Is the Teacup Dog Your Cup O' Tea?

Teacup dogs are curious little canines, but what exactly classifies a "Teacup"? Here are five fast facts on the dog type.

1. The Teacup is neither a breed or a class, at least not one that is recognized by any of the major canine associations. Instead, it is merely a term people use to describe a dog of a certain stature. Although many refer to the Teacup as any Toy Group dog smaller than the official size standard, most breeders will simply refer to it as a Toy dog.
2. Unofficially, a Teacup is a dog that is at least 12 months old, measuring 17 inches or less.
3. A Teacup's body temperature ranges between 100.2 to 102.8 degrees Fahrenheit, on average.
4. They were once viewed as status symbols by the rich. Members of the European and Oriental aristocracy and royalty would use these lap dog's body heat to warm cold palace beds and laps (I mean, wouldn’t you?). Emperors were even known to carry them in their sleeves. We have to say, it's they had a better fashion sense than the guy from The Emperor's New Clothes.
5. There are no specific breeds for the Teacup, but some favorites include the Shih Tzu, Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Poodle, Pug, Maltese, Pomeranian, Silky Terrier, and even mixes. With the teacup, it’s size that matters -- or, more specifically, the lack of it!

And there you have it. You may not know everything about teacup dogs, but you know enough to chat with Paris Hilton (you know you want to) if you ever run into her at a fancy soiree.

Image: youngthousands / via Flickr