $3000 for a Teacup Morkie. Reputable breeders tend to ask more for their dogs but make sure to ask for the health tests on their parents.
Do Teacup Morkies Bark A Lot?
Teacup Morkies can tend to bark, especially if they perceive a threat or feel anxious, such as when they are left home alone. Proper socialization and training from an early age can help manage their barking tendencies. It’s essential to provide them with mental stimulation and attention to prevent excessive barking.
Are Teacup Morkies Hypoallergenic?
Teacup Morkies are often considered more hypoallergenic compared to some other breeds. They tend to have a low-shedding coat, potentially producing fewer allergens. However, individual reactions to allergens can vary; some people with allergies may still experience sensitivity. Spending time with a Teacup Morkie before bringing one home can help assess potential allergic reactions.
Final Thoughts
It’s worth noting that the term “teacup” refers more to size than to a distinct breed variation. As such, Teacup Morkies are not recognized as a separate breed by major kennel clubs. The smaller size is achieved through selectively breeding smaller Yorkies and Maltese dogs.
Remember, when considering a Teacup Morkie or any dog, it’s essential to prioritize the health and well-being of the animal. Ensure you choose a reputable breeder who focuses on their dogs’ overall health and quality rather than solely focusing on size. Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and proper grooming are essential to keep your Teacup Morkie happy and healthy throughout their life.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.