Micro Teacup Yorkshire Terriers are often misunderstood, and their needs are frequently overlooked. They require a lot of attention and care.
Their small size means they need to be handled gently and carefully to avoid injury. They are fragile and can be prone to health issues.
A good rule of thumb is to provide them with a diet that's high in nutrients and low in calories, as they can easily become overweight. This will help keep them healthy and happy.
Health and Care
Micro Teacup Yorkshire Terriers require special care due to their fragile bones and tiny size. They are prone to hypoglycemia, a condition that can be fatal if left untreated.
To prevent hypoglycemia, it's essential to feed your Teacup Yorkie frequently, ideally every 3 to 4 hours, and ensure they eat at least 40 calories per pound of their body weight. This means selecting food formulated for smaller dog breeds.
You'll also need to monitor your puppy's energy levels, appetite, and bowel movements closely, as they can be a sign of hypoglycemia. If your pup lacks an appetite, consult with your vet immediately, as this can be a sign of low blood sugar levels.
Here's a quick guide to caring for your Teacup Yorkie's health:
What Does It Weigh?
Teacup Yorkies are bred to be incredibly small, with some weighing as little as two pounds.
On average, these tiny dogs will reach their full adult weight of no more than 4 pounds (1.8 kg) after a year.
Standard Yorkshire Terriers, on the other hand, weigh significantly more, averaging around 7 pounds (3.1 kg).
Some Teacup Yorkies are so small they can fit inside a teacup, which is where the term comes from.
These dogs are bred to be much smaller than average, but it's essential to remember that they still require proper care and attention to stay healthy.
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Caring for a Small Dog
Caring for a small dog requires special attention to their fragile bones and unique needs. You'll need to prevent your tiny friend from jumping on and off high surfaces or playing with small children.
Their bones are fragile, so it's essential to provide a safe and comfortable environment for them to play and rest. Designate a specific room for your Teacup Yorkie to adjust to their new surroundings gradually.
Teacup Yorkies are prone to hypoglycemia, so it's crucial to monitor their food and water intake closely. They should eat once every 3 to 4 hours, and you should never skip a meal.
If your pup lacks an appetite, consult with your vet as soon as possible, as low blood sugar levels can be fatal. Tiny dogs like Teacup Yorkies need at least 40 calories per pound of their body weight.
Choosing the right food is essential for their comfort and health, as they are prone to sensitive stomachs and liver shunts. They also require frequent feeding, with some tiny dogs needing to be fed hourly.
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Here's a rough guide to their feeding schedule:
It's also essential to keep an eye on your Teacup Yorkie's bladder health, as they may be difficult to house train due to their small bladder size. Bladder problems like incontinence are common in teacup dogs.
How Long Do They Live?
Teacup Yorkies have a shorter life expectancy compared to their standard-sized counterparts. Their life expectancy can be as short as 7-9 years, which is a significant concern for many potential owners.
The life expectancy for a Yorkshire Terrier is generally around 11-15 years, but teacup Yorkies often don't live up to that standard.
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Health Problems
Teacup Yorkies are prone to a range of health issues due to their small size.
Their tiny heart is more prone to defects and diseases than those of a larger dog.
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, is a common problem in Teacup Yorkies, particularly between 8 and 16 weeks old.
If left untreated, hypoglycemia can cause seizures and even death.
To help manage hypoglycemia, rub honey on your puppy's gums to help the blood absorb glucose.
Dogs may also suffer from symptoms such as wretching, difficulty breathing, trouble exercising, blue colored gums, and passing out.
Teacup Yorkies have a shorter life expectancy than standard Yorkies, typically living around 12 years.
Here are some common health issues associated with Teacup Yorkies:
- Hypoglycemia
- Heart problems
- Liver problems
- Bone problems
- Brain problems
- Psychological issues
Dogs Mental Health
Dogs Mental Health is a growing concern for many pet owners. Research shows that size can be a significant factor in a dog's mental health.
Tiny dogs, like Teacup Dogs, are more prone to emotional problems due to the stress of being small in a big world.
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Tips and Advice
First and foremost, micro Teacup Yorkshire Terriers are fragile dogs and need careful handling. They can be easily injured if not handled gently.
You'll need to monitor your puppy very carefully, especially within the first two weeks of getting him. This includes tracking how much he eats, drinks, and goes to the toilet, as Teacup Yorkies are prone to hypoglycemia.
Designate a specific room for your Teacup Yorkie to help him adjust to his new surroundings gradually. This will prevent him from getting overwhelmed and panicked.
Offer your Teacup Yorkie a comfortable, cozy bed that he can climb on and off of easily. Avoid forcing him to jump to reach his sleeping area, as his bones are fragile and easily break.
Be careful not to trip over your Teacup Yorkie, as they're incredibly small and easy to overlook. Keep an eye out for him when walking around the house.
If your Teacup Yorkie is between 4 to 8 weeks old, avoid bathing him. Instead, use baby wipes or a damp towel to clean him gently, and dry him thoroughly to prevent him from getting cold.
Teacup Yorkies are considered "hypoallergenic" because they hardly shed, making their coats easy to maintain.
Here are some specific care requirements for micro Teacup Yorkshire Terriers:
Remember to be patient and understanding when caring for your micro Teacup Yorkshire Terrier. With the right care and attention, they can thrive and become a beloved member of your family.
Finding and Owning
Finding and Owning a Micro Teacup Yorkshire Terrier requires a lot of research and patience.
First, you need to find a reputable breeder who specializes in Micro Teacup Yorkies. These dogs are extremely rare and can be difficult to find.
Micro Teacup Yorkies typically weigh between 4-7 pounds and are often born to Toy or Teacup parents.
Where to Get?
If you're considering bringing a Teacup Yorkie into your family, you're probably wondering where to get one. The best age to buy a pup is around 6 months, as this is usually the safest time to bring a Teacup Yorkie home, making it easier to tell how well the pup's growing and whether it's suffering from any health issues.
Teacup Yorkies are typically more expensive than standard Yorkshire Terriers, with the average teacup Yorkie costing anywhere between $1,200 and $2,000. Two factors usually influence the price: the reputation of the breeder and the quality of the pup's health papers.
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If you're thinking of buying a Teacup Yorkie, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and downsides of miniaturizing dogs. You may want to consider adopting a Yorkie from a rescue organization instead of buying from a breeder.
To find a Teacup Yorkie for sale or adoption, you can check out the links below:
- Yorkie rescue organizations
- Reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs
Remember, adopting a dog from a rescue organization can be a more cost-effective option, with costs far less than buying a puppy from a breeder.
Benefits of Owning a Small Dog
Owning a small dog can be a wonderful experience, especially if you're looking for a more portable and manageable pet.
Smaller dogs take up less space, making them perfect for city living or apartments with limited square footage.
They also shed less hair, which is a big plus for people with allergies or a strong dislike for dog hair.
Small dogs generally have less impact on a home than a big dog, which means less damage to furniture and carpets.
Many small toy dogs meet all these criteria, so you don't necessarily need to buy a miniature or teacup dog to get the benefits of owning a small dog.
However, it's worth considering the potential disadvantages of tiny dogs, especially if you're set on a specific breed like a teacup Yorkshire Terrier.
It's essential to be well-informed before making a decision, especially if you're considering a pet that's prone to certain health issues.
Price
Reputable breeders aren't willing to compromise the health of their Yorkshire Terriers, so they can't be found at a low price.
You can expect to pay upwards of $2,000 for a teacup puppy.
Demand for tiny dogs is unfortunately high, which is why teacup puppy breeders can charge such high prices.
There's a reason why some teacup puppy websites offer financing - it's to encourage buyers to make a purchase.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How big does a micro teacup Yorkie get?
A micro Teacup Yorkie typically stands between 5-7 inches tall and weighs between 2-4 pounds, making them a small but sturdy companion. However, size can vary, so it's best to consult with a breeder or veterinarian for more specific information.
What is smaller, a toy or teacup Yorkie?
A Teacup Yorkie is smaller than a Toy Yorkie, typically weighing 2-3 pounds when fully grown.
Sources
- teacup-sized (homeowner.com)
- United Yorkie Rescue (unitedyorkierescue.org)
- Save a Yorkie Rescue (saveayorkierescue.org)
- Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue (yorkierescue.com)
- Morkie: Maltese and Yorkie mix (homeowner.com)
- Dorkie: Dachshund and Yorkie mix (homeowner.com)
- Snorkie: Schnauzer and Yorkie mix (homeowner.com)
- Gene Makes Small Dogs Small: Small breeds share a gene variant that limits their growth (scientificamerican.com)
- Teacup Yorkie - A Guide To The World's Smallest Dog (thehappypuppysite.com)
- Valentino (Micro Teacup Yorkie) (lovemypuppy.com)
- The truth about the health of teacup yorkies - 16 year exp. (designeryorkies.com)
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