Thinking about adding a Morkie to your family? One of the first things you might wonder is, “Do Morkies shed?” It’s a common question, especially if you’re dealing with allergies or just want to avoid the hassle of extra cleaning.
Morkies, yes, that cute mix of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier you’ve probably seen and wanted to hug immediately, are loved for their small size, playful energy, and adorable looks. But what about shedding?
Do Morkies Loose Fur?
The short answer is yes, Morkies shed, but not in the way you might think. Let’s break down what this means.
Low-Shedding, Not No-Shedding
Morkies are known for being low-shedding dogs, which means they don’t lose as much hair as many other breeds. However, this doesn’t mean they’re completely shed-free.
Like all dogs, Morkies will naturally lose some hair, but the amount is minimal. You might see a few stray hairs on your furniture or clothes, but it won’t be anything like what you’d experience with a heavy-shedding breed, such as a Labrador Retriever or a German Shepherd.
Hair Growth Cycle
Morkies, like their Maltese and Yorkie parents, have a unique hair growth cycle. Instead of shedding their fur seasonally or throughout the year, Morkies have hair that grows continuously and only falls out when it reaches the end of its growth cycle. This cycle is similar to how human hair grows, which is why you might not notice much shedding at all.
Grooming and Maintenance
One reason Morkies shed so little is because of the grooming required to keep their coats in good condition. Regular grooming, including brushing and trimming, is essential to prevent tangling or matting.
By keeping their coat well-maintained, you’re also removing any loose hairs that might otherwise end up on your furniture.
How to Manage Shedding
While Morkies are low-shedding, it’s still important to manage their grooming to minimize the amount of hair they lose and keep their coat healthy.
Regular Brushing
Brushing your Morkie regularly is key to keeping their coat free of tangles and matting. A good brushing session also helps to remove any loose hairs before they fall out on their own.
Bathing
Bathing your Morkie every few weeks helps keep their coat clean and free of loose hairs. Use a gentle dog shampoo that’s designed for sensitive skin to avoid drying out their skin, which can lead to shedding.
Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as leftover shampoo can cause itching and shedding.
Professional Grooming
Regular visits to a professional groomer can make a big difference in managing your Morkie’s coat. Groomers can trim and style their hair, reducing the risk of matting and tangling. They can also help you manage shedding by keeping the coat at a manageable length and ensuring it’s healthy and well-maintained.
Diet and Nutrition
A healthy diet plays a significant role in maintaining a Morkie’s coat. Ensure your Morkie is eating high-quality dog food that’s rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as these nutrients promote a healthy coat and reduce shedding. You might also consider adding supplements like fish oil to their diet if recommended by your veterinarian.
Shedding and Allergies – Is a Morkie Right for You?
If you’re an allergy sufferer, you might be concerned about whether a Morkie will trigger your symptoms. While no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, Morkies are a good choice for those with allergies due to their low-shedding coat. The minimal amount of hair and dander they release makes them less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to high-shedding breeds.
Reducing Allergens
To further minimize allergens in your home, make sure to clean regularly. Vacuum frequently with a vacuum designed for pet hair, and consider using air purifiers to reduce dander in the air.
Washing your Morkie’s bedding and toys regularly also helps to keep allergens at bay.
Spending Time with a Morkie
If you’re unsure whether a Morkie is the right fit for you, consider spending time with one before making a decision. Visit a friend or family member who has a Morkie, or spend some time with Morkies at a local shelter or rescue. This will give you a better idea of how your allergies might react to the breed.
The Bottom Line
Morkies do shed, but it’s minimal compared to a lot of other dog breeds. Their low-shedding coat makes them a great pick for anyone who wants a small, loving dog without dealing with constant vacuuming or allergy issues.
With regular grooming, a good diet, and some basic care, you can keep your Morkie’s shedding under control, making them an easy and lovable companion to have around.
