Teacup dog breeds, also known as toy dogs or pocket dogs, are much smaller in size than the typical dog of that breed. Many tiny dog lovers prefer them due to their cute puppy-like features.
Puppy breeders are trying their best to make these toy breeds even smaller. Teacup pups are small dogs that usually weigh under 4 pounds. Plus, they can measure up to 17 inches when fully grown.
Teacup breeds are low-maintenance and do not need much exercise for physical and mental stimulation. However, they might suffer from serious health issues due to their uniqueness.
If you are a tiny dog lover or prefer apartment living, where the space is limited, we recommend you adopt a teacup breed. Here are the top 7 teacup puppies that are perfect for cozy snuggles.
Calm Teacup Dog Breeds
1. Pekingese
Originally bred for dwarfism, the ancient Pekingese literally fit the definition of lap dogs. They have short legs that keep them low to the ground. These are the flat-faced fellows with their coats being the longest at the neck and shoulders.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Chinese emperors loved keeping these pups. Some people believe that these dogs were initially bred by Buddha.
Pekes are popular for their calm, outgoing, and friendly nature. These loyal and affectionate dogs form strong bonds with their owners and can be very independent. At the same time, they can adapt well with your children, but do not prefer them.
Pekingese are sophisticated dogs having a distinctive rolling gait. They love sitting on a soft couch in relaxed households, so you don’t have to worry about excessive jumping.
Due to their facial structure, they can suffer from health problems like brachycephalic syndrome. It is a condition in which dogs experience breathing issues because of anatomical abnormalities. Fixing this syndrome can cost around $3,000-5,000 bucks.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Known for its prestigious nobility and gentle demeanor, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been the royal’s favorite in the little dog world. The breeds’ sweet expressions and round eyes made them irresistible to King Charles I and II.
Their welcoming, calm, and affectionate nature makes them a better therapy dog than many big dogs. These small-sized dogs are wonderful companions for your children and family members.
Cavaliers are quite active around their owners and even strangers. Proper training and socialization allow them to behave well in various social situations.
They can be a great inspiration for lazy couch potatoes. So, if you’re looking for an energetic ball of fur as your pet, Cavaliers are well-suited for you.
However, this teacup variety can cost you heavy vet bills. PETA.org claims Cavaliers as one of the unhealthiest teacup dogs. They can face some serious health concerns such as:
Hip and knee problems
Breathing impairment
Small skulls
Fragile bones
Hearing issues
Vision impairment
3. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise might be more appealing than all other teacup breeds. They are one of the close relatives of the Maltese. Standing among the world’s great personality dogs, they were a favorite among European nobles in the 13th century.
These irresistible canines are white little balls of fur with a hypoallergenic coat and silky hair. They have dark eyes, rounded head hair, and black nose and lips. They draw hugs and smiles wherever they go. Unscrupulous breeders know these dogs can bring them a huge sum of money.
Bichons are highly sought for their happy-go-lucky nature. If you are looking for a jolly canine partner for your kids, we recommend you keep a Bichon instead of any other breed. Not only do they provide companionship and warm hugs, but they also watch your kids.
Bichons are city dogs, and if you train them nicely, they can perform to entertain your loved ones and friends. These teacups are very energetic but not hyperactive, so they can adapt to relaxed as well as active households.
These teacup pups require regular exercise to stay healthy and active. A daily exercise of 30 to 60 minutes will suffice. To accomplish this, you can engage them in leisurely walks and interactive games.
4. Pug
Most people love pugs for their affectionate nature. They had been the favorite companions of Chinese emperors and Tibetan monasteries. Napoleon’s wife, Josephine, was also a fan of these lap dogs.
These toy dogs are quite muscular with square features. They have a wrinkly, short, and muzzled face, and a curled tail. These teacup dogs can be stubborn, but respond well to training associated with treats and rewards.
Teacup pugs can be great apartment dogs. Their small stature (weighing around 3 to 7 pounds), chill demeanor, and low exercise needs make them ideal for small living spaces.
Some pugs can be stubborn, but they tend to respond well to training, especially if treats are involved as a reward. Teacup pugs are usually more expensive than standard pugs.
They are serene dogs that are not very vocal. Without any digging, chewing, or barking, your house will stay spotless. So, if you are looking for a docile canine buddy, opt for teacup pugs.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are highly sought for their sweet smiles and dark eyes. Breeders have been breeding this lion dog for thousands of years. Wherever these pups go, the laughter and mischief follow. Shih Tzus were initially bred to spend most of their day inside royal palaces.
Shih Tzus make a great house dog, especially if you don’t have a backyard or live in an apartment. Other dogs chase cats, but these cute little dogs can spend their entire day sitting in your lap.
This dog breed is generally happy around children and other animals. They do not feel shy around strangers. Shi tzus are not hyperactive, but they do enjoy their playtime.
Shih Tzus are low-maintenance dogs. They enjoy low to moderate activity followed by lounging and relaxing. So, you do not need to engage them in extensive exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
They have muscular bodies. Their silky double coat and flat faces will melt your heart. But do not overwork them as their flat faces make them prone to health issues.
6. French Bulldog
The French bulldog is yet another breed well-suited for homeowners having limited space. They are friendly and loving, eager to learn, and intelligent. When these cuddly buddies are not playing, they love to relax by your side.
Having pugs and English bulldogs as their ancestors, Frenchies are even-tempered and affectionate. Unlike the long-coated teacup breeds, they do not require regular brushing.
Moreover, this teacup dog does not require much exercise or walking. Their squishy nose works best in temperate climates. The best thing about them is that, despite their playful nature, they are not very vocal.
Although teacup Frenchies weigh less than standard French bulldogs, they can cost about the same or even more. A normal teacup French bulldog can cost you around $2,000 to $8,000.
However, just like several breeds of teacup dogs, Frenchies can also experience poor health due to their flat faces. So, if you are planning to become a parent to a Frenchie, prepare yourself for high vet bills.
7. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is a Japanese dog that was once employed for hunting. The spirited and good-natured Shiba is now a highly popular canine companion in Japan. According to the American Kennel Club, Shibas were brought from Japan to America around 60 years ago.
Shibas vary in color from red to tan, red sesame, or black and tan. They have white markings on their bodies, combined with their coloring. They usually have an alert expression on their faces, which makes them foxlike. These are the sturdy and muscular teacup dogs, with a confident and bold personality.
Shibas are very active little pups. They can learn a lot of tricks and are fun to be around. Shiba Inus are loyal and affectionate with cat-like agility. They form strong bonds with their human family members.
Shibas require daily play and exercise, and can be a wonderful jogging partner. However, don’t forget to leash train them before going out, as they have a high prey drive. They don’t bark much, but when left alone, they can become extremely vocal due to separation anxiety.
Fun fact: Shiba Inus are cleanliness freaks. They do not like getting dirty. You will never find this breed near mud or dirty water.
Conclusion
Teacup dogs are the cute little cuddly buddies that are perfect for snuggles. From teacup Maltese to teacup poodles and teacup Yorkies, different teacup breeds make good house dogs. But teacup dogs are vulnerable to health problems like low blood sugar and breathing issues. So, if you are planning to become a parent to a teacup dog, make sure to look after them properly!
