Teacup Yorkies for Dummies

Characteristics of Teacup Yorkies - For Dummies

By Tracy Barr and Peter F. Veling



Now there's nothing wrong with having a smaller Yorkie, as long as the breeder was using ethical breeding practices. Periodically, and for no apparent reason at all, some dogs are born very small; and they steal your heart because they're so in need of love and care.


But be wary of any breeder who advertises or supposedly “specializes” in Teacup Yorkies. Here's why:

  • There's no such thing as a Teacup Yorkie. A Teacup Yorkie isn't an officially recognized by the AKC. It is simply too small to be a true Yorkshire Terrier. Anyone who tells you (or implies) otherwise either doesn't know what she's talking about or is lying.
  • A Yorkie who weighs 3 pounds or less often requires special care. Extra-small Yorkies are more prone to serious health problems and birth defects (like portosystemic shunt or small kidneys — which you won't know about until much later).
  • Small size does not make these dogs more valuable. A small Yorkie shouldn't cost more than a healthy, normal-sized one. In fact, it should cost less because it is not up to the breed standard. They should also only be sold after being neutered or spayed.


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