Since Teacup is an adjective (name given) by breeders to describe an extra small dog, there is no universal standard. Each breeder has their own definition of what size a teacup should be. Most breeders agree a teacup should be 4 pounds and under at mature weight, some say 5 pounds and under. Poodles for example are measured by height and not weight, this should also be a factor. Most breeders agree that a teacup should be under 8 inches tall from the standing position to the top of the shoulder/back area. Sticking to our example of poodles.....a poodle should be built square, some poodles are built tall and thin and might only weigh 4 pounds, but could be 10-11 inches tall. Some are built short and fat and might only be 8 inches tall, but could weigh as much as 7-8 pounds.
My definition of a teacup is under 8 inches tall and under 4 pounds when full grown.
The word Teacup is used to describe an extra small dog. There is no separate breed named a Teacup Poodle, Teacup Yorkie, Teacup Maltese, Teacup anything. In some breeds ~poodle for example again~ it has been used for so long that some people believe there is a separate breed named teacup poodle....when actually the only akc recognized breeds of poodle are Toy, Miniature & Standard Poodle
