Teacup Husky: Do They Exist & Everything You Need To Know

Many Husky fans may wonder about a smaller version of the breed, like a Teacup Husky or a mini Husky. After all, how adorable would a tiny Husky lap dog be? There is no question that the Siberian Husky is one of the most beautiful dog breeds worldwide, but since most dog lovers don’t have the space or time for these energetic and large dogs, it’s natural to look for one in a more manageable small size.

Teacup, micro, toy, or miniature dogs often need specialized care for their tiny frames. They are often prone to collapsing tracheas (throats), making collars dangerous. So always ensure you have the safest equipment for these dogs, like a secure full-body dog harness.

So before you start looking for mini teacup Husky puppies or Miniature Huskies for sale, let’s ensure you know everything you need about these dogs. We’ve consulted expert sources like Dr. Dan Rice, DVM, author of the Complete Book Of Dog Breeding to ensure you get the best information on this dog.

The video below claims to be a teacup Husky but is likelier to be tiny Alaskan Klee Kai or Pomsky. Regardless, we can see how gorgeous these little dogs are:

To explain the issue that arises with the term teacup Husky and why we should be skeptical if we see anybody advertising themselves as a Teacup Husky breeder, we need to briefly explain what terms like “teacup,” “toy,” and “miniature” actually mean in the dog world, and how they could apply to Huskies.

Teacup Huskies vs. Miniature Huskies: What The Terms Mean

Let’s break down the differences between teacup or micro-sized dogs, toy breeds, and miniature dogs with some examples and look at how they may apply or not apply to the Siberian Husky.

Teacup or Micro-sized Dogs

Teacups or micro-sized dogs (sometimes called pocket dogs) are tiny versions of certain breeds. They are often bred to be smaller than the standard size and are typically the result of selective breeding practices. However, it’s important to note that the terms “teacup” or “micro” are not recognized or standardized by reputable kennel clubs or breed organizations. 

Breeders can use these terms as marketing gimmicks or in emerging breeds like the Micro Bully.

Teacup dogs are often bred by intentionally selecting smaller individuals within a breed and coupling them together. As a result, teacup dogs can weigh as little as 2 to 5 pounds or even less in some cases, like the teacup Goldendoodle. 

As a typical Husky weighs 45 to 60 lbs (16–23 kg), breeding Huskies to teacup sizes is unrealistic. It would take countless generations of breeding the smallest dogs together, and a certain amount of inbreeding would cause many health issues. So, creating a mini teacup Husky would be unethical and extremely difficult.

Another way to get a teacup dog is to cross a larger breed with a toy breed. This is the case with the Teacup Pomsky, a Husky Pomeranian mix. When talking about teacup Huskies, they are often referring to the Husky teacup Pomeranian designer breed. 

They could also be talking about mixes like the Chihusky or Husky Chihuahua mixed breed. Using Toy Poodles in Husky Doodle mixes can also produce a much tinier Husky-type dog.

Toy Breeds 

Toy breeds are a specific category of small dog breeds recognized by kennel clubs. Toy breeds are bred for companionship and are popular for people living in small spaces or those seeking a compact and portable pet.

Examples of toy breeds include the Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, and Shih Tzu. However, these dogs generally weigh between 4 to 7 pounds, depending on the specific breed. Breeding dogs for toy sizes has a long history and has not always been successful, as in the case of the Toy Bulldog. 

But to create a Teacup Husky, breeders would have to start by using artificial insemination to use Toy breeds like the Pomeranian to make the Husky smaller. This is process that can take decades to achieve.

Miniature Dogs

Miniature dogs, as the name suggests, are smaller versions of their standard-sized counterparts, but they’re still bigger than teacup or toy breeds. Therefore, it’s far more realistic to have Miniature Husky than to have a teacup Husky. They are often recognized by kennel clubs and are bred to be smaller while maintaining the characteristics and appearance of the original breed.

For example, a miniature Golden Retriever is just a smaller version of the standard Golden Retriever breed. Similarly, a miniature Labradoodle is a smaller version of the Labradoodle, a crossbreed between a Labrador and a Poodle.

It’s important to note that the size distinctions can vary between breeders and individual dogs, and there might be some overlap or variations in weight ranges.

Kennel clubs do not recognize the Miniature Husky as an official breed. So this is a term for Huskies that are bred to be smaller than their breed standard, or Huskies that mixed with smaller breeds like Corgis, or other smaller spitz breeds like the: 

• American Eskimo Dog; 
• Japanese Spitz; 
• Schipperke; or 
• Shiba Inu.

History Of The Teacup Husky

While the teacup Husky may not be an actual breed, there are definitely many breeds and mixed mixed breeds that we can refer to when talking about mini Huskies. Some of them have an exciting history, so let’s briefly look at the origins of teacup Husky-type dogs.

Siberian Husky 

The Siberian Husky is a breed that originated in northeastern Siberia, Russia. This is the parent breed that most teacup Husky-type dogs will descend from (even if they aren’t purebreds. 

They were developed by the Chukchi people, a nomadic indigenous group, to be sled dogs capable of pulling heavy loads over long distances in harsh Arctic conditions. The Chukchi people selectively bred these dogs for endurance, speed, and ability to withstand extreme cold.

Pomsky

The Pomsky is a relatively new designer breed that crosses between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky. This is the breed that most people refer to when they’re talking about a teacup Husky. The breed emerged in the early 2010s when breeders intentionally crossed these two breeds to create a smaller-sized dog with Husky-like appearance traits.

Pomskies were primarily bred to capture the Husky’s appearance in a smaller package, often with the Pomeranian’s friendly and lively temperament. Since the Pomsky is a hybrid breed, its characteristics can vary widely depending on the individual dog’s genetics. Pomskies can have a range of coat colors and patterns, as well as varying sizes and temperaments.

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai is another relatively new breed that was developed in the 1970s by Linda Spurlin in Alaska. This is a dog that many people may be thinking of when thinking of a teacup, toy, or miniature Husky. 

In fact, the Alaskan Klee Kai is often called a miniature Husky:

Spurlin aimed to create a companion-sized dog that closely resembled the Siberian Husky. She established the Alaskan Klee Kai breed through careful breeding using smaller Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Schipperkes.

Alaskan Klee Kai dogs were selectively bred to retain the appearance of the Siberian Husky, including their striking coat colors and markings while being much smaller in size. They were recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 1997 and are known for their energetic and intelligent nature and their strong resemblance to their larger Husky relatives.

What Do Teacup Huskies Look Like? Physical Appearance

So, while true teacup Huskies may not exist, several breeds and mixed breed dogs are bred to look like a Husky but in a bite-sized teacup package. Their appearance can vary depending on which dog breed we are talking about, but these are the basic features of a teacup Husky-type dog.

Pomskies often have a Husky-like appearance in a smaller size. They can have a fox-like face, erect ears, and a compact build. These dogs typically have a dense, double coat that can come in various colors and patterns. Standard coat colors include:

• Black; 
• Gray; 
• Brown;
• Apricot;
• Merle;
• White; 
• Bi or particolored; and
• Cream.

They may have markings and patterns similar to their Husky parent, such as masks, points, and white markings.

Miniature Huskies, also known as Mini Huskies or Miniature Siberian Huskies, resemble standard Siberian Huskies but are just in a smaller size. They have a similar appearance: erect ears, almond-shaped eyes, and a compact and athletic build.

They have the same dense double coat, just like their larger counterparts. They come in various colors in Siberian Huskies, such as black, gray, red, sable, and white. They can have different patterns, including solid, piebald, or even merle, depending on the dog breed they are crossed with (such as a Welsh Cardigan Corgi).

Toy Alaskan Klee Kais are the smallest size category of the Alaskan Klee Kai breed and the most likely to pass for a teacup Husky. They have a similar appearance to the larger Alaskan Klee Kai and resemble Siberian Huskies. They have the same typical fox-like face, erect ears, and a compact and well-muscled body.

Like the others, Toy Alaskan Klee Kais has a dense double coat in various colors and patterns. Common coat colors include black, gray, red, white, and agouti. They may have different markings and patterns similar to Siberian Huskies, such as masks and colored points.

How Big Do Full-Grown Teacup Huskies Get?

The size of a teacup Husky depends entirely on what kind of designer breeds the term refers to. 

Toy Pomeranian Husky mixes typically weigh less than 10 pounds (4.5 kg) and stand around 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) tall at the shoulder.

Alaskan Klee Kais come in three sizes:

• Toy Klee Kais are the smallest category and the closest you can get to a true teacup Husky. They usually weigh around 5 to 10 pounds (2 to 4.5 kg) and stand about 13 inches (33 cm) tall at the shoulder.
• Miniature Klee Kais are the medium-sized category. They generally weigh around 10 to 15 pounds (4.5 to 7 kg) and stand about 15 inches (38 cm) tall at the shoulder.
• Standard Klee Kais are the largest size category. They typically weigh between 15 to 23 pounds (7 to 10.5 kg) and stand around 17 to 20 inches (43 to 51 cm) tall at the shoulder.

Miniature Huskies can vary greatly in size, especially when mixed with other breeds. But in general, Mini Huskies weigh between 15 to 35 pounds (7 to 16 kg). They typically stand around 14 to 17 inches (36 to 43 cm) tall at the shoulder.

Health Concerns Of Teacup Husky-Type Dogs

Here are some key health problems that may come with any dog you may call a teacup Husky (or a mini Husky).

Health Issues In Teacup Breeds

Teacup dogs often face unique health conditions, and any tiny version of a Husky may suffer from the same issues.

Regarding teacup Huskies, we need to look at some of the health issues that affect teacup dogs in general. These include;

1. Hypoglycemia: Teacup breeds are prone to low blood sugar levels, leading to weakness, seizures, and even coma if not promptly treated. One symptom of low blood sugar is when a dog’s legs start shaking.
2. Hydrocephalus: A buildup of fluid in the brain, causing increased pressure, leading to neurological symptoms like seizures, head tilt, and coordination issues.
3. Collapsing Trachea: This condition affects the airway, causing the trachea to collapse during breathing, resulting in coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Musculoskeletal Problems

Dislocation of the kneecap (luxating patellas) is common in small dogs, causing pain, limping, and difficulty in walking or running. Other issues like Legg-Calve-Perthes disease are common in small dogs.

Organ Diseases

Heart murmurs and mitral valve disease affect the heart’s functioning, leading to abnormal heart sounds and potential heart failure. Liver shunts involve abnormal blood flow, affecting liver function and causing various symptoms, including seizures.

Type 1 Zinc Deficiencies 

Common in huskies, a genetic lack of zinc absorption can lead to dermatological issues, including hair loss, skin infections, and poor wound healing.

Eye Problems 

Any breed that comes from a husky may be prone to eye issues. These include corneal dystrophy and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Corneal dystrophy refers to the clouding or degeneration of the cornea, leading to vision impairment. Progressive retinal atrophy involves the gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness.

Neurological problems

Dog breeds descended from Huskies to create a teacup Husky may be prone to specific neurological conditions such as degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease affecting the spinal cord, resulting in hindlimb weakness, difficulty walking, and eventual paralysis. It is more commonly seen in larger dog breeds, including Huskies, but it can also be a concern in smaller-sized variants or mixes.’

While some of these health concerns may occur in the breeds above, teacup Huskies are not recognized or standardized. These concerns are an overview of potential health issues in smaller-sized Husky-type dogs.

General Care Of The Teacup Husky

Energy levels

Huskies have an amazing amount of energy! Using this energy through regular exercise and outdoor activities like hiking or running is best. If they don’t get enough physical activity, they can become destructive.

Even small “teacup Huskies” or toy Klee Kais and Pomskies are very energetic dogs. Luckily with their smaller sizes, they don’t need as much exercise as a typical Husky.

Exercise Needs

Depending on your dog’s size (whether they’re a Pom Pom Husky mix or a Mini Husky, they may need anything from 30 mins to an hour of daily activity and exercise.

It’s important to keep your Teacup Husky healthy and active. Give them lots of chances to use their bodies and brains. Activities like agility are great for them. Miniature Huskies may also enjoy any sledding activity, like bikejoring. 

Housing needs

Teacup Husky breeds are smaller dogs that need to be in the home. Some of them, like the Pomsky or toy Klee Klai, can adapt to apartments, but they can be given to barking when bored or alone. You want some space for mini Huskies, such as an open yard, as these are high-energy dogs.

Besides walking or playing, interactive toys and brain games will help stimulate their senses and prevent destructive behavior. Remember that these tiny pups have lots of energy and love challenges that nurture their intellect.

Correctly housing your teacup husky is key, as Huskies are notorious escape artists. Neglecting their needs could result in tunneling under fences, constant barking, and aggression toward humans or other animals. 

Food And Dietary Requirements

Teacup Huskies need balanced and formulated diets for their age, size, health, and lifestyle. They have fast metabolisms and may need to be fed 3 to 4 times daily. Most of these dogs do well on high-calorie, high-protein diets. 

But remember, there is no one-size-fits-all diet for these dogs. Health conditions like heart or liver problems will require a specialized diet. They may also need zinc supplements. Less active dogs will also have to adjust their diet to avoid obesity and issues like diabetes.

Grooming Needs

Brace yourself for extreme shedding because grooming a Teacup Husky is like trying to clean up after a glitter bomb exploded.

Grooming is essential for keeping your Teacup Husky’s coat healthy and neat. It is important to keep their coats free from dirt, matting, and loose hair. These are the vital points to remember while grooming your Teacup Husky:

• Brushing: Brush daily to avoid matting and maintain coat shine.
• Bathing: Bath them approximately every 2 to 3 months, but don’t over-bathe as it can strip natural oils. Use a dog shampoo for sensitive skin, as these dogs are prone to skin issues.
• Trimming: Trim the fur around the paws and ears for hygiene and prevent tangles.
• Nail Clipping: Clip nails monthly to avoid injuries and ingrown nails. Use a canine nail clipper for this job.
• Dental Care: Brush teeth regularly with suitable canine toothpaste to stop dental disease. You can also add a doggy mouth rinse to their water. 
• Ears Cleaning: Clean ears once every two weeks to avoid wax buildup or infection. Keep a box of doggy ear wipes on hand for this job.

Also, check their coat for pests like fleas and ticks if they go out for walks often. Proper grooming will strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Temperament And Trainability Of The Teacup Husky

Teacup Husky-like breeds, such as the Pomsky, Toy Alaskan Klee Kai, or miniature Husky, can exhibit a range of temperaments and varying levels of intelligence and trainability. Here are some general observations:

Temperament

Teacup Husky-like dogs often inherit traits from their Husky ancestry, such as high energy levels, playfulness, and an independent spirit. They can be affectionate and friendly with their family, including children and other pets. However, they may also have a strong prey drive, making them unsuitable for households with small animals like cats or rodents.

Intelligence

Teacup Husky-like dogs generally possess above-average intelligence. However, their trainability can be influenced by their lineage and specific breed mix. It’s important to note that intelligence can manifest in different ways. 

According to Dr. Stanley Coren’s ranking, Huskies are only the 74th most intelligent breed regarding obedience and working intelligence. While they may not excel in obedience training, they often display exceptional problem-solving skills and can be clever escape artists.

Trainability

Teacup Husky-like breeds can vary in their trainability. Huskies generally have an independent nature and can be somewhat stubborn, making them less inclined to follow commands strictly for obedience. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, they can still be trained to perform basic commands and participate in agility or obedience trials.

Remember that the Alaskan Klee Kai and miniature Huskies that have a genetic influence from more trainable breeds, such as Poodles, may exhibit higher trainability than their Husky counterparts. The Klee Kai, in particular, is known to be a relatively more trainable breed within the smaller Husky breed family.

It’s also important to remember that individual temperament and trainability can vary within a breed or mixed breed, and early socialization and proper training techniques are crucial for shaping a well-behaved and obedient dog. Regular mental and physical exercise is also essential for preventing boredom, manifesting as howling, digging, roaming, or excessive barking in these intelligent and active dogs.

A Suitable Home For A Teacup Husky

A good home for a smaller Husky-type dog like a teacup Husky includes the following:

• Non-allergic homes;
• Owner sprepared for plenty of grooming and shedding;
• Relatively active homes for the miniature Huskies, although smaller Pomskies will do fine with a daily walk and some playtime;
• Multi-pet households as they generally are very friendly and outgoing dogs who like company. But be careful when keeping a tiny dog with a bigger animal that could accidentally hurt it; and
• Families with older children are generally fine, although these dogs do well in single or multiple adult households too. Most of these dogs are quite independent, but Pomskies do better with having their owner home at the time, and they can develop separation anxiety.

Remember that the Siberian Husky does not do well in hot climates but can withstand much colder temperatures than the average dog. As teacup dogs are mixed breeds, they may not have the same tolerance for cold, but they still are prone to heatstroke in warm climates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

While the Teacup Husky itself is not a recognized breed, there are dog breeds that bear a striking resemblance to this concept, such as the Pomsky and the Klee Kai. These breeds captivate enthusiasts with their smaller size, Husky-like appearance, and endearing traits. However, it is essential to understand the potential health concerns associated with breeding dogs to be excessively small.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.