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Teacup Dog Breeds

In recent years, teacup dogs have become more popular and are often seen with celebrity parents all over social media. Teacup dogs, also known as pocket dogs, micro dogs, and small dogs, are a significantly small breed. Teacup puppies are incredibly appealing and cute; however, there are various misconceptions about the teacup dogs breeds. With a weight range of 2-5 pounds, these tiny pups are prone to various health conditions, such as immune and skeletal system problems. If you’re considering getting a teacup puppy, it is crucial to do your research, as several teacup dog breeds are available today. 

Some breeders frequently breed tiny and unhealthy puppies, so knowing more about the teacup dog breeds will help you select the right teacup dog instead of getting a sick pet into your home. Today, in this blog, I’ve gathered some of the world’s most popular teacup dog breeds. From cute Teacup shih Tzu to active Pomsky Teacup puppies, the list has a Teacup dog for everyone! So, let’s explore the teacup small fluffy dogs. 

What is a Teacup Dog?

As the name suggests, the term “teacup” depicts a smaller-than-average dog size; this term is flashy and attractive when people read it in ads and social media feeds, including cute and adorable puppies that comfortably fit into a coffee cup.

Teacup puppies are a small version of a popular small dog breed. For example, the American Kennel Club sets the general weight for a Maltese at 7 pounds or less. A teacup version will weigh less and be smaller than acceptable. Teacup dogs are accessible in various breeds and bloodlines. Any dog breed can have a teacup version in its litter. Their size and weight are the definitions of teacup dogs. The average weight for these dogs is no more than 5 pounds, and they stand less than 17 inches in adulthood.

Their measurement and size are not standardized, yet they are so small that they can easily fit inside a teacup or teapot, which gave birth to the name teacup dog. Apart from this common name, this breed is also known as a pocket dog or micro dog. There are various breeds with the teacup version; some popular ones are Chihuahua, Teacup Yorkie, and Maltese.

Here is the list of teacup dog breeds

1. Teacup Shih Tzu

Teacup Shih Tzu

Teacup Shih Tzu Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 9 pounds

Height: Under 9 inches

Coat: Long, flowing coat

Coat Color: Black, blue, gold, silver, and more

Life Span: 10 to 16 years

Shih Tzu is one of the most popular and loved breeds on the planet. These little, cute canines weigh only 9 and 16 pounds and weigh under 11 inches. Interestingly, the teacup Shih Tzu is even smaller (imagine holding one in your hand). These tiny fluff balls can spellbind anyone, from their fluffy fur to their adorable eyes! This is why they’re also known as “the cutest dog alive.”

This teacup dog breed is the result of crossbreeding two Tibetan breeds, the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. Due to their small size, this teacup dog needs regular grooming, constant care, and attention. This is why they pay extra attention when they are around children and other pets, as they can harm them unintentionally. Also, these canines also suffer from separation anxiety, so you can’t leave for long hours alone, as these teacup dogs become instantly anxious. 

2. Teacup Maltese

Teacup Maltese

Teacup Maltese Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 7 pounds

Height: Under 7 inches

Coat: Silky, single-layer

Coat Color: White, white with tan markings

Life Span: 12 to 15 years

This dog breed is among the oldest known breeds, dating back to nearly 3000 years ago; back then, people considered these dogs’ royalty. The standard size of this teacup maltese dog is already small; for this reason, teacups are smaller than the standard size. Their low energy and small size make them an ideal choice for people who want to have a fur baby always ready for cuddles.

Teacup Maltese’s small size makes them highly fragile, and they can easily become nervous. These cute canines need some time to open up with new people or pets, so make sure they’re in their familiar environment. On the other hand, they have a natural temperament that is suitable for quick learning. Although they get excited around their owners, still be careful around them, as you may trample on them. Likewise, stairs are also not suitable for these tiny puppies and are suited for flats and bungalows (single-story homes). It is essential to watch over them when they are with kids and teach them how to handle small dogs if you want to prevent accidents.

3. Teacup Pomeranian

Teacup Pomeranian

Teacup Pomeranian Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 7 pounds

Height: Under 7 inches

Coat: Fluffy double coat

Coat Color: Black, chocolate, orange, and more

Life Span: 12 years (teacup); up to 16 years (toy)

This may need anti-bark training; Teacup pomeranian dogs are alert and curious about the world around them. While they are among the most popular teacup dog breeds, they won’t hesitate to tell you when something is wrong.

Teacup Pomeranians are lower in energy and playfulness than the standard dog, so they will do their best in a more laid-back household; as with all teacup dog breeds, it is best if these puppies are in a home with only adults and older children. They are great purse dogs due to their calmness and are often popular as the best breeds for women.

4. Teacup Yorkie

Teacup Yorkie

Teacup Yorkie Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 6 pounds

Height: Under 10 inches

Coat: Curly, dense coat

Coat Color: White, apricot, and black

Life Span: 8 to 15 years

Today, the Teacup Yorkie is considered one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. It is a brave and confident dog with a lot of personality. Overall, these canines are caring, loving, and adaptable; however, they’re not fond of children and other animals. 

The best thing about Teacup Yorkies is that they can live in almost any situation, such as in a city or country, in apartments, or even in houses with no yard. Yorkshire terriers are an active breed that demands a lot of play and exercise. They also need training to bark less. Therefore, if you want this dog, you should dedicate yourself to getting it. 

5. Pomsky Teacups

Pomsky Teacups

Pomsky Teacups Dog Breed Overview

Breed Group: Not an AKC-recognized breed

Weight: Up to 9 pounds

Height: Up to 10 inches

Coat: Fluffy, double coat

Coat Color: White, silver, black, and more

Life Span: 10 to 15 years

As the name suggests, the Pomsky is a hybrid between a Siberian husky and a Pomeranian. Pomskies differ in size depending on how many breeds they have in them. This combination tends to have a high energy level, so be ready for lots of play and walking.

6. Teacup Poodle

Teacup Poodle

Teacup Poodle Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 6 pounds

Height: Under 10 inches

Coat: Curly, dense coat

Coat Color: White, apricot, and black

Life Span: 8 to 15 years

Teacup Poodles are an intelligent, friendly, and active breed; they are great as family dogs. Also, these canines are suited for people with allergies as they have hypoallergenic coats.

These dogs have a fascinating history, from being hunting companions in Germany to being pampered by the French nobility and becoming popular in Spain. Today, these breeds have become favorite pets, and they come in standard, toy, and miniature sizes. The teacup version of these breeds is even smaller than the miniature size. They all have dark, stocky, and oval eyes, and they express intelligence and alertness.

Their fur is their major characteristic; it is dense, low-shedding, curly, and hypoallergenic. They may need minimum maintenance but require frequent grooming to keep them looking good. This breed is prone to health complications such as gastric torsion, cataracts, and epilepsy. They are best for families with older children and those living in apartments. Naturally, these are energetic, friendly, and highly trainable. Thus, people find them attractive.

7. Teacup Pug

Teacup Pug

Teacup Pug Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 14 pounds

Height: Under 10 inches

Coat: Short, smooth coat

Coat Color: Black and fawn

Life Span: 6 to 10 years (teacup); 13 to 15 years (toy)

Another great teacup dog breed are pugs, which are well known for their prominent features. They are playful, passionate, sometimes ridiculous, cheerful, and always peaceful. Many dog lovers wish to have a pug dog because they are adorable and affectionate.

Over the years, the cup dog version’s popularity has reached pug lovers, increasing their interest in having these little doggies in pocket sizes. There are pugs that are smaller than their regular-sized counterparts. They have short legs and could possibly be runts in a litter. The teacup pug is a cross between a pug and a teacup version of Chihuahua. They are also known as chugs or pughuahuas. These dogs remain lovable and adorable despite their dwarfism and seemingly inferior qualities. They are suitable apartment dwellers as they do not need much exercise. While they are stubborn, you can easily train them with the help of positive treats as rewards.

8. Teacup Bichon Frise 

Teacup Bichon Frise 

Teacup Bichon Frise Dog Overview

Breed Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)

Weight: Under 12 pounds

Height: Under 10 inches

Coat: soft, dense coat

Coat Color: White and apricot, and white and cream

Life Span: 12 to 15 years

Known for their playful and adaptable nature, bichon frise canines are great teacup dogs. Most commonly found in white, these dogs have an attractive appearance and personality. They have a double coat, which is so soft and fluffy that it can make anybody want to snuggle them immediately. 

These canines behave well with strangers, pets, and kids, making them excellent options as family pets. However, you have to remember one thing: these canines have separation anxiety, so don’t leave for extended hours. In such situations, they can start chewing random things or become aggressive. Also, Bichon Frise does need high maintenance and grooming requirements.  

9. Beagle Teacup

Beagle Teacup

Beagle Teacup Dog Overview

Breed Group: Hound (AKC)

Weight: Under 20 pounds

Height: Under 15 inches

Coat: Short coat

Coat Color: Black and tan, brown and white, and more

Life Span: 12 to 15 years

Beagle dogs are one of the breeds that are liked and praised by everyone—literally everyone. The Beagle Teacup is a smaller version of the same breed. These days, you can find two varieties of beagle: the first is under 13 inches and under 20 pounds, and the second is between 20 and 30 pounds in weight. 

Remember, these teacup dogs are pack dogs; if they howl or bark excessively, they’re missing their family. These canines also have short coats, which require low maintenance and grooming.  

10. French bulldog teacup

French bulldog teacup

French bulldog teacup

Breed Group: Non-Sporting Group

Weight: Under 30 pounds

Height: Under 13 inches

Coat: Short, smooth, and double-coated

Coat Color: Brindle, fawn, brindle and fawn, cream, piebald, and others

Life Span: 10-14 years

You can instantly recognize this breed by their wrinkled mug, comical bat ears, and small size. The standard French bulldog is already smaller, but the teacup version is even smaller. With its bat-like ears and compact build, the French Bulldog has become a fashionable teacup choice. They’re known for their easy going temperament and affectionate nature. Even though these small canines are not athletes, they still need regular exercise and training to gain physical strength and mental stimulation. Another great thing about this teacup dog is that they’re apartment friendly and can live comfortably indoors. 

11. Teacup Chihuahua

Teacup Chihuahua

Teacup Chihuahua Dog Overview

Breed Group: Toy (AKC)

Weight: Under 6 pounds

Height: Under 5 inches

Coat: Smooth or long coat

Coat Color: Black, tan, and more

Life Span: 15 to 20 years

Get a dog who is full of energy and enthusiasm to make your boring life exciting. We’re talking about the most talked about teacup dogs, Chihuahuas! You might have seen them in various movies, series, TV shows, or celebrities carrying them around.  

Overall, the Chihuahuas are affectionate and loving dogs. However, sometimes they have a different temperament, which means one moment they’re calm, and in another, they’re barking like they can bite anyone! This is why controlling their behavior with proper training and socialization is important. 

Final Thoughts

Teacup dogs may be small in size, but their personalities, loyalty, and charm are anything but diminutive. Choosing the right teacup breed involves considering factors like temperament, energy level, and grooming needs. Whether you’re drawn to the regal charm of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or the spunky energy of a Pomeranian, teacup dogs offer a diverse range of options for those seeking a compact canine companion. Embrace the enchanting world of teacup dogs and discover the joy these petite breeds bring to the lives of their fortunate owners.

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