Last Updated on December, 2024
Do you really love having pets that fit your family and your lifestyle?
Then Teacup Goldendoodles are the best fit for you.
If you are to get a Teacup Goldendoodle as your furry friend, it is crucial to understand the dog breed, its medical implications, and the training.
Let’s discuss every topic one by one, and finally, you will know whether it is good to have Teacup Goldendoodle as your canine partner.
Let’s get started!
Quick Summary
Teacup Goldendoodles are a mix of a golden retriever and a miniature poodle and are known for their teddy bear-like features.
They are the smallest type of Goldendoodle and can be difficult to find because of their high demand.
Teacup Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic and do not shed much, but they still require daily grooming. They are also active dogs who need 20-30 minutes of exercise per day.
Table of Contents
About Teacup Goldendoodle
Teacup Goldendoodles, also known as Toy Goldendoodles, are the smallest among the Goldendoodle family.
They have a very high demand and popularity for their cute teddy bear looks, great temperaments, and ideal personality traits.
It could be challenging to find a Teacup Goldendoodle because of its teddy bear-like features.
This breed is even smaller, unlike other mini Goldendoodles, hence the name (teacup).
Teacup Goldendoodle Origins
The breeding was set in the 1990s. The miniature Goldendoodle is a cross of a pure-blooded Golden Retriever and a pure-blooded miniature or tiny poodle. This mix produces a Toy Goldendoodle.
There are three types of breeding methods,
- Crossbreeding
- Through Dwarfism gene
- Cross a standard-sized dog with a smaller breed
Crossbreeding
Teacup Goldendoodles come from many generations. A Goldendoodle with 50% Golden retriever and 50% Toy Poodle should be crossed to produce a smaller dog of the same kind.
Finally, 25% Golden Retriever and 75% Teacup Poodle should be crossed to produce a Teacup Goldendoodle.
Through Dwarfism Gene (Achondroplasia)
Achondroplasia is a form of short-limbed dwarfism. It means there is no cartilage formation during early development. (for the ones who might need a piece of knowledge about it)
Even though it’s not morally correct, it is theoretically possible to produce a Teacup Goldendoodle using the dwarfism gene.
Life expectancy can be shorter and hormonal abnormalities are common for dogs with dwarfism.
The genetic abnormality does affect the legs of the dog but not the body’s growth or other parts.
However, it’s scarce to find two dogs with this genetic problem, and also, it’s not common to produce Teacup Godldendoodles this way.
Teacup Goldendoodle Appearance
Colors and Coat Types
Goldendoodles are in many colors, which include: Red, Apricot, Black, Gray, white, and Cream, and out of all, Golden is the most common color found everywhere.
There are different types of coats; curly and wavy. Flat and straight.
Among these, the common coat you find is curly and wavy coats with a length of two to three inches.
These mini Goldendoodles have hair on their Body, Tail, Ears, and Legs (legs might be a bit feathered). The hair on the head and muzzle can be shorter.
Size and Weight
Goldendoodles are of different types. Teacup Goldendoodles are the smallest out of every doodle.
When Teacup Goldendoodles reach total growth, they tend to stand between 8 to 13 inches at the shoulder.
Teacup Goldendoodle weighs about 7 to 13 pounds, making it easier for you to take him anywhere you want.
Caring a Goldendoodle
Diet and Feeding
When it comes to feeding tiny Goldendoodles, it’s something you have to really be concerned about.
Providing your tiny dog with a healthy diet is vital in preventing him from being overweight.
I recommend you feed your tiny Goldendoodles with 1-4 cups per day with high-quality dry foods, split into multiple meals (depending on your dog’s size).
Note: make sure you provide your dog with clean and fresh water, especially when you feed them dry foods.
Otherwise, provide him with the most OK food, which includes these essential nutrients that every dog needs to thrive,
- Carbohydrates: for boosting up extra energy
- Fiber: for an excellent digestive tract
- Fat: key energy source of your hound
- Protein: for good muscle growth and development
- Omega 3 and omega 6: mostly needed for healthy skin and coat, eye and brain development
- Vitamins and minerals: for general wellbeing and liveliness
The diet plan of your Teacup Goldendoodle might change by the time of its growth.
Foods to Avoid
You know well that your Teacup Goldendoodle is so tiny. And it could not swallow large pieces of food. So avoid feeding your Teacup Goldendoodle large pieces of dry foods, which could result in choking and be difficult for your puppies to eat.
As a solution, buy micro kibbles, which are specially formulated for little dogs with tiny mouths.
Foods to avoid include,
- Dairy products: your small dog is lactose intolerant
- Starchy grains: for deep chested tiny offspring, it can cause bloating
- Fillers, including cereals: less nutritional value
- Artificial preservatives, colors, and flavorings
How Often Should I Feed My Teacup Goldendoodle?
Feeding your Teacup Goldendoodle puppies twice per day is advisable; thus, it helps it from being bloated and would be easy to digest.
Teacup Goldendoodle Healthcare
Generally, every Goldendoodle is healthy, but teacup Goldendoodles are healthier; they tend to have a life expectancy of 12-16 years. But like any other breed, they are also prone to certain diseases and health issues, so it’s better to be aware than to be late.
Make sure your pets are vaccinated against common canine diseases, including;
- Lyme disease
- Bordetella (kennel cough)
- Rabies
- Leptospirosis
- D.H.P.P. (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus)
Your miniature Toy Goldendoodles must be boosted annually for the above complications.
Parasite Control
Your tiny dogs might get infected by fleas and ticks while socializing with their canine friends in the park and while on walks in the forest or otherwise if your hound swallows something which might contain worm eggs and larvae in them.
The solution is to ask your veterinarian to provide you with a parasite control regimen for your tiny dog, or else these fleas and ticks will turn out to be vicious for you, your family, and your smaller dogs.
De-Sexing
Make sure you spay and neuter your male dogs or female dog breeds before you have them licensed. De-sexing can prevent your Teacup Goldendoodle from being discouraged from straying and also prevent unwanted litter of puppies.
Genetic Health Issues
These hybrid dogs are affected by the genetic health problems inherited from both the Toy Poodle mixes and Golden Retrievers.
But, these crossbreeds are healthier than their purebred parents.
Here are some of the common health complications Teacup Goldendoodles are susceptible of,
Patellar luxation: This is an injury caused in the kneecap of the doodles. This dislocates the knee, and kneecaps move out of place, causing pain. Patellar luxation also leads to arthritis, but Teacup Goldendoodles, with this complication, lead a normal life.
Progressive retinal atrophy: This inherited eye disease degenerates the teacup goldendoodle’s retina. This eventually affects the eyesight of the doodle and, unfortunately, results in blindness. Teacup Goldendoodle can adapt to this disease as far as their surroundings remain the same.
Von Willebrand’s disease: This disorder causes excessive bleeding due to a lack of plasma protein. An affected teacup Goldendoodle will have symptoms such as; nose bleeding, bleeding gums, bleeding after whelping, prolonged bleeding from surgery, and prolonged bleeding during heat cycles.
Sometimes while on the stool as well. However, this could be cured by avoiding certain medications, transfusion before surgery, and also by cauterizing and suturing.
Epilepsy: This makes your toy Goldendoodle undergo seizures and causes jerky movement of the muscles with sudden twitches, which your tiny dogs have no control over.
Hypothyroidism: This is a complication related to the thyroid gland. Causes when there is no sufficient amount of hormones in the thyroid gland. Also, it is said that the cause of this can be Epilepsy, Hyperpigmentation, and alopecia (hair loss). It can be treated with medication and diet.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat): This is a mortal disorder. It occurs when your teacup goldendoodle’s stomach is filled with gas or fluid or excessive amounts of food intake, drinking large amounts of water after a meal, and excessively exercising after eating. Suspect bloat when your doodle is salivating excessively and retching. This could pressure the dog’s other organs. Immediate medications should be taken, or it will result in death.
Atopic eczema: A skin-related disease that could result in itchy, sore, and dry patches in the skin of your Teacup Goldendoodle’s body.
Some of the less severe health problems are; Hip dysplasia, Ear Infections, Allergies, and Elbow dysplasia.
Teacup Goldendoodle is Hypoallergenic
Since Teacup Goldendoodles are known to be light shedders, they are HYPOALLERGENIC. If your Teacup Goldendoodle possesses the genetics of toy poodles, then it will have a low shedding ability.
A teacup Goldendoodle owner could avoid using vacuums all the time when their dog is low shedding.
Teacup Goldendoodle Grooming
Although most Teacup Goldendoodle shed less, it does not mean grooming is unnecessary.
Grooming a Teacup Goldendoodle with a flat and straight coat is much easier. It is because the Goldendoodle is much like a Golden Retriever. This kind of coat does shed and will need frequent grooming sessions.
Grooming Toy Goldendoodles with wavy and curly coats are way more different. Teacup Goldendoodles with these coat types possess the genetics of Teacup poodles.
As mentioned before, they are hypoallergenic and do not shed much, which does not mean they don’t have to be groomed. It is necessary to groom your Teacup Goldendoodle on a daily basis to prevent its fur from tangling and matting.
It would be difficult to untangle the knots if not taken care of.
You can use a Slicker brush, which is the best tool, or a grooming rake for wavy coats, and a metal comb for curly coats.
There is a pet coat detangling spray, which would make your work easier.
Exercise and Training
These tiny size Goldendoodles are playful and active dog breeds. They have moderate energy levels and require 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise.
You could take your teacup Goldendoodle for walks, spend time in dog parks or have a good play time in the backyard. All of these activities would be more enjoyable for your petite Goldendoodles.
Swimming would be best since Teacup Goldendoodles are well known for their love for the water.
Exercising your Groodle would help him from getting lazy and overweight.
Teacup Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and witty, making it easy to train for all kinds of trainers, either beginner or experienced.
They are eager to please! Praising your dog with treats and encouraging them with positive reinforcements would make small Goldendoodles confident.
Since Goldendoodles are sensitive to the tone of voice, being harsh to them will make your pets feel afraid of you and lose their confidence.
Avoid leaving your teacup Goldendoodle dog alone at home since it can suffer from SEPARATION ANXIETY which could lead them to behave aggressively and destructively.
Personality Traits
Teacup Goldendoodles are well known for their ideal personality. They are cute teddy bear-like dogs who are highly intelligent, non-aggressive, loving, excitable, playful, and very social.
Teacup Goldendoodles are companionable as they endear themselves to other animals and people. Being highly affectionate, they become the best fit for the family.
They are super loyal and obedient and act naughty at times. The toy Goldendoodle enjoys human company and acts humbly and patiently with everyone around them.
Due to their friendly, protective, and humble nature, they tend to be great as service dogs.
Socialization, training, and heredity are some factors that affect the dogs’ temperament. Small-size Dogs with great temperaments tend to be playful and funny.
Make sure you socialize your puppy at the earliest so that your pup is brave enough to face people. (not like crying on the first day of school!). Taking him to dog parks, inviting visitors, and mingling with neighbors would help him increase his social skills.
Where to Purchase a Goldendoodle?
I recommend purchasing a Teacup Goldendoodle from the most reliable and reputable breeder as it’s the best option.
A breeder would allow you to check the puppies by entering the kennels and provide the customers with veterinary certificates proving that both purebred parents are healthy.
You can also check Teacup Goldendoodle puppies for sale in rescue centers. But there are fewer chances to adopt one since Teacup Goldendoodles are in high demand.
Other dog breed guides you may like:
- Indian Spitz Dog Breed Info
- Mini Goldendoodle Dog Breed Info
- Lifespan of a Mini Goldendoodle
- F1 Vs F2 Goldendoodle Dog Breeds
Final Thoughts
Teacup Goldendoodles are an excellent option if you’re looking for a cute, intelligent canine companion. No matter if you’ve had dogs before or just decided to get one. They can fit right in.
Their great personality and obedience could bring great fun and enjoyment to your family.
And since they’re a crossbreed between a golden retriever and a poodle, you get the best of both worlds. Which in itself is great as they’re two of the highly rated dog breeds.
Make sure to purchase one from reputable breeders and avoid backyard breeders at all cost if you want the healthiest version of the breed you’re looking for.
Anyways, that’s all from me; I hope this article helped. If you still have doubts about making a decision, let us know in the comments, and we’ll get to you right away!
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