Teacup dogs are bred to be as small as possible. They’ve become popular pets and their weight can range from two to five pounds.
Types of teacup dogs
Teacup dogs have become popular and are known for their adorably small size. They’re also known as toy dogs, miniature, or micro dogs.
The following are common teacup breeds:
- Pomeranian.
- Chihuahua.
- Yorkshire Terrier.
- Pomsky.
- Cavoodle.
- Morkie.
- Maltipoo.
- Poodle.
- Beagle.
- Maltese.
- Pug.
- Shih Tzu.
How they’re bred
When it comes to breeding teacup dogs, there are a lot of controversies. Often, a teacup dog is underdeveloped.
Since the goal is to get them to be as small as possible, breeders may do so at any cost. Some of the methods are unethical and terrible.
Common techniques include inbreeding runts to try to produce a litter of small dogs. It’s risky because it can lead to genetic disorders.
Underdevelopment is another method. Breeders may purposely malnourish puppies to stunt their growth, which can lead to major health issues.
Knowing this, be sure to do your research and find an ethical breeder. It’s possible to find breeders that have a litter with smaller puppies that are still healthy.
Size
There isn’t an official description or size for teacup dogs. However, they’re around two to five pounds and measure 15 inches or less at maturity.
Health risks
Since teacup dogs are so small, they’re more susceptible to breaking or fracturing their bones. The skeletal system is smaller and frailer.
They also have small stomachs and bladders, which means they need to be fed in small amounts and will need to potty several times per hour.
Being so tiny, you have to be careful not to step or sit on them. Dropping them can also severely injure them.
They may also experience respiratory, heart, and nervous system issues.
Price
With the right knowledge, research, and finding an ethical breeder, you can find a healthy teacup dog. Expect to spend between $700 and $2,000 for a teacup dog.
If you don’t do your research, you may end up spending a lot of money visiting the veterinarian because of an unhealthy teacup dog.
Additional resources:
Featured image courtesy of Canva.
About David Em
Founder
David Em is the founder of Nola & Luna Pets, a leading resource for everything you need to know about pets and adorable pet accessories.
