Teacup and Teacup designer dogs are not “special” toy dogs. This designation is not recognized or endorsed by major canine associations. Toy dog owners believe that teacup dogs should be referred to by their correct group name, Toy.
Dog owners and breeders describe a teacup as a smaller dog than the Toy group. Describing small dogs that belong to the Toy breed is redundant. Suggests that the breed comes in different sizes. For example, there is no such thing as a “toy Chihuahua”, since all Chihuahuas are toy dogs. A teacup is a descriptive term for a toy dog that may be smaller than the official size standard. There is no firm agreement on what height or weight makes a dog a toy. The upper height limit for some Toy breeds is over 12 inches at the withers, which puts these dogs within the height range of some other groups as well.
Teacup dogs were considered status symbols.
Toy dogs are also known as pocket size, small toy, and miniature. Eastern royalty wore them on their large sleeves to keep warm. This group of dogs had limited duties, but performed tasks specifically used by the Eastern and European nobility courts: a teacup dog’s temperature is between 100.2-102.8 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why they heated beds in cold castles and palaces. The dogs sat on the laps (hence the term “lap dogs”) until the advent of central heating lessened the need for warming tasks for these pets. Selective breeding developed a small dog to aid the lifestyle and provide pleasure for the wealthy.
A “teacup” dog is just a marketing term.
Some people consider the teacup dog to be a derogatory term for the toy dog. But obviously others like to use the term, so it’s here to stay!
Teacup dogs are specifically bred to attract people as companions.
The price of a teacup dog should not reflect a rare or special dog and may have some health concerns. Due to its small size, it may require additional care for its general health and well-being. These canines generally need a lot of attention and cannot be left alone for long periods of time.
Examples of dog breeds often referred to as teacup dogs: Chihuahua, Dachshund, English Spaniel, Fox Terrier, Maltese, Poodle (smaller version of the Toy Poodle), Pomeranian, Pug, Shih Tzu, Silky Terrier , Yorkie.