How Much Do Teacup Yorkies Cost?

The Teacup Yorkie encompases all things cute. The price for a Teacup Yorkie however is anything but cute. So, why is there such a big cost for such a small dog?

That’s what we’re here to find out. Today’s article covers everything you need to know when wondering how much Teacup Yorkies cost, from breeding to buying, to raising this one of a kind canine.

But before we begin, let’s take a closer look at the Teacup Yorkie and learn why this little dog is surrounded by some big controversy.

Keep reading.

The Teacup Yorkie – A Breed Overview

The Teacup Yorkie is not a true size variation of Yorkshire Terrier, although it is becoming a popular dog for canine enthusiasts.

The Teacup Yorkie is a purebred Yorkshire Terrier. Yorkies are, by nature, some of the smallest Terrier types in the world, often weighing no more than six pounds when full grown. For this reason, they don’t typically come in size varieties.

Some dogs do come in size varieties, like the Poodle, for example who comes in standard, toy and miniature. The Yorkie, on the other hand, is already pretty small, so you can imagine a Teacup Yorkie is even more minute.

The truth is, Teacup Yorkies are not recognized by major breed clubs as a standard for the Yorkie breed. Furthermore, most reputable breeders will steer clear of deliberately breeding Teacup Yorkies, as doing so can have a negative impact on their health.

And this is where the controversy comes in. As a society, people who love small dogs tend to love really small dogs. The Teacup Yorkie is an example of a trend that could have some serious implications on a dog’s health and wellbeing in the long term. This is why even the term “Teacup Yorkie” is shadowed by debate.

Many reputable breeders will avoid using the term, and most major clubs will not acknowledge this dog as an acceptable version of the standard Yorkshire Terrier.

In fact, the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America doesn’t even allow for breeders on their site to advertise Teacup Yorkies for sale as this goes against the breed standard.

That said, it is possible for smaller than average Yorkies to be born to very reputable breeders. When this occurs, these breeders should typically not charge more because their Yorkies are smaller. On the contrary, they should actually disclose to you that Teacup Yorkies in general have a higher instance of health issues that could be costly and devastating down the road.

With that noted, we now need to talk about breeders who deliberately breed and sell Teacup Yorkies.

Are Breeders Who Sell “Teacup” Dogs Being Irresponsible?

While there is controversy surrounding the practice of deliberately breeding teacup dogs who are already small in size, the practice is not uncommon. It is very easy to find breeders who purposefully breed dogs to be smaller than they should be and who then sell them for top dollar as highly sought after “teacup” puppies.

If you do choose to go through a breeder who is breeding and selling Teacup Yorkies on purpose, do so carefully and be sure and do plenty of research.

Not every Teacup Yorkie is going to have health problems just because he is small, although it’s important to consider yours might before investing, especially as this could have a direct impact on your overall Teacup Yorkie cost.

With all that in mind, let’s now take a look at what a Teacup Yorkie’s breed standard might be if there was one.

The Teacup Yorkie Breed Standard

Height: 5 to 7 Inches

Weight: 2 to 4 Pounds

Coat Type: Long and wavy

Hypoallergenic: Yes

Temperament: Intelligent, Affectionate, Confident, Lively, Independant

Lifespan: 13 to 16 Years

Health Issues: Bronchitis, Lymphangiectasia, Cataracts, Keratitis Sicca, Tracheal Collapse, Digestive Issues, Blindness, Liver Shunts, Seizures, Respiratory Issues, Hypoglycemia, Heart Defects and Bone Fracture

Breed Clubs That Recognize The Teacup Yorkie: None

What Goes Into Breeding A Teacup Yorkie and How Does It Impact The Teacup Yorkies Cost?

Breeding Teacup Yorkies can be difficult, but remember that most reputable breeders will not purposefully breed a puppy that is smaller than it should be.

Have you ever wondered why going through a breeder is so much more expensive than going through other sources to get a puppy? If you’re looking at Teacup Yorkies cost and thinking “why are these dogs so expensive”, we’re about to break it down for you.

Breeding a dog is not cheap. It also takes a serious amount of time, commitment and patience on the breeders part. Breeding a Teacup Yorkie includes caring for a healthy female to mother the pups, then raising a healthy litter for at least seven weeks, at which point they are old enough to be weaned from their mother.

Breeding dogs on average can cost breeders between $1,609 to $8,245.

And there is a lot that goes into this cost that helps ensure the litter is healthy long before that litter is even conceived.

So, What Does It Cost To Breed A Teacup Yorkie From Start to Finish?

• Raising A Female Dog To Breed Costs $2,000 – $3,000 Per Year
• A Typical Stud Fee Costs Around $2,000
• Ultrasounds For A Yorkie Once She Is Pregnant Cost About $90 Per Ultrasound
• Yorkie Puppy Whelping Supplies Can Cost $500 to $1,00
• Raising A Healthy Teacup Yorkie Litter To Seven Weeks Costs Around $250 to $550

The Total Cost Of Breeding A Teacup Yorkie: Between $4,840 to $6,640.

And these are just the basic costs. There are plenty of miscellaneous or unforeseen expenses associated with breeding a Teacup Yorkie, which could include a C-Section if there are birth complications. C-Sections can run breeders upwards of $1,500 to $2,000 or more.

All of this impacts the overall price your Teacup Yorkie puppy will go for. We should also note that Teacup Yorkies can be more difficult to purposefully breed. Breeders will need to seek out parents that are especially small, and hope that these dogs produce a litter that is also especially small.

Even then, genetics are unpredictable and just because two Teacup Yorkies breed does not mean their litter will be entirely Teacup Yorkie puppies.

This is why Teacup Yorkies cost a bit more than average sized Yorkies. That said, it is possible to find smaller sized Yorkies at the same cost as average-sized Yorkies, especially if you go through breeders who are not purposefully breeding these super small canines.

With that noted, let’s talk more about how much Teacup Yorkies cost when going through a breeder.

How Much Do Teacup Yorkies Cost Through A Breeder?

Some breeders may charge up to $2,500 for a Teacup Yorkie puppy, but it’s important to know that not all breeders selling puppies for top dollar are reputable.

When you go through a reputable breeder to buy a Teacup Yorkie, you should expect to spend anywhere between $1,200 and $2,500. This price can and will vary depending on the breeder you go through and the quality of your Teacup Yorkie’s parents.

If your Teacup Yorkie comes from show quality parents, the price for that Teacup Yorkie is usually much higher. However, remember that smaller than average Yorkies like the Teacup Yorkie do not meet the breed standard. This means they will not be eligible for show.

If this is the case, and if you are going through a breeder who is selling show quality puppies, chances are they didn’t intend to breed a Teacup Yorkie. In this instance, you may be able to find Teacup Yorkies that cost less than their littermates.

Of course, this will be left up to the breeder.

While over $1,000 is a lot of money to fork over upfront for a Teacup Yorkie, it’s important to avoid cutting corners or going through irresponsible sources to try and save money.

The Teacup Yorkie is already predisposed to a number of serious health issues due to his super small size, so it’s especially important that you go through responsible sources if you do choose to obtain one of these pups.

Remember, reputable breeders should go out of their way to ensure your Teacup Yorkie is as healthy as possible, and this is all included in the Teacup Yorkies cost.

While the cost is high, there are several benefits of going through a breeder to buy your Teacup Yorkie. Reputable breeders should be able to provide you with paperwork proving your puppy has been health screened and cleared of any major health issues.

You may also have the opportunity to meet your Teacup Yorkie’s parents to get a better idea of what your puppy will grow up to look and behave like.

It’s also important to remember that not every breeder who advertises higher Teacup Yorkies cost for an astronomical price is reputable. While a higher Teacup Yorkie cost is a good indicator of the type of breeder you are going through, spending more money does not always mean you’re getting the best deal.

Beware of Teacup Yorkies costing much higher than average and avoid going through breeders who are selling Teacup Yorkies at a cost that is much lower than average.

Also, before you do buy a Teacup Yorkie puppy from a breeder, it’s a good idea to do your research and some digging into the breeder you are considering. There is no shame in asking questions and requesting to speak to past clients.

It’s important to ask questions about breeding practices, any health issues in the mother breed or past litters, and any other concerns you may have surrounding your Teacup Yorkie or Teacup Yorkies cost.

All of this hard work upfront can save you a lot of money down the road. More importantly, it can save you a lot of heartache.

How Much Do Teacup Yorkies Cost Through A Rescue?

It may be difficult to find a Teacup Yorkie through a rescue, but it isn’t impossible.

Do Teacup Yorkies cost more no matter where you go? Actually, the answer is no. Many people don’t realize that you don’t have to go through a breeder to obtain a Teacup Yorkie. In fact, in some cases, smaller than average Yorkies born to litters might simply be considered runts.

If you’re interested in adopting a Teacup Yorkie, your best bet is to go through reputable shelters that specialize in this breed or breeds like it.

Just as there are benefits of going through a breeder to obtain your Teacup Yorkie, there are also plenty of benefits of going through a rescue.

When it comes to Teacup Yorkies cost, going through a rescue or shelter is certainly less expensive. On average, rescuing a Teacup Yorkie can cost around $400.

This price does vary, however, and can range from between $250 to $700 depending on the shelter or rescue you are going through.

Included in this price is the overall cost it took to care for the Yorkie. This cost also might include a wellness exam, basic vaccinations and even behavioral testing.

Along with saving money off the top on Teacup Yorkies cost when going through a rescue, you are also likely saving time. Many adult Yorkies have undergone some basic training and socialization, and you’ll be skipping the more costly puppy phase of raising a Teacup Yorkie.

Furthermore, if you adopt an adult Teacup Yorkie, there is a good chance that dog has already been neutered or spayed, so you can deduct this from your overall Teacup Yorkies cost as well.

Of course, once you obtain your Teacup Yorkie, the financial commitment isn’t over. In fact, it’s just beginning.

How Much Do Teacup Yorkies Cost To Raise?

Raising any dog requires a certain level of commitment both emotionally and financially.

Deciding to raise a dog is a commitment both emotionally and financially, which is why this decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. Since you’re reading this article, we already know you’re on the right track as far as considering Teacup Yorkies cost.

But now that we’ve talked about how much Teacup Yorkies cost when going through a breeder or rescue, it’s now time to talk about where the real money will be spent.

Raising your Teacup Yorkie is no cheap feat, with many owners reporting they spent an average of $3,625 in the first year of puppy parenthood alone. This is most likely because owners are stocking up on all of the doggy things that they didn’t have before.

After that initial year of pet parenthood, the price to raise a Teacup Yorkie fell to around $1,080 a year or $90 a month. But what is all this money being spent on? Let’s find out.

Teacup Yorkie Dog Food and Quality Training Treats – Around $250 to $700 Per Year

You are what you eat, and the same goes for your Teacup Yorkie. Ensuring your Teacup Yorkie is on a quality dog food is imperative to your dog’s overall health and wellbeing as he ages.

While a good diet can put a big dent in your budget for Teacup Yorkies cost, it’s important not to skimp on. Teacup Yorkies can be prone to a number of health issues, (which we will get into further down), and these health issues can be exacerbated by a poor diet or by eating too many unhealthy training treats.

A Teacup Yorkie should eat dog food that is specified for small breed dogs and is rich in real animal protein, fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and contains a good source of water.

Even if you’re trying to cut back on Teacup Yorkies cost, try and avoid dog foods that are cheaply made or overly processed, and dog foods that contain additives like corn, soy, wheat, gluton, fillers, dyes, or byproducts.

You also have the option of choosing between wet dog food, dry dog food and raw dog food. Of the three options, raw dog food has been found to be the most costly. However, that doesn’t mean it is necessarily the best for your dog.

If you’re not sure which dog food would be best for your Teacup Yorkie, we recommend contacting your veterinarian.

Teacup Yorkie Grooming Tools – Between $50 to $330 Per Year

The Teacup Yorkie has a long, flowing coat, and if you choose to let that coat grow out you’ll be in for a lot of grooming maintenance. This could have an impact on your Teacup Yorkies cost.

Investing in high-quality grooming tools can help keep your Yorkie looking his best, and quality tools will also last longer.

For a Yorkshire Terrier, you will need the following grooming equipment:

• A Dematting Tool And Grooming Brush
• A Pair of Nail Clippers or A Nail Grinder
• Some Healthy Dog Shampoo And Conditioner
• A Dog Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• A Quality Dog Ear Cleaner

There are a few ways you can cut costs when it comes to grooming your Teacup Yorkie. Keeping your Teacup Yorkie’s coat short will not only save you time but also money if you choose to go through a professional groomer. You can also learn to do many of your Teacup Yorkie’s grooming at home.

Otherwise, a professional groomer typically charges between $30 and $90 per visit, and you should prepare to visit the groomers with your Teacup Yorkie at least six times a year.

Basic Dog Supplies For A Teacup Yorkie: $500 Per Year

It’s fun shopping for a new dog, but if you’re not careful you could wind up spending much more than you intended. On average, owners reported spending around $500 a year for their Teacup Yorkie just in supplies alone.

These supplies include but are not limited to:

• Leashes
• Harnesses
• ID Tags
• Dog Collars
• Dog Bowls
• Bedding
• And Toys

Because Teacup Yorkies are so small, they are generally more gentle on their bedding, toys, and walking gear. This means that you may not have to repurchase these items too often throughout your Teacup Yorkie’s life. This is great news if you’re looking for a few creative ways to cut a Teacup Yorkies cost down.

First Year Medical Expenses For A Teacup Yorkie – Between $500 to $600

Remember when we told you that Teacup Yorkies cost more in that first year? A lot of that has to do with medical expenses. Puppies can be especially pricy, as they require an initial wellness exam, vaccines, microchipping and more.

Some of the medical services you can expect to add in to your Teacup Yorkies cost list include:

• A First Time Puppy Wellness Exam
• Common Puppy Vaccinations
• Microchipping
• And Potential Neutering or Spaying

Common Medical Expenses For A Teacup Yorkie – Around $50 and $300 A Year

After that first year, your Teacup Yorkie should still visit the vet routinely. Veterinarians suggest small dogs under the age of seven come in for routine wellness exams at least once a year. Once your Teacup Yorkie reaches seven years of age, he should go in at least twice a year for checkups.

You will also need to put aside cash for the following services throughout your Teacup Yorkie’s lifetime:

• Annual Wellness Exams For Yorkies Under Seven
• Twice-Yearly Wellness Exams For Yorkies Over Seven
• Routine Canine Vaccinations
• Routine Parasite Prevention Treatments
• Routine Professional Dental Care

While medical expenses are some of the most costly expenses when it comes to overall Teacup Yorkies cost, it’s important to keep up with them.

Ensuring your Teacup Yorkie continues with his annual wellness exams can help reduce the chances of you having to pay much more money down the road should your Teacup Yorkie fall ill with something that could have been caught early.

The Unforeseen Expenses Of Raising A Teacup Yorkie

Because they are so small, Teacup Yorkies can be prone to a number of unforeseen medical issues that can be costly for owners.

So far, everything we’ve covered when it comes to how much Teacup Yorkies cost has been pretty standard and consistent with raising any breed or mix. However, there are some issues that come along with owning a Teacup Yorkie that could mean you’ll be spending a little extra dough.

Teacup Yorkies cost more in general sometimes because they are more susceptible to certain health issues.

For this reason, it’s a good idea to have an understanding of the common health issues your Teacup Yorkie could face in his lifetime and to implement this into your Teacup Yorkies cost overall.

Teacup Yorkies Can Be Prone To Suffering From Expensive Health Issues, including:

• Bronchitis
• Lymphangiectasia
• Keratitis Sicca
• Tracheal Collapse
• Digestive Issues
• Blindness
• Liver Shunts
• Seizures
• Respiratory Issues
• Hypoglycemia
• Heart Defects
• Bone Fracture

• Skin Allergies
• Legg-Perthes Disease
• Retinal Dysplasia
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Kneecap Dislocation
• Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis
• Pancreatitis
• Dental Disease
• And Cataracts

The Average Cost of Some Of The Above Ailments Are As Follows:

• Tracheal Collapse – $4,500 to $5,500
• Liver Shunt – $2,000 – $3,000
• Pancreatitis – $500 to $1000
• Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis – $500 to $2,000
• Periodontal Treatment – $300 to $3,000
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Between $1,700 and $2,300
• Cardio Myelopathy: Between $1,500 and $3,500

Since Yorkshire Terriers, and many other small dogs for that matter, are more prone to dental disease, you might consider having your Teacup Yorkie undergo routine dental cleanings.

These cleanings from a professional can cost you between $300 and $700 a year, but sometimes more if your dog requires special treatments, extractions, medications or sedation during the procedure.

Because all dogs require medical attention from time to time and because your Teacup Yorkie can require some costly treatments if he falls ill, we recommend investing in pet insurance.

How much does pet insurance for Teacup Yorkies cost?

Pet insurance is estimated to cost owners between $10 and $100 a month, or $120 and $1,200 a year.

Other unexpected expenses to include in your list of how much Teacup Yorkies cost include:

• Pet Rent
• Travel Expenses
• Pet Sitters/Dog Walkers
• Trainers
• And Property Damage (If Your Yorkie Is A Chewer or A Digger)

How Much Do Teacup Yorkies Cost From Start To Finish? Let’s Break It Down.

Yorkshire Terrier dogs make excellent companions to the right owner, and are not much more or less expensive overall than other breeds.

Do you think you can afford a Teacup Yorkie? When broken down, the numbers seem pretty large. However, the truth is that raising a Yorkie is no more or less expensive than raising any other type of dog.

In fact, the small Teacup Yorkie may actually come with smaller prices when it comes to food, supplies, grooming, etc.

On average, raising a Teacup Yorkie costs owners around $23,410, according to the American Kennel Club.

Of course, this doesn’t include the initial cost of buying your Teacup Yorkie through a breeder or obtaining him through a rescue.

This overall Teacup Yorkies cost also likely doesn’t include miscellaneous or unforeseen expenses that come with raising a dog that may be more prone to serious health issues.

That said, the Teacup Yorkie does come with a long list of pros, and he can make a fabulous companion for the owner who is ready to commit to this darling little dog.

Now that you know how much Teacup Yorkies cost on average, do you think you’ll get one? We want to hear from you. Leave us a message in the comments.

Best of luck and thanks for reading!