Teacup dog

Multiple health issues are associated with runts and teacup dogs. They may suffer from hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar); hydrocephaly due to the small size of the skull; portosystemic shunts; periodontitis and gingivitis due to the small jaw leading to problems with tooth growth; tracheal collapse; degenerative mitral valve disease; luxating patella and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease; and hypothermia.^[1]

Their small size can lead to problems with the dosage of certain medications such as flea treatment as most flea treatments and other anti-parasite medications are only labeled as suitable for use in dogs over 5 lbs (2 kg).^[1]

• Toy dog