All Yorkshire Terriers are small, but Teacup Yorkies – as suggested by the name – can fit in a teacup. Also labeled as designer dogs, they’re highly attractive and desired for their miniature size and super cute looks.
So if you’re wondering what the real distinction between Yorkshire Terriers and Teacup Yorkies is, it is mainly their size!
These canines are virtually identical, but a Teacup Yorkie may have a few additional distinct characteristics. So, without further ado, let’s see what characteristics distinguish Teacup Yorkies from the standard Yorkies.
Origin
As its name suggests, Yorkshire, England, is where the Yorkshire Terrier first appeared. The rat and other small vermin found in mines are the primary targets of this breed. They evolved to be little to hunt such tiny creatures.
While initially bred for hunting, these dogs quickly proved to be the ideal household pet. Since they are the same breed despite their diminutive stature, Yorkies and their teacup breed have the same heritage.
Even though they are much smaller, teacup Yorkies are descended from the same genetic stock as standard Yorkies. These little puppies are therefore bred using a slightly different technique, but this technique does not alter the fact that they are still purebred Yorkies.
Breeding
Yorkies
To produce puppies of standard size, breeders typically pair two adult purebred Yorkies of about the same size.
Teacup Yorkies
However, Teacup Yorkies are selectively bred to have certain traits. In particular, the breeders aim for these canines to be miniature. Thus, the breeders of Teacup Yorkies seek miniature versions of the breed’s parent dogs.
For this reason, they prioritize breeding runts so their offspring would be as small as possible. Since several successful attempts were made to get the miniature version of the breed, breeders can now produce more Teacup Yorkie puppies, especially because of their increased demand. As a result, they no longer depend on a litter’s runts.
Size and Weight
Yorkies
The average Yorkie stands 7-8 inches tall and weighs 5-7 pounds. Any Yorkie weighing more than 4 pounds and standing taller than 5 inches is considered the standard size.
Teacup Yorkies
As mentioned earlier, the Teacup Yorkie is bred to be particularly petite. They are the little puppies produced by mating the runts of a typical Yorkie litter. To summarize, a dog is referred to as a Teacup Yorkie if it is between 2 and 4 pounds and 5-7 inches tall.
General Appearance
Teacup Yorkies and Yorkies seem remarkably similar outside of the size difference. This is because of the similar genetic makeup of these dogs. You can expect these pups to have the same standard patterns and coat colors as any other purebred Yorkshire Terrier.
Yorkies of all sizes most frequently appear in black, tan, and gold. However, like other dogs, these dogs tend to undergo a color transformation as they age. They have stunning coat colors, and their popularity is growing rapidly.
The fact that Yorkies have hypoallergenic coats also contributes to their widespread acclaim. Yorkie hair is comparable to human hair in texture. Since they shed so little, they are a good choice for anyone with allergies.
Temperament
Each dog is unique, and so is their temperament, making the discussion of temperament a very subjective topic. However, because of their susceptibility to certain illnesses, Yorkies require careful attention to their health and nutrition. Taking good care of your Yorkie or a Teacup will return the favor with a positive attitude.
Lifespan
Yorkies
Yorkies of the typical size should expect to live between 11 and 15 years.
Teacup Yorkies
Teacup Yorkies, on the other hand, have a short lifespan of about 7 to 9 years. The selective breeding that produces Teacup Yorkies has led to a limited lifetime.
Health
Teacup Yorkies suffer from far more health issues than standard Yorkies. Common health issues in Teacup Yorkies and Yorkies include:
· Hypoglycemia
· Collapsing Trachea
· Heart Disease
· Blindness
· Problems with Breathing
· Seizures
· Trouble Digesting Food
· issues with one’s teeth
· Patellar Dislocation
Remember that Yorkies, in general, are small and delicate creatures and that their size and fragility can make them more susceptible to common health issues. Even minor injuries might become life-threatening for Yorkies if they aren’t catered to. Teacup Yorkies also fit this description perfectly, as they are even tinier than regular Yorkies.
Care
Regular and Teacup Yorkies need a lot of time and effort. Whether you have a standard or Teacup Yorkie, your pet needs proper nutrition for growth and development. They should also wear a harness instead of a collar to protect their throats and eat often and in the right amounts to avoid low blood sugar, which can cause fainting or coma.
In addition, regular and Teacup Yorkies are prone to renal problems since their diminutive size also results in smaller organs. Yorkies are also vulnerable to the outdoors due to their small stature. When temperatures drop below 68 degrees Fahrenheit, they require sweaters, warm bedding, and sun protection.
Diet
Any size Yorkie deserves a balanced diet rich in beneficial nutrients. However, standard Yorkies and Teacup Yorkies have different dietary needs because of their size difference. The size of their stomachs can only handle small amounts of food simultaneously. It would help if you fed your Yorkie three small meals daily to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Yorkies
Approximately two-thirds of a cup of kibble per day is recommended for adult Yorkshire Terriers of average size.
Teacup Yorkies
One-third to one-half a cup of kibble per day is recommended for a Teacup Yorkie.
Exercise
Both standard-sized and miniature Teacup Yorkshire Terriers need moderate physical activity. It’s crucial to remember that, as Terriers, these dogs have more activity than you may expect from a dog of their size.
Always keep your Yorkie inside supervised while you go for a walk or run. This kind of dog is especially defenseless against the various outside dangers due to its small stature. Yorkies left unattended are at risk of being trampled by passers-by or eaten by predators.
Teacup Yorkies, in particular, require modest exercise that won’t stress their strength. They also need routine veterinary exams to keep up with their health and treat any issues before they become serious.
Wrapping Up
Remember that standard and Teacup Yorkies are descended from the same ancestors and have many of the same traits. All the distinctive features discussed in this article should give you a clearer idea of what to expect.
If you’re unsure which to choose, trust your gut and ignore the dog’s size or color. These pups are adorable and gorgeous, and they have lovely temperaments to boot!
