Teacup Yorkies Information

Teacup Yorkies is an affectionate term used to describe small-sized Yorkshire terriers. American Kennel Club (AKC) has set standards for dog breeds according to their use, e.g. toy, hunting. AKC has defined teacup yorkie as a lap dog. They weigh anywhere between 3 to 7 lbs. Their small size makes them a favorite amongst people who cannot have large dog due to space constraints. These tiny dogs make for loyal and playful companions. However, their small size also contributes to some medical and behavioral problems.

Teacup Yorkies Information

Origin
There is no exact information on teacup yorkies origin, though its origin is believed to have some link with working groups of Scotsmen who bought with them various terrier dog breeds while seeking work in mills in Yorkshire. Then, Yorkshire terriers were a larger breed than we see today. However, through selective breeding of smaller terriers, this breed of Yorkshire terriers was developed. The workmen used these small dogs to catch rats in the mills and in mine shafts. The small size of these dogs enabled them to enter holes and burrows of rats and kill them. Eventually, these small dogs became a fashionable pet and sought a place in high society women's bags and arms. It was in 1985 that AKC registered it as a separate breed.

Physical Characteristics
A typical teacup Yorkshire terrier weighs about 3 to 7 lbs and has a height of 6 to 7 inches. It has a long, silky, blue and tan coat. This peculiar coat is an attractive feature of teacup yorkie. However, this coat is not present at the birth, but acquired later. Young teacup yorkies have a tan and black coat. The hair of this dog are so long that you often need to tie the topknot with a ribbon, so as to prevent it from falling into its eyes. Teacup yorkies are not known for shedding their coat, hence are less messy.

Temperament
Teacup yorkies are high energetic and playful dogs. They constantly need some kind of exercise, else they can become cranky and irritable. They are very loyal and protective of their owners. They are also known to be very friendly and playful towards kids. However, this dog breed need a gentle leadership to keep their behavior in check. Due to their small size and exuberant nature, owners let them get away with anything. This can spoil the little dogs and turn them into absolute brats. They can be headstrong at times and perfectly hard to train, if you do not know how to lead them. Living with these dogs can be fun if you know how to handle them. Most dog behavior problems can be controlled by exerting them enough.

Teacup Yorkies Care

Although, these cute, little dogs are not too difficult to care for, they certainly need regular grooming and pet care. The long coat needs to be brushed at least on alternate days. The claws and teeth need to be cleaned at least once a week. The small size of these dogs makes them susceptible to various dog illnesses. They are very prone to slipped stifle, bronchitis, eye infections indigestion etc. Weak bones and lack of muscle mass also contributes to fractures from falls. Early tooth decay is also a problem for this breed. Hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) shock is a common phenomenon in these dogs due to low muscle mass. Various external factors such as cold environment, poor nutrition, stress, etc. can lead to hypoglycemic shock in these dogs. These dogs need continuous care and treatment for injuries and digestive problems.

Remember, this dog can be pretty expensive to buy as well as to maintain. People with small children should think before buying this very delicate breed.