Doctors say common health issues for teacup dogs include hypoglycemia, heart defects, collapsing trachea, seizures, respiratory problems, digestive problems, and blindness. The breeding practices can also lead to an increased risk for liver shunts, says Meeks.
It’s no secret that teacup dogs are becoming increasingly popular. However, many dog owners are unsure of what really makes a teacup dog, and if they are healthy animals to own. The term “teacup dog” is widely used, but it is often a misnomer to describe a very small, toy-sized dog. The truth is, there is no legitimate type or breed of dog called a teacup. Instead, the term is used to describe a very small version of a particular breed. The smallest of these types are known as micro teacup dogs. Many people mistakenly believe that these tiny pups are healthy, but this is not necessarily the case. In this blog post, we will explore the health of micro teacups and discuss the pros and cons of owning them. We will examine the potential health risks associated with their size, as well as what owners can do to ensure their pet’s wellbeing.
How Are “Teacup” Dogs Bred?
The methods breeders use to produce such tiny dogs are the subject of much debate. Many of these techniques can be seriously harmful to the dogs’ happiness and health, which is difficult to hear. Unscrupulous or unethical breeders may use techniques such as:
Additionally, a dishonest breeder might simply advertise smaller, more typical breeds as “teacup “.
Before bringing any dog into your home, it is crucial to conduct research. Make sure to choose a trustworthy breeder, or think about adopting from your neighborhood animal shelter. Teacup dogs are extremely pricey, and having an unhealthy pet in the family can have negative effects on your family, other pets, and the dog as well.
How are teacup dogs bred?
The breeder will pair the pups that are the smallest in order to produce the tiniest dog possible when breeding teacup dogs.
The runts of the litter are frequently smaller than the rest of the litter due to birth defects or other medical conditions that render them smaller and unfit for breeding.
When Is a Dog Considered “Teacup” Size?
Before getting into the specifics, it’s crucial to comprehend what makes a “teacup” dog a “teacup” dog in the first place.
There is a weight range that can qualify a dog as a teacup dog even though there isn’t a specific breed of teacup dogs—instead, a number of breeds like Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Maltese can be bred as micros. Teacup dogs can weigh as little as two pounds and grow to be less than 17 inches tall. Additionally, “toy” breeds are any canines weighing less than 15 pounds, so teacup dogs can also be categorized as “toy” breeds.
FAQ
How long do micro teacup puppies live?
Depending on the breed, a teacup dog’s life expectancy ranges from nine to fifteen years on average. Teacup dogs have been produced by purposefully breeding the runts of the litter to produce a smaller and smaller dog.
How big do micro teacup puppies get?
Teacup dogs can weigh as little as two pounds and grow to be less than 17 inches tall.
Are teacup dogs worth it?
There are several factors that strongly suggest against getting a teacup dog. The trend of teacup puppies is growing in popularity, but many people are unaware that “teacup puppies” are frequently just underdeveloped puppies. To produce the tiniest dog possible, they are bred. at any costs.
What is the healthiest small dog breed?
Chihuahuas are one of the healthiest dog breeds, despite technically being a small toy breed weighing only 5 to 6 pounds. In addition to being spunky and personable, they can live for anywhere between 12 and 18 years.