How to Train a Morkie: Tips from Dr. Georgie (Part 5)

Training a morkie is one of the most rewarding things you can do — and also, occasionally, one of the most humbling. These are intelligent dogs who are absolutely capable of learning. They just want to make sure training was their idea.

Dr. Georgie has been through the curriculum. Here’s what works.

Understanding the Morkie Mind

Before you start training, know who you’re working with:

• Smart: Morkies pick up new cues quickly — often within a few repetitions
• Treat-motivated: Food is their primary currency, which makes positive reinforcement highly effective
• Stubborn: If they don’t feel like it, they will stare at you with the blankness of someone who has never heard the word “sit”
• Sensitive: Harsh corrections shut them down — they do not respond well to frustration or raised voices

The approach that works best: short, positive, treat-heavy sessions that end on success. Keep it fun. Stay patient. Never, ever repeat a command 15 times in a row.

Essential Supplies for Training

• Small, high-value training treats — Zuke’s Mini Naturals are ideal
• A clicker (optional but powerful for marking the exact moment of correct behavior)
• A quiet space with minimal distractions for early sessions
• A treat pouch to keep rewards accessible without fumbling

Potty Training: The First (and Hardest) Battle

Morkies are famously difficult to potty train. Small bladder, stubborn streak, and the Yorkie tendency to think “outside is for other dogs” all conspire against you.

• Take them out constantly: After waking up, after eating, after playing, every 1–2 hours. No exceptions early on.
• Reward immediately: The moment they go outside, praise and treat within 2 seconds.
• Same spot, same command: Take them to the same place and say the same word every time.
• Never punish accidents: Rubbing their nose in it doesn’t work. Just clean it up with an enzymatic cleaner.

Expect potty training to take 4–6 months with consistent effort. Some morkies take longer.

Basic Commands: Start Here

Sit

Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then slowly move your hand up — their bottom will naturally lower as their head follows. The moment their rear hits the floor, say “sit,” give the treat, and celebrate.

Stay

Ask for a sit, then hold your palm out and say “stay.” Take one step back, pause, return, and reward. Gradually increase distance and duration.

Come

This is the most important command for safety. Say your dog’s name, then “come!” in an excited, happy voice. When they come to you, make it a celebration. Never call them to you for something unpleasant.

Leave It

Put a treat on the floor, cover it with your hand. When your dog stops trying to get it and looks at you instead, reward with a different treat. This command saves lives.

Managing the Stubborn Phase

• Keep sessions to 3–5 minutes max
• End every session on a success
• Increase treat value for harder behaviors
• Train before meals, not after

Socialization: Train Them to Be Citizens

Expose your morkie to as many people, dogs, sounds, and environments as possible before 16 weeks. Well-socialized morkies are less reactive, less anxious, and more adaptable.

Dr. Georgie’s Golden Rule

Training is communication. Your morkie isn’t being bad — they’re being a dog who hasn’t learned the human rulebook yet. Stay consistent, stay positive, and remember: the trained, confident, well-mannered morkie at the other end of this process is forever.

Dr. Georgie approves this message. He learned “sit” in two days and “stay” in… a while. Progress takes time.

Looking for some morkie joy? Read Georgie’s First Snow Day story →