Are Morkies Hypoallergenic?

For such tiny creatures, morkies have big personalities. They are sweet, happy dogs with a ton of energy and plenty of spunk. Plus, they’re fluffy, cuddly, and can fit in your pocket. What’s not to love? But if you’ve ever suffered from pet allergies, you may be wondering if they will send you into a sneezing fit. Are morkies hypoallergenic? Discover the answer, including how much they shed and their grooming needs.

The morkie is considered a hypoallergenic dog breed, suitable for those with mild to moderate allergy symptoms.

Are All Morkies Hypoallergenic?

Morkies are mixed dogs, bred between a Maltese and a Yorkshire terrier. They have high energy and want constant attention. But they are very affectionate and silly. These dogs do well in single households or with couples. But when socialized early, they can also make great family pets.

Morkies come in different variations. The F1 morkie is the direct offspring between a Maltese and a Yorkshire terrier. The F1B is bred using a morkie and a Maltese or a Yorkie. And the F2 is the offspring of two morkies. 

Both Yorkshire terriers and Maltese are hypoallergenic, so any cross between them is also hypoallergenic, including the F1, F1B, and F2.

Do Morkies Shed a Lot?

Morkies are low-shed and low-allergen dogs. Like their parents, they have a single layer of long, silky hair, similar to humans. And while all dogs shed at least a little, morkies do it much less than other breeds. Many dogs have a double layer of thick fur, which can come off in clumps around your home. But thankfully, the morkie sheds very little. However, they still produce some dander, which can cause allergies to flair without proper maintenance.

Are Morkies High Maintenance?

The morkie requires moderate maintenance. Their hair doesn’t need quite as much work as the Yorkie, but they should still be brushed and groomed regularly. Their long hair can get tangled and knotted without proper brushing, leading to possible skin irritation and poor hair health. Skipping out on dog grooming can also affect the health of allergy sufferers. The less you groom your dog, the more you may see symptoms appear. You should brush your morkie at least a few times a week and take them to see a groomer for a thorough clean at least once every few months (some prefer once a month).

Do Morkies Bark a Lot?

Morkies are notorious for being “yappy” dogs. They are very vocal animals and loudly declare their excitement, frustration, or nervousness. While they make excellent apartment dogs, you may get complaints from your neighbors if you have thin walls. Taking after their Yorkshire terrier side, morkies will let you know when something isn’t right. However, with proper early training, you can get better control over your dog’s incessant barking. 

What Are the Disadvantages of a Morkie?

For such a tiny thing, the morkie carries a lot of personality! This breed is smart, affectionate, playful, and plucky. But they can be rather demanding due to their constant need for attention. They do best when someone can be home with them during the day. This breed can easily get separation anxiety when left alone too much. And they need at least one walk daily to ensure proper health and weight management. But you won’t be able to jog with them due to their short legs. 

You also have to be careful with handling and playing with small dogs because they are more injury prone than bigger dogs. They do best in homes without big dogs or small children. Many retired people and couples make excellent options for morkies.

What is the Most Friendly Hypoallergenic Dog?

The morkie is friendly and playful, but they can also be feisty and stubborn. And are not great dogs for families with other pets and small children. So what dogs top the list for the most friendly hypoallergenic dog? The Bichon Frise, Portuguese water dog, and miniature schnauzer are all great options. All three breeds are friendly and affectionate, have low-shed coats, and are great with kids. 

Morkies make excellent pets for the right people. They are easy on allergies and bond well with their owners. But they need moderate maintenance, bark frequently, and need to be handled carefully.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © alexmillos/Shutterstock.com