AKC Tea Cup Chihuahuas are the smallest of the Chihuahuas. They are fairly popular and live a long life. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.
AKC Tea Cup Chihuahuas - Facts
1. AKC Group:
Toy
2. Size & Weight:
They are mostly 6-8 inches tall and are extremely light, weighing around 2-3 lbs.
3. Coat:
They usually have a short coat.
4. Head & Muzzle:
Round skull with short, pointed, and prominent nose.
5. Body:
Extremely small and delicate.
6. Colors:
They are found in almost all colors with markings such as tri-color, blue, and brindle.
7. Life Expectancy:
Approximately 14 years.
8. Popularity:
They are fairly popular.
9. Habitat:
They make good indoor dogs. Keep them in the apartment and take them out for regular walks and this would keep them happy and active.
AKC Tea Cup Chihuahuas Dog Origins
1. Country of Origin:
Mexico
2.
Lineage :
It is the smallest of the Chihuahuas and is said to be a descendent of the ones found in Mexico and the Mediterranean.
3. Date Admitted to AKC:
Chihuahuas are recognized but Tea Cup Chihuahuas are not classified by the AKC.
4. Historical Information:
These dogs were brought to America by some tourists from Mexico. Not many details about how it was first bred are available.
AKC Tea Cup Chihuahuas - Defining Characteristics
1. Training Ease:
They can be trained well and easily. They are eager and quick learners and respond spontaneously to commands. They must not be punished severely, instead rewarded frequently.
2. Temperament:
Tea Cup Chihuahuas are small and fragile but they hardly acknowledge this fact. They are bold, spunky, and highly alert dogs. They are also affectionate and make for wonderful watchdogs.
3. Child Friendly:
It is preferable to have children around the house as these dogs are fond of children. However, when the dog is in the company of kids, they should be supervised so as to avoid any mishandling.
4. Behavior:
They are well-behaved dogs if they are trained properly from a young age. It doesn't welcome newcomers easily and ends up barking at the smallest movement in the vicinity.
5. Habits:
Since they are suspicious by nature and can be possessive of their owner, they have a habit of following their owner around. It prefers to stay close to their owners.
AKC Tea Cup Chihuahuas - Concerns
1. Health Issues:
They are at a higher risk of heart and lung problems. There are chances that they suffer from knee disorders as well.
2. Feeding:
Once fully grown, food intake should be moderate.
3.
Exercise
Needs:
They are usually active so they require moderate level of exercise.
4. Grooming Needs:
The short coat Chihuahuas need very low grooming. They are easy to bathe, wash, and dry. However, long coat ones will need moderate grooming.
5. Special Household Needs:
This breed of dog is born very fragile and weak. They are susceptible to death at a very early stage. Also, special care should be taken to ensure their safety around larger animals or other pets in the house.
6. Travel Needs:
A fairly good travel dog.
7. Getting Along With Other Pets:
They can get territorial with other pets and animals.
AKC Tea Cup Chihuahuas -- How to Choose
1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:
Alertness, round and non-watery eyes and erect ears.
2. What you will need for a New Puppy:
Use a harness rather than collar because of it small size.
3. Puppy-Proofing your House:
Delicate and breakable goods should be out of reach.
4. How to make your new puppy Feel at Home:
Do not keep it confined to one corner of the house as it can get difficult to handle if ignored.
