Teacup chihuahuas have fragile bones and are prone to injuries such as bone fractures. This makes them unsuitable for households with small children. Young children can step on or play roughly with them, injuring them.
These tiny dogs can also develop tracheal collapse, making it difficult for them to breathe. This condition is often genetic and can be fatal if not treated.
Care
Because teacup chihuahua puppies for sale in California are smaller than their larger counterparts, they can be more prone to health issues that affect their development. These health conditions aren’t the fault of a breeder but are related to the dog’s much smaller size. Young chihuahuas can also be prone to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, a painful degenerative condition in which the hip bone deteriorates due to reduced blood supply. It typically occurs between six and nine months of age and causes pain and lameness in one or both rear legs.
Potty training can be challenging for these dogs because of their tiny bladders. Using puppy pads or a small indoor area to eliminate can help reduce the stress of frequent trips outside for your pet. Doggie doors, if available for your home, are an excellent option to give your chihuahua another way to eliminate without putting too much stress on her. These small dogs can be prone to hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar. Signs of this condition include weakness and collapse. Providing small meals throughout the day to your chihuahua can help reduce her risk of hypoglycemia. Teacup chihuahuas don’t need much exercise, but they should be on a regular brushing schedule because they shed a lot during the spring and fall. They can also become yappy and bark at strangers, so socialization is essential from a young age.
Health
Teacup chihuahuas suffer from a variety of health conditions due to their smaller than standard size. Most of these are genetic, but some can be triggered by over-exercising or not following proper care guidelines. The most common condition affecting these small dogs is hypoglycemia, a dangerous drop in blood sugar. This is especially prevalent in newborns and puppies under four months old. Puppies with this condition will appear lethargic. This is because they lack enough fat to raise their blood sugars when food is unavailable. If left untreated, this condition can be fatal. Treatment involves rubbing a fingertip’s worth of honey on the puppy’s gums to deliver a quick sugar rush to the bloodstream. Another hereditary condition affecting these tiny dogs is patellar luxation or dislocation of the kneecap. Dogs with this condition may limp or avoid using the affected leg completely. In severe cases, a dog with this condition may hold their hind leg in the air for several minutes to help reposition the kneecap.
Temperament
Teacup chihuahuas are bold, confident dogs. They are curious explorers and can squeeze into spaces that larger dogs wouldn’t be able to get into. However, because of their small size, they can easily be injured by rambunctious children or other dogs. They are also prone to health problems that are difficult to treat due to their extreme genetics and small stature.
These puppies have a medium energy level and need plenty of exercises, including 20 to 30 minutes of daily walking and play. They also bark at everything, so early training and socialization are important. Teacup chihuahuas can be very loyal to their owners and are often suspicious of strangers, but they will warm up to them if properly introduced.
Teacup chihuahuas may be born with various neurological conditions, such as hydrocephalus, in which cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the skull and puts pressure on the brain. The condition can be mild or severe and can be caused by a congenital disability, injury, or infection. Treatment options include steroids to reduce the fluid pressure or a shunt that diverts the fluid away from the brain. If the condition is not treated, it can lead to coma and death. The best way to prevent this is by obtaining pet insurance for your dog.
Training
Teacup chihuahuas are energetic and should have many toys to keep them occupied. They also need several short walks and a chance to run around in a safe area daily to release any pent-up energy. Over-exercising a chihuahua can lead to health problems such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or eye conditions like corneal dystrophy, which results in a clear film over the eyes and can impair vision.
Teacup chimes can be timid if they are not appropriately socialized as puppies, so it is important to introduce them to sights, sounds, places, smells, people, and other animals. This helps them develop into well-mannered, confident dogs. With proper socialization, they may avoid strangers and become aggressive.
Their small bladders mean they need to eliminate often, and potty training can be difficult. Designate a place for your chi to eliminate, and try using paper training to keep the environment clean.
Teacups are not as hardy as standard chihuahuas and can suffer from genetic conditions, including heart disease, eye issues, patellar luxation, and epilepsy. A responsible breeder will only sell a healthy puppy and provide buyers with health certificates proving their puppies have been screened for these genetic diseases. They should also be vaccinated against rabies, parvovirus, and distemper.