Teacup dog
A teacup dog is a dog that is smaller than a typical dog of that breed. Other terms may include pocket dog, tiny dog, and micro dog.[1] Teacup dogs are usually bred by mating two runts together.[2]
Description
[edit]Teacup dogs have no exact size however they are smaller than the standard for their breed and often weigh under 5 lb (2.3 kg).[1]
Teacup breeds
[edit]Teacup dogs typically belong to the following breeds: Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, and Pug.
Health concerns
[edit]Multiple health issues are associated with runts and teacup dogs. They may suffer from hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar); hydrocephaly due to the small size of the skull; portosystemic shunts; periodontitis and gingivitis due to the small jaw leading to problems with tooth growth; tracheal collapse; degenerative mitral valve disease; luxating patella and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease; and hypothermia.[1]
Their small size can lead to problems with the dosage of certain medications such as flea treatment as most flea treatments and other anti-parasite medications are only labeled as suitable for use in dogs over 5 lbs (2 kg).[1]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c d Coates, Jennifer. "Teacup Dogs and Puppies". PetMD. Retrieved 5 February 2024.
- ^ "What is a teacup dog?". Blue Cross.
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