Teacup Yorkies

Teacup Yorkies: The Truth

No Such Thing as a “Teacup” Yorkie

There is only one recognized breed of Yorkshire Terrier. Terms like Teacup Yorkie, Toy Yorkie, Tiny Teacup Yorkie, or other names implying a “smaller version” are marketing ploys—not legitimate classifications.

The official AKC breed standard calls for Yorkies to weigh between 4–7 pounds. That’s it. Anything outside of that range is not a separate “type” of Yorkie, no matter how breeders label it. Unfortunately, backyard breeders often use these misleading names to charge more money for undersized or poorly bred puppies.

Why “Teacup” Yorkies Are a Problem

Breeding for extreme tininess often means breeding from unhealthy or runt puppies. This practice compromises the dog’s health, wellbeing, and lifespan. While all Yorkies deserve love, it’s important to know the risks before buying into the “teacup” fad.

Common Health Problems in “Teacup” Yorkies:

  • Hypoglycemia (dangerous low blood sugar)

  • Liver shunts

  • Patella luxation (loose kneecaps)

  • Periodontal disease (early and severe dental issues)

  • Eye abnormalities

  • Frail, easily broken bones

  • Hydrocephalus (water on the brain)

  • Open fontanelles (soft spots in the skull that may never close)

  • Stunted organ development → heart/liver failure

  • Shortened lifespan

The Reality: Standard vs. “Teacup”

“Teacup” Yorkie

  • From non-health-tested parents

  • High risk of expensive health complications

  • Shorter life expectancy

  • Often bred for profit, not preservation

Standard Yorkie

  • Bred within AKC standard (4–7 lbs)

  • From health-tested parents

  • More likely to live a long, healthy life

  • Bred with focus on health, temperament, and quality

Don’t Be Fooled by the Marketing

Yes, “teacup” Yorkies might look cute in viral videos or Instagram posts, but what you don’t see is the suffering behind the picture. Breeding undersized dogs is not ethical—it’s harmful. These breeders are not advocates for the breed. They are ignoring the Yorkie parent club’s code of ethics and putting money before the wellbeing of the dogs.

Share Yorkie Pride 🐾

Say NO to the “teacup” fad and their breeders.

Say YES to preserving the health, longevity, and integrity of the Yorkshire Terrier.

Infographic about Teacup Yorkies, explaining that there is only one recognized breed of Yorkshire Terrier, and marketing terms like 'Teacup Yorkie' are not legit. It compares a 'Teacup' Yorkie, a non-health-tested dog from unverified parents with shorter lifespan, to a standard Yorkie bred within AKC standards, from health-tested parents, with a longer, healthy life. The infographic highlights health issues associated with poorly bred Teacup Yorkies, such as hypoglycemia, liver shunts, periodontal disease, frail bones, and hydrocephalus.
Three small Yorkshire Terrier puppies sitting inside a floral teacup, with a pastel-colored background and scattered flower petals.
Adorable Yorkshire Terrier puppy with blue eyes and a white flower in its hair, sitting on a beige surface.
Two Yorkshire terrier puppies sitting in ornate teacups with floral patterns, surrounded by scattered flowers on a wooden table, in an elegant, vintage-style setting.
Cute Yorkshire Terrier puppy with a pink bow on its head, sitting on a wooden surface surrounded by pink and white flowers.
A digital painting of a small Yorkshire Terrier dog standing in a grassy field with trees in the background. The dog has a red band on its head, fluffy fur, and a happy expression.