The long haired Teacup Chihuahua is a unique and adorable breed. Their long, flowing coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
These small dogs are prone to hypoglycemia, a condition that requires careful monitoring of their food intake. Their tiny stomachs can't handle large meals, so they need to be fed frequently throughout the day.
Their big eyes and delicate features make them a beloved companion for many owners. Long haired Teacup Chihuahuas are generally quiet dogs, but some may be prone to barking if not properly trained.
To keep their long coats looking their best, owners should brush their dogs daily, paying extra attention to the areas where the coat is longest.
What Is a Teacup Chihuahua?
A Teacup Chihuahua is a type of toy dog that weighs 4-6 pounds and stands 6-9 inches tall.
These small dogs have a long lifespan, typically living between 12-18 years.
Their weight and height are due to selective breeding, which aims to create a smaller version of the Chihuahua breed.
Teacup Chihuahuas are prone to health issues such as hypoglycemia and heart problems due to their small size.
Their long hair requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
They are known for being loyal and affectionate companions, often forming strong bonds with their owners.
Their small size makes them a popular choice for apartment dwellers and those with limited space.
Physical Characteristics
Long haired teacup chihuahuas are small dogs with a big personality. They stand between 6 and 9 inches in height and typically weigh between 3 and 6 pounds.
Their coats are silky and can be straight or wavy, with longer fur on their body and ears. Long haired Chihuahuas have a distinctive snout that forms an 'L' shape by meeting their face at an almost 90-degree angle.
Their triangular ears and round eyes add to their adorable and feisty appearance. Long haired Chihuahuas can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, cream, fawn, and red or a mixture of these.
Here's a quick rundown of their physical characteristics:
Their coats can range from very long hair to medium-long hair, making each long haired teacup chihuahua unique.
Temperament and Personality
Long haired teacup Chihuahuas are known for having a confident and terrier-like temperament.
They tend to be very loud and bark at just about everything, making them a great watchdog due to their keen sense of sight and hearing.
Long haired Chihuahuas can be energetic and need a fair amount of exercise and playtime, but they also enjoy spending time with their owners and will often sit on their lap.
Their loyalty and affection towards their owners can overcome their initial suspicion of strangers, making them great companions for those who are willing to put in the time to socialize them properly.
Despite their small size, long haired teacup Chihuahuas are surprisingly intelligent and can pick up on human emotions fairly well, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement.
A Dog's Temperament
A dog's temperament is a unique combination of traits that make up their personality. Chihuahuas, for example, are known for being stubborn and bossy, but also very loyal and affectionate.
Their confidence and terrier-like temperament make them similar to other small dogs in terms of their behavior and temperament. Long haired Chihuahuas, in particular, can be quite energetic and require regular exercise and playtime to stay healthy.
Chihuahuas tend to be single-person dogs, bonding closely with one person and ignoring everyone else. They can be suspicious of strangers, but their need for affection often overcomes this.
Long haired Chihuahuas are quite vocal and won't hesitate to bark at strangers or other animals that enter their territory. This makes them a pretty good watchdog, despite their small size.
Their intelligence is often misunderstood, but Chihuahuas are actually quite smart and can pick up on human emotions fairly well. However, their intelligence also brings a bit of stubbornness, making training a challenge at times.
Overall, a dog's temperament is shaped by their breed, upbringing, and individual personality, making each one unique and special in their own way.
Good with Children
Long haired Chihuahuas may not be the best choice to have around younger children or children who don’t yet understand how to safely interact with animals.
They can easily be harmed by a child who plays rough with them.
A Chihuahua might be frightened by the somewhat erratic movements of small children and start barking or growling, causing stress among all parties.
With proper training and socialization for both your children and your long haired Chihuahua, you may be able to have your dog around older children, but babies and very young children are not recommended.
Care and Grooming
Care and Grooming for Long Haired Teacup Chihuahuas is relatively low-maintenance, but regular attention is still necessary to keep them clean and happy.
To start, your long haired teacup chihuahua needs to be fed two to three meals a day and have regular veterinary care. They require thirty minutes of daily exercise, which can be broken down into two to three short walks.
Discover more: Teacup Chihuahua Care
You'll also need to provide your long haired teacup chihuahua with toys to play with when you're not around, and a comfy bed and blanket for snuggling. They love attention and interaction, so be sure to spend plenty of time with them.
To keep their coat clean, brush your long haired teacup chihuahua at least once a week. A quick brushing session is enough to keep them clean, and you can use a soft bristle brush or a rubber grooming brush. If you have a teacup chihuahua that sheds excessively, you may need to brush them every day for a short time.
Here are some essential grooming tasks to keep in mind:
- Brush your long haired teacup chihuahua once a week
- Bathe them as needed, but avoid bathing them too frequently to prevent chilling
- Trim their nails regularly to prevent overgrowth
- Clean their ears occasionally to prevent debris buildup
- Brush their teeth regularly to prevent dental problems
By following these simple care and grooming tips, you can keep your long haired teacup chihuahua happy and healthy.
Grooming
Grooming is a crucial part of caring for your long haired Chihuahua. You should brush them at least once a week, and for long-haired varieties, a pin brush may be necessary to get deeper into their coat.
A weekly brushing session is enough to keep both short-haired and long-haired Chihuahuas clean. For short-haired varieties, a small rubber grooming mitt is often sufficient, while long-haired dogs may need a pin brush.
Bathing your Chihuahua is not necessary unless they get dirty or start to smell. If you do need to bathe them, do it in a warm room and dry them thoroughly when you're done.
Trimming their nails regularly is essential, especially since most teacup Chihuahuas don't get enough exercise to wear them down naturally. You can start trimming their nails when they're young so they get used to it.
Cleaning their ears is also important, and you can use a cotton ball to wipe out any debris. Be careful not to go too deep, as the ear canal is sensitive.
Here's a quick rundown of the grooming tasks you'll need to perform regularly:
- Brush your Chihuahua at least once a week
- Bathe them as needed (about every 2-3 weeks)
- Trim their nails regularly (about every 4-6 weeks)
- Clean their ears regularly (about every 2-3 weeks)
Remember, grooming can be stressful for both you and your dog, so consider taking them to a professional groomer if you're having trouble. They can also provide guidance on how to groom your Chihuahua properly.
Can You Show?
Long haired Chihuahuas are recognized by the American Kennel Club and are eligible to participate in shows.
To show your long haired Chihuahua, you'll need to check with the event organizers for specific requirements on the papers you'll need to present. Make sure to research the tasks your dog will need to complete to enter and potentially win the show.
Health and Nutrition
Your long haired teacup Chihuahua needs a nutritionally balanced diet that consists of four to ten ounces of food per day split up into two or three meals.
Make sure to feed your Chihuahua high-quality dry food that meets these requirements, and consider occasional healthy treats as a supplement.
Consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure about any diet regime, and always watch your Chihuahua for fluctuations in weight, as this could be a sign of a medical issue.
Health Problems
Long haired Chihuahuas are prone to several health problems due to their genetics and small size. These conditions include dislocated kneecaps, hypoglycemia, tooth or gum disease, and obesity.
It's essential to monitor your dog's health closely and consult a veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms. Regular check-ups can help prevent or catch these issues early on.
Long haired Chihuahuas are also at risk for bone fractures, heart disease, and incontinence due to their tiny frames and bladders. These conditions can be caused by breeding two runts together to create a teacup Chihuahua.
Some specific health problems that long haired Chihuahuas may face include epilepsy, eye diseases, hydrocephalus, luxating patellas, collapsed trachea, allergies, and periodontal disease.
Here's a list of some common health issues in long haired Chihuahuas:
- Dislocated kneecaps
- Hypoglycemia
- Tooth or gum disease
- Obesity
- Bone fractures
- Heart disease
- Incontinence
- Epilepsy
- Eye diseases
- Hydrocephalus
- Luxating patellas
- Collapsed trachea
- Allergies
- Periodontal disease
Pet Nutrition
Feeding your long haired Chihuahua a nutritionally balanced diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
You should aim to feed your long haired Chihuahua four to ten ounces of food per day, split up into two or three meals depending on your schedule and their ideal body weight.
High-quality dry food should meet these requirements, and you can occasionally supplement their diet with healthy treats.
Make sure to consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure about any diet regime, and always watch your Chihuahua for fluctuations in weight, as this could be a sign of a medical issue.
A daily exercise routine of two to three short walks, equal to about thirty minutes of daily exercise, is also essential for their physical and mental health.
Providing your long haired Chihuahua with toys to play with when you're not around can help keep them entertained and engaged.
They also love getting snuggly, so a comfy bed and a blanket are ideal for them to relax and feel cozy.
Giving your Chihuahua their own space to retreat to when they're feeling anxious or overwhelmed is also important for their emotional well-being.
Are Purebred?
Long haired Chihuahuas are the smallest purebred dog in the world. Their lineage can be traced back directly to the first dogs bred by the Aztecs. If you are adopting your long haired Chihuahua from a breeder, you will likely be given papers that certify your dog’s lineage and their eligibility to participate in dog shows and the like as a purebred dog.
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Lifestyle and Ownership
Long haired teacup chihuahuas can make great pets for new dog owners, but it's essential to consider their needs and lifestyle requirements. They are low maintenance, but regular exercise and grooming are a must.
To ensure a happy and healthy long haired teacup chihuahua, they need to be socialized and trained out of any poor behaviors that emerge. This breed is loyal and loving, and they thrive on attention from their owners.
If you're planning to adopt a long haired teacup chihuahua, it's crucial to consider your lifestyle and living situation. They make excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and simpler grooming needs. However, they do require regular exercise, and a few short walks a day plus some toys to stay content.
Here's a quick rundown of what to consider when deciding if a long haired teacup chihuahua is right for you:
- You need to be willing to brush their long hair at least once a week and give them regular baths.
- You should be prepared to exercise them regularly and provide a safe, structured environment.
- You should have a dedicated area in your home where they can curl up and take some time for themselves.
If you're unsure about adopting a long haired teacup chihuahua, consider whether you have very young children or babies in your home at the same time, as they may not be the best fit.
Dogs with Other Animals
Living with other animals can be a great experience, but it's essential to consider your long haired Chihuahua's personality and temperament.
Some long haired Chihuahuas can easily adapt to a household full of other dogs or cats, especially if they're introduced at a young age.
However, others may prefer to be the center of attention and can cause problems with other animals in the household.
With proper supervision, even older dogs can learn to live with other animals.
Your long haired Chihuahua may start bossing around the household once they get comfortable, so be prepared for a change in dynamics.
Are Expensive?
Long haired Chihuahuas can be expensive depending on the breeder, their coloration, and their size. On average, a long haired Chihuahua puppy will cost you between $500 and $1,500.
If you opt for the teacup variety of this breed, you can expect to pay around $2,000 for a puppy. That's a significant investment, but for many, it's worth it to bring home a new furry friend.
The cost of owning a long haired Chihuahua goes beyond the initial purchase price, as you'll also need to consider the costs of food, veterinary care, and supplies.
Discover more: How Much Do Long Haired Chihuahuas Cost
Finding a Breeder
Finding a reputable breeder is crucial when buying a long haired Chihuahua puppy. You can start by performing an internet search to find a breeder.
Be careful not to purchase a puppy from a private breeder that treats their dogs poorly or a puppy mill. Request a tour of the breeder's facilities to ensure the dogs are being well cared for.
Vetting the breeder is essential to avoid any potential issues. This means asking plenty of questions and doing your research before making a decision.
New Owners and Dogs
As a new dog owner, it's essential to consider the needs and personalities of your new furry friend. A long haired Chihuahua can make a great first dog for new owners, as they are low maintenance and love to stay by their owner's side.
They are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, which can be a great advantage for new owners. However, it's crucial to remember that they do require regular exercise and grooming to keep their coat in good condition.
If you're willing to commit to regular brushing and baths, a long haired Chihuahua can be a wonderful companion. But if you're not prepared to put in the time and effort, it may not be the best fit for you.
Here are some key things to consider when deciding if a long haired Chihuahua is right for you:
- You plan to make it the only pet in your home, or you can supervise the introduction of your Chihuahua to any other pets
- You want a small yet sassy dog that will love you fiercely
- You’re willing to brush your long haired Chihuahua at least once a week and give them regular baths to keep their coat in good condition
- You can exercise your Chihuahua regularly and provide them with a safe, structured environment
On the other hand, if you have very young children or babies in your home, it may not be the best idea to adopt a long haired Chihuahua. They can be more vocal and may require training to curb barking habits, which can be challenging for new owners.
Training and Behavior
Training and behavior is a crucial aspect of owning a long haired teacup chihuahua. They can learn quite a few things, but potty training can be difficult due to their tiny bladders, requiring frequent trips outside.
Socialization is essential to prevent antisocial behavior, such as snapping, barking, and fearfulness around other dogs. This can be achieved by exposing them to various people and environments from an early age. Confident dogs typically aren't scared.
Long haired teacup chihuahuas tend to be protective and loyal to their owners, which can result in excessive barking, teeth showing, and growling. However, they are unlikely to attack, bite, or be outwardly aggressive when unprovoked.
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Do They Bark?
Long haired Chihuahuas are prone to barking and being vocal, using a powerful "yap" to get attention, boss around, or show excitement.
Their barking can be triggered by fear or nervousness, which is common in this breed. They may bark when frightened or when they feel the need to protect themselves or their owners.
You can decrease the amount your dog barks due to fear, nervousness, or protective behavior with proper socialization and dedicated training. However, you can still expect your long haired Chihuahua to be more vocal than other dog breeds.
Long haired Chihuahuas don't have a very loud bark due to their small size, but their barking can still be a concern for neighbors.
Trainability
Long haired Chihuahuas can be easy to train, but they can be stubborn at times.
They tend to pick up simple commands like 'yes,' 'no,' and 'stay' quickly, but may not always follow them.
House training can be a bit tricky due to their small size, as they may slip off and do their business in your home without you noticing.
You'll need to remain patient and consistent with training, and your long haired Chihuahua will be following basic commands in no time.
Teacup Chihuahuas can learn quite a few things, but they aren't the most intelligent dogs out there.
Their small size can make potty training difficult, as they need to use the bathroom often due to their tiny bladders.
You may need to take them outside every 30 minutes or so, even when they reach adulthood.
Socialization is crucial for these dogs, as they tend to be a bit impatient with children and other dogs.
They can be a bit aloof and may not get along well with other canines, so it's essential to socialize them regularly.
Confident dogs typically aren't scared, and socialization can help your Teacup Chihuahua gain confidence when interacting with others.
Chihuahuas have a reputation as being an aggressive dog breed, but this is actually a misconception.
They tend to be very protective and loyal to their owners, which can result in excessive barking, teeth showing, and growling.
However, they are unlikely to attack, bite, or be outwardly aggressive when unprovoked.
Most of the time, aggressive behavior in Chihuahuas is learned, and it can be trained out of the dog to make them happier and less stressed.
Recommended read: Are Chihuahuas Naturally Aggressive
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a teacup long haired Chihuahua?
A teacup long haired Chihuahua typically weighs up to three pounds and stands around six inches tall. However, individual sizes may vary slightly.
How much money is a teacup Chihuahua?
The cost of a Teacup Chihuahua can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on location, breeder reputation, and pedigree. Learn more about the factors that affect the price of this adorable breed.
What is the lifespan of a teacup Chihuahua?
A teacup Chihuahua's lifespan typically ranges from 7 to 12 years. Their shorter lifespan is a consideration for potential owners.
Sources
- 15 Teacup Dog Breeds That Are Tiny and Adorable (rd.com)
- Long Haired Chihuahua: Your Complete Guide (dogacademy.org)
- Teacup Chihuahuas - Breed Profile & Information (spiritdogtraining.com)
- https://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/chihuahua#grooming (vetstreet.com)
- https://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/chihuahua#personality (vetstreet.com)
- https://www.petchidog.com/chihuahua-exercise (petchidog.com)
- https://www.healthypawspetinsurance.com/blog/2015/08/18/teacup-dogs-health-issues/ (healthypawspetinsurance.com)
- https://www.petchidog.com/miniature-teacup-chihuahua (petchidog.com)
- https://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/chihuahua (vetstreet.com)
- Share (facebook.com)
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