The Myth of the Teacup

The Chihuahua is a Chihuahua

Sponsored by The Chihuahua Club of America

The official A.K.C. Breed Standard describes the Chihuahua as a small dog that comes in two varieties or coat types. The difference in the coat type (the Long Coat or the Smooth Coat) is the only official description used to identify a difference within this breed. Our Standard does not categorize the Chihuahua by size.

For the purpose of showing and record keeping, the American Kennel Club includes the Chihuahua (along with 18 other breeds) in the Toy Group. Therefore, irrespective of their weight or physical stature, all Chihuahuas registered with the A.K.C. are considered to be a toy breed of dog.

As with all living things, there will be a size variance between individual dogs within this breed. Look within the human family brothers and sisters will differ in height and weight, as well as other physical attributes. They are described as humans, male or female, and there is seldom if ever a need to break the description down further. The same holds true in regard to the Chihuahua, they are Chihuahuas Long Coat/Smooth Coat, Male/Female.

Unfortunately, the additional adjectives used to describe the size difference and physical appearances are many, and have been misused for so long they now seem legitimate. Teacup, Pocket Size, Tiny Toy, Miniature or Standard are just a few of the many tags and labels that have been attached to this breed over the years. The Chihuahua Club of America is concerned that these terms may be used to entice perspective buyers into thinking that puppies described in this way are of greater monetary value. They are not, and the use of these terms is incorrect and misleading.

Occasionally, within a litter, there may be a puppy that is unusually small. That puppy is a small Chihuahua and any other breakdown in description is not correct. To attach any of these additional labels to a particular pup is to misrepresent that animal as something that is rare or exceptional and causes a great deal of confusion among those fanciers who are looking for a Chihuahua.

The Chihuahua Club of America does not endorse or condone the use of any of these terms and would caution the perspective puppy buyer not to be misled by them.

We recognize that many Chihuahua fanciers do want the very small puppy. While they are adorable and can be perfectly healthy, the buyer should be cautioned as to the extra care that may be required with regard to their general health and well-being.

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An additional note to those folks looking for a Chihuahua - remember that the smaller the Chi, the higher the probability of blood sugar problems. These problems CAN be life threatening. Very tiny Chi's need to eat often... not alot at a time, but very often throughout the day and night in order to keep a proper blood sugar level. It is recommended than any Chi attaining an adult weight of LESS than 3 pounds be considered at high risk for low blood sugar attacks, also known as Hypoglycemia. It is wise not to choose a dog simply due to it's size. Although a very tiny Chi may be adoreable, it may also be plagued with serious health problems, or may die young due to problems caused from possibly being under-developed or from organ dysfunction. Beware of any breeder who claims their pups are "teacup", "miniature" or anything else other than a normal Chihuahua.
Remember too, that a dog under stress burns alot more calories, and that uses up vital blood sugar. Also, pups burn more calories, also making them prime candidates for dropping blood sugar levels as well.
Be aware of the signs of low blood sugar. 1) Sleepiness... where the dog appears so tired it can hardly keep it's eyes open. 2) Listlessness.. where the dog doesn't want to move, play or be active in any way. 3) Unresponsive... where the dog shows little if any reaction to stimuli such as squeezing the paw, or moving the dog around. 4) Passing out and/or convulsions.
There are other signs that can accompany this problem, but, be aware if your dog does show any of these key signals just listed. If any of them do occur, try to get something containing sugar down your dogs throat... BUT ONLY IF THE DOG IS CONSCIENCE. If your dog is unconscience, go immediately to the vet. Do not attempt to force solids or liquids down the throat of an unconscience animal, as you could cause an airway blockage or fill the lungs and cause additional problems.
Getting the dogs blood sugar back up to a normal level quickly and safely can make the difference in whether the dog lives or dies or suffer brain damage.

For any owner of a Chi of any size, it is essential to keep a tube of Nutri-Cal supplement with you wherever you go. This supplement can be used to increase blood sugar levels in the Chi when symptoms of low blood sugar occur.
And lastly, always keep food readily available for your Chi 24 X 7. Having food always available will help ensure that the animal eats several times throughout the day to help keep a level blood sugar within the body at all times.