Bigger may be better, but smaller is cuter! These teacup dog breeds are all the proof we need.
Dog owners have become increasingly infatuated with small dog breeds, but teacup pups take the cake. These tiny dogs can go practically anywhere with their owners, because most of them weigh under five pounds. Since they're so portable, they can be carried in a purse, stroller, or backpack. And don't even get us started on the clothing options for these pint-sized pups. Their owners can turn them into their very own four-legged dress-up dogs with shirts, coats, hats, glasses, and scarfs. It doesn't get much cuter than that!
So, we already know they're adorable—but what exactly is a teacup dog breed? The term "teacup dogs" refers to miniature versions of some of the smallest dog breeds. Teacups have been specifically bred to stay as small as possible, which can sometimes lead to health problems. Some issues to look out for in these micro dogs are respiratory problems, hypoglycemia, liver shunts, and low blood sugar. The lifespan of these popular dogs can vary: Teacup pups like chihuahuas can live anywhere from 12 to 20 years, while others like toy poodles typically live 12 to 15 years.
Check out some of the most popular teacup dog breeds below!
10 Popular Teacup Dog Breeds
1. Teacup Pomsky
Teacup Pomskies are a crossbreed between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky. This mixed designer breed is gaining popularity with dog lovers as breeders continue to fine-tune to achieve the perfect look - a Husky but smaller in size, like a lap dog!
2. Teacup Chihuahua
The chihuahua's origins are ancient, specifically in Mexico. It was the pet of the ancient Toltecs and later the food source (gasp!) of the Aztecs. The Chihuahua is known as the smallest breed by some organizations.
3. Teacup Yorkie
The Yorkshire Terrier breed's original purpose was to catch rats! Bred during the 19th century these furry fellows earned their keep by keeping rodents at bay in Yorkshire, England - they were later recognized as a companion pet.
4. Teacup Poodle
Originally bred in Germany, the teacup poodle was popularized in France and pampered by the French nobility, especially by the Sun King Louis XVI.
5. Teacup Maltese
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According to the American Kennel Club's standards, a regular Maltese should be expected to weigh under seven pounds. Teacups weigh significantly less and are expected to weigh somewhere in between two to four pounds generally!
6. Teacup Pomeranian
The cute little pups are not an official dog breed, but rather a tiny version of the already small Pomeranian dog breed. These tiny Pomeranians usually weigh between three and seven pounds. The little fluff balls look like tiny little Teddy bears and they are one of the dog breeds that like to snuggle!
7. Teacup Shih Tzu
Oftentimes, when a breeder breeds for dogs on the lower end of the weight scale (closer to the nine-pound weight), they will use the term Imperial or teacup Shih Tzu. Shih Tzus are prone to health issues, so do your research on the breeder and their health screening practices before getting a pup.
8. Teacup Maltipoos
The teacup Maltipoo (or the teacup Maltese Poodle mix) is in high demand because of how adorable it is. This is a cross of a Poodle and teacup Maltese.
9. Teacup Beagle
Elizabeth I kept packs of "Pocket Beagles" (teacup Beagles) who stood only nine inches tall. These small dogs were depicted in paintings as short-legged and pointy-nosed. This breed quickly lost their popularity as they weren't very fast chasing foxes.
10. Teacup Pug
Teacup Pugs are just tiny pugs- compact, muscular dogs with square features. They have a heavily wrinkled face with a black, snub-nosed snout. These dogs have an even temperament and are very friendly in nature.
For some dog lovers, teacup dogs are the best dogs. There are so many breed variations that go far beyond our list of ten. Other small breeds that can be considered teacup include the Brussels Griffon, Fox Terrier, Boston Terrier, the Morkie, French Bulldog, and Japanese Chin. These tiny dogs are, in some circles, considered to be toy dog breeds.
Teacup breeds are especially famous on Instagram in case you were hoping to jump on that bandwagon. Finding a reputable breeder goes a long way if you're considering living with a healthy teacup breed, so dog owners should do their research when looking for puppies.
Do you live with a teacup breed? Show us over on our Wide Open Pets Facebook page.
