Yorkie Size - Average Yorkshire Terrier Sizes Big & Small

Miniature dogs have brought their fair share of controversy over the years. Neither the American Kennel Club nor other reputable kennels recognize the Teacup, or any other term implying a tiny size for that matter, as acknowledged variants of the breed, or even as a separate variety.

The main reason the term even exists is because someone, once upon a time, thought that if a small dog is desirable, then even smaller would be even more desirable. Over time, just about every toy and small-sized dog wound up being bred down, despite all the risks to the dogs’ health that come as a result of the ever smaller size.

A teacup Yorkie refers to any Yorkshire Terrier that is less than 4 pounds.

Teacup Yorkies Often Have Health Issues Related to Their Small Size

Many will have you believe that these dogs are “special” in some way. However, taking an already small dog and shrinking it further and further intentionally is putting the dog’s health in serious jeopardy. If you take into consideration that the dog is getting smaller and smaller, then obviously so too are all of their internal organs. Many teacup Yorkies wind up as small as 2 lbs, and only 4 to 5 inches from shoulder to shoulder.

The process is accomplished by procuring a male and a female that are both undersized themselves, so that when they’re paired together, they will have an increased likelihood of producing very tiny puppies. The average weight of 4 – 7 lbs is already tiny enough as it is, and breeding a Yorkie to be even smaller can create many serious health issues such as:

• A weakened immune system
• Hypoglycemia
• Fragile bones
• Heart and respiratory problems
• Liver problems
• A shorter life span
• An increased chance of being susceptible to hip, knee, and neck injuries

Many teacup Yorkshire Terriers and their offspring can even die during the birthing process itself. Since their organs are inadequately sized, including reproductive organs, this can often lead to all sorts of birthing complications.

If you are the owner of an adult Yorkie that is less than 3 lbs, then it is highly recommended that you look out for any potential problems such as these. Your vet should also be on the lookout for signs of the following issues.

• Collapsed trachea: This is when the trachea, or windpipe begins to collapse, resulting in a characteristic honking cough as the air is struggling to be squeezed through. It’s important to use a no-pull soft harness with any Yorkshire Terrier but especially with teacup Yorkies.
• Luxating patella: This is when the kneecap slips from its correct position.
• Hip dysplasia: This is when the hip joint has slipped out of it’s proper sitting point within the hip socket.

You must also be aware of outside temperature changes. A teacup Yorkie will be very sensitive to cold weather and will need protection in the form of a sweater like this soft fleece puppy sweater and anti-slip dog boots. They’ll also very easily succumb to overheating in the hot summer months.