04-29-2011 at 7:49 PM

I have no issues with teacups or mini dogs. I think there adorable, as long as the dog don't have a lot of health issues because of poor breeding, I'm good with it.

04-29-2011 at 5:55 AM

To be honest, I'm not against breeding small dogs, -if- the breeder is selectively breeding not just for size, but also for health and temperament.<br /> <br /> Take French Bulldogs, for example. Their skeletal structure is such due to their breeding that they can't even achieve natural mating or birthing. They have to be artificially inseminated, and then given c-sections. They easily develop breathing problems, and other health concerns. But their temperaments are typically perfect for companionship, and they're not a mini-dog. Small dog, yes, but not bred to be tiny.<br /> <br /> German Shepherds are notorious for their sensitive skin and hip dysplasia, large breeds in general are usually at risk for bloat, cancer runs rampant in many breeds, and so on.<br /> <br /> So, I can't discriminate against tiny breeds just because they were bred to be tiny. But if they're bred -only- to be tiny, and are otherwise at high risk for health problems, are badly tempered, etc. then I don't see the point in breeding them or wanting to buy them. Why want a dog that will cost you thousands in vet bills, and it's a lousy companion on top of it? And that goes for -all- breeds. Not just minis.<br /> <br /> But if a breed can be bred down to a smaller version of itself, and still be a great companion, and not be plagued by too many health risks, I don't see the problem.<br /> <br /> P.S. Miniature Australian Shepherd do exist. I own one. XD He's a wonderful companion dog, has no health problems, and has the upside of being a bit smaller and more manageable than the original, larger versions. &lt;3

04-29-2011 at 4:58 AM

I agree, they're bred purely for the looks and that's not the way to go about breeding. You should be breeding for a function.<br /> <br /> If you need a ratting dog, Jack Russel Terriers, Patterdale Terriers, German Hunting Terrier, Etc. :)

04-29-2011 at 4:47 AM

Hate em. Only reason a dog should be that small is if it's job is to go and get rats out of a barn or somethin

04-29-2011 at 2:23 AM

Well all those "breeds" stated are fictional. There is no such thing as "teacup" or "Miniature German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds"<br /> <br /> Those are just labels backyard breeders put on their dogs to try and make some money or make people think they have some special dog.<br /> <br /> The big issue I see in a lot of these dogs is that they simply focus on the size and neglect temperament and structure.<br /> <br />