You may be surprised to know that there really is no such official term called Teacup Puppy, even though puppy buyers who want a smaller than normal puppy would argue otherwise. The term teacup puppy” is usually an advertising gimmick to try and sell smaller than standard size puppies. It is not a term endorsed by any major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club or its individual parent clubs.
Description
Any breed can be dwarfed down and many of today’s breeds have been breed over generations to reduce size for a specific reason. Many of the breeds we know today were once much larger, but through rigorous breeding practices, the size of the dog was slowly reduced, and as long as sound breeding practices are undertaken, this can be a safe process. One good example of this is the Yorkshire Terrier, once a breed used to hunt and kill vermin, now they are almost exclusively bred to be companions.
But when breeders who are uninformed pair two runts together and produce a litter of smaller puppies, this is not necessarily best practice. These breeders are making breeding decisions based solely on size without regard to other factors that should be taken into consideration, such as the health of the parents. When these breeders advertise teacup puppies and charge twice what others are charging, this should raise a red flag in any puppy buyer’s mind.
Features of Teacup Puppy Price
Because of teacup puppies unnaturally miniature sizing, they often face a host of health issues. Their tiny tummies often are faced with tremendous digestive issues, resulting in the need to be fed small amounts, multiple times a day. Teacup dogs’ tiny bladders mean accidents are virtually unavoidable be prepared to purchase indoor potty matts that will be essential long past puppyhood. Teacup dogs also often develop heart issues, respiratory problems, and seizures. They don’t live nearly as long as standard dogs. Since teacup dogs face so many health issues, taking preventive measures is essential, so you’ll be visiting the vet much more often (and paying much more) than you would with a regular dog.
It gets worse because teacup dogs are so tiny, it’s not uncommon for them to be accidentally killed by owners. A small drop or fall can fatally injure these frail canines. Teacup dogs don’t know their tiny, so they will jump up on couches, and walk right underfoot with no warning. There are few experiences as traumatic as accidentally crushing a beloved pet.
Most Popular Teacup Dog Breeds
If you are looking to get a teacup dog, these are the most popular breeds you’ll come across. Several more exist.
- Chihuahua
- Maltese
- Pomeranian
- Poodle
- Pug
- Shih-Tzu
- Silky Terrier
- Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
- Beagle
- Dachshund
- Cavalier
- Pekingese
- Maltipoo
- Pomsky
- French Bulldog
- Morkie
- Russian Toy
- Brussels Griffon
- Japanese Chin
Specification
Unofficially, a teacup dog is a dog that is at least a year old and measures at 17 inches or less. They generally weigh 4 pounds or less at maturity. However, there is no one mandatory size since teacup dogs are not a regulated or official breed.
Prices of Teacup Puppy
$300 – $700