Top 20 Largest Dog Breeds

10 Teacup Dog Breeds For Compact Living

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Teacup dogs are tiny, lovable companions that weigh between 4 to 6 pounds, often bred from the smallest puppies of a litter. While they aren't officially recognized by American dog breed registries, they fall under the toy dog category and have captured many hearts, especially in recent years.

Britannica notes that, unlike traditional toy breeds that have been around for centuries and were adored by royalty, teacup dogs gained popularity around 2005, thanks in part to social media and celebrities showcasing their pint-sized pets.

These adorable dogs are not only rare but also incredibly portable, making them perfect for people who love to bring their furry friends along wherever they go, often fitting easily into bags or purses. Though their personalities are similar to their larger counterparts, teacup dogs may tire quickly due to their size and can be prone to health issues.

Now that you know a bit about what makes teacup dog breeds so special, let's take a look at the top 10 teacup dog breeds perfect for every home!

Teacup Dog Breeds 1. Yorkipoo

The Yorkie Poo is a small and charming designer breed, standing about 7 to 15 inches tall and weighing between 3 to 14 pounds. A mix between a Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier, this breed has become popular over the years due to its cute appearance and affectionate personality.

Teacup Yorkie Poos are especially adored for their compact size, making them perfect for people who prefer smaller dogs. The breed was originally developed to combine the hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the playful and loving nature of the Terrier.

Though small, Yorkie Poos are full of energy and can surprise their owners with their liveliness. They love to cuddle and are incredibly loyal, often seeking to stay close to their humans. However, they can be quite vocal, which might be a challenge for those living in apartments. Despite their stubborn streak, Yorkie Poos are intelligent dogs that can learn quickly, especially with consistent training.

2. Shih Tzu

The Teacup Shih Tzu, also known as the Imperial, Toy, or Mini Shih Tzu, is a tiny version of the Shih Tzu breed, which originated from China and was once favored by royalty. Despite their small size, Teacup Shih Tzus are 100% Shih Tzu and are not mixed with any other breeds.

These little dogs have the same adorable traits as their larger counterparts, including their rounded heads, bulging eyes, squashed noses, and a puppy-like appearance that they keep even as adults. A full-grown Teacup Shih Tzu usually measures less than 7 inches tall, making them around 3 inches smaller than the standard Shih Tzus recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Known for their happy and friendly nature, Teacup Shih Tzus get along well with people of all ages, other dogs, and even different types of pets. They love social interaction and prefer to be close to their owners at all times. However, due to their tiny size, families with small children should be extra cautious to ensure they don't accidentally injure these delicate dogs.

3. Maltese

The Teacup Maltese is an even tinier version of the already small Maltese breed, known for its rich history among Roman nobles where they were cherished as pampered lapdogs and symbols of wealth. Standing between 4 to 6 inches tall and weighing just 3 to 5 pounds, Teacup Maltese dogs are truly miniature. Their soft, silky coats are usually pure white, though some may have light tan or lemon coloring on their ears.

Despite their delicate appearance, these dogs are brave and can show a bit of stubbornness. Teacup Maltese are incredibly affectionate and devoted to their families, making them wonderful companions. While they have a reputation for barking, they're not any more prone to it than other small breeds.

Their tiny size makes them perfect for apartment living, as they don't require a yard or intense exercise. In fact, their energy needs can easily be met through indoor play, making them ideal for anyone seeking a loving, low-maintenance pet.

4. Pug

Some breeders will take two runt Pugs (the smallest in their litters) and breed them together, aiming to create smaller-than-usual dogs, often called "Teacup Pugs." However, these tiny pups can come with serious health risks. According to Blue Cross, Teacup dogs may face issues like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), breathing problems, and heart disease due to their smaller size. Since they are bred to be even tinier than the breed standard, these dogs often require extra care.

A Teacup Pug, which can weigh as little as 3 pounds when fully grown, needs to be handled with great caution. These tiny pups are known as "underfoot dogs" because they are so small that they can easily be stepped on or tripped over, potentially causing serious injuries.

The weather can also affect these little Pugs more than usual, so it's important to protect them from the cold with dog clothing, and even rain gear is recommended. If you have a Teacup Pug, taking extra care to ensure their safety and comfort is key to keeping them healthy and happy.

5. Chihuahua

Teacup Chihuahuas are a smaller version of the already tiny Chihuahua breed, often called "micro" or "teacup" to attract those looking for the tiniest dogs. These little pups only grow to about 6 inches tall and weigh around 3 pounds when fully grown, making them one of the smallest dog breeds out there.

They have the same iconic features as standard Chihuahuas, including large eyes, round, apple-shaped heads, and big, pointed ears that stand tall. As loyal lap dogs, Teacup Chihuahuas love being close to their owners and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Luckily, their small size makes them easy to take along wherever you go.

Despite their size, Teacup Chihuahuas are known for having bold, feisty personalities. They can be a bit defensive and even aggressive, especially if they feel threatened. This behavior often makes them seem fiercer than their small stature would suggest, but it's usually more about self-protection than a true prey drive. Proper socialization and training can help manage these tendencies, making them wonderful companions in the right environment.

6. Maltipoo

The Teacup Maltipoo is a tiny and adorable hybrid breed that results from mixing a Miniature Poodle with a Teacup Maltese. Weighing only around 5 pounds as adults, these little dogs are incredibly small, making them vulnerable to injury, especially around larger dogs or young children. However, their tiny size is matched by their big hearts and friendly nature, as they usually get along well with people.

Combining the intelligence of both the Maltese and Poodle, the Teacup Maltipoo is a clever and eager-to-please dog, making them relatively easy to train. They are well-suited for apartment living and can get most of their exercise from indoor play, which is why they make excellent companions for seniors or anyone living in smaller spaces.

While they don't require a yard, regular walks are still important for bathroom breaks and to keep them healthy and happy. Overall, the Teacup Maltipoo is a loving, playful, and adaptable dog, perfect for those looking for a small, low-maintenance companion.

7. Pomeranian

The Teacup Pomeranian isn't an officially recognized breed but is simply a smaller version of the regular toy-sized Pomeranian, bred to be extra tiny. While some Teacup Poms are naturally small, the increasing demand for tiny dogs has unfortunately led some breeders to use unethical practices to achieve the smallest size possible. These little dogs typically stand around 6-10 inches tall and weigh between 5-7 pounds, depending on their gender.

Teacup Pomeranians are active, playful, and intelligent, with an extroverted and loyal personality. They form strong bonds with their owners and families and tend to get along well with children. However, they may be cautious and a bit reserved with strangers until they become more familiar.

Despite their independent nature, Poms are social creatures that need plenty of love and companionship, and they can suffer from boredom or separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Additionally, they can be territorial, vocal, and possessive, especially around other dogs, likely due to their small size and their history as guard dogs.

8. Toy Poodle

The Teacup Poodle, often referred to as a mini Toy Poodle or pocket Poodle, is a tiny dog with a big brain, capable of learning hundreds of words. These miniature versions of one of the smartest dog breeds come packed with personality, intelligence, and an adorable appearance. To be considered a true Teacup Poodle, they must be under 9 inches tall and weigh less than 6 pounds, with some even as small as 2.5 pounds.

They are incredibly loving towards their families but can be a bit cautious around strangers, which can sometimes lead to reactive behavior. With their high intelligence, these little Poodles need mental stimulation through games, puzzles, and training to prevent boredom. If left unstimulated, they can become frustrated and even destructive.

Although they often act self-assured, Teacup Poodles are aware of their tiny size and can become nervous or skittish in unfamiliar situations or around new people and dogs. They may also be vocal to express themselves, especially if they feel vulnerable. While they can make wonderful pets, their small size means they may not be the best fit for homes with young children, who might accidentally hurt or scare them.

9. Bichon Frise

The Teacup Bichon Frise, also known as the mini Bichon Frise, is the smallest version of this already tiny breed, weighing as little as 4 pounds. With their sweet faces and fluffy, cuddly appearance, these little dogs are adored for their loving and affectionate nature. They love being close to their humans and are eager to please, making them delightful companions.

While they have an average level of intelligence, their small size makes them easy to manage, so training challenges are rarely an issue. Teacup Bichon Frises are great for families, though caution is needed around toddlers, as their tiny size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from rough play.

These affectionate dogs require very little exercise, as they don't have much stamina, so short play sessions indoors can keep them happy. Their calm, non-aggressive nature makes them easygoing pets who love to spend time near their owners, listening and following along without much fuss.

10. Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)

Teacup Yorkies are a tiny version of the already small Yorkshire Terrier, weighing as little as 2 to 3 pounds when fully grown. These little dogs are known for being affectionate and loyal, forming strong bonds with their humans. Despite their petite size, Teacup Yorkies are full of energy and spunk, often displaying bold and confident behavior.

They love to play and have an adventurous side that surprises many due to their small stature. While they are extremely loving with their families, they can be a bit cautious around strangers. However, their tiny size does come with some challenges, particularly regarding their health. Teacup Yorkies are more prone to injuries, especially due to their delicate bones.

On the bright side, they are considered hypoallergenic because of their low shedding, making them a good option for allergy sufferers. Their long, shiny coats require daily brushing and regular grooming, including weekly baths and trimming around the ears and eyes to prevent infections.

Conclusion

Teacup breeds are undeniably adorable, with their tiny size, fluffy coats, and affectionate nature making them irresistible to many pet parents. These miniature versions of toy dogs, such as Teacup Yorkies, Teacup Pomeranians, and Teacup Maltese, often have silky coats, floppy ears, and big personalities packed into a small body.

However, it's important to note that their delicate size comes with certain risks, as they are prone to health problems like fragile bones and a shorter life span. These tiny companions can still thrive in homes with other pets, but extra care is needed to prevent injuries due to their size.

While teacup puppy dogs are incredibly popular, especially for those looking for a small dog, potential pet parents should be cautious of unethical breeding practices. Some breeders may prioritize size over health, leading to more serious health issues for these dogs.

It's essential to choose a responsible breeder and understand that teacup breeds are not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Despite their challenges, these loving and loyal teacup dogs make wonderful companions for those who can provide them with the care, attention, and love they need to live happy, healthy lives.

7 Best Small Dog Breeds For Indoor Pets

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Dogs, whether big or small, are undeniably adorable, but small breeds have a special charm that makes them irresistible to many pet owners. Their compact size is a major advantage, allowing them to fit comfortably into apartments or homes with limited space, and making them easy to take along on outings and adventures. Small dogs may require less exercise than their larger counterparts, but they still enjoy playtime and short walks, thriving on the love and attention they receive indoors.

What truly sets small dogs apart is their deep bond with their owners. Their affectionate and loyal nature means they're always by your side, offering companionship and emotional support. Their adaptability to various living situations, whether in bustling cities or quiet homes, makes them perfect for families, singles, or seniors alike.

However, like all dogs, small breeds need proper training and socialization to prevent behavioral issues. Many of these little companions also have gorgeous, long coats that require regular grooming to keep them looking their best.

With the right care, attention, and love, small dog breeds can bring immense joy, warmth, and happiness into your home. If you're searching for the perfect indoor companion, here's a list of small dog breeds that are ideal for indoor living.

Best Small Dog Breeds for Indoor Pets 1. Boston Terrier Personality Friendly, bright, amusing Energy Level Regular Exercise Height 10-12 inches Weight 12-25 pounds Barking Level Only to Alert

The Boston Terrier, affectionately known as the "American gentleman," is an ideal indoor dog with a friendly, affectionate, and intelligent temperament. Bred in Boston, this small yet sturdy dog adapts easily to apartment living and is perfectly content wherever its people are. With a lively intelligence and a strong desire to please, Boston Terriers are easy to train, though their occasional stubbornness calls for patience and consistency.

Gentle and people-oriented, Boston Terriers make excellent family pets, quickly becoming beloved members of the household. Their playful antics will keep you entertained, while their loving nature wins over everyone they meet. Boston Terriers are great with children and, with early socialization, can get along well with other pets, including cats and rabbits, despite their high prey drive.

AKC highlights that the Boston Terrier's sleek, fine coat requires minimal grooming. Though they shed a little, weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush, grooming mitt, or hound glove will help manage loose hair while promoting healthy hair growth and distributing natural skin oils.

2. Yorkipoo Personality Affectionate, energetic, smart Energy Level Playful Height 7-15 inches Weight 5-15 pounds Barking Level Vocal

The Yorkiepoo, a delightful cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, has quickly gained popularity due to its sassy personality, affectionate nature, and adorable appearance. Yorkiepoos are energetic, intelligent, and full of attitude, packing a lot of personality into their small size.

Ideal for apartment dwellers, seniors, and first-time pet owners, Yorkiepoos thrive in smaller living spaces and love spending time with their humans. However, their spirited energy means they require early positive reinforcement training and regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent behavioral issues like excessive barking and separation anxiety. According to PetMD, with the right care, they'll fit seamlessly into family life, acting like a natural addition to your household.

Yorkiepoos also need regular grooming to maintain their coat, and the popular "Puppy Cut" is a low-maintenance style that keeps them looking tidy and adorable. While professional grooming is essential, this haircut can also be maintained at home, which many owners love for its convenience and cost savings.

3. Bichon Frise Personality Playful, peppy, curious Energy Level Regular Exercise Height 9.5-11.5 inches Weight 12-18 pounds Barking Level Occasional

The Bichon Frise is an excellent indoor pet, known for its playful, affectionate, and friendly nature, making it ideal for both families and individuals. With their fluffy white coat, bright eyes, and cheerful disposition, these little dogs are irresistible companions. Their double coat is non-shedding, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies. Despite their energy, Bichons don't require a lot of space, making them well-suited for apartment living.

Hill's Pet notes that they are easy to train and love to play, but once playtime is over, they'll be more than happy to snuggle up for some quality cuddle time. Unlike some small breeds, Bichons are not prone to excessive barking, which makes them perfect for city dwellers. However, they're not known for their guarding instincts, so don't expect them to be watchful protectors.

One important aspect of caring for a Bichon Frise is maintaining their coat. These dogs require regular grooming, with a full-service groom, including a bath and haircut, recommended every 4 weeks. At home, brushing at least two to three times a week—ideally daily—will help keep their coat in top shape.

4. Pug Personality Charming, loving, mischievous Energy Level Regular Exercise Height 10-13 inches Weight 14-18 pounds Barking Level Only To Alert

Pugs are ideal indoor pets, known for their playful, friendly personalities and adaptability to various living environments, whether it's a busy family home or a quiet single-owner household. Their small size and affectionate nature make them perfect companions for children, and they thrive on being close to their owners.

Despite their sturdy little frames, Pugs have respiratory issues due to their short muzzles, meaning they are best suited for indoor living and moderate climates. Warm or humid weather can be challenging for them, as they struggle to cool down. Pugs are even-tempered, intelligent, and sensitive, though they can be a bit stubborn, so gentle yet consistent training is essential. Their charming, expressive faces and loyal personalities make them irresistible companions who will happily follow you around the house.

While Pugs don't require excessive exercise, they benefit from regular activity to keep their muscular bodies and curious minds healthy. According to AKC, Pugs have a short, smooth coat that sheds but requires minimal maintenance. Weekly brushing with a medium-bristle brush or grooming mitt will help manage shedding and keep their coat looking glossy.

5. Cocker Spaniel Personality Smart, happy, gentle Energy Level Regular Exercise Height 14.5-15.5 inches (male), 13.5-14.5 inches (female) Weight 25-30 pounds (male), 20-25 pounds (female) Barking Level Occasional

Cocker Spaniels are the perfect indoor dogs, known for their friendly, loyal, and adaptable nature. Originally bred as gundogs, PetPlan states that their intelligence and willingness to please make them easy to train and ideal for first-time dog owners. Despite their active background, Cocker Spaniels can thrive in apartments or homes with smaller living spaces, as long as they get regular exercise.

Cocker Spaniels are great with both people and other pets, making them excellent companions for families. With their big, expressive eyes and long, silky ears, they're as charming as they are energetic, always ready for a game or some cuddle time. While they enjoy outdoor activities like walks and the occasional swim, they are happiest when they're indoors with their loved ones.

Regular grooming is essential for Cocker Spaniels. Their coat needs attention every 4 to 6 weeks, with special care for their ears to prevent matting. Bathing may be necessary as often as weekly, depending on their activity level, keeping their coat in top shape.

6. Chihuahua Personality Charming, graceful, sassy Energy Level Regular Exercise Height 5-8 inches Weight not exceeding 6 pounds Barking Level Very Vocal

The Chihuahua is a perfect indoor dog, well-suited for seniors, singles, or families with limited free time due to its minimal exercise needs. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas grow up with a bold and sassy personality, full of energy and character. They thrive in small living spaces and love spending time indoors, especially curled up on your lap or snuggled under blankets.

Chihuahuas form strong bonds with their owners and are quick learners, displaying sharp intelligence behind their shining eyes. Orvis notes that although they enjoy brief outdoor adventures like exploring the backyard or taking short walks, they prefer the warmth and comfort of the indoors, returning your care with deep loyalty and affection.

Grooming varies depending on coat type: smooth-coat Chihuahuas require occasional brushing, while long-haired varieties need weekly grooming to avoid matting. Their small size, coupled with their loving and loyal nature, makes Chihuahuas ideal companions for indoor life, though they may be possessive of their owner's attention, especially around strangers.

7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Personality Affectionate, gentle, graceful Energy Level Calm Height 12-13 inches Weight 12-13 inches Barking Level Occasional

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an ideal indoor pet, known for its affectionate, gentle nature and love of cuddling. Whether you're an active person or prefer a cozy lifestyle, this breed adapts easily. Cavaliers are perfect lap dogs, and they are happy to relax by your side or join you for a short walk or play session.

Despite their tendency for noisy greetings, they aren't overly protective, making them great companions in quieter settings. However, the PDSA points out that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have fairly high-maintenance coats that require daily brushing to prevent matting. Their long, silky fur tends to shed, especially during the autumn and spring months when shedding increases, so regular grooming is essential to keep them looking their best.

Their single coat of fur means they don't handle cold well, so keeping them inside, except for playtime, is important. Easily trained, great with kids, and loyal, the Cavalier thrives on family time, bringing happiness to any home, apartment, or even royal palace!

Conclusion

When it comes to finding the perfect small dog breed for indoor living, there are countless options to suit your lifestyle and home. Whether you're drawn to the playful charm of a Shih Tzu, the lovable personality of a French Bulldog, or the laid-back nature of a Pug, smaller breeds offer companionship and joy in small apartments or homes.

These intelligent dogs thrive on love and attention, making them ideal canine companions for families, singles, or seniors alike. If you're looking for a low-energy dog that fits into a busy lifestyle or one that can handle long periods indoors, exploring toy breeds and other small breed options can help you find your next best friend.

Remember, you don't have to limit yourself to popular breeds. Your favorite breed may be waiting for you at a local animal shelter, where other dogs—big and small—are hoping for a loving home. Whether you prefer small dogs or have your heart set on a large dog, every furry friend deserves a chance to become a beloved canine companion. So, whether you're drawn to the snuggly nature of a Pug or a high-spirited Shih Tzu, the right furry friend is out there, ready to fill your life with unconditional love and happiness.

What's Popping Out Of Woman's Bag Leaves Internet In Stitches: 'Totebagdog'

A hilarious video of a small Chihuahua popping out of a woman's tote bag has left the internet in stitches after going viral on social media.

In the footage, shared on TikTok on Sunday, under the username @henningnygaard, the dog's owner can be seen queuing at the bar to get herself a drink, and everything seems normal until the poster zooms in on her tote bag.

As the camera gets closer, the small dog can be seen popping his head out of his owner's tote bag, looking around, almost going unnoticed.

The hilarious post comes with a caption that says: "Totebagdog."

A file photo of a Chihuahua inside a bag. The internet was in stitches as users realized what was popping out of a woman's bag. A file photo of a Chihuahua inside a bag. The internet was in stitches as users realized what was popping out of a woman's bag. Getty Images

Despite being among the loudest dogs, Chihuahuas are generally considered the smallest in the world, and they're famous for their ability to fit inside their owner's bags, like Paris Hilton's dog did back in the early 2000s.

But if chihuahuas are not for you and you only have limited space at home, there are many more toy dog breeds that you can choose from, according to the American Kennel Club.

The Affenpinscher dog, German for monkey terrier is less than a foot tall, and does great in apartments. However, these dogs do require a moderate amount of activity, like some play time at home or a little walk.

Another small breed, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, is affectionate, gentle and graceful. They're perfect for families with children and for owners who don't have much time for the dog park.

Among other small dogs, one of the most popular has got to be the dachshund, which are smart, independent and sometimes stubborn. Because of their body shape, these dogs don't need a lot of activity either.

The video quickly went viral on social media, getting viewers from across TikTok. It has so far received over 18.1 million views and 2.9 likes on the platform.

One user, SouthSideSarah37, commented: "Some people don't understand chihuahuas, the little weirdos love this kind of thing."

Sophia said: "That baby is so much happier being squished than being home alone."

User6098913968019 added: "Omg! Love it .. I care for lady who is 99 she told me she used to go to Harrods hide her little dog in fur coat ( but its tail stuck out she got caught...) all fur coat no knickers she says."

Newsweek reached out to henningnygaard for comment via TikTok comments. We could not verify the details of the case.

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.

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