Teacup Yorkshire Terrier

Contrary to popular belief, the Teacup Yorkshire Terrier is not a separate breed, but a nick name given to all small Yorkshire Terriers, usually those which are under 3 pounds. Also called Micro Mini and Teeny, their small size is the result of the crossing of very small Yorkshire Terriers. It is an unfortunate reality that this kind of breeding is carried out. It is a practice considered unethical by most dog lovers as it greatly compromises the health of the dog.

Teacup Yorkshire Terriers are extremely susceptible to several health problems, including hereditary ones. These can often manifest in the form of birth defects that go undetected for a long time. Other common problems include, but are not limited to, early tooth decay, vomiting and diarrhea. Teacups may also have to undergo expensive tests prior to surgeries. Female dogs struggle during delivery. They find it difficult to withstand anesthesia and may even die due to it. These tiny dogs may be stepped on, attacked by other dogs or even be dropped from human hands.

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately called Yorkies, originated from Yorkshire in northern England. As there is much ambiguity about the bloodline of the Yorkshire Terrier, most people believe that it was bred by cotton mill workers, to deal with rat infestation. There is speculation that Yorkshire Terriers originated from three breeds; the Clydesdale Terrier (the blue and tan silky coated version of the Skye); the Waterside Terrier (or Otter Terrier) and the Old English Terrier (toy rough and broken haired).

At their usual size, Yorkshire Terriers are about 7 to 9 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 3 to 6 pounds. The source of their glamor is a beautiful silky straight coat. Tan on the head and feet, with a striking blue gray saddle, their coat parts along the spine and falls straight down. Show dogs are often seen with coats that trail the floor. They have bright, expressive eyes and perky upright ears. Their tails are usually docked to half the original length. As they are fairly small, they fall into the toy terrier section. Contrary to that classification, they exhibit classic terrier traits of bravery, determination, protectiveness and high energy levels.

They are ideal for people living in apartments. The apartment space is usually enough for them to run around, so they get by without a lawn. However, their daily walks are a must. Their age span is between 10 to 15 years.

Yorkshire Terrier Dog Care

The stunning coat of the Yorkshire Terrier that captivates the eye, is the outcome of considerable effort. Several hours of grooming go into the maintenance of a long beautiful coat. It is usually oiled and washed on a weekly basis. It may also be wrapped up, to prevent breakage. However, owners who place the comfort of their dogs above beauty, trim the coat short, allowing ease in movement. The fur on the face is also trimmed short to prevent it from getting dirty every time they eat and to keep it away from the eyes. Irrespective of this, they still require regular bathing and brushing, or their fur will get matted. Yorkies are also prone to several health problems, so it is essential for them to have regular check ups. They prefer warm climes as bronchitis is just one of the illnesses known to afflict them. It is also very important for them to have regular teeth cleaning, to prevent then from loosing teeth or getting infections, which is another problem area.

Teacup Yorkshire Puppies

The right time to bring home your little bundle of joy (a yorkie puppy) is at about twelve weeks. Perky erect ears mark this stage. A few painful shots are already over, as is a thorough check by a vet. They should also be proud owners of a health certificate. Though not an exact estimation, twice the weight at twelve weeks should be the size it will reach at maturity. Most importantly, by twelve weeks the puppy is sociable and friendly, so it is easier for it to accept the difficult transition of leaving its mother and siblings.

Famous Yorkshire Terriers

Huddersfield Ben, was a championship-winning Yorkshire Terrier, in the year 1871. Smokey was a well-known war hero, and even had a book written about him titled 'Yorkie Doodle Dandy'. Richard Nixon's wife, Tricia, had a pet yorkie called Pasha while in the White House.

Yorkshire Terriers make wonderful loving pets who add fun and excitement to their owners' lives. While buying or adopting a dog or puppy, good health, not size, should be the top priority. Yorkshire Terriers have appealing personalities, which gets them a lot of attention; they need not be pint-sized.