Full Grown Maltese Yorkie Mix

A Maltese Yorkie mix, also known as a Morkie, is a cross between a Maltese and a Yorkie. These small dogs make wonderful companions but their size and personality will change as they mature into adulthood. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about what to expect from a fully grown Morkie.

About the Breed

The Maltese Yorkie mix is a mixed breed dog resulting from breeding a purebred Maltese with a purebred Yorkie. Both parent breeds are small toy dogs that are gentle, friendly, and affectionate. Morkies tend to inherit traits from both breeds like their tiny stature, long silky coat, and gentle disposition.

Because they are a mixed breed, Morkie puppies can take on different appearances depending on which parent breed traits they favor more. In general though, full grown Morkies exhibit characteristics that are a blend of Maltese and Yorkie.

Size at Full Growth

Fully grown Morkies are considered very small dogs. On average, their size measurements at adulthood are:

• Length: 9-12 inches
• Height: 8-10 inches

Keep in mind that these are approximations - some Morkies may be slightly larger or smaller depending on their parentage. In general, female Morkies tend to be smaller than males.

Weight at Full Growth

The typical weight range for an adult Morkie once they have fully matured is 3-7 pounds. Most full grown males will fall within 4-6 pounds while females are usually 3-5 pounds.

Appearance at Full Growth

Fully developed Morkies generally have the following appearance characteristics:

• Medium-long double coat that is silky, soft, and low-shedding
• Coat colors can include white, cream, golden, tan, black & white, or tri-colored
• Erect triangular ears
• Dark beady eyes
• Compact small body
• Curved tail carried over the back

At maturity, their coats fill out and become longer and silkier. Facial features also sharpen as puppy fat diminishes.

Personality at Full Growth

Most fully grown Morkies maintain the affectionate, playful personalities typical of both parent breeds. However, some key personality traits include:

• Loyal companionship - forms strong bonds with their favorite humans
• Friendly and gentle - gets along well with children and other pets
• Alert watchdogs - will bark to alert their family of visitors or noises outside
• Playful - enjoys interactive playtime and fetching toy balls/squeakys
• Intelligent - learns tricks and commands easily yet can be stubborn

With socialization, training, and consistency Morkies make wonderful family dogs thanks to their sweet natures.

Price of a Full Grown Morkie

Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more for a full grown Morkie depending on pedigree, bloodline, and whether they are neutered/spayed:

• $500-800 for a Morkie of unknown pedigree from a hobby breeder or shelter
• $800-1200 for a purebred Morkie from a reputable dog breeder
• $1000-1500 for a championship bloodline show quality Morkie

Be wary of "bargains" priced much lower as proper health testing is still important for mixed breeds.

Food and Feeding a Full Grown Morkie

Like all dogs, feeding a fully grown Morkie a balanced diet appropriate for their size is important for their health:

• Feed high quality small breed kibble formulated for dogs 4-10 pounds
• 1/4 - 1/2 cup divided into 2 meals per day is typical
• Add quality protein like cooked eggs, chicken, turkey
• Provide clean fresh water throughout the day
• Treats should be low calorie training rewards

Avoid obesity which can strain their tiny frames - adjust portions as needed based on weight and activity level.

Lifespan of a Full Grown Morkie

With proper care, the average lifespan of a fully grown Morkie is 12-15 years. High quality nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative healthcare are keys to maximizing their senior years.

Health Considerations at Full Growth

Some potential health issues to watch for in full grown Morkies include:

• Dental disease - clean teeth daily or professionally cleaned
• Hypoglycemia - low blood sugar in small toy dogs
• Joint dysplasia - prevent arthritis with proper exercise/weight
• Eye issues - eye infections, dry eye, cataracts
• Patellar luxation - dislocated kneecaps
• Brachycephalic syndrome - difficulty breathing for flat faced dogs

Keep senior wellness exams schedule with your vet to monitor health changes.

Care Needs of a Full Grown Morkie

Daily care requirements for an adult Morkie include:

• Brush coat 1-2 times per week to remove loose hair and check for mats/tangles
• Bathe as needed to keep coat clean - no more than monthly with quality dog shampoo
• Trim nails monthly if not worn down naturally
• Brush teeth 2-3 times per week to prevent disease
• Clean ears weekly to prevent infection
• Groom professionally every 4-6 weeks for a fresh haircut

Morkies also need mental stimulation through interactive play, training sessions, and attention from their people.

Average Costs of Owning a Full Grown Morkie

Expect to budget the following average monthly costs for fully grown Morkie ownership:

• $50-100 per month on high quality kibble
• $30-50 on treats, toys, supplies
• $15-30 on grooming every 4-6 weeks
• $15-30 for flea/tick prevention monthly
• $50-100 for annual wellness exams and vaccines
• $500-1000 per year for unexpected medical costs/dental cleanings

So roughly $150-300+ per month depending on your Morkie's individual needs.

Possible Behavior Changes at Full Growth

As Morkies reach maturity, there may be some adjustments in behaviors:

• May become less energetic as a senior dog
• Establishes themselves in household pack order
• May show more separation anxiety being left alone
• Trainability could decline without reinforcement
• Barking may get louder/excessive without training
• Urine marking or humping could emerge as hormones kick in

Consistency, positive training methods are especially important for well-adjusted adult Morkies.

Notable Characteristics of a Full Grown Morkie

Some distinguishing traits to look for in a mature Morkie include:

• Square body proportions - longer than tall
To continue with the previously established guidelines:
• Chiseled facial features rather than puppy roundness
• Fully developed silky coat in their color/marking pattern
• Mature height and weight within typical range
• Settled into an adult temperament and personality
• Fully weaned from nursing/puppy food to adult kibble
• Completed all vaccinations/puppy visits to the vet

When is a Morkie Considered Fully Grown?

On average, Morkies will reach sexual maturity at 6-9 months old. However, their overall physical and mental development continues until around 12-18 months of age.

Most experts consider a Morkie to be fully mature somewhere between 12-15 months old when they've achieved their final weight and coat has fully grown in. Their personalities are settled and training is well-established by 2 years.

Suitability as a Pet

Overall, Morkies can make wonderful family pets thanks to their small size and pleasant natures. However, their suitability depends on an owner's lifestyle and expectations:

• Great for apartments if given daily walks/play - not suited for yards
• Not a good choice for young children under 8 due to delicate bodies
• Need regular professional grooming to keep coats tied and mat-free
• Can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long hours
• Highly bonded to one or two people in household
• Training and socialization is a must to prevent reactivity/marking

With the right owner able to devote time, these pups thrive as family companions.

In Summary

The Maltese Yorkie mix undergoes many changes both physically and mentally as they grow from puppy to adult dog. Understanding what to expect from a fully grown Morkie enables owners to provide the best care, training and meet their breed-specific needs over their lifespan.

If you're considering this toy dog crossbreed, do your research to determine if their personality and requirements are a good match for your household.

With care and attention, mature Morkies can truly become beloved lifelong companions.