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Tuesday, March 23, 2010

The essentials of Teacup Chihuahuas!

As I am sure you know, Tea cup Chihuahuas are very small dogs!
However, their personality belies their small size. Despite their reduced size, they are reasonably healthy, depending on the quality of the breeder you purchase from. Teacup Chihuahuas have a personality that can only be described as lovely and charming. They are excellent watchdogs, despite their small size, as they are initially very wary of strangers.

As I am sure you are aware, these is some discussion around the name tea cup chihuahua. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize a breed called the teacup chihuahua. The only recognized dog is the "standard" chihuahua.

There are long haired teacup chihuahuas and the short haired tea cup chihuahuas. There is a significant difference in the look and feel of the fur of these two types.

Whether you prefer long haired teacup chihuahuas or not is really a matter of choice. The long haired teacup chihuahua, to me, seems far more regal. Despite what you would expect, long haired teacup chihuahuas do not need a huge amount of time to be groomed.. A quick daily brushing with a good bristle comb will stop your pups hair from becoming too matted.

Short haired teacup chihuahuas are even easier to groom!. You need only brush your pups's hair several times a week to keep it in excellent condition. Time spent grooming your pup will bring you closer together.

Teacup chihuahuas tend to be on the small size, and so have small stomachs. This means that they can be prone to low blood sugars. You can avoid a lot of the problems of low blood sugars by ensuring that you feed your pup a small amount of food quite often.

Despite the health issues I have mentioned above, owning a teacup chihuahua (or several teacup chihuahuas!) can be a wonderful experience!



About the Author

I am the webmaster for teacup-chihuahuas.org. Should you need more information before purchasing a new tea cup chihuahua or need information on keeping your teacup chihuahua healthy, why not come and visit my site?

General Information About Small Dogs

When trying to decide, which breed of small dog to choose, never rely on just the appearance of the dog. What if this little breed has traits you don't care for and you find out after making your choice? It is better to research and know the characteristics and temperament of the pet before making the decision.

Is this toy breed suited to children or other pets? Is it more independent and aloof or very affectionate. Is it a more playful type or sedate. Is it quiet or a barker? These and other questions that apply to your situation, likes, and dislikes should be explored.

Small Dog Size
Usually a small dog is under 16-inches tall or weighs under 22 pounds. This is a general rule, so some small dogs are a bit larger or taller, but aren't considered medium size dogs. Examples of tiny dogs are the teacups like the Teacup Poodle and the Teacup Fox Terrier. The Chihuahua weighs 6 to 8 pounds and is 6 to 10-inches tall. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a small dog weighing 25 to 35 pounds pushing the small dog envelope in weight, but is 12 to14-inches in height.

Training
Many small dogs are quite trainable, though some are quicker to learn than others. An example of a small dog that is very easy to train is the Lancashire Heeler. He is a fast learner, but he is sometimes stubborn and has a mischievous streak. To train him be consistent, gentle, yet in control.

That Shedding Problem
Some small dogs shed very little. Some of the one that shed sparingly are the Yorkshire Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Brussels Griffon, and the Wire Fox Terrier. I f you prefer no shedding try a hairless dog like the American Hairless Terrier. Low shedding can be a priority, if you are allergic to dog dander.

Dog Maintenance
Maintenance goes back to shedding. A low shedding dog won't bring on the need for extra vacuuming and won't need much brushing , if it is short haired. This problem can be solved with a long haired dog by resorting to clipping.

Children and the Small Dog
The majority of small dogs are fine with children, when they are raised from a puppy around kids. Any dog will eventually defend himself, if he is mistreated by poking his eye, tugging his ear or otherwise being ill treated. Some small breeds are particularly good with children like the Toy American Eskimo, American Cocker Spaniel, and the West Highland White Terrier.

Small Dog Watchdogs
Most small dogs are pretty good watchdogs, one of the best at this is the Wire Fox Terrier. The Dachshund is another excellent small watchdog.

The best avenue for picking the right small dog for you is to research breeds, muse about the things you want in a small dog, decide the priorities, and find one that fits your most important criteria. If you are a dog person, you'll find one you want and even be willing to fore-go some top traits to get others in your pet.


About the Author

Tristan Andrews is a freelance author who writes articles about pet supplies and the dog supplies.

Teacup Dogs Must be Your Priority

Currently millions of people around the planet have dogs as a part of their family, as a good lifetime partner and a helper. Being playful, friendly and most of all, loyal, dogs have made a special place of their own in the life of many families. Since children are seen to leave and be independent at an early age today along with families having distances, dogs have largely gained importance due to their lovingness.

Now because of so many different lifestyles into practice today, not all dogs can fit one's companionship and even the dog's own requirements. Now lets say if you are living in an apartment, you cannot keep a Saint Bernard since they are simply too huge. A few dogs need exercises to maintain their health like regular running and playing such as German Sheppard or Doberman so you need a good big place for that.

Now keeping all these and other resembling factors in mind, this is why teacup dogs are gaining fame all over the globe, especially around Europe. Just incase if you are still un-familiar with the breed called teacup dogs then let me tell you that in this breed, dogs that are very little compared to other common breeds are categorized. They are too small and very easy to take care and can be kept in small spaces as well. You can easily carry or take your teacup dog along with you anywhere you want. Fit them in your purse or just carry them on your arm, they are too little and too light that you would not even feel them.

If you are a dog lover and love to travel as well then choosing a teacup dog would be best. You might have seen a lot of celebrities especially the female ones having teacup dogs, only because they are too cute and too easy to carry along. For instance Paris Hilton and her teacup dog can be taken as a good example.

Lastly teacup dogs remain looking like a puppy for the rest of their lives maintaining the charm and cuteness or their faces and body giving you the best company ever. Considering all the features which I discussed about tea cup dogs in this piece of writing, I am sure that by now you must have realized that why teacup dogs must be your priority when it comes to the selection of the pet dogs.


About the Author

teacup puppiesand { http://www.staryorkie.com/ } yorkie puppies for sale

Saturday, February 27, 2010

How to Crate Train a Teacup Dog

Although many dog lovers may cringe at the mere mention of the word crate, thinking of it as a cage or a cruel means of confinement, this handy piece of equipment can be put to good use for puppies and grown dogs alike.

Even though you may love your teacup dog to an extraordinary degree, you may not want him to have free reign of the house, particularly when you are not home to supervise him. If used properly, a crate can restrict your teacup dog when it is not convenient to have him underfoot, i.e., when guests are visiting or during your mealtimes.

A surprising number of dog owners, who originally had negative feelings about crating their teacup yorkies, have had great success using crates.

The crate itself serves as a bed, provided it is furnished with bedding material, or it can be used as an indoor dog house.

Not all teacup canines readily accept crates or being confined in them for short intervals, so for these dogs, another means of restriction must be found. But for those dogs that do not adjust to spending time in these structures, the crate can be quite useful in many ways.

Your teacup dog can be confined for a few hours while you are away from home or at work, or you can bring your crated dog along with you in the car when you travel or go on vacation.

Crates also prove handy as carriers whenever you have to transport a sick teacup yorkie to the veterinarian, too.

Most crates are made of sturdy wire or plastic, and some of the collapsible models can be conveniently stored or folded so that they can be moved easily from room to room, or from inside the house to the yard on a warm, sunny day.

If you allow your teacup puppy or grown teacup dog to become acquainted with its crate by cleverly propping the door open and leaving some of his favorite toys inside, in no time he will come to regard the crate as his own doggie haven.

As with a dog bed, place the crate away from drafts in a dry, warm spot; refrain from placing food and water dishes in it, as these only take up much space and offer opportunity for spillage.

Learn more about the Teacup Dog and Yorkies at teacup yorkie dogs.com

Teacup Dog Adoption - Do I Want One?

Many potential dog owners ask themselves: Do I want a teacup dog? Smaller dogs have long been admired and longed for. Because of their popularity, such pets are of the most considered. Such a decision can be daunting because of the many factors involved in choosing a dog of such a size. But for many, the most important questions to ask are unknown.

The official equivalent term to "teacup" is "toy." No breeds exist that literally have a "teacup" class or category. The term usually is used to refer to dogs that are smaller than average. Teacup yorkies can bring unwanted health problems and high vet bills. However, as a potential teacup pet owner you must ask yourself: Is a smaller size worth the risk and the cost?

Teacup dogs are so popular already, and breeders often charge more for smaller than average sized dogs. Therefore, even prior to bringing your dog to the vet you may pay a handsome fee for adoption. After bringing a teacup yorkie home health risks may arise such as hypoglycemia, fragile and easily broken bones; and birth defects such as tracheal collapse. In addition to the potential high vet bills and fees, are you also prepared to suffer the premature loss of a teacup pet?

If a small  dog is injured (accident risk increase greatly because of their small size) the risk for fatality is exponentially higher. Of course, a teacup yorkie with a broken leg is a much more sore sight than a Labrador with a broken leg. The Labrador will most likely nurse himself back to health, possibly after a quick checkup to the vet. A harmed Yorkshire terrier on the other hand will take longer to heal with such small bones, and may never recover, even after many trips to the vet.
     
Learn more about Teacup Dogs and Yorkies at teacup yorkie dogs.com

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Before You Bring Your Teacup Puppy Home

We’ve all seen them, whether it be in pictures, on TV, or in real life the teacup dog. You have always thought they were adorable and maybe someday you would like to obtain a teacup puppy. Before you consider purchasing any teacup dog breed, you have to realize that it takes a lot of hard work, time, dedication and patients to train your puppy.

You have to be ready to raise a baby into a well behaved and loving adult dog. For instance, teacup dog breeds are more susceptible to being a “frady cat”. I am here to give you advice per say my own experience on raising animals. I have had cats, dogs, rabbits, ferrets, small rodents, fish and even ventured into fostering wildlife with great success.

The key to successfully raising a teacup puppy is to learn how to read your puppy. You can also do a search on teacup dog breeds to see if there are any special habits or health problems they may have. You have to pay strict attention to your puppies actions. What is he or she trying to tell you? Does you puppy need to go outside to use the bathroom, or is your puppy hungry or thirsty? Is your puppy feeling lonely or afraid. Remember and understand, your teacup puppy has just been taken from it’s mother and siblings and is in a strange place with strange smells and people and feels very scared and alone. I always tried to put myself in their situation and think how I would feel. I would want to feel secure and safe in my new home and most of all loved.

Before you bring your teacup puppy home you will have to purchase supplies for you puppy.
Things you will need:


A crate:
This is a very important training tool. You Teacup Puppy will have accidents and chew things up. You will need the proper size crate. A rule of thumb is your Teacup Puppy should be able to stand, lay down and have some room to move around comfortably. If your crate is too big your puppy will have accidents in it. When the crate is the appropriate size your Teacup Puppy should not use it for a bathroom. It is a known fact that in a small enough area, they will not relieve themselves as they do not want to be around their excrement. Note: Please read article on potty training tips.

Chews:
Teacup Puppies love to chew, and guaranteed they will. It is up to you to supply proper chewing supplies for your puppy as not to ruin your shoes, clothes and what ever else they can get a hold of. One important tip is: Do Not leaving anything laying around your house. Keep everything picked up and put away. Note: Please read article on chewing habits.

Food:
Always purchase good quality “Puppy Food”. Puppy food will provide the proper nutrition for your growing Teacup Puppies needs. Your Teacup Puppy will need puppy food for one full year. The reason I recommend a higher quality food is that with the proper nutrition and care, your puppy will be healthier and happier. Also, when using a better quality food your puppy will not shed as much. Obsessive shedding can be one contributor to poor nutrition. Make sure you purchase two dishes, one for food and one for water.

Toys:
Supply your puppy with plenty of things to play with. Your Teacup Puppy will love to play. I have found many dogs that just love the stuffed animals with a squeaky in it. They love to carry it around the house in their mouths and make it squeak. It is quite amusing. If you purchase a ball or two for your puppy, make sure it is big enough to not cause a chocking hazard. Puppies and dogs have been known to get the balls caught in their throat because they were just the right size to obstruct the airway, and the results were not good. Also be careful of toys that your puppy could chew up very easily. If you are in doubt about certain toys either do not purchase them or keep a watchful eye while your puppy plays with it.

The Fun Stuff:
There are so many things you can buy for your Teacup Puppy that it makes your head spin. There are costumes, clothes, sweaters, boots, fancy collars and leashes and hats. The list just goes on and on. You can have a wonderful time just surfing the web to see what is all out there.

This should give you some idea of what you need to purchase before you bring your Teacup Puppy home. The most important items listed are a crate, dishes and food, things to chew on and toys. Having these items available when your Teacup Puppy comes home will help in the transition period of the both of you getting to know each other while building a long time trusting and loving relationship.

Check out Dean's teacup puppies website and my teacup puppies blog

Teacup Dogs

Teacup and Teacup designer dogs are not "special" Toy dogs. This designation is not recognized or endorsed by the major canine associations. Owners of Toy dogs believe that Teacup dogs should be referred to by their correct Group name, Toy.

Dog owners and breeders describe a Teacup as being a dog smaller than the Toy group. To describe small dogs that belong to the Toy breed is redundant. It suggests that the breed comes in different sizes. There is no such thing, for example, as a "Toy Chihuahua" since all Chihuahuas are Toy dogs. A Teacup is a descriptive term for a Toy dog which might be smaller than the official size standard. There is no firm agreement on what height or weight makes a dog a Toy. The upper height limit of some Toy breeds is over 12 inches at the withers, which places these dogs within the height range of some other Groups as well.

Teacup dogs were considered status symbols.
Toy dogs are also referred to as Pocket Size, Tiny Toy, and Miniature. Oriental royalty carried them around in their large sleeves for warmth. This dog Group had limited duties but performed tasks specifically utilized by Oriental and European courts of nobility: A Teacup dog's temperature is between 100.2-102.8 degrees Fahrenheit so they warmed beds in cold castles and palaces. Dogs sat on laps (hence the term "lapdogs") until the advent of central heating diminished the need for the warming duties of these pets. Selective breeding developed a small dog to aid the lifestyle of and provide pleasure to the wealthy.

A "Teacup" dog is just a marketing term.
Some people consider Teacup dog a derogatory term for Toy dog. But, others obviously like using the term so it's here to stay!

Teacup dogs are bred specifically to appeal to people as companions.
The price of a Teacup dog should not reflect a rare or special dog and it may come with some health problems. Because of its small size, it may require extra care for its health and general well-being. These canines generally need lots of attention, and cannot be left alone for long periods of time.

Examples of dog breeds often referred to as Teacup dogs: Chihuahua, Dachshund, English Spaniel, Fox Terrier, Maltese, Poodle (smaller version of the Toy Poodle), Pomeranian, Pug, Shih Tzu, Silky Terrier, Yorkie.

We have existed as a company since 1985, but it was a love of dogs, the dogs that have been a part of our life, and the passing of one dog in particular, Rusty, that inspired the creation of http://www.callofthedog.com and http://www.callofthedogshop.com -- created to provide the things your dogs and pets need. Visit us for great information and quality dog supplies! Be sure to see our About Us page as well.

The two sites are dedicated to the dogs we have loved so deeply, and who have given us so much love in return. Purebreds and mixed breeds, but mostly rescues in need of a home. We educated them, but each one has had something to teach us in exchange.