Types of Teacup Puppies

The terms tiny toy, lap dog, teacup, sleeve dog and miniature describe dogs that are a product of selective breeding. While toy dog breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), teacup breeds are not. The term "teacup" describes dogs that are often smaller than the official breed standard. Yet, even though the AKC doesn't employ the term, it doesn't affect the popularity of these tiny canines.

Terrier

Yorkshire, silky and fox terrier breeds all come teacup-sized. Yorkshire terriers originated in England, while silky terriers originated in Australia. Both were bred for hunting vermin. Each breed possesses a long, silky coat that requires daily grooming. Loyalty and intelligence abound in this breed, and they can be quite vocal. Teacup fox terriers are fine, short-haired canines with a positive social disposition. They originated in ancient Egypt and make fine watchdogs due to their tendency to bark at unfamiliar sounds or when someone approaches.

Poodle

Teacup poodles originated from the Standard Poodle, which hails from Europe, specifically France, and Asia. Their intelligent, affectionate and active natures make them favorable companions. Their coats are either curly or corded. They do not shed, so they require regular grooming.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas originated in Central and South America and Mexico and were used in ceremonial sacrifices of the Aztecs and Toltecs, according to dog-names.org.uk. They possess long- or short-haired dense fur coats. Chihuahuas in general are delicate and fragile. Teacup Chihuahuas prove even more fragile due to their size. They are not suitable for small children. They also tend to bond with one person, rather than everyone in the family.

Pug

Characterized by a smooth, short, glossy coat and a tail that curls over its back, the pug was originally bred in China as a lap dog and companion. The pug was owned by the wealthy and considered a luxury to those who owned working dogs. Teacup pugs are small, but sturdy enough to live in a home with small children. Their positive social disposition makes them a good fit for kids.

Pomeranian

Originating from Germany in the 1800s, Pomeranians were initially used as lap dogs and companions. Poms possess long, straight coats of black, white, brown, or dark or light blue with a softer undercoat. With a personality that is lively, friendly and often overexcited, teacup Pomeranians should be supervised when with children.

Maltese

Long, silky white tresses characterize the Maltese. Maltese hail from ancient Malta and were originally designated as lap dogs. The nonshedding coat of the teacup Maltese requires routine grooming. The size of this particular dog makes it more susceptible to injury, and children should be supervised when around this dog.

Shih Tzu

Bred as a lapdog and companion in 19th-century China, the Shih Tzu is also known as a chrysanthemum dog. Characterized by a long, silky coat and a curly tail, Shih Tzu’s come in a variety of colors, such as black and white and tan and white. A Shih Tzu normally weighs between 9 and 16 pounds and stands 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder, and the teacup version weighs and measures less.