DOG FAQ - Is there such a thing as a “teacup” Yorkshire Terrier?

- No. Many Yorkshire Terrier breeder’s claim to have “teacup” Yorkie’s and justify charging more for such claims on their puppies. The Yorkshire Terrier standard gives no preference for smaller dogs within the 7 pound weight limit. Extra care should be given to the more tiny Yorkies as some are more susceptible to hypoglycemia, physical injuries due to falls, etc. The Yorkshire Terrier standard as defined by the American Kennel Club (AKC) is between 4 to 7 pounds.

- The desired size of the Yorkie is a personal choice. Families with small children might try to find a larger Yorkie, where as other’s might be in search for the so called “purse baby”. Smaller Yorkshire Terrier may be more susceptible to disease and injuries due to their size. Also, many vets will charge more for working on smaller Yorkshire Terrier because it is more difficult (and dangerous) because of the smaller size.

- There is no such breed! The Yorkshire Terrier breed standard classifies Yorkies as up to 7 pounds. They may weigh from 4 to 7 pounds. If a breeder or pet store is selling a "teacup" or "mini", run away! They may be shady and misrepresenting the Yorkie. The tiny ones may be sold too early, perhaps just so they can call them "teacups" or a "mini". If you are set on a smaller Yorkshire Terrier, ask your breeder when their next litter will be. There will be some "smaller" Yorkies in the litter from which to choose from. Most consider a respected breeder to be one that is AKC registered. While that does not always determine that they are to be trusted 100%, there are standards and qualifications that AKC registered breeders must pass.

- There are small, full-grown Yorkshire Terrier that may only weigh 2 pounds. But, it is very rare for Yorkshire Terrier to be that small. If you have a Yorkie that is on the small side of the scale, you must be very careful with them, as they are definitely more "fragile" than standard sized ones and you must take extra precautions with them, such as making sure they don't fall from a high place or that they don't jump off of places.

Yorkshire Terrier - Dog Lover