22-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) The allure of “teacup” puppies, flaunting their small and adorable frames on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, has gripped pet enthusiasts in Singapore. The trend, however, comes with health risks and ethical concerns, as these pint-sized canines are often selectively bred for their diminutive size, leading to potential health issues down the line.
Belinda Lee, a 29-year-old resident, initially sought a one-handed companion and was drawn to teacup puppies. However, she discovered a downside – these tiny dogs, bred to be as small as 2kg or less, need to be carried during walks due to their delicate frames. Undeterred, Ms. Lee opted for a 4kg maltipoo, a mix of maltese and poodle, which satisfied her desire for a petite, fluffy companion.
The surge in popularity of cross-bred, miniaturized dogs like maltipoos, cavapoos, and pomskies is attributed to their appealing personalities and traits, according to Omo Omo Pet Shop. Pomskies, in particular, are prized for their low-maintenance nature, making them suitable for first-time owners and apartment dwellers. Cavapoos and maltipoos often sell out swiftly after being advertised.
However, the hype surrounding these “designer dogs” raises alarms among authorities and experts. The selective crossbreeding for aesthetic purposes, such as miniaturization, poses ethical challenges and potential health risks for these canine companions.
Pet ownership in Singapore has been on a steady rise, increasing by three percent annually over the past five years and experiencing a 30 percent surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, as per a 2022 report by the US commerce department’s International Trade Administration.
Aarthi Sankar, Executive Director of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), notes a growing trend in advertisements for miniature and pedigree dogs. Prospective adopters often inquire about “small to mid-sized” dogs, possibly driven by a misconception that they are more suitable for families with young children.
Pet shops in Singapore report heightened demand for miniature-sized dogs, including teacups bred from pedigrees like pomeranians, maltese, poodles, and shih tzus. In 2022, a Japanese store specializing in teacup-sized dogs set up its first overseas branch in Singapore. Some sellers, such as Cotton Pups, observe a trend of tagging puppies as “mini” or “teacup” for faster sales at higher prices compared to standard-sized counterparts.
Health Risks for Miniature Canines
The appeal of these small dogs, however, comes at a cost. Owners like Mrs. Khoo, who opted for a pomsky (pomeranian and husky mix), found the “perfect size” for her petite frame. However, her 11.5kg pomsky faced health issues, including mild luxating patella, a dislocating kneecap causing discomfort and lameness.
Dogs bred to be smaller than normal are at a higher risk of medical conditions, including congenital heart diseases, weaker immune systems, and shorter lifespans. Dr. Grace Heng from The Joyous Vet explains that miniature-sized dogs are genetically not as robust due to breeders selecting small or stunted adults to produce even smaller offspring.
Chloe, an owner of two toy poodles, acknowledges her dogs’ fragility and vulnerability. These poodles, weighing 2.5kg and 1.8kg, are more delicate, requiring careful supervision to prevent injuries.
Ms. Lee, owner of a maltipoo, emphasizes a lack of awareness about the health risks associated with smaller-sized dogs, especially teacup breeds. Pet shop owners, eager to make sales, may not disclose potential future issues, raising concerns about transparency in the breeding process.
Ethical Concerns and Systemic Issues
While some pet shops claim to work with ethical breeders, concerns persist about the transparency and responsibility of the breeding process. Cotton Pups highlights that many cross-bred puppies sold as “designer dogs” result from mass breeding in farms, raising ethical and welfare concerns.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ethical breeding involves providing high-quality care, full information and histories of the dogs, and ensuring they go to good homes through thorough vetting. This process contrasts with puppy mills, where large quantities are bred in poor conditions for quick sales.
The demand for specific sizes and looks fuels unethical crossbreeding practices, creating a systemic problem, warns Mrs. Khoo. The SPCA strongly opposes the crossbreeding or breeding of miniature dogs due to welfare and ethical concerns, urging potential pet owners to consider adopting from shelters.
As Singapore’s obsession with “designer dogs” continues to rise, the SPCA emphasizes the importance of looking beyond physical appearance and considering the well-being of local breeds equally deserving of a loving home.
