Key Takeaways
- Some of the most popular teacup dogs that don’t shed are Chihuahua, Poodles, Yorkshire terriers, and Shih Tzu.
- A teacup dog is a type of dog that is bred to be very small, often weighing only 6 pounds or less and has a height of no more than 17 inches.
- However popular, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize teacup dogs as a sole breed because of the concerns over certain health issues brought about by breeding and rearing practices.
Teacup dog breeds have become popular in the 21st-century mainly for their size and for the hypoallergenic traits of some of them. The most popular teacup dogs that don’t shed are Chihuahua, Poodles, Yorkshire terriers, Shih Tzu, and Bichon Frise.
Micro-breeds of some of the world’s most popular dogs are perfect for cute photo opportunities and display the loving nature of the original dog breed. The combination of a teacup dog breed and the ability to be hypoallergenic has made teacup dogs that don’t shed a must-have for pet lovers in the last decade. However, I always warn dog owners about the fragility of teacup dogs which is often the cause of health issues and even deaths. If you are interested about owning one of these tiny pups, but unfortunately have allergies to canine fur, see my list of the best teacup dog breeds that don’t shed.
Hypoallergenic Dogs
Allergies have stood as a barrier to dog ownership for centuries. Man’s best friend is not always such when they cause us to cough and sneeze regularly. It is estimated that 10% – 20% of the world’s population has a cat or dog allergy [1]. Pet hair, dander, urine, and saliva are the most common causes of dog allergies among humans, with measurable levels of dander thought to be in every home in the U.S.
For many, the breeding of hypoallergenic dogs becomes a solution to this problem. This is also the characteristics of many dog breeds that make them a good candidate for cross breeding. Hypoallergenic dogs do not shed hair or fur so it’s not a surprise that they are popular for pet lovers with allergies. For those who are fans of smaller pets, hypoallergenic teacup dogs are the perfect options.
What are the Symptoms of Dog Allergies
If you experience the following common symptoms around dogs or cats, you probably have allergies to them:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Itchy eyes
- Sore throat
When these symptoms are in place, you should consider welcoming into your family a dog breed that does not shed. If you are into tiny pups, check out my list of the most popular teacup breeds that are hyoallergenic.
The History of the Teacup Dog Breeds
The average size and weight of your puppy have to stay within a range to be called a teacup. A teacup puppy will often be confused with a toy dog breed, but the two are completely different. Your teacup puppy will weigh less than six pounds and stand no more than 17 inches to be classed as one of these tiny dogs.
Modern dog enthusiasts often confuse toy and teacup dog breeds because of their similarities. The toy dog breeds have been around since the dawn of civilization, with the first mentions of them dating back to 12,000 B.C.; while teacup breeds have been around for decades and became popular in the 1990s. The teacup breed is generally born from the runt of larger dog breeds, whose small size helps them to remain small throughout their lives.
There is some controversy over the breeding and rearing of teacup breeds. These concerns are based on the potential for health problems these small dog breeds are open to. I do not advise first-time dog owners to get teacup dogs. The health issues have become an issue for breeders and owners, with the American Kennel Club refusing to recognize these small dogs.
Teacup Chihuahua
Teacup dog breeds that don’t shed do not come more popular than the chihuahua. If you are considering adding a teacup chihuahua to your family, you can expect to pay upwards of $1,000 because of their uniqueness. Of all the dog breeds that don’t shed, the teacup chihuahua has become a staple of mainstream culture. The breed leaped to popularity in the 1990s and early-2000s, when celebrities carried them around in their purses. The popularity of the teacup chihuahua led to the development of their nickname, the puppy purse breed.
The teacup chihuahua has developed a reputation for its grumpy tendencies. The sensitive and protective nature of these small dog breeds is based on the close bond she will form with her owner. The teacup chihuahua will act as a reflection of its owner’s mood. When you are excited, your puppy will follow your lead. At times of tension or anxiousness, your teacup chihuahua will reflect this anxiousness.
If you are considering adding a teacup chihuahua to your family, you should be aware of this puppy’s sensitive nature. Your teacup chihuahua will be a good friend for people living in small apartments and houses. The majority of teacup chihuahuas do not grow beyond five pounds, with her small stature being one of the main reasons for her popularity. The teacup chihuahua is not the perfect option for families with small children or other dogs, but they do enjoy the company of cats.
Teacup Poodle
The teacup poodle is one of the most popular small dog breeds available, which also came from breeding the smallest members of litters to keep them small. If the teacup chihuahua is the smallest member of the teacup family, the best thing I love about poodles is that they are the smartest. Poodles were originally bred as water hunting dogs, with their classic cut designed to keep them dry and warm during cool months.
Teacup poodles are an expensive addition to your family, with prices climbing above $2,000 for most members of this small dog breed. You should be aware of the loving nature of the teacup poodle, with each poodle attaching itself to members of your family. Poodles are among the smartest small dog breeds and will spend their time solving the problems they are faced with. The hunting history of these intelligent dogs make them one of the most loyal companions. Each member of the teacup poodle family will quickly learn commands and remain a loyal family member for years to come.
There are several things to consider when you are looking for a teacup dog breed that don’t shed. The teacup poodle does require expert grooming each year. Home haircuts and trimming are possible, but the tight curls of these hypoallergenic dogs can become matted. Spending less than $100 every six months is a small price to pay for a happy and healthy teacup poodle. However, you may still try DIY dog grooming to save money.
Teacup Yorkshire Terrier
The single-coated teacup Yorkshire terrier is one of the most popular small dog breeds available. The teacup Yorkie can be found at an affordable price of between $300 and $3,000.
Yorkies are known for their smooth hair which requires plenty of grooming. Their hair can grow so long that it catches on feet and legs. Keeping your Yorkshire terrier groomed correctly will help you avoid extra veterinarian costs associated with damaged limbs. Learn how to groom a Yorkie if you are getting one. Daily brushing will be enough to help maintain your Yorkie’s coat without matting.
The teacup Yorkshire terrier can cause a surprise among its owners when it makes its way home. The Yorkie is known for being a prolific barker beyond the experience of most owners. I must admit this can be pretty annoying, but remember that training your Yorkie starting from puppyhood is the best option for eliminating the persistent barking this small dog breed has become known for.
The lack of shedding makes the Yorkie a good option for pet parents who suffer from hair allergies which is also the reason behind the popularity of the breed. However, the loving and energetic nature of the teacup Yorkshire terrier has allowed it to stand above its rivals as a popular small dog breed. Playful nature and single-digit weight make this one of the most popular family dog options in the teacup sector.
Bichon Frise
Is the Bichon Frise a teacup or a toy? The American Kennel Club does not class the “teacup Bichon Frise” as a true teacup because of its large size. The Bichon Frise can grow to double-digits in weight, which has pushed them out of the teacup category for some experts.
The lack of shedding, however, makes the Bichon Frise a popular option among families and single people. Living in small spaces is not a problem for the Bichon Frise, particularly because the dog is so adaptable. The loving nature of the Bichon Frise has seen them become some of the most popular family dogs around. The Bichon Frise likes nothing better than to place her head on your lap and spend enjoyable hours relaxing on your sofa.
The Bichon Frise is a small dog breed that has become known for its fluffy hair. The show cut has become the breed standard and limits shedding. The tight curls are reminiscent of the poodle, and yes, they are also hypoallergenic dogs which limits their impact on your health. The popularity of the Bichon Frise has pushed prices upwards of $3,000, making this an investment for the future.
Teacup Pekingese
The teacup Pekingese has been one of the most popular dogs with royal families for centuries. Experts believe the Pekingese to be one of the oldest domesticated small dog breeds. The lack of shedding can become a problem for the teacup Pekingese, which needs daily brushing to remove dead hairs. As a teacup Pekingese owner, you will need to have the patience to groom your pet pooch daily to keep the dead hairs from forming matted portions of her coat.
The teacup Pekingese has a reputation for being one of the most loving and content lapdogs in the world. This is a reputation that breeders and owners have fought hard to cultivate. The truth is each teacup Pekingese has been trained to combat its destructive tendencies. Like the teacup poodle, the Pekingese is filled with energy that needs an outlet. The teacup Pekingese needs a lot of attention to remain content and will bond with one or two members of your family. If you live in a small apartment or house, the teacup Pekingese will adapt well to these surroundings.
Brussels Griffon
You may expect the West Highland white terrier or the Shih Tzu to appear on this list. The Brussels Griffon is not as well known as its more illustrious cousins, but it is worthy of a place on our list. The Brussels Griffon is popular because of its human features that are reflected in its mustache and beard. The eyelashes and almond shape of its eyes have been compared to the appearance of characters in Japanese comic books. The short hair of the Brussels Griffon fails to shed regularly and is a good option for those affected by dog hair and dander.
Despite its small size, the Brussels Griffon is a handful and can be difficult to train because of their energetic personality. This teacup breed can become distracted during training sessions, with plenty of dog treats needed to keep it focused. A daily period of exercise is needed too, with 30-minute sessions enough to keep them happy throughout the day. This small dog breed will remain small at less than 12 inches in height and below 10 pounds in weight. The small stature of the Brussels Griffon belies a sturdy small dog breed capable of surviving in a loving home for up to 15 years.
Other hypoallergenic teacup dogs include the Teacup Maltese and Teacup Shih Tzus.