Morkies, the adorable mix of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, have one of the most lovable features: a silky, flowing coat that resembles human hair. While it’s beautiful to look at and soft to the touch, a Morkie’s coat also requires regular grooming to stay clean, healthy, and tangle-free.
In this ultimate grooming guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from understanding coat types to brushing schedules, trimming, and the best shampoos to use.
🧴 1. Understanding the Morkie Coat
Morkies typically inherit a long, fine, and silky coat from both parents. However, depending on which genes are more dominant, some Morkies may have:
- A straighter coat (like the Maltese)
- A wavier or slightly coarser coat (more like the Yorkie)
- Or a combination of both textures
Most Morkies are low-shedding and hypoallergenic, but their hair can tangle easily without proper grooming.
🪮 2. How Often Should You Brush a Morkie?
Brushing is the #1 way to prevent mats and tangles in a Morkie’s coat. Daily brushing is ideal, but here’s a quick breakdown:
| Coat Type | Brushing Frequency |
|---|---|
| Fine/Straight | Daily |
| Wavy/Medium | Every 1–2 Days |
| Short/Trimmed | Every 2–3 Days |
🐾 Tip: Use a pin brush or slicker brush for detangling, followed by a comb to smooth everything out. Always brush gently to avoid damaging the hair or irritating the skin.
✂️ 3. Trimming Tips: When & Where
Even if you keep your Morkie’s hair long, trimming is essential. A full groom is usually needed every 4–6 weeks.
What to Trim:
- Hair around the eyes to prevent irritation
- The sanitary area to keep things clean
- Pads of the paws to avoid matting and slipping
- Body coat, if you’re maintaining a puppy cut
💇 Popular Morkie Cuts:
- Puppy Cut: Low-maintenance, short all over
- Teddy Bear Cut: Rounded face, slightly longer body hair
- Long & Flowing: Best for show-style, requires daily upkeep
🐾 Tip: If you’re not confident trimming at home, visit a professional groomer who has experience with small or toy breeds.
🧼 4. Bathing: How Often and With What?
Morkies don’t need frequent baths, but regular cleansing keeps their coat fresh and their skin healthy. Aim for a bath every 3 to 4 weeks, or as needed if they get dirty.
Best Shampoo Features:
- Sulfate-free and tearless
- pH-balanced for dogs
- Includes natural moisturizers like oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil
🛁 Top Recommended Shampoos for Morkies:
- Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo – Gentle and moisturizing
- Burt’s Bees for Dogs Tearless Puppy Shampoo – Mild and safe
- Isle of Dogs Everyday Jasmine + Vanilla Shampoo – Adds softness and shine
🐾 Caution: Never use human shampoo on a Morkie—it can dry out their sensitive skin.
👂 5. Don’t Forget the Ears, Eyes, and Nails
Grooming isn’t just about the coat. These small tasks are just as important:
- Ears: Clean weekly with a vet-approved ear solution to prevent wax buildup and infection.
- Eyes: Wipe daily with a soft, damp cloth to remove tear stains.
- Nails: Trim every 3–4 weeks to prevent overgrowth and paw pain.
🐾 Tip: Introduce grooming tools early during puppyhood so your Morkie learns to tolerate handling.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Grooming your Morkie isn’t just about looks—it’s about keeping them comfortable, healthy, and happy. With daily brushing, regular trims, and proper bathing, you’ll not only prevent mats and tangles but also strengthen the bond with your furry companion.
Make grooming a calm, rewarding experience, and your Morkie will learn to love their pamper sessions just as much as you love snuggling their soft, silky coat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do Morkies shed a lot?
Morkies are low-shedding dogs, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. However, their long hair needs regular grooming to avoid tangles.
2. How do I prevent matting in my Morkie’s coat?
Daily brushing with a slicker brush and detangling spray is the best way to prevent matting. Focus on areas like behind the ears, underarms, and tail.
3. Can I groom my Morkie at home or should I go to a professional?
You can do basic brushing and trimming at home, but for full grooming (especially if you’re going for a styled cut), a professional groomer is recommended every 4–6 weeks.
4. What’s the best haircut for a Morkie puppy?
A puppy cut is ideal for young Morkies. It keeps their coat short, manageable, and tangle-free—perfect for energetic pups.
5. How can I reduce tear stains around my Morkie’s eyes?
Clean the eyes daily with a damp cloth or use pet-safe tear stain wipes. Also, ensure their facial hair is trimmed and kept dry to prevent staining.