10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Teacup Poodle

A Teacup Poodle is the smallest variation of the Poodle as it is smaller than the Toy Poodle. A Teacup Poodle is an unofficial poodle category, but it is one that is becoming increasingly popular due to the trend for keeping smaller dogs as pets. While most people have heard of a teacup poodle, there are many things that people do not know about this breed. Here are ten interesting facts about the Teacup Poodle.

1. It Has Several Other Names

While this breed is best-known as the teacup poodle, this is not the only name by which this breed is known. It is also known as a Pudle, a French Poodle, a Tea Cup Poodle, a Barbone, a Chien Canne, and a Caniche.

2. They Are Smaller Than Nine Inches

It is its size that differentiates the Teacup Poodle from a Toy Poodle as the Teacup Poodle is less than nine inches in height. Generally, they also weigh under six pounds. However, as this is an unofficial breed, there are no universal standards for weight and height.

3. They Come in Solid Colors Only

Teacup Poodles are never brindled, patterned, spotted or marked in any way as they are only available in solid colors. These colors include black, silver, blue, gray, red, cream, apricot, brown, white, and café-au-lait.

4. They Are a Good Choice for Apartment Living

Although they need a daily walk, a Teacup Poodle can cope well with apartment life. They are a lively dog and will live actively in the apartment. However, they do not need a big yard or lots of additional exercise. Just spending time playing with your poodle will give them the burst of activity they need.

5. Some Teacup Poodles Are Docked

Some Teacup Poodle owners choose to dock their tails or to have them docked hallway down. While this is relatively common in the United States, Teacup Poodles from many other countries are unlikely to have a docked tail. This is because this procedure is now illegal and considered cruel in countries such as the UK.

6. They Like to Lead the Pack

Teacup Poodles have a tendency towards dominance and want to be the leader of the pack. If you choose to have this breed, it is important that you establish yourself as the leader of the pack from the start. Otherwise, the dog will begin to believe it is superior to you and this can lead to behavioral problems that are difficult to deal with later.

7. They Need Company

Teacup Poodles are sociable dogs. They enjoy spending time with humans and even like being around other animals. This need for company means that they do not like being left alone. Long periods in the house on their own can lead to anxiety and behavioral issues that are linked to stress. Therefore, this breed is not the best option if you work long hours and you are away from the house for most of the day.

8. They Are Easy to Train

Poodles are among the most intelligent breeds of dog and they are able to learn new things quickly. This means that they are very easy to train. This is an advantage if you have limited time to devote to training or this is the first time you have trained a dog.

9. It is Recognized on Only One Breed Register

Most breed registries around the world do not recognize the Teacup Poodle as a separate breed to the Toy Poodle. For example, the American Kennel Club classifies any poodle under 10 inches as being a Toy Poodle and a Teacup Poodle fits into this category. However, the breed is recognized in its own right by the Dog Registry of America Inc.

10. There Are Some Health Problems Associated with the Breed

Like all breeds, there are some health conditions to which the Teacup Poodle is more prone. One of the most common problems is allergies, so most Teacup Poodles must follow a strict diet. Other problems associated with this breed include epilepsy, diabetes, heart problems, slipped stifle, and progressive retinal atrophy. Furthermore, due to their diminutive size, they need careful handling as fractures are common among this breed. Despite these problems, a healthy Teacup Poodle can live for up to 15 years.

You can also read:

• 20 Things Only Poodle Owners Would Understand
• 10 Things You Didn’t Know about the Maltese Poodle
• Are Red Poodles Safe to Have?
• Everything You Need to Know About Moyen Poodles