How Much Does a Teacup Dog Cost? (2024 Updated)

You’ve probably heard that teacup dogs are very popular because of how they look and how easy it is to carry them around. However, you may be wondering how much does a teacup dog cost?

Teacup dogs are a specialty breed, costing more than your average pup. You should note, though, that teacup is not a breed but rather a term used to describe small dogs bred for their size.

If you’re interested, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll take you through everything you need to know about these adorable dogs’ costs and expenses and the factors surrounding them.

The Average Cost of a Teacup Puppy

Teacup puppies are fragile and difficult to breed; hence, they can cost anywhere from $750 to $5,000 from reputable breeders. These prices are also dependent on the location, pedigree, quality, and unique features and appearance of the pup. Some can even be priced as high as $10,000.

Purebred teacup pups tend to be more expensive than mixed breeds because they have been bred over generations to produce specific traits that make them desirable as luxurious pets.

Generally, if you’re looking for a purebred teacup puppy, expect to pay at least $1,500. Meanwhile, teacup mixed breeds may cost at least $750.

Moreover, there is also a more comprehensive selection of purebreds available than there is with mixed breeds.

Furthermore, teacups also tend to cost more than regular-sized dogs because they have been selectively bred for smaller sizes rather than just being naturally small.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Teacup Puppy

Interest in teacup puppies has been growing steadily over the last decade, increasing their prices every time, and there’s no sign of it stopping any time soon.

However, the cost of a teacup puppy depends not just on where the puppy is bought but also on other factors. Let’s take a look at some elements affecting the cost of a teacup puppy below:

• Age: Most dog lovers prefer to get puppies than older dogs since they would want to enjoy the experience of taking care of these pets while they are still young. Hence, expect teacup puppies to have a higher price tag compared to adults.
• Breeder’s Reputation: Reputable breeders usually charge more than backyard breeders because they want to ensure that only the best dogs are bred together. This means they will spend more time and money rearing the puppies and ensuring all pets are healthy before selling them to new owners.
• Breed: Some breeds are naturally smaller than others, and some are bred to be miniature versions of larger breeds. Others can also be purebreds or mixed breeds. These considerations can also affect a teacup puppy’s price as well.
• Gender: Female puppies are more expensive than male puppies because they have breeding potential and are, therefore, more valuable.
• Availability: Teacup puppies are not often available all the time. They are relatively rare because they are difficult to breed, and as such, they have a higher value than other breeds of dog. They also require special care as they are fragile while they grow up due to their small size.
• Socializing and Training: There is an added cost for puppies that have been properly trained and socialized before they’re sold. A trainer may be hired to conduct basic training and socialization for these pups. This process requires time and resources on the breeder’s part, which is reflected in their prices.

In addition to the factors listed above, teacup dogs that have already undergone vaccinations, spaying or neutering, deworming, and microchipping may cost more than those that have not.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Teacup Dog From a Rescue?

In most cases, adopting a teacup dog will cost between $100 and $500, depending on your location and whether or not there are any fees associated with bringing home your new pup.

These fees generally include the cost of the rescue and rehabilitation of the teacup dog before putting it up for adoption.

Adopting a teacup dog from a rescue is an excellent option for people who wants to save a few bucks, don’t want to breed their pet, or want to give an animal a second chance.

Moreover, most dogs from the shelter are usually socialized and trained, so you can quickly expect them to adjust well when they transition into their new homes.

Initial Cost of Teacup Dog Ownership

Owning a teacup dog is a dream for many people. These little pups are not only adorable but also have the potential to be great companions for their owners.

However, there are some things you should know about these pets before you decide to buy one.

You will have to take care of them and ensure they have everything they need to grow healthy and remain happy during their lifetime.

The table below lists the various costs associated with owning a teacup dog:

The initial cost of owning a teacup dog may seem overwhelming, but only because they require more specialized care.

The good news is that you can expect to get your money’s worth out of your initial investment as these pets become some of the most loyal companions imaginable.

Annual Cost of Owning a Teacup Dog

Once you have had your teacup dog for a few weeks and have gone through the initial expenses, it is time to start thinking about the annual costs to maintain them.

While this can all seem daunting, this section can help you navigate these expenses so that you can make intelligent decisions about what’s best for your furry friend.

The table below shows an estimate of the annual cost of owning a teacup dog:

There are many recurring costs associated with having a teacup dog because they require more care, but you can keep these expenses in check by planning ahead.

Other Potential Expenses

Although the initial and yearly expenditures associated with raising a teacup dog are your primary concerns, you should also know other possible expenses involved in taking care of your new tiny fur buddy.

Here is a list of the additional potential costs you might encounter when you own a teacup pup:

• Pet Nutritionists: Many types of dog food are available. However, some teacup dogs have sensitive stomachs and intolerance and may require special diets. Pet nutritionists can help determine what type of diet would be best for your particular teacup dog breed to preserve their health in the long run. This costs around $100 to $200 per consultation.
• Dog Sitting: If you plan on going on vacation or leaving your teacup dog at home while at work, dog sitting services can be a lifesaver. They allow you to leave your pet with trained professionals who will take care of all tasks that come with owning a dog, so you don’t have to worry about them while you’re away. Typically, the average cost for this service is between $40 and $60 per pet overnight.
• Grooming Services: Teacup dogs are known for their delicate coats and unique appearance. Having access to a professional groomer may be a way to maintain their beautiful appearance and ensure they don’t become matted. You can expect to pay around $30 to $90 per grooming session for your pet.
• Travel Expenses: If you plan on taking your teacup dog with you on vacation or business trips, this may cost you. So ensure you have set aside some travel funds so they can have all the necessary documentation to travel safely and comfortably with you. Generally, checking in your pet as extra baggage may cost between $200 and $400, while having them in-cabin can cost around $50 to $200, depending on the destination.
• Emergency Medical Funds: If your teacup dog becomes ill or injured, it could be costly to treat them. You’ll want to have a reserve of funds available to pay for unexpected expenses during your dog’s lifetime. The average cost for an emergency vet service would be around $800 to $1,500.

Keep in mind that most of these potential costs are optional. You may opt to acquire them only if absolutely necessary.

Places to Find Teacup Puppies for Sale and Adoption

A teacup puppy is a small dog with a lot of character. But before you go out and get one, it is essential to do your research. We’ve compiled some reputable sources to help you decide if this pet is right for you.

Here are reputable places to find teacup puppies for sale:

• AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is where you can find responsible breeders whose best interests lie in their dogs’ welfare. These breeders only sell puppies from litters that have been responsibly bred, and they follow the AKC’s breeding standards for responsible dog ownership.
• Teacups Puppies and Boutique – Established in 1999, Teacup Puppies and Boutique is South Florida’s first puppy boutique to specialize strictly in toy and teacup puppies. They offer teacup Yorkies, Shih Tzu, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Maltese, and more. The safety and well-being of the puppies are their priorities, so you are assured of healthy and quality teacup pups.
• Texas Teacups – Located in Texas is a family-owned kennel specializing in breeding teacup dogs with over 20 years of experience. Their goal is to provide high-quality dogs with a focus on the health, temperament, and longevity of each pup produced. They also offer pet supplies for your new pup’s needs.

Buying a puppy is a big step. It’s exciting and scary, and if you’re going to be responsible for another living thing, you must do your due diligence.

Meanwhile, here is a list of reputable places to find a teacup dog for adoption:

• Tiny Paws Rescue – This foster-based organization is dedicated to rescuing and placing small dogs, including teacup pups, into loving, permanent homes. The organization is 100% funded by donations and relies on volunteers to carry out its mission of saving these dogs. An adoption application and screening should be made before a potential family is granted a pup to ensure a perfect match.
• Tobie’s Small Dog Rescue – This non-profit organization provides temporary care and shelter for stray, abandoned, and neglected small dogs, including teacup pups, until they find a forever home. Its mission is also to end animal overpopulation through education and promoting spaying and neutering.
• Petfinder – This is an online database of animals, including teacup dogs, that need homes. It is a directory of nearly 11,000 animal shelters and organizations across the United States. Petfinder only lists registered and reputable organizations, so you know when you’re searching through their database that you’re getting the real deal.

Aside from the places listed above, you can also ask for recommendations from your local veterinarian or even family and friends who know where to acquire a teacup dog.

Money-Saving Tips for Teacup Dog Owners

This section will provide money-saving tips for teacup dog owners and aspiring ones that may help save a few bucks on your pup’s supplies and vet bills.

That way, you can spend more time with your little bundle of joy and less time worrying about whether you’ll be able to afford the next few years with them.

Below are some ways to cut your costs in owning a teacup puppy:

• Visit the vet regularly. Teacup dogs are particularly vulnerable to health problems. They are also more likely to be injured by larger dogs or people who don’t know how fragile they are. You must regularly bring your teacup dog to the vet, so any issues can be caught early and treated before they worsen.
• Invest in high-quality pet essentials. When it comes to your dog’s essential items, such as beds, toys, food and water bowls, and other necessities, it is best to purchase high-quality ones than cheaper variants. It may look more expensive at first, but it will be more cost-efficient in the long run since you won’t need to purchase them constantly due to their durability.
• Buy dog food in bulk. The smaller the bag of dog food and treats, the more expensive it is per ounce. You’ll save big on each meal by buying a large bag and storing it in airtight containers. It will also lessen your frequency of going to the store, saving you time and gas.
• Get creative with toys. Teacup dogs may not need as many toys as other breeds because they’re small enough to play with things like socks or DIY stuffed animals. Just ensure you avoid using tiny objects that can be choking hazards for your pup.
• Learn to groom your dog at home. Teacup dogs don’t need to be professionally groomed nearly as often as larger breeds, which can save you some money. You can learn how to groom your dog at home through online blogs and videos to cut your grooming expenses.

Check out this adorable teacup puppy being groomed at home for the first time:

As you can see, there are many ways you can help your teacup dog live a long and happy life without breaking the bank. It’s just a matter of being wise with your choices and maximizing your resources.

Final Thoughts

The cost of buying and maintaining teacup puppies need not be expensive. Knowing what drives the price and planning ahead should make owning them a breeze.

Though a lot of factors drive the price of a teacup dog, such as the breeder’s reputation, its pedigree, and whether you want a purebred or a mixed puppy, having an adorable teacup pup is surely worth it.

We hope this guide made you more financially prepared to take care of a teacup dog. If you already own one, it would be great to get your insights on the costs of owning a teacup puppy through the comments below!