Teacup Poodles—buyer beware

Tiny Poodles called Teacups. They may be charming and adorable, but buyers should know what they are getting into before purchasing one.

Through thousands of years of breeding the smallest with the smallest and the largest with the largest, there are now three distinct sizes of Poodles recognized by the AKC: Standard, (over 15 inches at the highest point of the shoulders), Miniature, and Toy (under 10 inches).

There is no such thing as a registered Teacup Poodle. The term is used as a marketing gimmick to indicate that the puppy will be extra small, commonly 2 1/2 to 4 pounds when full grown. However tiny Teacup Poodles often have serious health problems, which may be why they are so small in the first place.

In many ways they are like premature babies. In nature they would seldom survive puppy hood. They need constant human care and nurturing. If they survive, they often have lifespans of 3 to 5 years instead of the expected 12-15+ years of a toy or miniature Poodle.

These tiny puppies should cost less than a normal size healthy puppy because they require special care and generally have higher medical expenses, but often a breeder will charge more for them.

For most people a "Teacup" puppy is a bad idea. Besides health and dental problems, they are quite delicate. Jumping from a chair or being stepped on can cause serious injury. They should never go into a home with children or a lot of activity unless they are kept in a draft-free crate or cage.

In which case, as my email friend Rita says, “You might as well put a Poodle costume on a rat or hamster.”

Comments

[Tina]

Thanks for writing about this. My mil had a teacup poodle who just keeled over when he was three years old. Mil cryed for two weeks, then she went back to the same breeder and paid $1300 for another one.

[chandira]

Aw.. Cute, but sad. I agree, and I think mutts are generally a lot healthier with all that chance for biodiversity in their genes.. Why breed more problems into a dog when life is hard enough! I say rescue a pound puppy!!

All my cats have been homeless waifs, and they're SO grateful for a home..

[Laura]

I had heard of teacup poodles but I didn't know what exactly was meant by teacup. I always thought it just meant toy.

Thanks for clearing that up with me. If I want a pet that small I'll stick with gerbils.

[Ed]

why would anyone want a dog you cant walk or play with? I agree you might as well get a rodent.

[Mushy]

I had a toy poodle years ago...so small my wife brought it home in her coat pocket, but not quite as small as this one looks.

Anyway...it only lived a few years and died suddently one night in its sleep.

Gave an arm and leg ($125) for that thing back in 1970.

[Janey Loree]

Hi Jan, I followed you over here from my PJ's Paper Doll Cut Outs blog. Thanks for the comment. We had a silver toy poodle named Princess when I was a little girl. She was joined by a little black cockapoo named Candy.

I voted for you over in BLOG VILLAGE.

[Faith]

That's so sad; what people will do to make money just completely outrages me.

I don't know what's worse - that there are people willing to do that to dogs just to make money or that people actually purchase them not realizing what they're buying.

[schnoodlepooh]

I have seen teacups advertised in the newspaper, but I didn't know anything about them. So sad. It would break my heart to have a dog with a lifespan of only 3 - 5 years. Fifteen years is too short.... Poor little creatures.

[Kristyn]

They are adorable, but for me it would just be too sad to bear. I have a shih tzu, and I love him dearly. He's only a little more than a year old and I couldn't imagine him only living another 1 1/2 - 3 years. It would just be unbearable. I'm looking forward to years more with him, he's a wonderful -if tempermental dog.

Shih tzu also come in "teacup" and I just think it's sad. Why would anyone breed these dogs this way? Do they not realize that they're breeding underdeveloped dogs? No animal deserves to live this way! It just makes me so darned angry, and more than that, sad.

Thanks for writing about this, Jan!

Kristyn

[glorious]

We've had dogs for years though currently dogless. Our best dogs were mutts and crossbreeds. We had an adorable Shih Tzu named Venus who we loved more than anything. She lived 11 years. I couldn't bear to have a dog for only a couple years. Oh the pain! Some breeders are just in it for the money. Bad people.

[ivy]

It was explained to me when a runt of one litter bred w/ a runt of another litter, you get a Teacup. That is why it is so small, and genetically unhealthy. With high costs of today's vet care, people in general should stay away form getting a teacup size pet. You would think folks would take time learning how to select a healthy pet, but they don't. It infuriates me because these people has created a market for the teacup, so greedy breeders would just keep producing these tiny things to fill it.

[chandira]

I see a lot of this vanity with pet owners. I live near a lake in Seattle that is a popular dog-walking spot, and you can see the owners parading their prizes, with no thought for the poor dogs. All shape and size of trophy dog.
it's not that I'm against dog breeding, a well-bred dog is a beautiful thing, its just the greed and short-sightedness of some of the people involved that irritates me.

[marie therese]

I have a small (4 pound) poodle who is 12 years old. I agree that these little dogs are very fragile and they do require a lot of care. Generally, small dogs have a longer life span than bigger dogs, and it is not unheard of for the toy pooldle or tiny toy to live for 18-20 years. Our little girl dog is very healthy and brings a lot of joy to our lives. Great blog, I've enjoyed reading it!!!

[Steve]

Small poodles can be extremely healthy and live a very long time. I had a female tiny-toy 5 lb poodle for 20 years.

She was very strong, very healthy and could run and play like any other dog. She just did it smaller.

What usually kills small dogs is food. People tend to overfeed them and they get obese. Then they have all the problems obese humans have and usually they die at an early age of heart faliure.

Do not get a small dog without learning all about them, but do not think that just because a dog is very small, that it is unhealthy or will die young.

[Steve]

Small poodles can be extremely healthy and live a very long time. I had a female tiny-toy 5 lb poodle for 20 years.

She was very strong, very healthy and could run and play like any other dog. She just did it smaller.

What usually kills small dogs is food. People tend to overfeed them and they get obese. Then they have all the problems obese humans have and usually they die at an early age of heart faliure.

Do not get a small dog without learning all about them, but do not think that just because a dog is very small, that it is unhealthy or will die young.

[Ashley]

I think teacup poodles are the cutest thing ever and I want one so much, but I just can bring my self to spend over $1000 and more in vet bills on a pet that is gonna wipe out after 5 years. I think I'll stink with a miniature or standard.

[Dianne]

What most of you aren't thinking about is...maybe it is a shame there is such a thing as a teacup poodle but that does not make them unworthy of being someone's pet. I'd rather someone buy one and give it the best life it can have, no matter how long that may be, than to have them destroyed somewhere just because they're small, or mistreated, or never to have been born and never have known a human's love. That would be a crime! I say, buy one! My brother's teacup died just a few days ago at the age of eight so don't tell me they only live 3-5 years or that was a fluke! Loving care can surely extend any dogs' life. Just think...eight years of love she had that she wouldn't have had if she had NEVER been born! Have a heart people!!

[jan]

Dianne,

While I agree that all puppies should have a loving home, my purpose was to let people know what they may be getting when they buy a teacup. Paying a premium price for a puppy that might have severe health problems or a shorter life span is something that people should be aware of before they make the purchase. They should also be aware of the special needs of these dogs throughout their lives.

I didn't put this in my post because it is quite unpleasant to think about, but some disreputable breeders will induce labor so that the puppies are born prematurely and will never become healthy dogs. Others give the newborns drugs or alcohol to stunt their growth and then charge high prices because there is a high demand for tiny Poodles.

[Dianne]

Take note at the words YOU used in your response to me... "what they MAY BE getting", "MIGHT HAVE severe health problems or a shorter life span", and "SOME disreputable breeders". Obviously, even you don't think ALL breeders have the same breeding practices. And, obviously... even you don't think ALL teacups have health problems. But, based on your article and related comments, it looks like the majority of people that posted a comment are now convinced that no one should ever own one. What a shame! Couldn't they have just said...thanks for the info? I guess if no one EVER bought one, the bad breeders wouldn't have a need to breed them anymore. But, the fact remains...they're here and they need us. Price really isn't a problem to someone that really wants one and can afford it. It's the people that buy pets when they can barely feed themselves that should think twice. By the way....thanks for the info!

[Angie]

I just bought a minature(teacup)poodle a couple of weeks ago and I love her so much! She brings me so much happiness and I only paid $450 for her. I have spent way more money on other things that I never used or that never gave me any happiness! She will give me happiness for the rest of her life, no matter how long that is! I am not being selfish, I am being loving and I don't mind taking care of her like I do my children. She IS one of my children.

[Sonja]

I have a teacup poodle - and she's 15 years old. Not all teacups are "sick" or "premature" dogs. Reputable breeders know how to tell the difference. Breeding healthy and happy long lived delicate little creatures. Yes, they need extra care - I find the fact that Diva can't jump up on the couch or other furniture a bonus.
Like some humans, SOME teacup poodles suffer from Hypoglycemia (as do I for that matter!).

Just don't assume one "thruth" is THE truth. My Diva is under 8" and 4 pounds ... and a grand old lady!

[Lydea]

I was upset when reading this information because i had just finished browsing through classfied newpapers for a tea cup shih tzu! Its sad that they must live this way..at first i thought i wasnt gonna buy one anymore because they live short lives but now im reconsidering because some people are right about how they deserve homes!! Such a hard decision for me! And i guess ill just have to hope that if i get one, it will last as long as some of these blogs claim! Thanks for the letting me be aware of this very important detail!

[Gordy]

I cannot believe what I am reading here. My mom just got a lil guy, Bo, black teacup for 800$ and the best money she has spent on anything. He runs and plays like the bigger dog of mine(cairn terrier) another small yet excellent breed. Bo, is 3 lbs of pure nonsense and fun. He barks louder than my dog and he is active and playful and is just like a big dog in a tiny body. As for life span, well, not one of us know just how long we have...so do not judge adopting a pet on that...crazy! Get one and enjoy the heck out of it because that is what they are here for...to be adored by SOMEONE cool enough to get one. Canada

[Alex]

i have a teacup poodle and she is very healthy and is turning 12 this month. she has never had any health problems and is a great dog!

[Kathryn]

You are absolutely correct regarding the health of teacup breeds. While there are occasional dogs who defy the odds and live longer than expected, generally "teacups" have much shorter lifespans. The comments which have challenged your statement are based upon very limited experience and since most are from teacup owners, they, understandably, don't want to acknowledge the accuracy of your statements. Having years of experience with poodles, I have found that responsible breeders don't intentionally try to breed to get teacups. I can't imagine having a dog that was so small that I had to be careful not to step on it -- I have found that my poodles (toys) are usually as close to me as possible, often getting underfoot and occasionally getting their foot stepped on! That is why I generally go barefoot in my home! I think a lot of this desire for tiny dogs is media driven primarily as a result of celebrities being seen carrying dogs in purses! Poor dogs!

[Undesclosed]

Have to partially disagree with you on this one. These little tea cups, although by all means very delicate, are not predisposed to health risks any more than toy poodles. Genetics plays significant role, I agree, but with 2 healthy parents, in addition to some extra special TLC from their new family, these little ones tend to live long and happy life just as their bigger toy, mini or standard breed. They indeed are special little babies. My almost 4 lb angel is tiny but very happy 5 year old girl. One thing they need is parents who will spoil them every moment of their life.

[Jessica]

I love teacup poodles but if someone was to buy one they would have to have extra care like a baby. So in other words go to a really good home were it can get looked after.

[Ashley]

My mom just bought a 2,000$ black teacup poodle named Maggie and she is very very tiny.Fro mthe money I make from High School Musical I will buy myself a tea cup poodle...And anyway I am Ashley Tisdale!

[Kristy]

Thank you so much for the info about tea cup poodles, I was going to get one for myself and family but Paying a few hundred dollars for a dog that would only grace our loving family for a few years then pass away and break our heart would have been devastating to my children and me..I think we will just wait and look around for a different kind of small dog.

Thanks again,

[JoPoodles]

Teacups and Tiny Toy Poodles are just as healthy as any other Dogs, Unless you get a sick one that is why it is important to take your dog to the vet within 48 hrs of buying a Teacup or ANY DOG. I raise teacups tiny toy and Toy poodles. Teacups are just as active,healthy as the bigger ones. Sometimes more active. Make sure you buy from a Breeder that Specializes in those tiny breeds before you just throw up thousands of dollars. Check mine out at http://jopoodles.googlepages.com

[Peanut]

I couldn't disagree more with the original author about nearly everything they wrote. We had a "Teacup" poodle, and it LOVED kids, had no major health problems, and lived to be 16 (human years). The author is making some unsubstantiated generalizations, possibly based on a single incident, I don't know.All I know is that our "Teacup" was one of the friendliest, fun, spunky, healthy animals we've ever had.

[Steph]

My white teacup poodle just turned 4 years old, is aprox. 3 lbs.,and has had no health problems. I paid $500 for her when she was 7 weeks and have had nothing but joy. I don't think that its vain to have a small dog such as teacups. Personally, having a small dog is the best! My dog loves to lay on my chest/neck. She loves human contact and everyone loves spoiling her. The only problem that I have encountered is her wanting an enormous amount of attention and separation anxiety. But all of that is my fault.I just can't help but spoil her!

[Anthony j.l]

Hmmm what to say? One letter inspires so much. But also so much from people who read and relate but don't know. I am from Australia and my family has had Poodles since I can remember. Mainly minuture but 5 years ago we got two beautiful Teacup poodles. It is extreamly true that breeders alot of the time are after money, or even to bread the perfect show dog. And that leads to abuse of animals for profit or because there not good enough. These people should be reported to animal services! BUT... we learnt this the hard way by looking in the paper for our dogs and they were of Minature breed. We had alot of "inbreed" problems that cost thousands in vet bills. So we became friendly with our local vet and asked for help. We learnt if you get a vet certified breeder then chances are you will always have less problems. We now have two beautiful Teacup poodles with no problems! They are both 5 years and have had 1/4 less of the problems we had with our Minatures. So I think the moral is to buy from repuatable breeders with good records. Yes you pay more but more is sometimes less.
And another point, if you want to have a dog to play with than get an active dog. Our two Teacups are active little buggers but not the type to play fetch. They are lap dogs, companion dogs. More for elderly and people who don't have the time for bigger dogs. And as small as they are, our little ones have always been fine with kids.
A.L Australia

[Saralin]

Wow, a lot of different opinions! Being a teacup owner for many years, I also have one... I believe that teacups are not for everyone...(as big dogs are not right for everyone) I have three teacup poodles at home, all from different breeders. Smoky is 18, Lola is 15, and Molly is 6. All of my babies are healthy and active and love to play. I do disagree with people who claim that these tiny angles should not go to a home with young children as when we got our first babe, we had a one and two year old at home. Both my children were great with the dogs, because we taught them from day one the way to treat the pup.
I think that if you are thinking about getting a teacup of any breed, do not base your decision solely on these postings. Do all the research you can and talk with your vet. And if you decide that a teacup is right for you...Go for it! And if not, that's okay too!

[Sophie]

soo cute!I want one, if anybody knows where I can buy it, tell me please!
Thanks,
Sophie* =)

[jennifer]

i would love to know were you can get one to please let me know its so cute i would love to know if i can adopt

[mary]

what are teacup dogs capable of?

[Karen]

I have a teacup poodle or runt of the litter should she not have been alowed to live because she was the runt she is now 9 years old and has not had any health problems she is good with the kids and should you not get a dog because it may only live for 10 year instead of 20 are we ever sure how long something will live just love it for the time you have it

[Patti]

I just had my second teacup poodle pass away at the age of 9...that's both of them that only lasted 9 yrs. Both dogs came from the same breeder, but different parents. Both were raised on eukanuba dog food with no table foods allowed (unless something got dropped) My first one was healthy untill she died of her second massive heart attack, 3 weeks to the day after her first heart attack. Those were the sweetest 3 weeks of our lives! The second one I just lost yesterday, no clue anything was wrong untill she started panting heavily 2 nights ago. We took her to the vet and they heard a loud murmur that she never had before. She was in severe heart failure. Not wanting to go thru the same thing we did with our first dog passing (not something I would wish on anyone!) we opted to hold her, love her, and kiss her as she was put down. She had both of her knees repaired (acl?)probably from chasing rabbits in the backyard. Other than that, we never had any health issues with them. I have my 3rd now that just turned 2. I hate to think I only have 7 more years with her!!! She too came from the same breeder, she's very small at 3.5 lbs. but healthy, active, and loving~! I don't know if there are health issues with these smaller breeds, all I do know is they have all been loved like my children. I have been blessed to have the time I have had with each and every one of them.

[Lisa]

I just lost my precious teacup poodle, Bubbles, three week ago. She died suddenly from a VERY common problem these babies have, tracheal collapse. These little guys are breed so small that quite often their tracheas do not form properly. This is a progressive and terminal condition. There is a surgery available that involves a stent being placed in the trachea, but of course, this comes with it's own complications, and is often unsuccessful. There are a few medical treatments available, antitussives, corticosteroids, and bronchodialators, these are basically used for comfort care. However, some of these medications, such as corticosteroids, come with very devestating side-effects.

It has shattered my heart to lose my little angel, and I don't think I'll ever want another teacup poodle. Not because Bubbles wasn't a great dog. She was a GREAT dog. She was my first poodle and now I'm hooked on them. I will not get another tea-cup, because since this experience, I do not believe they should be breeding this or any dog that small. So small that they have shorter lifespans and chronic health problem. What creature walking on all fours and just two would want to live like that. Please pass is on, don't support the breeding of these dogs. I think I will get a miniature poodle next time. It's going to be a long time though...there's no substitute for my Bubbles.

Bubbles Mom

[Lisa]

Just a side note about Bubbles, she was 9 years young when she passed away.

Again, from Bubbles and myself, thanks for reading our blog.

Bubbles Mom

[Sheila]

My dog

[Judy]

We have a 6 year old teacup poodle named Gracie. She was given to me by a breeder of show dogs. Gracie was too small for the show ring and the breeder did not want to keep her as a pet. Before Gracie we were proud parents to a miniature and a toy poodle. Both of these dogs did not live their full life expectancy due to health issues. Gracie has a seriously disfunctional liver. This condition will probably shorten her life. However, she is in surprisingly good health and is a wonderful part of our family. She is lively and loving and I would not trade the experience of having her company for anything. If you look at the health issues for most dogs you will find that big dogs have greater health issues and they have a much shorter life expectancy than the little dogs. Don't pass up an adorable teacup out of fear of a short life. Have the dog checked out by your Vet then, take good care and enjoy the delightful little creature whose only desire is to love you and to be loved in return.

[connie]

all this makes me very sad I was lookin forward to buying a teacup but I dnt want to run a risk of the agony of watching my puppy suffer with any health issues. it would break my heart :.(

[Keenan Peterson]

OK! i just got 1 toy and 1 teacup poodle and you know what i LOVE THEM TO DEATH! and they do not have health issues we had 1 live for 20yrs ok so!!!

[Carmie]

We have a teacup poodle. My uncle has her brother and my baby and my uncles (brother and sister) mated at 2yos and had two puppies. My friends parents have one and my mum has the other. My baby girl is the smallest of the four but all four are very active and healthy (besides my mums having a few ear infections over the years)

My baby is a black female teacup and is 8yos and her two boys are 6yo. She was and always will be my baby, she has never slept a night outside and besides her walks (which 9/10 times we end up carrying her or she rides in the basket of the pram) she only spends about and hour or two outside each day (more in summer on the weekends).

We have three children 4yo, 2yo and 1yo and they all love her dearly and she is THE BEST with them, even when they are learning as the 1yo is (and other two have done previously) and pulling her fur, trying to sleep in her beds with her or pushing her out all together. She sleeps on her bed at the end of ours or when its cold under the sheets with us and we would have it any other way. It took my husband and little time to get used to this when we first met lol.

She used to fit in my pocket for a long time and often travelled around with me like that. She did get under your feet and still does occasionally but loves a cuddle and to be near you. She also thinks she is a great guard dog and will take on any dog passing my our house (until they bark back at her lol)

We love her and wouldnt be without her. People cant believe we spent $600 to buy her (with papers) but it is the best money we have spent and would do it again in a heartbeat. If/when Millie passes away we will treat her as one of our children and have her cremated and placed on the mantle piece (so to speak) as she is part of our family and our first and much loved pet.

She also LOVES being dressed up and looks soooooo cute dressed in her wardrobe full of clothes and collars for all occasions. (She even wore a bridal outfit for our wedding)

[China China]

Hi I hope to enlighten people a little about teacup poodles, I have a good friend who has been raising them for years and true they do require special care, but they can be healthy and live long healthy lives. I know a man who had one who lived to be 20 with the qaverage being 15 yrs. Please go to this link for Teacup Info and Teacup Care, Hope it is helpful and can help to inform people. thanks
http://sharminspoodles.homestead.com/Teacuppage.html

http://sharminspoodles.homestead.com/TeacupCare.html

[Jan]

MY ORIGINAL WARNING STANDS. SOME OF THESE COMMENTERS MAY WELL BE BREEDERS OF TEACUPS. DO YOUR RESEARCH, CONSULT WITH YOUR VETERINARIAN, HAVE THE PUPPY CHECKED THOROUGHLY BEFORE YOU BUY.

[Dan Cornelius]

I own a Tea Cup Poodle or this is what the breeder claimed. It is 7 lbs and a healthy bundle of energy and joy. They are worth every moment you share with them no matter how long they are suppose to last. I have had mine for 2 1/2 years now with no problems others than an issue with one of it's teeth. This is dog is pure joy!

[Jeaniyah]

Ihad 1 it died because it was too small,plus it jumpe right out of my arms and broke it's leegs the vet gave him medication but still the following night he died (he will be missed)

[Jan]

That is so sad.

Jan

On Wed, Sep 30, 2009 at 3:39 PM, wrote:

[PJS]

I totally disagree. I have a teacup Shih Tzu and he's the best dog I've every had. His personality is amazing and he thinks he's a German Shepard. What most people fail to understand is that virtually ALL breeds have been breed down in size over the years. Size and health aren't related. Virtually everyone I know who has a lab has major health issues with those dogs. It's about responsible breeding, not size.

[Brandy]

I know that this blog is old, but I wanted to mention that a reputable breeder will offer a health guarantee against medical defects. So if they don't offer one or the dog doesn't appear healthy...don't buy it!
I also had a Toy Poodle - they are very fragile - as with any small or a health compromised dog for that matter (especially Poodles and Chihuahuas. She fell while playing and broke her leg. She died 3 hours after surgery from a pulmonary embolism. I thought that I had died myself.
Always take your new pooch to the vet the same day or the very next day. If you know that you are going to purchase one in advance (which I hope is the case), schedule and appointment with your veterinarian and ask the breeder to meet you there with the puppy and stay for the visit.

[Brandy]

Just a note to my post above: I didn't mean to imply that Poodles and Chihuahuas were the health compromised dogs that I mentioned.

I meant the Poodles and Chihuahuas are fragile!

[Joy]

I just purchased a micro teacup female from Fran @backfortypups. The baby is 6wks weighs 11oz and 4 inches tall, will get her in about 2 1/2wks. Never had a teacup before only toy poodles and they lived to be 18. The teacup weight is easier on my shoulders to hold. Reading these blogs are very worrisome and some are very heart warming. Any suggestions?

[zoe]

I have a teacup male and a tiny toy female and they keep producing micro teacup puppies in their litters.
Because my dogs are in no way related and come from healthy backgrounds with no inbreeding, the puppies are extremely healthy.
I have kept one micro teacup male for breeding purposes and the first thing I did was put a noisy bell on his collar so I do not step on him if he sneaks up behind me.
My vet is thrilled at how healthy he is.
He weighs 400grams and is only 6" high.
Today I took both the daddy and his son for a romp on the beach and they spent over 1 1/2 hours running vigorously along the beach and on the grassy parkland.
My vet has checked out all my dogs and says they are amazingly healthy.
I feed them puppy kibble as it is more nutritious and is in tiny biscuits that they can manage with their tiny jaws and teeth.
They have table scraps and bones regularly for variety.
My teacup male lives outdoors and I keep the micro teacup indoors most of the time as Eagles and other raptors (hawks& kestrels etc)fly over my back yard and I do not want him mistaken for a rat.
The micro teacup is really an ideal size for a companion dog for a diabetic or epileptic if they want a dog trained to warn them when they need insulin or are approaching an epileptic fit.
Poodles have the best sense of sight, hearing and smell of all the breeds and I would like to see cute little teacups and micro teacups trained as companions for these people.
A cute little poodle the size that would fit in a carry bag or handbag would be less offensive to other people if it is carried ion a bus or into a restuarant etc.
I have had two people with extreme fear of dogs, able to cuddle my little micro teacup male because they could not feel fear of such a cute little fluffball.
One was a lady who was savaged by a dog when she was little and the other was a little girl who had been bitten by a dog two years before.
If the dog breeder is responsible and only breeds healthy non related dogs, and if the buyer is wise enough to keep the dog on a healthy diet and put a bell on their neck for safety, there is nothing wrong with having ultra tiny dogs.
A tiny dog for a companion for a lonely person who has not got much space or yard is better than no companion at all.

[angela]

ni can any body define to me what a micro teacup is i have just had a litter with my 2.5 kg boy and my 4 kg girl, 3 beautiful girls 1 is 200 grams 1 is 250 grams and the other 350 grams and they are 4 and half weeks old eating mashed up kibble science diet puppy ,i visited the vet today and he said they are in excellant health although very tiny would they be called micro teacups ,im confused as teacups are not reconised some info would be great ,they are stunning babies but what im reading doesnt seem to give them much hope ,its scaring me they were 70 grams and 120 grams born now 4.5 weeks old

[Kym Sheppard]

Zoe..are you in Australia...i would love to buy one...Kymbo

[Shelley]

We have a silver teacup poodle who is 18 years old.
Although he is now blind, deaf & toothless he loves to play, run around outside and thinks he is a rottweiller. He has an extremely loud bark & will always let us know if someone comes in the gate or on our property.
He is an incredible little dog and we love him to bits.

[Bronwyn Blair]

I have just lost a little 2.2kg teacup poodle, but not because of health problems. She had a tick and because she was lactating, her immune system was compromised and she did not make it. I have to say that this little girl was nothing but pure joy, a constant companion and all round beautiful little dog. I never had any health problems with her at all and she had 2 litters of pups in her 3 - 4 year life. I would recommend these little pets to anyone. They are devoted, intelligent and full of life. I am desperate to replace my little friend with another just like her.

[angie]

Our teacup poodle (Jack) is just over 2 years old. He has been very healthy and has never had to visit the vet for health reasons. He is a very precious and loving dog and has brought much joy to our house. He has picked his master (my daughter)and chooses to obey everything that she tells him. We also have a bigger dog (boxer) that he plays very well with. He is active and fun loving. The only time that Jack has watery eyes is when we are leaving for vacation and he knows that he can't come along. We assume that he is crying since these seem to be the only times that this has happened. I would highly suggest that if anyone wants a house dog and loving pet to get a teacup poodle.

[Zoe]

Kymbo YES I am in Australia and I usually advertise my pups in the Quokka.
My vet is happy to talk to any prospective buyers, about the health of my pups.
I would love to make contact with any other owners of healthy extra tiny poodles in Australia so I can access fresh bloodlines for my dogs as breeding pairs.
I am against inbreeding as this compounds many health problems for dogs and reduces the diversity of their dna.
My smallest male is now 1kilo in weight and fully grown, with a black coat tipped with chocolate.
I look forward to seeing what kind of pups he produces.

[Zoe]

Forgot to say..I am in Western Australia.

[Margaret]

I have a 3.1 lb. poodle that I love dearly. I can walk her and play with her. She is a riot when she gets in her "gone crazy" (as my son calls it) mode. Yes if you step on her you will hurt her and she has learned to get out of the way of feet. It's probably easier on the pup to not have small children but even that can be worked with. She is 7 1/2 yrs old and going strong. Because of her size she can go anywhere with me and usually does. She is a great travel hotel dog. Not all "teacups" are sad cases, I hate that it's been made to seem like that on here. You should definitely check blood lines and health of other pups your breeder has raised.

[Maureen]

I just adopted a teacup poodle from a shelter. He had a rough life, but is the best dog I have ever had, and is a loving companion. I love to baby him, take care of him, love him...for as long as I might have him. He is full of personality, and is happy and healthy, and runs and plays to his heart's delight. EVERY purebred breed has it's own issues, and though I, of course, don't agree with the people who breed for money...there are well-bred ones out there too. Anyway, I was his rescuer...and he is my therapy...and my JOY.

[WENDY rEYNOLDS]

thank you all for this its good reading IO have just lost my lovely toy poodle and yes she was very small I had lots of trips to the ver she had lots of teeth out the vet said her mouth was too small and it would be an ongoing problem.
I would love anothe very small toy but with my broken heart Gracie was only 5 1-2 yeaRS OLD i GOT ANOTHER TOY BUT A BIGGER one to be on the safe side I want her to be with me for a long time thank you GRACIE'S MUMMY.

[Jerry Halliday]

I dont care how many problems some of them have i want to replace our teacup who lived to be twelve years old with another just as small. There are no absolutes in this life.

[Sandy]

I want to buy a teacup cock-a-poo or a maltese for my birthday but now I think that teacup size puppies r premature and unhealthy puppies! My neighbors have a 5pound papipoo and I take her for walk almost everyday (she doesnt like walking so basically i take her for a walk/run) and play with her. she is a very cute puppy! But sometimes she get hyper. I was thinking to buy a 4pound cockapoo or maltese and I just wanna know if 4pounds is premature or unhealthy? If it is then how about I buy a 4 1/2 pound? I really want one and I don't wanna buy a big dog like Labrador or boxer! Or how about 5pounds?

[R Hughes]

My grandmother has a "teacup" poodle that's 9 years old now. Aside from eating something she shouldn't one time, we've never had any special medical problems. Or any, actually. She routinely jumped from couch to couch and down to the ground, until a doggy step-ladder was purchased for her just because she had to do it so often. Take care of your animals and be prepared for a medical emergency period, because hey, your bigger healthy dog could just as easily get hit by a car as a smaller one could get stepped on. It's largely due to careless owners. As it's been said, there are no guarantees in life. The only thing I'd worry about is breeding a smaller dog, which we never did--then her size might have been a concern. But we got her from a reputable breeder and always watched her diet and got her exercise, and she's been fine.

[olympus dslr camera]

Just a note to my post above: I didn't mean to imply that Poodles and Chihuahuas were the health compromised dogs that I mentioned.

I meant the Poodles and Chihuahuas are fragile!

[Kristy C.]

Hi, I just want to say that while I get where you're coming from with this, I do not agree. I'm 17 years old, and I've had poodles my entire live. I've had a few Toy Poodles but recently my mother bought a Teacup. Ripley, my Toy Poodle was put down four days ago due to a brain disease - we couldn't afford his medical treatment and didn't want him to have to suffer through any more seizures. He was about 10 years old. The family Teacup is three years old. She's completely healthy. The only time she's ever been to the Vet (aside from the usual vaccines and check-ups) was to have some teeth pulled. We can walk her like any other dog - just not such long distances - and we can play with her like any other dog. She's very active and has no trouble bounding over furniture. She's loud and boisterous and certainly not unhealthy.

I don't know why you'd want to put people off buying these lovely dogs. Sure, SOME might just be premature puppies, but that's why you research the breeders before you buy and make sure they're reputable.

All I want to say is that, while what you're saying is true in some cases, people should not make the decision to steer clear of these dogs completely based on that advice. They need to do their research and let these amazing puppies have a chance at a good life.

Also, telling readers they'd be better off dressing a rodent up like a poodle is quite offensive, really. Rats only live for about 3-5 years, but people become attached to them - I know a very good friend of mine did and she was devastated when her rat died. I've had a few myself and I know the pain. It's not about how long an animal lives that should dictate whether or not you buy them. It's about how well they suit your lifestyle and how you spend your time with them (For example, I don't have a backyard - so big dogs are out of the question, and all of my family besides myself get hay-fever so Poodles are the only real option, since they have wool). I spent two months caring for two magpie lark chicks, and despite only having them with me for a short while, I was a mess when they were eaten by a snake.

All pets come with their ups and downs. You're saying that people should boycott the smaller breeds - but are you also telling people to avoid the larger breeds such as Newfoundlands and Irish Wolfhounds because they also hold a greater risk of health problems and a shorter life-span? No, you're not.

This is a rather biased opinion.

No one can be sure of what health problems your pets might obtain. Ripley never had a health problem in his life until last week when he suddenly collapsed in a seizure.

I say teacup poodles are definitely worth the money and I wouldn't trade mine for the world!

I think everyone should remember that great things come in small packages!

(Also, I just want to say that I'm sorry about the rant, but I've lost 6 pets this year and am a little emotionally strained right now. I was just a bit offended when I read this...)

[Ashley]

Great article. You cleared out some things, but teacup, designer dogs, mini dogs however people call them can be healthy dogs with a long lifespan.

[ashlee]

I had a toy poodle that was only 6 lbs and she was like a delicate little flower but she never ever got injured. She was extremely healthy, super active and the most loving dog ever! As long as they are put into families that can take care of them properly and afford to give them the right type of noureshment and love, then they will live long, happy, healthy lives! And its not just small dogs that need this... what happens to a large dog that's not taken care of properly? It can get ill and die! Yeah you do have to be a little more careful with small dogs to ensure they don't get injured but a dog is a dog! They all need to be taken care of properly with lots of love and if you can't do that, you shouldn't have a dog at all! Or any animal for that matter! Just to prove my case, I've had many dogs all my life big and small all of them very healthy. But my toy poodle lived until she was 14 yrs old and got cancer and my chow chow only lived until she was 8 yrs old. Therefor my little dog outlived my big dog!

[acm]

People should not be breeding dogs this small.

They might be great, loving dogs, but it is unfair to the canine species to selectively breed them to be small, fragile and fraught with numerous health problems. Sure, your *individual* teacup dog might live to be 20 years old, but for every one that lives that long, there are two that die at a young age. Anecdotal information is not the same as statistical evidence.

Buying these dogs only creates a greater demand for them, and only leads to more irresponsible breeders selling them. You could ask any veterinarian, but really it's just common sense.

If you want something that small, you're better off getting a hamster.

[Dina goparian]

I've had a teacup poodle since she was a pup in Sept 2002. She is now 9 yrs old has had not one health issue. She weighs in at 4 lnd and is the color 'phantom', which is similar to the colors of a rotweiler/doberman pincher. Due to her.coloring she was unacceptable to the person who bred her in Iowa. She ended up at a puppy shop as if she was worthless. I find that cruel and pumishment. I have 27 generations of her parents families. Her mom was apricot and her dad was black. I have never witnessed such a rare beautiful poodle as she is to this day. She has not one health issue. As all toy dogs her teeth are the only.cgoncern. That is due to her jaw and teeth.being so small its difficult for her to cheq even the smallest kibble available. Her primary nutrient is chicken. She.is incredibly smart and understands human language. She is 100% house & crate trainef, as well as obedience trained. Her primary purpose in our home was to be a companion to our 15 lb lhasa apso. She kept him inline even with their size difference. He recently passed at the age of 17 yrs old. Quite a wonderful pair they were. Now she seems to not have a purpose altjough she is still thruving. She is currently in need to be adopted as she needs a companion as our lhasa or even be in a home where she can be the main attraction. I know she has at least 10 good years to be in the main spotlight and shine again. I feel she has constant memiries of her old pal and longs for a new start in life. Her name is Tootsie Sherrie Blossom and we are in Webster, MA. IM ASKING A NEGOTIABLE ADOPTION FEE. Please email if you are seriously interrsted at goparian@facebook.com # NO BREEDERS PLEASE #

[magical person]

I hate your site!

[magical person]

DIE jan

[Christina]

I think that this is absoultely ridiculous. Our poodle is a teacup(weighing in at 3 lbs) and she is perfectly healthy. We didn't pay for her, since she was from my mother-in-laws litter. I was there when they where born and we have had her since 5 weeks and she hasn't had a single problem. And yeah yeah I know 5 weeks is early, but there were circumstances I would prefer not to talk about

[Kel]

Wow I defiantly agree that size does not matter if you get a good breeder you will get a good dog I have bred mini toy poodles and all my babies have been amazing I get regular emails and SMS saying how lovely healthy and perfect they fit in to the home some of those where very tiny I thing
K it's when people cross breed father daughter and so on that you are more likely to end up with a puppy with health problems xxx like if you get one from a (puppy farm) I always would get my puppies checked at the vet after birth and when I get them vaccinated and checked and get there certificate for the buyers xxxxx

[Kylie]

I had a teacup chihuahua. The owners bred quality normal pups, but my Teeny was so small. They were offered thousands of dollars for her, but refused as people wanted her for breeding. I got her for a regular price and had her spayed as soon as I could. She developed a floating patella, but still did everything a normal dog could, although a little yip from her could see me picking her up and putting her on my bed when she was perfectly capable if doing so herself! We lost her a week ago today in a tragic accident. I miss her terribly. We told Everyone Teeny was a teacup. A Real one. I spent countless hours discussing with people that you shouldn't try to breed dogs so small and that those claiming to breed them are liars and should be reported tonthe RSPCA. Teeny was a one off, once in a lifetime dog who will never be forgotten. RIP my little angel.

[Kylie]

Chisty C - you sound like a naive and irresponsible pet owner. You can't afford to treat the ones you have already and sounds like you go through pets like they are old sox. You should be ashamed of your ignorance on the subject.

[ALEX]

i've just bought a teacup puppy and really hope that she colud live a lot of years because i had wanted a puppy for a long time, i think she is healty and has 2 healty parents too.
i think that not only teacup puppys can have healty problems, before these puppy i bought anoother one who was a poodle i think "normal" size and she died after 4 DAYS with me, love and special cares, was really sad and oviously i dont want another experience like that.
wish me good luck.

[fran]

I just lost my very loved little tea cup poodle Snickers. She was mixed with another breed unknown but she was 7lbs and she was always very healthy. She was 19 years old !!
I loved her like my own children and will never get over losing her. She loved to play and was never a bother or an expense too much to bare!! She loved chocolate too even though they say not to give it to dogs she would manage to get it and I think it may have kept her going longer in life! 19
she will be very very missed. She had a HUGE heart !

[Annie]

Are seizures in teacups controllable? My vet has a 2.5lb teacup that an owner surrendered that needs a good home. I am very tempted!! Thoughts? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.