Some dogs guard. Some dogs herd sheep. And some were practically made to ride in a tote bag, cuddle up in a lap, and make strangers stop mid-walk and go “aww.” We are talking about teacup dog breeds. Those unbelievably tiny and fluffy puppies that look more like plush toys than living creatures.
They are the smallest version of some of your favorite toy breeds. And they are bred to be significantly smaller than even the already small size standard. But before you go googling “teacup puppies for sale” (don’t lie, we know you were thinking it), let us first break down the charm of these dogs.
Let us first break down the charm, quirks, and reality of these adorably miniature pups. We have compiled ten teacup dog breeds packed with big personalities inside a teeny-tiny frame.
Teacup Dog Breeds
1. Brussels Griffon
This pint-sized pup has the face of a grumpy old man, and we mean that in the most affectionate way possible.
Special Traits:
Big expressive eyes, scruffy beard, and mustache
Can be surprisingly clingy and sensitive about their feelings
Confident and almost human-like personality, PetMD says
According to the AKC, these Griffons weigh between eight to ten pounds, so on the AKC’s scale, they don’t have an official label for being a “teacup breed”.
But some breeding practices offer teacup versions of Brussels Griffons that are smaller than the typical 8-10 lbs. standard. These tiny dogs have comically expressive faces and Velcro dog behaviors, and that makes these small dogs unforgettable doggies to be with.
2. Chihuahua
We have to be honest here. If teacup dogs had a poster child, it would be the teacup Chihuahuas. Miracle Milly is the Guinness World Record‘s smallest ever Chihuahua. She weighed only a pound, or even less than that.
Special Traits:
Fierce loyalty packed in a 3-5 lb body
Sassy, alert, and full of opinions
Loves curling up under blankets (or inside your hoodie)
Teacup Chihuahuas are not a separate breed. Just a significantly smaller version of the standard. But that tiny size does not mean less bark.
These small dog breeds think they are big dogs, and they will try to protect you with all their might, even if it means squaring up to a German Shepherd.
3. Dachshund
Long, low, and ready to go. The Dachshund, a teacup dog, is a treat for the eyes. It is the same sausage-shaped wonder with expressive eyes, but in a much smaller snack-size pack.
Special Traits:
Loyal to a fault
Hilariously stubborn dog
Perfect for small space living
Teacup Dachshunds often weigh around 11 pounds or less. They need to be kept on leash when outside because their high prey drive cannot make them sit still. They need gentle handling due to their fragile bones and long backs.
But their brave hearts and silly charm make them irresistible to pet owners who love a dog with attitude, soul, and those big, pretty eyes.
4. Maltese
Snow-white silky coat. Big black button eyes. And a heart full of love. That’s the teacup Maltese in a nutshell for the small white dog lovers.
Special Traits:
Hypoallergenic and low shedding
Sweet, playful, and loves being held
Looks like a walking cloud
Their weight is always under seven pounds, and they are incredibly gentle. They crave human beings, human connection, and can become anxious when left alone. This trait makes them the #1 small dog for retirees or folks who work from home.
But be warned, their dainty size means even daily exercise needs to be light and careful.
5. Papillon
Those butterfly eyes. That alert little face. The teacup Papillon looks like a tiny woodland fairy disguised as a dog. We wonder if that’s the case. Because these teacup dogs are too adorable to be real.
Special Traits:
Extremely intelligent and eager to learn
Surprisingly athletic for their size
Loves to perform and entertain
They may be one of the smartest breeds in the dog world. But the teacup version of the Papillon still needs proper training and good socialization to avoid nervous behavior. These tiny dogs are people-focused and tend to form deep bonds with their owners.
6. Pekingese
This royal breed once lived in palaces. And let’s be real, teacup Pekingese still expect palace treatment because they still carry themselves with that royal outlook. They weigh between 3 to 6 pounds.
Special Traits:
Regal appearance with a “don’t mess with me” vibe
A devoted and extremely affectionate dog for the family
Great lap dogs with a stubborn streak
Their small size does not mean they lack presence. If anything, their quiet dignity makes them feel like little emperors. But be mindful of breathing issues in teacup versions due to their flat faces and tiny airways. These teacup dogs are prone to brachycephalic syndrome.
7. Pomeranian
This fluffy is a relative of the Husky. And equally cute. The teacup Pomeranian is basically what happens when a puffball gains consciousness and sass.
Special Traits:
Outgoing and full of energy
Needs mental stimulation to avoid yappy behavior
Major cuddle potential breed with a silky coat
Teacup Pomeranians are social butterflies, but they can also develop separation anxiety if left alone too long. And yes, vet bills for these teacup dogs can stack up due to potential health problems like hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, as noted by WebMD.
So, be sure to work with responsible breeders to get one of the teacup puppy breeds.
8. Pug
Imagine a Pug. Now shrink it. And now you have a teacup Pug. The same squishy face. Just more portable. And cute. And wonderful. Just 3-8 pounds in weight.
Special Traits:
Loves attention and belly rubs
Gets along well with kids and other pets
Goofy, lovable, and always down to nap
Teacup Pugs are not officially recognized by major kennel clubs due to their health concerns linked to their tiny size. They can suffer from respiratory problems, liver shunts, and joint issues when unscrupulous breeders prioritize size over the health of this small dog.
If you are in love with this breed, these teacup dogs look for transparency and good breeding practices for toy dogs, avoiding puppy mills.
9. Shih Tzu
A dog with a name that sounds like sneezing and a heart as soft as its fur. This breed standard size is already very small. And then comes the teacup Shih Tzu.
Special Traits:
Calm and affectionate
Great with other animals and kids
Big personalities in small packages
Teacup Shih Tzu (or “teacup Shih”, as some say) are about as sweet as dogs come. Their gentle temperament makes them loving companions for seniors or families.
But remember, this is one of those teacup dogs that is prone to poor health issues if bred through unethical breeding practices.
10. Yorkshire Terrier
The teacup Yorkie is the Diva of the teacup dogs community. Fashionable, photogenic, and ready to rule your Instagram. AKC describes their coat as the crowning glory of a floor-length silky coat of steel blue and a rich golden tan.
Special Traits:
Iconic silky coats and short legs
Feisty but affectionate
Often seen in teacup-sized purses
Teacup Yorkies or teacup Terriers can be tiny drama queens with a small stature, but they love their humans fiercely. These teacup dogs are great for apartment life, but they do need proper training to avoid becoming overprotective. Also, they tend to act like they are 80 lbs, not 4.
Conclusion
Teacup dogs are adorable. But listen to the truth: owning one does not mean cute sweaters and strollers. Many of these teacup dogs, including teacup Frenchies and teacup Bichons, are the result of selective breeding.
Unethical breeders have unrealistic goals about their size, which can lead to poor health problems and heartbreaking complications because they are not a large dog. As a potential owner, your job is to ask questions. Lots of them.
Go for transparency. Go for health. Go for a teacup dog that’s raised with love and care, not just made to be tiny and expensive. So choose wisely. Love deeply. And give them that puppy forever kind of life they deserve. And if you ever hear someone say “it’s just a little dog”, you already know better.
