Image source: Pixabay.com
As the name suggests, teacup dog breeds are bred in such a way that they grow up to be much smaller than your average-sized dogs and can easily (well, not literally) fit into a teacup! It can be rightly touted as a marketing gimmick to attract flashy buyers into spending moolah on cute little puppies that can be easily fitted in a small handbag during travel. These miniature or micro breeds are also known as toy breeds. But are there any ethical or medical concerns with these species being bred in a specific way to severely limit their growth? Well, here is a discussion on all that you need to know about these endearing dog species and more.
How Big Is A Teacup Dog?
Typically, teacup dogs can be defined as pocket-sized versions of regular small-sized canine breeds. So, a one-year-old tea cup dog will essentially be 17 inches or less in size and weigh somewhere around 4 to 7 lbs. However, there is no specific upper cap to how big or heavy these tea cup species must be. The commonly used breeds for tea cup dogs include pugs, Shitz Tzu, Yorkshire terrier, Poodle, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Silky Terrier, Maltese and so on.
Is The Selective Breeding A Concern?
Regardless of how cute and playful the teacup species might appear, the fact is that they are nothing but underdeveloped dogs that have been bred in a way to restrict their anatomical development. More often than not, the breeders pick the runt of the litter to breed the smallest possible specie. Teacup dogs are typically a result of unnatural breeding practice that in no way guarantees the good health and well-being of the newly created species. Since these teacup dogs are listed at exorbitant prices for their unique size and personality, it can be rightly touted as a marketing strategy by breeders to make the most of their weaklings and puppies with birth defects. Believe it or not, but in some cases, the breeders not only resort to inbreeding the species but also go to the extent of intentionally starving the puppies to severely stunt their growth! Teacup puppies are typically susceptible to a lot of medical and health-related issues that come as part and parcel of artificial selective breeding. Some of the most common medical conditions associated with teacup dogs include digestive problems, respiratory problems, seizures, collapsed trachea, heart issues, hypoglycaemia, and even blindness. Selective breeding also exposes these tender species to the risk of developing liver shunts and suffering from severe dental and gum problems. Given their excessively tiny digestive tracts, these puppies need to be continuously fed with small portions of food multiple times a day to keep their blood sugar regulated. Also, given their excessively small size, teacup dogs are also vulnerable to getting injured in accidents.
How long do teacup dogs live?
Teacup dogs, also known as miniature dogs, are small breeds that are bred to be even smaller than their already small-sized counterparts. While these dogs are popular for their cute and compact size, their lifespan is generally shorter than larger dogs. The average lifespan of a teacup dog ranges from 9 to 15 years, depending on a number of variables like genetics, food, exercise, and medical care. One of the main things that might reduce a teacup dog's longevity is genetics. These dogs frequently undergo selective breeding, which raises the possibility that they will inherit genetic health problems. Due to their tiny stature, teacup dogs may also be more vulnerable to certain ailments like dental disorders, hypoglycemia, and respiratory problems. Their food and exercise regimen can also have an effect on how long teacup dogs live. These dogs require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and avoid obesity, which can lead to a variety of health problems. Additionally, they need to exercise frequently to maintain healthy, strong muscles and joints. Lastly, healthcare plays a crucial role in determining the lifespan of teacup dogs. Periodic visits to the veterinarian and timely vaccinations and treatments can help prevent and treat various health issues.
Are teacup dogs calm?
No, they are not. Teacup dogs are not typically thought of as being calm pets. They might be vulnerable to developing behavioral problems such as excessive barking, aggressiveness, and separation anxiety due to their small stature and sometimes excessively protective owners. Teacup dogs are frequently bred to be lap dogs and friends. Thus, they may long for their owners' undivided love and attention. They could become restless, nervous, and destructive if they don't get the attention they want. They may also be more easily scared or intimidated by loud noises, unfamiliar individuals, and animals because they are little and fragile. However, teacup dogs can be taught to behave well and be calm with the right training and socialization. The emphasis of training should be on teaching them manners, like not jumping on people or furniture, as well as fundamental commands like sit, stay, and come. In order to increase confidence and adaptability, socialization should expose them to a range of people, animals, and environments. In summary, while teacup dogs may not be inherently calm, with proper care and training, they can become well-behaved and well-adjusted pets.
How big do teacup dogs get?
Although there isn't a set height or weight for teacup dogs, the website K9 of Mine describes them as being no more than 17 inches tall and weighing little less than four pounds when fully grown. The average weight of a teacup dog is one pound or less, according to Animal Planet, which is less than what the AKC believes to be typical for the breed. This indicates that they are considerably smaller than the average dog of their breed and may be more susceptible to health concerns like brittle bones, dental disorders, and breathing difficulties. Breeders occasionally intentionally cross pups that are substantially smaller than the breed standard to produce these tiny dogs. It's crucial to remember that breeding toward extreme miniaturization has significant health hazards. Due to their diminutive size, teacup dogs may be more vulnerable to traumas and diseases, as well as developmental abnormalities like hydrocephalus or hypoglycemia.
Is a teacup dog and Pomeranian the same?
No, a teacup dog and a Pomeranian are not the same thing. A Pomeranian is a recognized breed by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), while "teacup" is not a recognized breed. Pomeranians are small canines that normally weigh 3 to 7 pounds and are 6 to 7 inches in height at the shoulder. They are renowned for their energetic and affectionate personality and special thick double coat. On the other hand, "teacup" is a term that breeders commonly use to describe dogs that are smaller than the breed standard. While some teacup dogs are Pomeranians, not all Pomeranians are teacup dogs. When referring to Pomeranians that are smaller than average, the phrase "teacup Pomeranian" is frequently used. However, it's crucial to remember that the AKC and other significant kennel groups do not officially recognize this breed. Nevertheless, whether you're looking for a Pomeranian or a teacup dog, it's crucial for you to do your research and pick a reputable breeder who puts the health and well-being of their dogs first.
