What to Look for in a Teacup Yorkie Terrier

The Teacup Yorkie terrier is a small breed of terrier dog. The breed was introduced in the 1800s from England, and named after the historical region of Yorkshire. Teacup Yorkie terriers aren't classified as a breed separate from the normal Yorkshire terrier, but the teacup breed has become popular. Yorkies have a distinct personality and look, and it is important to know what to look for before purchasing or adopting one.

  1. General Appearance

    • Teacup Yorkie terriers stand tall, with small erect ears that point forward. Their tails are occasionally docked, but usually they have long tails. Teacup Yorkies are often used for show because of their standard markings and colors. Show dogs usually have long hair and distinct colorings, but Teacup Yorkie terriers are usually not classified as show dogs, because they are not considered a separate breed. There are many variations and mixes of Teacup Yorkies, such as the Yorkie Poo and the Australian Silky terrier.

    Size

    • Teacup Yorkie terriers are generally on the smaller side of Yorkshire terriers. Yorkies are a smaller breed of dog, weighing seven pounds (3.2 kg) or less, and Teacup Yorkies are usually around three pounds. There is speculation the Teacup Yorkie terriers are the runts of a normal Yorkie litter, so research the breeder to get an accurate health history, since these dogs are known to experience health problems. Also, because of their small size, there is a chance Teacup Yorkies will have a shorter lifespan than the average Yorkie.

    Coat &Color

    • Teacup Yorkie Terriers have a long, silky coat of hair that generally parts in the middle of the dog's back and hangs straight down. Puppies are not born with their adult coat and may not develop their adult coat for 3 or 4 years. The puppy coat differs in texture and color. Yorkies are said to be hypoallergenic, because their hair generally only sheds when brushed or groomed. Teacup Yorkies require a daily brushing and a monthly bath.

      A Teacup Yorkie terrier's coat should be dark gray to steel blue on the back, from the base of the neck to the tail. The Yorkie's head, top of his chest and legs should be a deep tan, darker at the roots and lightening towards the tips. There should be no black mixed with the tan.

      A baby teacup Yorkie will have a different coat color. Teacup Yorkie terrier puppies are born with black fur with tan points on their face, inside their ears, on their feet and legs, and on the underside of their tail. Sometimes Yorkies are born with a star on their chest or toes, but these will fade with age.