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16 Adorable Teacup Dog Breeds That’ll Make You Go “Awww”
Cute things come in small packages, and that’s especially the case with these teacup dogs.
BY YVETTE MANES AND ANNIE O’SULLIVAN
Updated: Apr 28, 2020
PHILIP THOMPSON / EYEEM
Teacup dogs are known for their adorably small statures, so it’s not surprising that they have become an increasingly popular pet choice within the last few years. They are perfect for people who like to travel with their pets, families of all sizes, and those living in smaller spaces. Although you may be surprised to learn that “teacup” is not an officially recognized term because The American Kennel Club (AKC) do not register or endorse teacup breeds, they are still an overwhelmingly popular breed, and this roundup shows the most adorable teacup dog breeds you could take home.
Unofficially, the website K9 of Mine notes that teacup breeds are those dogs who measure 17 inches or smaller and weigh four pounds or less when fully grown. Animal Planet explains that, because of this, teacups are often a pound or more under the AKC approved weight for their breed. Because these breeding practices may a lead teacup dogs to develop more health problems than standard or toy dogs of the same breed, it’s important to have a teacup dog checked by an independent veterinarian before bringing it home. As long as proper health precautions are taken, like they are with all dogs, there is no reason why any one of these adorable teacup dogs won’t be the next pet you bring home.
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German Spitz
According to the American Kennel Club, German Spitz’s are exceptionally attentive, excited, and dedicated to their owners. They are easily trained and suited for any weather or living environment, making them ideal dog to own.
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Cavoodle
The offspring of a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Cavoodle is as cute as its’ name. According to Purina, these high-energy dogs originated to minimize the genetic diseases that were present in both individual breeds. They are extremely intelligent dogs known for being great around kids.
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Morkie
This breed mix of a Maltese and a Yorkshire Terrier combines the lovable personalities of both breeds to create a very lively pup. According to Puppy Spot, Morkie’s are very loyal to their owners, and love getting outside for some exercise everyday. The perfect dog for active owners.
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Maltipoo
Known for their affection, the Maltipoo, a cross between a Maltese and Poodle, work with any kind of family. According to Dogtime, whether you bring him or her own to a family full of kids, or to a single, elderly relative, the Maltipoo is a great fun-loving dog that is low maintenance when it comes to care.
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Brussels Griffon
The Brussels griffon is believed to be a crossbreed of a Belgian street dog, a German affenpinscher, a pug, a King Charles spaniel and a ruby spaniel, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Brussels griffons are highly intelligent and make great companions. Teacup Brussels griffons are bred to be smaller than the breed’s average eight to 10 pounds.
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Maltese
According to the Westminster Kennel Club, the Maltese was originally known as “Ye ancient Dogge of Malta.” As one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, the Maltese has continued to maintain its popularity. The teacup variety is perfect for anyone looking for a tiny lap dog.
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Pomeranian
Today, Pomeranians weigh between three and seven pounds, but the Westminster Kennel Club explains that Pomeranian ancestors were much larger sledding dogs. Queen Victoria of England helped popularized small Pomeranians.
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Russian Toy
Recognized in 2008 by the AKC, the Russian Toy is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, naturally weighing three to six pounds. This tiny pup dates back to the 18th century when it was a popular accessory for Russian aristocracy. In 1958, a Russian Toy with longer hair on its ears was born and became the first in a new line of long haired Russian Toys.
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Poodle
Officially, poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. According to the United Kennel Club (UKC) standard poodles were likely crossbred with the Havanese and Maltese to create miniature and toy poodles. These smaller poodles gained popularity in 17th century France as companion dogs. They came to the United States in the late 19th century, becoming the most popular dog breed in the 1950s. Teacup poodles are actually tinier versions of toy poodles.
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Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire terriers were originally known as Scotch terriers until the late 19th century, according to the AKC. Yorkies average about five to seven pounds, but the teacup variety can be as small as three pounds
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Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are believed to be an ancient dog breed, kept by Aztecs for both religious reasons and for companionship. The UKC explains that they gained popularity in the US in the mid-19th century when visitors to Mexico brought them home as pets. They come in both long and short hair varieties, according to the AKC, and the majority weigh under six pounds, with teacups being even smaller.
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Japanese Chin
Another ancient dog breed, the Japanese chin, dates back to 520 A.D. according to the UKC. It was the lap dog of Japanese nobility. Standard Japanese chins weigh between seven and 11 pounds, with teacups bred to weigh as little as four pounds.
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Papillon
Named for its butterfly shaped ears, the Papillon is believed to have been pure for at least 700 years, according to the UKC. Their coats come in several colors, and the AKC notes that these tiny dogs can thrive in both cool and warmer climates.
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Affenpinscher
Lovingly known as the “monkey dog,” the Affenpinscher dates back to 17th century Europe, according to the UKC. The Westminster Kennel Club explains that the Affenpinscher’s distinct looks led to it being known as Diabolotin Moustachu, or “moustached little devil” in France. Teacup Affenpinschers are bred to be tinier than the average seven and 10 pounds of the breed.
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Shih Tzu
Like the Affenpinscher, Brussels griffon, and Japanese chin, the average Shih Tzu weighs around 10 lbs, but is being bred smaller to appeal to tiny dog lovers. Originally believed to be a crossbreed of the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese, the Shih Tzu was a lap dog for Chinese emperors, according to the AKC. It is still a favorite lap dog today.
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Pug
Pugs have been around since before 400 B.C., according to the AKC. This ancient dog originated in China as a pet for the emperor and members of the imperial court. Although standard pugs can weigh up to 18 pounds, some have been bred to be as small as four pounds.
Remember to always have your new teacup pup thoroughly examined by veterinarian, as many of these dogs have underlying health issues.
ANNIE O’SULLIVAN Assistant EditorAnnie O’Sullivan (she/her) covers holiday, gift guide, travel, and lifestyle content at Good Housekeeping.
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