Teacup dog breeds are easily the most adorable among all dog breeds. They are widely loved across the world for their appearance and compact size that makes them suitable for apartment living. However, training these mini dogs can be surprisingly challenging.
Teacups are small in size but possess big personalities. Some of them can be stubborn, sensitive or may be prone to developing ‘small dog syndrome’ if not properly guided.
One particular challenge with small dogs is ‘house training’. It can be difficult due to their small bladders and quick metabolisms.
Moreover, each dog breed brings unique challenges associated with training. With dedication, proper techniques and early socialization, these pint-sized pups can learn to be well behaved companions.
Hard to Train Teacup Dog Breeds
1. Jack Russell terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small yet powerful dog breed known for its boundless energy and intelligence. They were originally bred to hunt foxes. Hence, they retain their strong prey drive and instincts to dig, chase and explore.
Jack Russells are tiny in size, but they are not lap dogs. They are working dogs at heart and require a lot of activity to stay happy and healthy. Many people are drawn to these traits, but these same traits make them difficult to train, especially for first-time dog owners.
They are highly intelligent hence they get bored with repetitive training methods. Consistency, positive reinforcement and patience are key to training Jack Russells. Harsh methods almost always backfire because they are very sensitive.
2. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate breed, known for its luxurious coat and sweet temperament. Bred as companions to Chinese royalty, they thrive on human companionship.
Shih Tzus have a uniquely independent temperament. They love being pampered and hence do not like responding to commands much. Due to their stubborn and sensitive nature, training sessions must be gentle. Any harshness in tone means upsetting the royal dog.
The biggest hurdle in training them is house breaking. Their small size and low maturity rate means that potty training can take a longer time than expected. Also prone to selective hearing, if they do not want to do something, they just pretend that they didn’t hear. Positive reinforcement with treats and praise work well.
3. Pekingese
Weighing up to 14 pounds, the Pekingese is a small dog with a regal appearance. Their long silky coat and the distinctive lion like mane matches their proud demeanor. Their bravery is quite larger than their size, they are not afraid to stand their ground even around larger dogs.
Training a Pekingese can be a little tricky, as per Orvis. Pekes are known for being strong willed. They do not usually see the point in obeying commands unless they feel like it. Getting them to learn a trick without treats is almost unachievable. However, once they learn, food based rewards should gradually be replaced with praise.
Pekingese are affectionate and loyal to their family. They make great little watchdogs, too. Another thing to note is that they need regular grooming to keep their beautiful coat looking at its best.
4. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are sleek and elegant, known for being gentle and obsessed with their owners. They may be famous for being the fastest dogs in the world, but they are true couch potatoes inside the house. A few zoomies here and there drain them of energy, and they go back to bed.
They are highly intelligent dogs as well as sensitive. Eager to please, they are easy to train in terms of tricks and obedience, but they do not perform so well in other departments.
Italian Greyhounds are expert escape artists. Running off leash is not recommended in open spaces. They need a high, secure fenced yard so that they don’t jump over it.
In cold weather, Italian Greyhounds dislike going outside, so house training becomes even more difficult. Owners recommend using indoor potty pads to make things easier.
5. Dachshund
The Dashchunds are often called ‘weiner dogs’ because of their long bodies and short legs. Their specific body shape was useful for hunters to get badgers out of their burrows. They are brave and determined for their size.
Training a Dachshund can be full of surprises because of their independent streak. They are smart and capable of learning new tricks, but they prefer doing things their way. Potty training can usually take longer, and their barking habits can get out of hand if not dealt with early on. As per AKC, positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience are the key to working with them.
Their hunting background gives them a strong prey drive, so it is best to keep them leashed on walks. They form strong bonds with their owners, and with proper socialization and training, they make wonderful pets, full of character and charm.
6. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are nicknamed monkey dogs due to their unique face. This breed is full of attitude, spunk, and mischief. Their wiry coat, prominent eyebrows, and human-like expressions give them an almost comical look.
They are intelligent and alert, sometimes stubborn. On top of that, their mischievous streak means that they almost always ignore commands. So, it is advised that training sessions be kept fun, short, and exciting to make them look like play sessions, preferably filled with treats and praises.
Affenpinschers make great family pets. They bond closely with family members and keep the house alive with their entertainment. They are not overly clingy, and being hypoallergenic, they are suitable for apartment life. But yes, you have to put extra effort into house training and to tame their watchdog instincts. They are not afraid to sound the alarm if something seems off!
7. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a tiny fluffball with a bold spirit. They are famous for their thick double coat and a fox-like face. Historically bred from sled-pulling breeds, they pack a lot of energy for their size. Their gorgeous looks and outgoing attitudes have made them popular companions.
As per PetMD, Poms can be a bit troublesome to keep. They are intelligent but with an independent mindset, making obedience a challenge. Many of them tend to bark excessively, as well as try to escape from the fence. They definitely act like a boss around the house.
House training needs to start day one and requires extra patience. They need daily physical and mental stimulation to keep bad habits away. With the right discipline and lots of grooming, Poms are loyal and spirited house pets.
Conclusion
Teacup dog breeds always look sweet and adorable, but training them is not always a piece of cake. Many of the toy breeds, like the Pekingese and the Affenpinscher, have bold personalities and independent minds that can challenge the owners who keep them as first dogs. Other small dogs, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, tend to be more eager to please and trainable, but they also have their own quirks.
Almost all of them show difficulty with house training. Because of their small bladders, they can not hold their pee for long periods and cause accidents.
Always remember, whatever breed you choose, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement almost always work. With the right approach, these strong-willed pups can become well-behaved and loyal friends.
