1. Can I Bring My Morkie Dog On a Plane With Me?

Yes. You can take your Morkie on a plane with you. Generally, you can fly with any size/type dog. If your dog is under 20 pounds – It can usually fit in a small carrier under the seat in front of you. Morkie dogs, being so small, will fit into this catagory. So yes, you can bring your Morkie on the flight with you.

2. Do I Need To Contact The Airline Before Traveling With My Dog?

Absolutely! While most airlines will happily let you bring your Morkie dog along, it will also depend on the aircraft. Some planes are too small and don’t have enough room for doggie crates. Another thing to keep in mind is some airlines do restrict the number of pets allowed on a plane. So MAKE SURE to call the airline, prior to booking your ticket, just to be on the safe side.

3. How Much Does It Cost To Fly With a Morkie Dog?

Airlines will usually charge a fee of around $50-$100. However, that fee could be waved if your Morkie is a service dog or depending on your membership status with the particular airline. The fee has to be paid in advance, another reason you would want to contact your airline prior to booking the ticket.

4. Do I Need To Bring Any Documents With Me?

Some airlines (especially when traveling internationally) do require you to show proof of your dog being vaccinated. So, contact the airline first and ask them, then visit your vet and bring the proper documentation with you to the airport. Here’s another tip for you: take pictures of the documents with your phone. Just in case.

5. What Is The Best Travel Carrier For a Morkie Dog?

The carrier you choose needs to be well ventilated, and your Morkie needs to be able to stand up and turn around in it. Experts recommend a soft sided carrier.

If you want something affordable, the ‘Sherpa Travel Carrier’ is approved by most airlines (in all sizes) and was also Amazon’s choice in 2018.  The one I use when traveling with my Morkie is the ‘Sleepypod Pet Carrier’. I’d highly recommend it, though it is pricy ($157 on Amazon). If you travel at least once a year it would be worth your investment. Your Morkie will be more comfortable in it. It’s warmer, more padded, and easy to carry.

6. How Do I Make My Morkie More Comfortable During The Flight?

Well, Your little Morkie will spend most of the flight in their carrier – So your job is to make it a happy place for them. Make sure to purchase a carrier a week or two before the flight, so you have time to get your dog used to being in it. You can even make your Morkie love it! How? First, try padding the inside of the carrier with a worn T-shirt to make it smell like you. Try to feed your Morkie while in the carrier. Then, Use treats and praise to teach them to get in the carrier and stay in it for different periods of times.

I would not skip these steps. Morkies are stubborn dogs – and you want them to be as quiet and relaxed during the flight. That will only happen if you prepare them for it.

7. What To Do Before The Flight?

The day of the flight, try to remain calm – You don’t want any nervousness to reflect in your morkie’s behavior. Before leaving for the airport, have a long play session with your pup, maybe a long walk. The more tired your Morkie is before the flight – The better. And of course, make sure your dog gets to do their business before leaving.

8. What Will Happen When I Get To The Airport?

Try keeping your Morkie in their carrier. Airports can be very exciting for small dogs. If your Morkie loves people, which they probably do, it could also be a bit overwhelming.

When you get to security, you will be asked to remove your dog from the carrier. The carrier will then go through the x-ray machine, while you will carry your Morkie with you through the metal detector.  To avoid chasing your Morkie through a busy airport – You might want to use treats to lure them back in to the carrier once you are done with security.

When boarding the plane, place the carrier under the seat in front of you, and try not to get your Morkie too excited, In the hope that they would just take a nap. The time before take off will probably be the most stressful, as your pup might try to bark and get you to take them out of the carrier. There isn’t much you can do, but your dog should quiet down eventually.

9. How Do I Make My Morkie Calm Down If They Bark?

As mentioned, your Morkie will probably calm down on their own. However, there are a few things you can try. Some people poke a foot into the carrier – It might provide comfort, as well as something for your Morkie to play with (or chew on?).

You can try placing your phone close to the carrier and play your dog some music – It might distract them from the situation. Also, you can try giving them their favorite toys to play with, their favorite bones to chew on, of some of their favorite treats.

However, don’t over stress yourself. They will eventually calm down, I promise.

10. What If My Dog Needs To Go Potty During The Flight?

The answer to this question will depend on your dog, and the length of the flight. If the flight is short and your Morkie is potty trained, there shouldn’t be a problem. If your Morkie is potty trained but the flight is long, take some Puppy Pads with you. When your Morkie tells you they need to go, slide one in the carrier. However, if your Morkie is still a small puppy, or suffers from frequent accidents, you might want to pad the carrier with some puppy pads in advance. You might even want to try getting some Doggy Diapers.

Do you have any traveling tips for us? Let us know in the comments and we will share them on our next post!

The post 10 Important Questions On Flying With Your Morkie Dog appeared first on The Morkie Guide.

2. Pet Head Puppy Tearless Shampoo

With no harsh chemicals inside, hypoallergenic ingredients and added shea butter, this tearless puppy shampoo will be great for your Morkie.

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3. Minksheen Natural Pet Shampoo

This natural shampoo and conditioner blend uses vitamin E, cedar oils, and other good stuff to keep your Morkie smelling fresh, and it’s also a conditioner!

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4. Burt’s Bees Dog Oatmeal Shampoo

One of the best ones out there. With ingredients like honey, oats bees wax, this shampoo will be great for your Morkie’s dry / sensitive skin. Highly recommended.

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5. ‘Soothe’ Oatmeal Shampoo By Rocco & Roxie

This coconut scented oatmeal shampoo is great if your Morkie has dry skin. Its gentle, smells good, and promises professional groomer quality result.

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6. ‘Johnson’s’ Lavender Baby Shampoo

Yes, we know this is a baby shampoo, but many Morkie owners swear that this is the only one the use on their pup! Made with chamomile & lavender, this shampoo will leave your Morkie as soft as a baby’s butt!

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7. ‘Yorkie Splash’ Organic Shampoo

The natural choice. This shampoo, made especially for Yorkies (and Morkies), is organic, contains coconut oil, jojoba and aloe vera, and – It’s hand made in the US. You should check it out.

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8. ‘Chi’ Tearless Puppy Shampoo

If you are a ‘Chi’ fan, you definitely want to check out this one. With ingredients such as aloe vera, honey and chamomile extract, this shampoo won’t sting your Morkie’s eyes, and will leave your pup smelling great.

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9. ‘Virbac’ Allergroom Shampoo

Gentle and soap free, this hypoallergenic, vet recommended shampoo is ideal for Morkie puppies with normal to dry skin. Also, this shampoo is a good one to use if you are trying to prevent your Morkie from getting fleas.

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10. ‘Dawn’ Dish Soap

Yes, ‘Dawn’ dish soap! If your Morkie has fleas, this dish soap will kill them all in one application ,But some Morkie owners just stick with it – And love it! Consult your groomer or vet first if your Morkie has dry skin.

Read More >

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Best Yorkie / Morkie Toys On a Budget

‘ZippyPaws’ Squeaking Duck Toy For Dogs

A cool simple dog toy, that is plush filled, and grunts when squeezed. Will give your Morkie hours of play and chew time.

Price: $5.95
Where To Get: Amazon, Walmart

‘KONG’ Squeakair Tennis Ball with Rope Dog Toy

Just your simple tennis ball for dog, but with added non-toxic rope that won’t wear out your Morkie’s teeth, and it squeaks to get your puppy more excited.

Price: $9.95
Where To Get: Amazon, Walmart

‘PuppyChew’ Pacifier Puppy Teething Chew Toy

This was my Morkie’s favorite when teething. Provides hours of chew and play, nice squaking sound, and made of safe non toxic rubber. And it’s plain adorable!

Price: $9.06
Where To Get: Amazon, Walmart

Smart Toys For Your Yorkie / Morkie

‘Foobler’ Timed Self Reloading Puzzle Feeder

This one is super cool. This round colorful ball will give your dog hours of play by an auto dispensing yummy treats to keep the dog interested, and it’s not too pricey either. Watch how it works here

Price: $29.99
Where To Get: Amazon

‘Kong’ Quest WishBone Dispensing Dog Toy

Same concept, but cheaper and different shaped. Plus, you can fit almost any treat into this one, and you dog would love playing with it until they get those treats out.

Price: $14.08
Where To Get: Amazon

High End Gadgets For Yorkie & Morkie Dogs

‘PetCube’ Interactive Wi-Fi Pet Camera

If you want to interact with your Dog when you are away from home, this is the toy for you. This state of the art ‘PetCube’ camera will let you talk to your dog, take pictures and videos, and even play using a built in laser pointer toy.

Price: $149.99
Where To Get: Amazon

‘IFetch’

Our current favorite when it comes to puppy gadgets. This fun toy will give your dog hours of play and fun by launching the balls for you and give your pet a great play experience.

Price: $149.99
Where To Get: Amazon

The post The 10 Best Toys For Yorkie & Morkie Dogs appeared first on The Morkie Guide.

Morkies don’t shed, and their Maltese roots and human like hair causes it to grow fast, Making it easily tangled and uncomfortable.  Frequently brushing your Morkie and leave in conditioners can help keep your Morkie’s coat manageable in between visits to your groomer. But choosing the right groomer for your Morkie is also very important.

How to choose a groomer for your Morkie dog?

Having a trusted groomer that both you and your Morkie agree on is ideal for your Morkie’s experience, and it may take a few visits to different groomers to find the right one.

Search through Google, Yelp.com or their app and add in the appropriate filters for the mile radius you’re willing to commute for your pup’s cut, the closest might not always be the best.  While you’re on their site, research their customer rating and reviews.  Also, these breeds are often found out in the wild enjoying a meal on a restaurant’s patio with their owner. Take the opportunity to ask for a quick pet and ask the owner who pampers their pride & joy.  Prior to making your appointment, price shop. Most cuts cost about $30-$40, any cheaper and they may not be using the best products on your pup, or spending the time and attention you would hope you’re getting for your money. 

Ask the salon if they have someone who specializes in Maltese, Yorkie or other small breeds, they might pair you up with someone with more experience with them, since they’re such popular breeds.

What kind of relationship do you expect & want from your groomer?

Once you’ve selected your groomer come prepared to appraise their skills, after all you are a paying potential regular with your Morkie’s hair needing a trim every month.  Take into consideration their attitude and willingness to help their clients.  These are good indicators of how your experience down the road will be when you may need to utilize their professional opinion.  Groomers, like vets, come across all sorts of pets in their industry and become more knowledgeable in their field as they gain experience. 

Start building a connection with your groomer in the beginning by asking questions.  Ask if they will cut your Morkie’s nails or if you need to request the service? What kinds of products they use for extra dry skin? Or save some styles you like on your phone to share with your groomer, a good one will have some good ideas.

Going to the groomer should be an exciting and positive event for you and your Morkie, definitely not an uncomfortable chore. But, wait!  Before you and your styling sidekick pay and tip the groomer, don’t feel obligated to make the follow up appointment until you get your Morkie home. You’re little one’s excited to see you to show off their new do, and you won’t be able to get a good look at the groomer’s attention to detail, such as all of their nails until they’ve settle down back at home.

As mentioned, groomers are experienced professionals who can know a lot about their field, and you’ll have your groomer’s phone number in your contact list, choose one you feel is knowledgeable, trustworthy and will benefit your Morkie and you.

The post How To Find The Right Groomer For Your Morkie Dog appeared first on The Morkie Guide.

Ready? Let’s go over these 5 different creative options you might want to consider if you are having a hard time with potty training your Morkie.

1. Back To Basics

First, have you tried our 7 step potty training guide? If you haven’t yet, go check them out! If you have, let’s go over this checklist and make sure you haven’t missed anything:

• Are you rewarding your Morkie with yummy treats that they love when they go outside / on a pad? (if you need treat ideas, click here!)
• Are you giving them lots of praises when they get it right? That’s super important when potty training a Morkie, or else they just won’t know they are doing something wrong.
• Are you using commands such as ‘Good Boy!’ when your Morkie goes on they right spot?
• Are you letting them know that it’s wrong to go on the floor or the carpet?

If your answer to any of these questions was NO – Then maybe you should go over one of our basic training articles again. If you checked YES on all of these, Let’s move on.

2. Try Puppy Pads

Have you tried Puppy Pads? Puppy Pads are the favorite training method for most small dog owners. Try placing a pad in a specific spot around the house (Or the spot that seems to be your puppy’s favorite) and try using a Puppy Training Spray. It works. (Read our full guide for puppy pads training here)

3. Change Your Morkie’s Feeding Times

Morkies are small dogs, and have tiny stomaches and bladders. If you are away from home a lot, Or having trouble planning your morkie’s potty times, try changing their feeding times! An average small puppy can ‘Hold it in’ for about an hour per the months of their age – So if your puppy is 3 months old, they might only be able to go 3 hours without an accident. Try to better plan your puppy feeding times to avoid accidents around the house.

4. Use a Crate

If you are out most of the day, you might want to try using a crate for your Morkie when you are away from home. It might seem cruel to keep your pup in a ‘cage’, But your Morkie is a dog, not a human baby.

Leaving your Morkie puppy in a crate could be very helpful to you and the puppy while potty training. First, a dogs instinct is to not go potty where they eat, so by leaving your morkie in a crate with a bowl of food, you will encourage the puppy to wait until they can get out. And hey, if they do have an accident while you are gone – At least it won’t be on your carpet. Using the crate won’t be necessary forever, of course. Just until your Morkie is potty trained.

Which crate could work for your Morkie puppy? Actually, a small portable crate like this one could work just fine for a small pup. Wanna spoil your small pup? try a bigger crate like this one made by Amazon Basics. If you are looking for an outside solution or just have lots of extra room, you can try this huge foldable metal crate / playpen, and build an actual ‘room’ for you Morkie.

5. Try Grass Patches

This is a fairly new trend, but it might just work for you. If your dog is looking for grass when they want to go, or if you don’t want to use pads and just want to train your Morkie to go outside, using a grass patch might be a the thing to try.

Grass patches for training usually come in small squares, with real or fake grass. The one we would recommend to try is the ‘Fresh Patch’ – a disposable real grass square that was also featured on ‘Shark Tank’. They do offer an affordable monthly subscription, but you can order one here to just try it out first.

6. Puppy Diapers

There are lots of creative ways to potty train your Morkie. Puppy diapers are one of those ways. Try putting your Morkie in a diaper when around the house, and only remove the diaper when outside. Your puppy will probably not like the feeling of a wet diaper, so they will learn to hold it in until they go outside. Sounds weird? Some Morkie owners swear by this method when traditional training failed.

Where Can I Buy Puppy Diapers For My Morkie?

Amazon! Where else? If you have a female Morkie, Try these ‘Paw Inspired’ disposable doggy diapers. For males try these ones by the same brand. Another option are these unisex reusable diapers by ‘Pet Magsin’

7. Could It Be Anxiety?

It is possible. Moving, changing owners, or being left alone for long periods of time can potentially be traumatic for a small puppy. But don’t rush into conclusions, only a professional vet can tell you if your Morkie is showing signs of anxiety / depression. consult your local vet and hear what they have to say.

The post 6 Easy Ways To Potty Train Your Morkie Dog (When Nothing Else Is Working) appeared first on The Morkie Guide.

Most small dog owners recommend the Puppy Pads as the way to go. Try placing a puppy pad in a place that’s convenient for both you and your puppy, And only give your puppy praises and treats if they ‘get it right’. 

What Are The Best Puppy Pads For My Morkie?

We recommend trying the ‘Amazon Basics’ puppy pads. They are affordable and would work good for your morkie. Another brand that is recommended by morkie owners is the ‘All Absorb’ puppy pads.

How To Get My Morkie To Use The Puppy Pads?

Be consistent. Morkies can take a while to potty train, or not if you get lucky. Try taking your Morkie to the pads every couple of hours, And pick a command in a tone you can repeat – For example: ‘Go Potty!’. This will not work instantly, so be patient. When they do go on the pads, Use lots of praises and immediately reward your Morkie with a treat. 

What If This Dosen’t Work?

There are a few things you can try. First, try using a Puppy Training Spray by spraying it on the pad. The spray’s scent will help your Morkie understand that they need to go on the pad. This method WORKS.

Another thing you can try is this: If your Morkie went on the floor, take the a pad and soak in the pee to the pad. Yes, soak it. Leaving the pad in place with your dogs pee soaked into it will help the dog recognize their own scent, and will really increase your chances to get your Morkie to only go on the pads.

More On Using Commands When Potty Training A Morkie

If you catch your puppy going where they should not, Pick them up and firmly say ‘NO’. Try taking the puppy over to the Puppy Pad. If the puppy then goes there, use lots of praises and reward them with a treat. Pick another command to use when your Morkie gets is right, such as ‘Good Puppy!’, or ‘Good Job!’. Remember, dogs don’t understand your language – But they do understand your tone, so make sure you repeat the command with the same tone each time.

How Often Should I Change The Puppy Pads?

If they get messy then you obviously want to change them. Otherwise, you can leave one in place for a few days. It can actually help your Morkie if you leave the pee pads in place for a while, So they can get used to the spot by recognizing, well, the pee scent.

Should I Just Use One Puppy Pad Or A Few?

That depends. If your Morkie still goes in the house, They will most likely pick one or a few ‘Favorite’ spots. Try placing pads in those spots, And use a Training Spray on the pad to better help your Morkie understand that that’s where they need to go. If your puppy pick random spots, You can place a pad in each room and try that instead. We still recommend using the spray. It really does help.

Will My Morkie Start ‘Telling Me’ When They Need To Go?

Probably, yes. Morkies have a strong urge to make their owner happy, And also – a strong desire for treats and attention. Once potty trained, your Morkie will probably start letting you know when they are ready to be walked. They will do that by either 

What If My Morkie Puppy Is Potty Trained But Still Has Accidents?

That’s normal for this breed. Even an adult Morkie can sometimes have accidents, especially when they are exited about something.

The post Potty Training Your Morkie Using Puppy Pads appeared first on The Morkie Guide.

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2. ‘Orijen’ 6 Fish Grain-Free Formula

Yes, another one by ‘Orijen’! This all natural recipe is highly recommended for your little Morkie! Its organic, low carb, no preservatives, and it will help keep your Morkie’s blood sugar levels healthy and will help with their skin and hair.

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3. ‘Fromm’ Gold Small Breed

By far the most recommended brand by Morkie owners. This canadian dog food brand is made with fresh, organic and cage free human grade meat and fish, and free of grains. A must have!

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4. ‘Fromm’ Heartland Gold Puppy

Another one by ‘Fromm’ (yes, we love em!). Grain free can be very important to your Morkie’s diet, and although we highly recommend most ‘Fromm’ products, this grain free recipe can be even healthier for your Morkie.

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5. ‘Wellness’ CORE Natural Grain Free

Another great natural, grain free formula for your Morkie! This natural formula, recommended by many Morkie owners, has no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, and is completely natural – And grain free!

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6. ‘Rachael Ray’ Nutrish Dry Dog Food

If you are on a budget, the ‘Rachael Ray’ brand can actually be a great choice for your Morkie. Morkie owners we asked say their dogs love it! Made with farm-raised chicken and added vitamins and minerals, and also has a grain free version.

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7. ‘Acana’ Grasslands Grain Free Dry Dog Food

Another Morkie favorite is ‘Acana’, an all-natural brand that’s rich with natural proteins, uses 40% fresh fruit and vegetable, and is completely grain free – Which is great for your Morkie. They offer many different flavors, but this one is our favorite.

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8. ‘Hill’s’ Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed

Made specifically for small and toy breeds, this great tasting brand adds vitamins, minerals and Omega 6 to their dog food – And it has a Morkie on the bag!

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9. ‘Nutro’ Wholesome Essentials Small Breed

If your Morkie is still a puppy, this brand is recommended for small puppys by many vets to help your puppy grow and develop well. Made with whole ingredients and real chicken, and though not grain free – Can be a great choice for your Morkie puppy.

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10. ‘Blue Buffalo’ Wilderness Adult Small Breed Chicken Formula

100% grain free, this brand is super nutritional and uses lots of protein and carbs to meet your Morkie’s high energy needs. it is also recommended by many Morkie owners, and is definitely one of our favorites.

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They Say Potty training (or ‘housebreaking’) a Morkie can be challenging, due to it’s Maltese roots. Maltese puppies are not very good with learning to pee outside – And in some cases they never learn. However, that isn’t to say your experience has to be that way. Here we’ve come up with some important rules that can make training your Morkie easier.

1. Pick A Strategy

To avoid confusing your Morkie puppy, try to pick 1 method. Either train them to go outside, or inside (using training pads or indoor grass patches for example). Doing both may confuse your dog and interrupt the entire training process.

2. Pick A Spot

Try helping your puppy with picking one regular spot outside, that they can get used to. In all honesty, your puppy will probably end up determining that for the both of you.

3. Be Patient

Morkies can sometime take a while before they are comfortable to go. Be patient with your puppy and give it the time to get used to the process. In any case, don’t ever get mad at your Morkie or punish him. Positive reinforcement is a much more effective tool with a small dog.

Did You Know? Puppies can usually ‘hold it in’ about one hour per every month of their age. So if your puppy is 4 months old, it will be able to control his bladder for about 4 hours.

4. It’s Potty Time! Yay!

When your puppy finally goes, praise it with lots of kisses, verbal attention, and most importantly – treats. Morkies are very smart, and love your attention and treats, so give them a while to get used to this process, and soon enough they will only go potty at their spot, hoping to get some attention and treats from you.

Did You Know? Small puppies can leak some urine when they are small, especially when they get excited or nervous. This is normal and will go away with time.

5. Pick A Command

To get the most out of your potty training, try picking a command word / phrase that your Morkie will associate with the process, such as ‘Go Potty!’ or ‘Poo Poo Time’.

6. Stay Consistent

If you truly want your puppy to know right from wrong, you have to be consistent with them. Walk the puppy on regular times, and keep giving treats whenever they go. Once your Morkie is potty trained, it will let you know when it needs to go outside.

Extra Tip: When away from home – keep your Morkie puppy in a crate. Keeping the puppy in a crate will help avoiding accidents, as they won’t want to go potty in their sleeping area. Also, it will be easier to clean if they do.

7. Schedule, Schedule, Schedule

Just like human babies, puppies also need a regular schedule. Schedule your puppy’s feeding times, and avoid big snacks and other foods. Small dogs have a small stomach, and a little bit of munching can get in the way of your potty training.

Done!

Follow these steps and stay consistent, and your small puppy should be potty trained in no time! Morkies are very intelligent dogs, and once your Morkie gets the hang of it, he will let you know when he needs to go, by weeping, being restless, and if all fails to get you to notice them – barking. I hope this 7 step tutorial could help you learn how to potty train a Morkie fast and easy! Please leave a comment and tell us your personal experience with training yours, or leave more tips and comments below!

The post How To Potty Train A Morkie Puppy – In 7 Easy Steps! appeared first on The Morkie Guide.

So it isn’t uncommon, if a Morkie is accustomed to spending most of their time with their owner, they can develop separation anxiety.  Leaving your pet with a safe chew toy to keep them occupied in the owner’s absence can help prevent destructive behavior from occurring.  To prevent separation anxiety in Morkies there are different techniques owners can frequently practice in a Morkie’s youth. 

When Morkies are puppies, try to leave the house frequently for different lengths of time and leave them with something to play with or chew on.  Your pet will become more accustomed to your arrival and departure from the house, and they will begin to trust that you will return. Eventually, their behavior without their owners will develop into a mellow attitude that is less demanding for attention and entertainment. 

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