Some dogs are small. And some are teacup dogs. These are the tiniest of the tiny. Dogs so petite they can curl up in your palm, ride in your purse, and still have room for snacks.
Teacup dog breeds are miniature versions of already small dog breeds. They often weigh under just five pounds and stand just 6-9 inches tall. At most. If you are short on space, love delicate little pups, or just want to bring home a dog that you can literally carry around like a stuffed animal, teacup puppy breeds might be just your next exploration idea!
However, a disclaimer here!! Don’t let their small size fool you. These dogs have big personalities. Sometimes, more than their full-sized cousins. We have compiled seven such adorable, popular, and purse-ready teacup dogs that will steal your heart (and maybe your bed).
Teacup Size Dog Breeds
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas already top the charts when it comes to small dog sass. But the teacup Chihuahua? That is a whole new level of attitude in a tiny dog body. The teacup Chihuahuas weigh around three pounds.
These things make them one of the smallest members of the dog family. And yet… they act like they own the place, maybe?
Why do Tiny Chihuahuas rule the tiny dog world?
Fiercely loyal to their humans
Compact, confident, and easy to carry
Adaptable to small living spaces
They are ideal doggies for tiny dog lovers who want a bold companion with minimal exercise needs. Just keep an eye on them. They are delicate, and their fragile bones make them prone to injury.
Also, take them to the vet regularly. They can have many health issues due to their small size, such as stomach problems, eye problems, heart diseases, etc.
2. Maltese
If you have ever dreamt of owning a cloud with legs, this teacup Maltese breed is for you. These mini fluffballs are graceful, gentle, and bring total elegance to the toy dog world.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes them as affectionate, adorable, playful, and charming. And the smaller version is no different. Just a bit smaller.
Why is the teacup Maltese a favorite?
That flowing white silky coat (Hello, royalty!!!)
Sweet temperament and loving disposition
Does well in small dog households
They have a Diva appearance, no doubt!! But they are playful and love attention. Be sure to brush that luxurious fur often. It tangles fast on teacup puppies. They are generally healthy but can pose some health risks. So, keep an eye out. They cannot help that small size.
3. Pomeranian
What do you get when you shrink a fox and make it fluffy? A teacup Pomeranian. These tiny firecrackers are all bark, all fluff, and all heart. Hills Pet Nutrition mentions they only weigh 3 pounds and, at best, 7 pounds.
Even with such small stature, they are still bursting with confidence and curiosity. They are tiny, but they have enough personality to fill a mansion.
Why do teacup Pomeranians shine?
Bold and energetic despite their small size
Fluffy double coat makes them look like plush toys
Gets along well with other pets and people
Just watch for health concerns like low blood sugar, which are more common in these tiny dogs. But with proper training and care, they are lively and lovable lap dogs.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terriers are already a dainty dog breed, but the teacup Yorkie (or Teacup Yorkshire Terrier) is the ultimate travel-sized version. Do not let their size deceive you.
We know it’s no more than 3kgs ever, as mentioned by Purina. But these teacup dogs have plenty of spunk and a sass of loving companions that will melt your heart.
Why do Teacup Yorkies make top companions?
Low shedding with a soft and silky coat
Always alert and highly affectionate
Great for apartments and smaller pets
They are petite, portable, and practically made for lap cuddles. Just make sure your Teacup Yorkie gets enough mental stimulation. Boredom can lead to barking. A serious session!
5. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is known for its soft and cotton-ball look and joyful spirit. The teacup Bichon Frise (Yes, they exist!) keeps all that charm. Just in a pocket-sized version. They weigh as little as four pounds and are a high-energy dog with a higher risk of developing health problems that come with small size.
Why are teacup Bichons so popular?
Playful, sociable, and easygoing
Non-shedding coat. Great for smaller homes.
Adapt well to kids, other dogs, and even cats
Their only downside is that their adorable white fluff needs brushing for that long and fuzzy hair. But that is only a small price to pay for such a happy-go-lucky pup. They are so small that they have little stamina for anything else; they just want to be near you and listen to you.
6. Brussels Griffon
Now here is a teacup dog with personality for days. The Brussels Griffon already has a quirky charm, and the teacup version of this breed standard is like a Gremlin with a PhD in cuteness.
Griffs love human attention, love following their people around, love curling into a ball when the day is done. Just do not expect them to act like toys. They have got opinions. Yep!
Why Teacup Brussels Griffon turn heads?
Funny faces and even funnier expressions
Loyal and attached to their humans
Small but spirited and smart
These teacup dogs need proper training early on to manage their willful streak. But get it right and you have got a delightful little buddy who will follow you around with their flowing coat.
7. Dachshund
Long body, short legs, big heart. That’s the Dachshund. And the teacup Dachshund is no exception. These tiny dogs may look sleepy, but they are brave and curious, and excellent snugglers.
Although teacup Dachshunds are significantly smaller than the standard breed, they still keep the same lovable personality. And weigh around 8 pounds.
Why do people fall for them?
Great for small living spaces
Loyal and enjoy companionship
Known for their courage and stubborn charm
They are usually best for gentle households, and like all teacup dog breeds, they need extra care to prevent injury. But for many, they are the perfect mix of cuddle and character.
Conclusion
There’s something very cute about having a dog that fits in your arms… and your life. These teacup-sized dog breeds are perfect for dog lovers, apartment dwellers, and people who want to have a dog that stays tiny forever. When dogs are originally bred to be so small, they are at high risk of health issues, specifically when unethical breeding practices are involved. So do your research. Find ethical breeders.
And if you are wondering about several breeds like toy Poodle or teacup Poodle, teacup Papillon, teacup Shih Tzu, teacup Beagle, teacup Havanese, teacup Pekingese… they are out there, too. AKC does not officially recognize the “teacup” label, but that does not stop these popular dogs from stealing hearts all over the world.
They may be tiny but their love is anything but…!!
