Teacup French Bulldog: Details To Know About The Breed
If you have seen a French Bulldog, you know how easy it is to fall in love with their bat-like ears and adorable folds. But what if there’s an even cuter version of this adorable dog breed? The Teacup French Bulldog is a miniature version of the Frenchie that packs the same character and lovable personality in its tiny frame.
Here’s everything you should know about the Teacup French Bulldog to determine whether this might just be the perfect breed for you.
Teacup French Bulldog Introduction
Image source: Pinterest
The Teacup French Bulldog, also known as the mini French Bulldog, is a smaller version of the regular-sized French Bulldog.
Teacup French Bulldogs are purposefully bred to be smaller than your typical Frenchie. Their maximum height can’t exceed 11 inches, and adult Teacup French Bulldogs don’t weigh more than 28 pounds.
Apart from their cute appearance, a major reason for Teacup French Bulldogs being extremely popular is their calm personalities. It’s an extremely fun and playful breed of dog that is also just happy being around you without wanting constant attention and becoming a nuisance when you have something important to attend to.
Teacup French Bulldogs are also intelligent, love cuddles, are very loyal, and just love being around their humans.
You should also know that both the Americal Kennel Club (AKC) and the Europe Kennel Club (EKC) have not recognized the Teacup French Bulldog as this is not a full-bred dog breed.
Teacup French Bulldog Cost
Image source: Pinterest
The cost of a teacup French Bulldog varies depending on where you get your pup.
If you plan to get one from a reputable, certified, and experienced breeder, which we highly recommend, set your budget anywhere from $800 to $8,000.
Teacup French Bulldogs are expensive. This is because although they are not rare, it is still challenging to produce litters that conform to the French Bulldog characteristics while guaranteeing healthy puppies.
The breeder’s expenses also factor into this cost because Teacup French Bulldogs usually have to undergo artificial insemination and C-section to give birth. This particular breed is known to have slender hips, so natural birth is almost impossible and often dangerous.
Additionally, the cost of the pup will often also include vet bills, food, and vitamins.
Teacup French Bulldog Health Issues
Image source: Pinterest
Teacup French Bulldogs are a mixed breed, so the likelihood of health problems tends to be higher with this breed. Let’s take a look at some of the most common health issues found in Teacup French Bulldogs.
#1. Hip Dysplasia
One of Teacup French Bulldogs’ most common health conditions is hip dysplasia. This is when the joint’s ball and socket form incorrectly, resulting in limited and painful movement for your dog.
Hip dysplasia can also lead to other joint problems, including hip arthritis and muscle atrophy.
#2. Cherry Eye
Did you know that all dogs have a third eyelid? It is called nictitating membrane and it helps protect your dog’s eyes from infections, dust, and debris. This third eyelid also assists in producing tears.
Teacup French Bulldogs are prone to cherry eye. This condition causes your dog’s tear glands, which are supposed to be in the eyelid, to pop out.
It is generally believed that cherry eye is a condition that is inherited from the French Bulldog parent. This condition must be treated quickly as neglecting it can cause permanent damage to your dog’s third eyelid such as causing dry eyes and even significant visual impairment.
#3. Cancer
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death, especially in senior dogs. French Bulldogs, in particular, have a notoriously high rate of cancer occurrences. This can be genetically passed on to the Teacup French Bulldog during breeding.
The most common cancers that affect this breed are mast cell tumors, mammary gland tumors, lipoma, and heart base tumors.
#4. Diarrhea
French bulldogs, and consequently Teacup French Bulldogs, have sensitive stomachs, so diarrhea is a common concern. This breed is also prone to gastrointestinal problems like bloating and gas. It is thus very important that you ensure a proper diet for your Teacup Frenchie and avoid giving them human food.
If you find your Teacup French Bulldog passing watery stools more frequently, you need to head to the vet as parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and Giardia can also cause diarrhea in dogs.
#5. Cataract
Cataracts predominantly affect French Bulldogs, and can thus be passed down to the Teacup Frenchie. Cataracts can be “juvenile cataracts” or “old age cataracts.”
Juvenile cataracts are hereditary. It is a genetic condition that will manifest early. While it will affect your Teacup French Bulldog’s vision, they can often adjust to the condition and live comfortably. The deterioration, though, will be apparent once they get older.
Old age cataract, however, is degenerative and can be attributed to old age, injury, or a reaction to certain medications. Both types of cataracts reduce your dog’s ability to see clearly and may affect one or both eyes.
#6. Skin-Fold Dermatitis
Skin-fold dermatitis is an infection occurring in the pockets between the skin folds. In dogs that have a lot of folds on their body, like the Teacup French Bulldog, dirt, moisture, and other debris can get accumulated within these folds and cause sore skin folds. Frequent scratching and rubbing can also cause these infections to develop a yellowish discharge and pus.
While consistent and proper hygiene is crucial to prevent and treat this condition, overweight Teacup French Bulldogs are more likely to suffer from skin fold dermatitis than those not given regular baths.
#7. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
All French Bulldogs inherit the genetic defect that causes brachycephaly, literally meaning “short-headed.”
This is a condition where the Teacup Frenchies’ shorter muzzles and noses make it difficult for them to breathe. Their breathing tends to be noisy, especially during inspiration or breathing inward.
#8. Bladder Issues
If your Teacup French Bulldog tends to hold their pee in for too long, such as not being able to go outside to relieve themselves, it can lead to bladder issues. Full bladders can eventually get infected.
Urinary incontinence may also result from other health concerns like kidney stones or Bulldog Cystitis.
#9. Liver Issues
Weight loss, loss of appetite, constant vomiting, diarrhea, and jaundice are some common signs of liver issues. The liver is a vital organ and must be treated immediately. Do not wait for the symptoms to worsen.
If your Teacup French Bulldog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, get an appointment with your vet ASAP.
#10. Whelping Issues
French Bulldogs can give birth naturally, but the entire whelping process does not often take place completely naturally. This breed is prone to complications, including birthing risks. That’s why a C-section is often expected.
A Teacup French Bulldog has an even narrower birth canal. So, the puppies’ heads and chests can quickly get stuck, which means a dangerous, painful, and prolonged labor for your Teacup Frenchie mother.
Teacup French Bulldog Caring Tips
Image source: Pinterest
#1. Clean The Frenchie’s Folds And Ears
A Teacup French Bulldog will have its fair share of folds, especially on its face. These folds are conducive to infection-causing bacteria. It is crucial that you clean these folds regularly.
You can use a warm, damp washcloth to clean your dog’s folds and make sure that you wipe them dry afterward. Moisture is not welcome in your dog’s folds as it can also lead to infection.
#2. Regular Bath And Grooming
It is recommended to bathe your Teacup French Bulldog once or twice a month. You can bathe your dog at home or bring your pet to professional groomers.
Whichever you choose, just make sure your Teacup French Bulldog is properly bathed and groomed from nose to tail.
#3. Tail Pocket Cleaning
Tail pocket cleaning can be done once a week. If there is too much dirt build-up, you can have additional sessions.
You will need a washcloth, mild soap, and warm water. All you need to clean the tail pocket is to lift your teacup French Bulldog’s tail up and clean around the base of its tail, then go further into the tail pocket. Make sure to wipe dry afterward.
#4. Don’t Let Them Go Near Water
Teacup French Bulldogs, like the standard French Bulldogs, cannot swim. So, they should never be allowed near or in the water unsupervised.
What you can do to let them have some water fun is to put life jackets on your Teacup Frenchie while out in the pool. Make sure your attention is 100% on them; you don’t want to risk any accidents.
#5. Short Walks
Teacup French Bulldogs don’t require too much exercise, but they still need some physical activity to keep them healthy.
Going for short walks around your neighborhood or taking them along while running errands is one of the easiest and most productive ways of getting things done while helping your pet to get some exercise. These walks are also mentally stimulating and a healthy bonding experience for you and your pet. You can also take a French Bulldog training course to teach basic commands to your pup.
Where To Get A Teacup French Bulldog
There are plenty of Teacup French Bulldogs breeders across the US. You can check local breeders online and see who’s closest to you.
Make sure you stay away from backyard breeders and puppy mills.
When selecting the breeder, make sure you establish consistent communication, get any doubts you may have answered, and try to schedule a visit with them so you can spend some time getting to know their dogs and breeding practices.
Featured image source: Pinterest.com
