The AKC Standard for size of the Yorkshire Terrier says “up to 7 lbs.” . There is no mention of the minimum size to fit the AKC Standard. There is only one AKC standard for the Yorkie and no mention is made of teacup Yorkies. People do often refer to the tiniest Yorkies as “Teacup Yorkies or as “Teacup size Yorkies”
Since there is no definition of what teacup size is, everyone has their own definition of teacup size, with some referring to puppies whose expected adult weight is 5 lbs. as teacup sized, while others may think of teacups as under 4 lbs., or as under 3 lbs. This can lead to confusion when buying a puppy so the buyer needs to ask the breeder about expected adult weight.
A “Teacup” size Yorkie can be a wonderful companion and addition to your family, but it is not a good choice for everyone.
These tiny Yorkies have all the wonderful qualities of the Yorkie breed- loving spirit, loyal, fearless, playful, spunky — but they also need special care and attention due to their tiny size.
Smaller Yorkshire terriers are more susceptible to hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) shock.
The smaller the dog the less of a reserve they have and the more likely that they will have a problem with hypoglycemia. They don’t eat much so too much stress or too much playtime will result in low blood sugar.. Making sure that it takes naps and eats regularly can greatly reduce the risk.
Because of their size they don’t have the reserve that a larger dog has. What this means to the owner is that if the Teacup size puppy does get sick and doesn't eat it is critical that it is taken to the vet as soon as possible.
The smaller puppies have to eat more often, so if your puppy is not eating well, you will need to make arrangements to have someone with it or to check on it frequently especially when it first goes home with you or anytime it is not eating well.
They are as healthy as the larger Yorkies, they are just very, very fragile. Special attention to their care and safety is required. A jump off of furniture, for example, can result in injury to the legs more easily, visitors have to be watched to be sure they do not sit or step on the puppy.
Teacup sized Yorkshire terriers are more likely to be stepped on, sat on, or accidentally injured by children playing with the puppy. Children and the puppy will both enjoy each other more if the puppy is larger so they can play together more safely. A larger Yorkie puppy may be a better choice for families with pre-school age children.
These tiny Yorkies have all the wonderful qualities of the Yorkie breed- loving spirit, loyal, fearless, playful, and spunky — but they also need special care and attention due to their tiny size.
If you want a Teacup sized Yorkie, you must be committed to providing the extra care and attention these tiny little guys need and deserve.
I sometimes have this size available, so email or call me if you decide that this size Yorkie is for you and that you are willing to make the extra effort and committment to care for the tiny puppy.
