Teacup Yorkie vs. Yorkie

Yorkshire Terriers, also known as Yorkies are one of the most popular breeds of dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, Yorkies can adapt easily to nearly any surrounding. Because of their small size, they need very little exercise and make great pets for many homes. Teacup Yorkies are a much smaller version of the Yorkshire Terrier.

  1. Difference in Size

    • Yorkies are one of the smallest breeds of dogs, often weighing less than a bag of flour. According to the American Kennel Club the Yorkie's standard weight should not exceed seven pounds. Teacup Yorkies are often much smaller and weigh anywhere from one to three pounds.

    Health Differences

    • A portosystemic shunt permits blood to flow abnormally instead of to the liver. This disease is found in some standard size Yorkies, but is common in teacup Yorkies because they are smaller than the standard size. The teacups Yorkies are also prone to hypoglycemia and extra small kidneys which lead to renal failure.

    Differences in AKC Standards

    • The Yorkshire terrier was recognized as a toy group breed by the American Kennel Club in 1885. Teacup Yorkies are not recognized as a separate breed.

    Warnings

    • A full bred Yorkshire terrier should cost more than a teacup Yorkie. The size of the teacup Yorkie does not indicate anything inherently special about the dog. In fact, according to D. Caroline Coile, author of "The Yorkshire Terrier Handbook," the teacup Yorkie is not a separate breed, from the regular-sized Yorkie. Teacups are in most cases the runt of the litter and Yorkies that are bred to be smaller than the standard size are more susceptible to health problems, accidents and an early death.