Granted, owning a dog can come with loads of responsibilities but surprisingly, adding a small dog to the pack comes with even more obligations as there are things they can’t do for themselves. Besides, you need to be careful not to turn the little canine into a spoilt brat by giving it too much attention. This special type of Chihuahua called Teacup is as adorable as they come. As their name implies, the Teacup Chihuahua is very small and a fully grown adult that can weigh about 5lbs and sometimes less.
Teacup Chihuahua tends to experience various health challenges that can affect the quality of life they lead because of their petiteness. Moreover, “teacup” here isn’t a standard name of any breed. It is just a fancy word that people who breed them and sometimes owners use to refer to a Chihuahua that is smaller than the regular or normal size obtainable with the breed.
Table of Contents
Origin Of The Breed – Who Are The Parents of Teacup Chihuahua?
Like so many well-known breeds, the actual origin of the Teacup Chihuahua is unclear but there are some speculations about where they were first sighted. Some schools of thought believe that they descended from a South or Central American dog called Techichi. On the other hand, some believe that some tiny hairless dogs from China were bred with small native dogs in Mexico to arrive at the result.
Nevertheless, the breed we know today was discovered around the 1850s in a state of Mexico called Chihuahua which is obviously how they came about their name. The long-haired variety was created by crossing them with Pomeranians and Papillons.
Moreover, it is possible for a breeder to encounter a few puppies which are smaller than their counterparts while some specifically pursue them by crossing these smaller dogs together. No matter what the case may be, there is no universal consensus on what their weight or size should be.
Things You Need To Know Before Getting A Teacup Chihuahua
Looking at most small dog breeds might entice you to acquire one for your household but don’t forget to do quick research to know if you can handle the furball. Just because they are small doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges. For the Teacup Chihuahua, the following should be taken note of;
Grooming needs
To have a healthy pet, it is important to groom it right. Like any other breed in that category, Teacup Chihuahua can have a long or short coat. For those with a short coat, they need brushing at least 2 times in a month to keep their coat healthy. If they are long-haired, it’s advisable to brush them more frequently, maybe once a week.
They shed lightly only two times a year (fall and spring). They also need to bathe at least once a week and have their teeth brushed often as they are prone to dental problems. Their nails should also be trimmed when it has grown too long.
Exercise
Even though these dogs are not built for long stressful walks because of their size, they still need the right amount of exercise to keep them healthy. Short walks and indoor games will help them release their pent-up energy and also maintain their weight.
Feeding
Just like their petite size, they have really delicate tummies. Their bellies can only hold a small amount of food per time so they need to be fed tiny food portions every other hour throughout the day and night. This is also done to avoid their sugar level from falling too low.
They should be fed premium-quality kibble appropriate for small breeds. This food meets their nutritional needs and they come in small bites which makes them easier to chew. It is important to watch their carbohydrate intake to prevent them from getting obese.
Health
As cute and cuddly as the Teacup Chihuahua is, their small size has been a cause of some serious health challenges. Firstly, all teacups have shown an increased rate of developing heart disease. Hydrocephalus which occurs when cerebrospinal fluid doesn’t get to the dog’s brain is also a common problem with them. Other health issues include eye problems, urolithiasis, luxating patellas, atopy, tracheal collapse, Legg Perthes, idiopathic epilepsy, and periodontal disease.
Generally, this breed of dogs has been described as generally high-maintenance. Considering their vaccinations, vet checks, worming, and a flea treatment. Owning one might involve a lifetime of vet care for problems caused by their size. However, celebrities are known to patronize this breed and several other small dogs that are generally cute.
Temperament
Before you get a Teacup Chihuahua, know that they are feisty little things. Don’t ever underestimate the size because they have the courage of a big breed. As such, they tend to be aggressive towards other animals even the ones way bigger than them.
In all, this tiny dog breed is very loyal, quite affectionate, intelligent, playful, extremely stubborn, jealous, and very territorial.
Training
The Teacup Chihuahua learn really fast if one can get through their stubborn nature. While they need firm leadership, they don’t respond well to punishments. Positive reinforcement works better for them.
Moreover, it is advisable to start training them in obeying simple basic commands, how to socialize with humans and animals, as well as house-training when they are young. It is possible to have difficulties in toilet training them because their bladders are tiny and can’t hold for long before they need to go. So, potty training is a priority.
Do They Make Good Family Pets?
The major appeal of this dog breed amongst other things is that they look like puppies for their whole life. This can be positive and negative, especially in homes with kids.
Due to their dainty bones, they need to be protected from any kind of collision with kids who can be clumsy with them. Asides from this, they are really affectionate, cuddly, and can be a very good family pet. So, if you have kids around the house with a Teacup Chihuahua, you need to supervise them when they are together to avoid casualties.
Read Also:Â Rat Terrier : Breed Information, Temperament, and Facts
Other Facts About The Breed
- Chihuahuas generally have a lifespan of fifteen to twenty years but this might be shorter for the Teacup due to health challenges.
- According to research, they are the 2nd most abandoned dog in the United States because people want them as accessories without realizing that they are more demanding to keep.
- You can get one in a variety of colors, including fawn, white, black, and chocolate. These colors can also be combined in most cases.
- They come with either long hair or short hair.