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Pet Insurance for Morkies

Find out all about Morkies and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

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, updated on October 6th, 2023       

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Price range

$900 – $4,000

Height

18–25cm

Weight

2–4kg

Personality

Affectionate, lively, sociable

Coat length

Medium to long

Exercise needs

Moderate

Kid-friendly?

Yes – if properly supervised

Life expectancy

10–15 years

Morkie

Overview

Morkies, a cross between the Maltese and Yorkshire Terriers, bring a delightful blend of two cherished toy breeds to Australian households. While not as old as some other breeds, only dating back to the 1990s, Morkies have quickly gained popularity for their charming appearance and affectionate nature.

The Morkie’s appearance is a testament to their mixed heritage. They are diminutive in size and often sport a silky, medium-length coat in a blend of white, black and tan. Their size makes them suitable for various living environments, including apartments.

Morkies are well-suited for families, seniors and individuals seeking a loyal and loving pet. Their adaptable nature makes them excellent choices for both urban and suburban living. Morkies have a playful and affectionate temperament, often forming strong bonds with their owners, and thrive in environments where they receive ample attention and love.

Common diseases and conditions of Morkies

  • Dental issues: Due to their small size, Morkies are prone to dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Regular dental care is essential.
  • Collapsed trachea: this is a condition where the trachea weakens and narrows, making it harder for the dog to breathe. It can lead to coughing and respiratory issues.
  • Eye problems: Morkies may be prone to eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular eye check-ups are important.
  • Ear infections: Morkies’ floppy ears can trap moisture and lead to infections. Regular cleaning and ear care are essential.
  • Hypoglycaemia: Morkies, especially as puppies, are susceptible to low blood sugar levels. This can lead to weakness, seizures and even coma if not addressed promptly.
  • Portosystemic shunt (PSS): PSS is a condition where blood bypasses the liver, impacting its ability to filter toxins from the blood.

Breed-specific issues:  

Morkies can sometimes display a touch of stubbornness, which can pose a challenge during training. Owners should be patient and consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques to establish themselves as the leader. These small dogs also have a penchant for barking, and although this can be managed through training, it's a trait that potential owners should be aware of. Additionally, their high energy levels mean they require regular exercise and playtime to keep them content and physically fit. Providing them with a variety of activities and toys can go a long way in keeping them engaged and happy.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Morkie?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Morkie, including the following: 

  • Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.   
  • Type of insurance you choose:  there are three basic types of pet insurance for dogs available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most. 
  • The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.  
  • Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.  
  • Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover. 
  • Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do. 
  • Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
  • Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.  

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Common questions about Morkies

Are Morkies good with children?

Yes – Morkies are friendly dogs and can be good with children, especially if they are raised together. They often form strong bonds with their human family members and enjoy playtime. However, it's crucial to remember that Morkies are small and delicate, so interactions should always be supervised to prevent accidental injuries. As such, they may be better suited to households with older children who will know to take care.

Do Morkies get along with other pets?

Yes – Morkies generally get along well with other pets, particularly if they are properly socialised from a young age. Due to their small size, they might be safer around animals of similar stature, such as other small dogs and even cats. Early introductions to other animals and positive experiences can help them develop positive relationships with other animals in the household.

Do Morkies need a lot of attention?

Yes – Morkies tend to crave attention and companionship. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being part of the family activities. Morkies can become anxious or exhibit behavioural issues if they feel neglected or lonely for extended periods. Therefore, it's important for owners to provide them with regular playtime, cuddles and mental stimulation.

Are Morkies good for first-time dog owners?

Yes – Morkies can be suitable for first-time dog owners, but it’s important to be aware that they may require patient training and regular grooming. Their affectionate nature and manageable size can make them a wonderful companion for those new to dog ownership, as long as they are committed to providing the necessary care and training.

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Morkie

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