Are you looking for a Teacup Yorkie puppy to add to your family?
Well, Teacup Yorkies are toy dogs that are loved by dog owners the world over! They are small in size, but big in personality.
These little dogs are also known by several other names, including Teacup Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Yorkshire Terrier, Mini Yorkie, Toy Yorkie, Tiny Yorkie and Micro Yorkie.
Bear in mind that Mini Yorkies are only smaller versions of the standard Yorkshire Terriers. This means they are not a separate and unique breed. Their temperament and personality traits are still the same as those of the Yorkshire terrier breed.
In this article, you’ll view pictures and find more information about the Teacup Yorkie dog!
So, without further ado, let’s get started, shall we?
Here we go!
Table of Contents
What Exactly Is a Teacup Yorkie?
The Teacup Yorkie is actually a smaller version of the standard Yorkshire terrier due to particular breeding practices. That’s it!
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), there’s no difference between a Teacup Yorkshire and the Yorkshire terrier. The AKC states that the Yorkie should weigh seven pounds at most.
Nonetheless, Teacup dogs have been developed to be smaller than usual and Mini Yorkies may weigh just two or three pounds at maturity.
Miniaturization: Dogs Are Getting Smaller
These days, more and more people are favoring small-sized dogs and the trend seems to be growing year after year.
Tiny dogs are extremely popular in America, Australia and other parts of the world today.
Many families now own a small-sized pet. They love their tinier sizes. For families that live in small spaces, owning a small-sized baby pet makes perfect sense.
Miniaturization makes a toy dog like the Yorkie even tinier. But why is the trend catching on?
Small dogs have several benefits. They are easier to handle, eat less, can travel with their owners virtually everywhere and are allowed in as guests in many more places than large or medium-sized breeds.
The miniaturization trend continues with bigger dogs being made smaller. In any case, this is how the majority of the toy dogs came about.
Standard Poodles were miniaturized to be Toy Poodles. Medium-sized breeds are becoming smaller with many breeders offering miniature versions of their favorite breeds.
The number of “designer dog” breeds keeps on increasing.
The aim is to get tiny or smaller companion dogs for individuals and families living in all kinds of environments. From the already small Yorkshire terrier to Teacup Yorkies that is even tinier, so tiny that these dogs can literally fit in someone’s handbag or pocket!
This has led to a phenomenon known as the “purse dog” or “handbag dog”!
But where did the Teacup Yorkie really come from? Let’s find out below:
The History of the Teacup Yorkie Breed
The Yorkshire terrier is the parent breed of the Miniature or Teacup Yorkie. The Yorkshire terrier was originally bred in England in the 19th century.
Scottish workers came to England in the mid-19th century in search of work opportunities and brought a number of small terrier dogs with them. These were bred together to produce the Yorkshire terrier.
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The modern Teacup Yorkie is quite different from the ancient Yorkshire terriers. The early dogs were naturally skilled at catching rats and vermin. In addition, they were commonly used to hunt foxes, hare and other wild animals.
Although the AKC has not yet recognized them (since the size of these dogs does not meet the breed standards), Teacup Yorkies and other Teacup dogs have become extremely popular in recent times.
The Physical Characteristics of a Teacup Yorkie
So what does a Teacup Yorkie look like? What is their standard size? And what does a Teacup Yorkshire Terrier weigh?
In this section, we provide answers to these questions and more.
General Appearance:
A Teacup Yorkshire terrier is normally a tan pup with a black saddle. However, these dogs can also come in colors such as black, blue or silver.
? White Teacup Yorkies are very rare because of the recessive white gene that results in the lighter coloring.
Teacup Yorkies have a long coat that stands straight on the dog’s back.
Teacup Yorkie Size & Weight
Full grown Yorkshire terriers have an average weight of around 5 to 7 pounds. However, there are tinier Yorkies that weigh slightly less.
Most Yorkie Terriers that take part in shows tend to weigh between 6 and 7 pounds.
? A dog that weighs 3 or 4 pounds is very small and should be handled with care. Such tiny dogs should not be carried by children and any interactions between them should be supervised by an adult.
Small kids can be rough and may unintentionally hurt small and fragile dogs like the Teacup Yorkie.
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Is the Teacup Yorkie Hypoallergenic?
Teacup Yorkies shed very little and are sometimes considered “hypoallergenic”. This makes them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
However, no breed of dog is completely hypoallergenic.
Since Teacup Yorkies shed less than other dog breeds, they are less likely to trigger allergic reactions that are common with other breeds.
Yorkshire terriers only shed when brushed or bathed, and therefore, they do not produce as much dander or dust that triggers the reaction.
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Teacup Yorkie Behavior & Temperament
In this section, we’ll talk about some of the important personality traits of the Miniature Yorkie aka the Teacup Yorkie.
This is one of the most important things a prospective dog owner should know as they help you determine whether or not this breed is compatible with your family and lifestyle.
So, what is the temperament of a Teacup Yorkie?
When it comes to the temperament and personality of the Teacup Yorkie dog, the old adage “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree” comes to mind. This means that there are similarities with the standard Yorkshire terrier.
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1. Teacup Yorkies Are Very Loving Dogs:
Just like the standard Yorkies, Teacup Yorkies are very lively and loving.
Although now widely used as companion dogs, Yorkshire terriers were originally developed as working dogs. Consequently, they enjoy being busy, whether it’s getting belly rubs or chasing balls.
Despite their petite size, Teacup Yorkshire terriers are known for their huge hearts and charming personalities. They are loving dogs and they enjoy cuddling on their owner’s lap, making them true lapdogs.
ALSO READ: All About The Yorkie Pomeranian Mix (Yoranian)
2. They Are Extremely Social:
These tiny Yorkies are incredibly social and enjoy the company of their family. Generally speaking, they like people, but they can also be protective. They need to be socialized with new people so they can get along well with them.
They are also calm and even tempered dogs. However, due to their small size and delicate nature, Teacup Yorkies should be kept away from small kids who can unintentionally hurt them.
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3. They Are Intelligent:
Teacup Yorkies are far from being dumb creatures!
They are little, intelligent fur balls who tend to pick up new things rather quickly. This trait makes them easy to train.
However, they can also be willful. Housetraining them can be a challenge, but with consistency, these dogs can be successfully trained.
4. They’re Loyal to Their Family:
Although miniature Yorkies come in such a tiny package, they are very loyal to their family and owner. Teacup Yorkies will do everything in their power to please and protect their owner.
5. Behavior with Kids:
Teacup Yorkies do not do well with small kids. Therefore, these dogs are best suited to families with adults or older children who can offer good care to these adorable little guys.
Yorkies are very fragile dogs and can be easily injured. They have delicate bones and are so small that they are prone to serious and even fatal injuries.
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Reputable Yorkie breeders do not recommend these dogs for homes with young kids. Small children should not carry or hold your Mini Yorkie puppy.
? You also need to take great care while playing with your pup. Never play with him on a table, couch or any other elevated surface since even a slight drop can cause serious and potentially fatal conditions for your delicate dog.
Moreover, their tiny size and delicate nature implies that they will find it hard to climb stairs. Therefore, houses are a no-no for these little dogs to avoid unwanted accidents.
6. Behavior with Other Pets:
Teacup Yorkies do not get along well with other pets either. Even the tiniest Teacup Yorkies tend to assume that they are the largest dog in the house.
They are wary of strangers and tend to be aggressive toward cats and other dogs they consider to be a threat.
Keep an eye on your Mini Yorkshire terrier pup when he’s near strange animals to ensure his huge ego doesn’t lead to a serious injury.
7. Barking Behavior:
Yorkshire terriers, in general, tend to bark a lot – perhaps trying to make their presence known to anything or anyone they don’t like.
These tiny Yorkshire terriers are also very territorial and protective. They are very alert and determined, barking at anything and everything, from the mailman to guests in the home to cars passing on a street nearby.
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Excessive barkers can be a nightmare for your neighbors! Fortunately, you can control the barking tendency with proper training and socialization from a young age. Exercising your dog and providing him with appropriate chew toys can also help stop the barking issue before it gets out of hand.
Like other small dog breeds, the Toy Yorkie or Teacup Yorkie is prone to develop small dog syndrome. These pups can be anxious, sometimes barking at everything. Fortunately, this is a behavioral issue and with proper and consistent training, this behavior can be corrected.
The tiny size of the Miniature Yorkshire terrier can make him a very nervous dog. Socialization can also help combat this issue, but remember to train your dog at a gradual and consistent pace.
LEARN ABOUT IT: 13 Common Dog Training Mistakes You Ought to Avoid
Teacup Yorkie Training
If you’re considering owning a Teacup Yorkie, you should be prepared for challenges when it comes to housetraining. If you’re easily frustrated, the Yorkie might not be the dog for you.
Teacup Yorkies are among the most difficult dog breeds to housebreak. As with other small dog breeds, they are determined and stubborn at times. However, if you are committed to positive, firm and consistent training, then everything should finally fall into place.
Apart from housetraining, other aspects of dog training should be easy. This is because these dogs were originally bred as working dogs and have a natural desire to please.
They are also fun-loving and reward-oriented dogs. Add this to their natural intelligence, and you have an easily trainable dog.
As always, be patient with your Yorkie and use plenty of positive reinforcements, such as treats, praises and play, to get them interested.
Socialization will also be necessary for your Yorkshire terrier. Start socializing your dog when he is still young. This process will make your dog friendlier to people and make him more confident.
Take him to new places where there are a lot of people and things to do so that he gets used to different people and sights.
Positive reinforcement training and early socialization will allow your Teacup Yorkshire terrier puppy to grow into an obedient, confident and well-disciplined dog.
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Exercise Needs
Due to their petite size, Teacup Yorkies have minimal exercise demands.
Their delicate body requires no more than 20 minutes of physical activity per day. While this should normally be a walk, Mini Yorkie exercise needs are so minimal that this can be replaced with play at times.
When taking your dog out on walks, make sure to use a harness instead of a collar. Too much force on their delicate throat can result in a collapsed trachea.
Thankfully, the term “collapsed trachea” is not as frightening as it sounds. A collapsed trachea will normally result in chronic coughing. Other symptoms may include trouble exercising, breathing problems and passing out.
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Pulling on leash may lead to more pressure on the throat, causing permanent damage. This problem is prevalent in Teacup dogs and other smaller breeds.
? Teacup Yorkies are also delicate in nature and therefore, any kind of rough play or manhandling should be avoided with these tiny handbag pups.
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Grooming Requirements
The Teacup Yorkie has a long coat that requires proper maintenance. The standard Yorkie coat requires proper brushing each day to prevent the hair from knotting.
To maintain their coat in tiptop condition, you can apply small quantities of coconut oil occasionally, as is common with this breed.
Otherwise, you can get your dog’s coat clipped by a professional groomer to make your pet much easier to maintain. The clipped coat will require grooming every few days.
Due to their long, straight hair, Mini Yorkies can experience problems seeing if the hair ends up covering the eyes. Therefore, you may want to have their hair trimmed by your groomer.
? If your puppy is between four to eight weeks old, avoid bathing him. Instead, be sure to use a damp towel or baby wipes to keep him clean and fresh.
For older pups, you can wash them with pet-friendly shampoo when they get particularly dirty. After washing your dog, make sure to dry him properly. This is important since these pups tend to get cold very fast. This can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for your dog.
Ear cleaning and nail clipping should be done periodically by a professional dog groomer. Don’t try to do this if you are in doubt.
Moreover, brush your Mini Yorkie’s teeth each day. These dogs are vulnerable to periodontal disease – which is a painful condition and an expensive one to treat.
Yorkie terrier puppies normally keep their milk teeth, which normally emerge when they are around five months of age. If your puppy doesn’t lose a baby tooth before the adult tooth comes out, consult your vet.
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Feeding Information
Your Teacup Yorkie will be so small that he will only need to eat a very small amount of food each day. These pups needs no more than one cup of high quality dog food each day. This should also be divided into 4 to 5 smaller meals.
Buy a brand of dog food that has been specifically formulated for smaller breeds, as it will be smaller and appropriately sized for their small mouths.
Always check the product label and make sure you’re buying a high quality, grain-free dog food.
Yorkies have sensitive stomachs, so it makes perfect sense to cautiously watch over their diet.
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? These dogs should hardly skip their meals. If you think their appetite is low, that may be a sign of an ailment and a vet must be consulted.
Additionally, changing your dog’s diet all of a sudden is not recommended, as it can cause diarrhea and stomach upsets.
Again, if your Teacup Yorkie refuses to eat, consult your vet. Dogs so small are prone to low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). This condition can occur if they don’t get sufficient calories or if their stress levels are too high. So beware!
ALSO READ: The 10 Most Dangerous Human Foods for Dogs
Teacup Yorkie Life Expectancy
The average lifespan of the standard Yorkshire terrier is around 12 to 15 years.
However, due to their much smaller size and vulnerability to various health problems associated with the bred, Teacup Yorkies tend to have a shorter lifespan, which is between 9 and 12 years.
Of course, this lifespan can be prolonged by feeding them a balanced diet and engaging them in proper exercises. Giving good care and attending to all of their health issues can also help increase the lifespan of your pet.
Teacup Yorkie Health Problems
Sadly, these dogs are prone to different health problems, so you need to do your homework beforehand. The faster you can recognize the signs and symptoms of these conditions, the better.
Common health issues among Teacup Yorkies include hypoglycemia, dental problems, collapsed trachea, Patellar Luxation, progressive retinal atrophy and Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease.
Therefore, do your research and familiarize yourself with the specific symptoms of each of these conditions so you can identify them immediately they occur.
Moreover, buy your Teacup Yorkie puppy from a trusted breeder so that your pup will be free from any of these conditions. When choosing your puppy, make sure they his parents are purebreds.
How Much Is A Teacup Yorkie?
Teacup Yorkies are quite expensive since their demand is quite high.
You can get one of these puppies for around $1000 to $2,000. And that’s even before you factor in the vet bills.
However, Teacup Yorkies do sell quite fast and there are a number of factors that determine their price. This includes the cost of purebred Yorkies, health certifications, location, and the reputation of the breeder in question.
Some “Teacup versions” of these dogs come from unscrupulous breeders and have a hefty price tag. So, we recommend that you go through reputable and trusted breeders only.
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Finding a Healthy Teacup Yorkie Puppy
Again, if you have your heart set on owning a Teacup Yorkie, do your research first and find responsible breeders.
Sadly, due to their designer dog tag, Teacup Yorkies has made their way into pet stores and the puppy mill market.
Their tiny size and cute looks along with their higher price tag have made them a favorite for puppy mills and backyard breeders.
? When trying to find a Teacup Yorkie for sale, avoid replying to ads on sites like Facebook, GumTree or Craigslist.
Breeding a Teacup Yorkie requires two small Yorkie terriers, which are bred together with the aim of producing smaller Yorkie puppies.
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Therefore, when looking for a breeder, you should work with ethical breeders only. Speaking to friends, relatives and colleagues who already own Teacup Yorkies and getting reliable recommendations is recommended.
Be sure to visit the breeder’s premises and ask to see the health clearances for both parent dogs. Ideally, you should also see the mother together with the Teacup Yorkie puppies to ensure they look healthy and are of good temperament.
Alternatively, you may want to rescue a Teacup Yorkie. There are numerous trusted rescues or shelters across the country and who knows, you may be lucky enough to find a Teacup Yorkshire terrier puppy or adult dog listed for adoption.
ALSO READ: All About the Chorkie (Chihuahua Yorkie mix)
Conclusion
Teacup Yorkies are tiny and adorable little bundles of fun and fur. These toy dogs may be small in size, but they are big in personality. They are loving, loyal, intelligent, and friendly dogs.
Due to their small size, however, these pups are best suited to families without small children who can hurt them, albeit unintentionally!
Good luck in finding the puppy of your dreams!