A teacup is a small breed of dog. They are considered under the category of toy dogs. Some breeders of Shih Tzus like to select their smaller and to breed them distinctly. The reality of the teacup is that it is basically the same as any other Shih Tzu. An adult teacup can grow the same size of a regular one. In other words, breeders who claim to breed teacup Shih Tzus just pick the smallest of each litter and pair it with another smaller pups from another litter in the hopes that the union will produce smaller than average dogs.
The discriminate breeding of teacup dogs is not encouraged by many of the renowned kennel associations from different countries. This is because all the breeders of Shih Tzu should give the same attention to the health and other features of the breed. Some special health problems may occur in these very small dogs, and not all breeders are able to face them. There are also genetic restrictions that could be overlooked by some irresponsible breeders While not all teacup breeders are irresponsible, it goes against the grain to try and bring out dogs that are below the standard size of what is supposedly acceptable for most kennel clubs.
Main Characteristics of the Teacup Dogs of this Breed
Basically, the teacup should have the same characteristics as any other of this breed. Some breeders advertise their dogs to be a special breed in order to obtain better prices for them, but most dogs are smaller only as puppies.
The regular height for the dogs is up to ten inches at the withers. In order to raise a teacup Shih Tzu, a good breeder needs specific methods but also puppies with specific genes. It is wise to note that dogs that measuring about seven inches at the withers are still accepted at many other kennel clubs. Many breeders expect that some of their puppies to grow as teacups or miniatures, but they actually grow close to the regular size of normal dogs.
The weight of the average Shih Tzu is about ten to sixteen pounds. A teacup Shih Tzu dog may be a little lighter. The differences are obvious when they are puppies, but most adult dogs are quite similar.
Regardless the size, there are common physical features for this breed. The dog breed has hanging ears which are covered with long hair. Typically, a Shih Tzu has long hair which should be brushed daily to prevent snarls and tangles which will develop to matted hair. The owners of show dogs will keep their long coats, while others may have their hair cut short for easier maintenance. Teacups also have the same hair characteristics as the average Shih Tzus. They have flowing tails that curl on their back.
Characteristics of their Personality
The teacup has quite similar temperament to the normal sized dogs. This breed of dog appears haughty due mainly t the fact that it was bred specifically as companion dogs for the royal imperial Chinese court. These lapdogs can easily be hold by women in their laps. These dogs are even tempered and playful. They are fierce against danger and protective with their master, though usually act friendly. The teacup variety needs only an apartment or small house to live healthy and happy. You will need to walk them every day.
A teacup shih tzu is a very small dog. The kennel associations consider them below the toy dog category. teacup shih tzu dogs have the same basic features as the regular sized dogs.
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