Teacup Chihuahuas are small Chihuahuas weighing less than 3 pounds.
The tiny Chihuahua has become a popular pet, and sometimes, the smaller, the better. There is no official breed of Chihuahua called the "Teacup" Chihuahua. Because Teacups are just smaller-than-average Chihuahuas, the characteristics of newborns are essentially the same for both types of dog. However, Teacups often suffer additional health problems due to their small size.
Birth
Because Chihuahuas are so small, they usually only have one to three pups per litter. At birth, each pup will weigh between 2 and 5 oz. Teacups will weigh as much as their standard siblings at this point, so there's no way to tell a Teacup from a standard Chihuahua. (A Chihuahua is considered a Teacup if it weighs less than 2.5 lbs. as an adult. Chihuahuas typically reach an adult weight between 2 and 5 lbs.)
A mother's care is critical in the first weeks of a puppy's life. The mother provides essential nutrition, warmth and care. Therefore, a Teacup pup should not leave its mother until it is at least 8 weeks of age.
Temperament
Teacup Chihuahuas, like others of the same breed, are sweet and social. Chihuahuas have gotten a reputation for being short-tempered, but breeders are quick to point out that they are just fiercely loyal and protective. Newborns are easy to train, quick to learn and eager to please. They love being around people and other dogs, but owners should take precautions because they can be hurt easily. According to V.I.P. Chihuahua, "Chihuahua dogs are very loving around kids. However, it's not recommended leaving the dog alone with a child under the age of 6 unless they're supervised."
Health
Teacup Chihuahuas have special health considerations due to their small size. Newborns often suffer from hypoglycemia (sometimes called "puppy diabetes"). Other health issues can be joint displacement, seizures and reactions to vaccinations. The Chihuahua Club of America notes that, while not a medical problem, most of these small dogs are born with a molera, a soft spot on top of the head. As the puppy's skull grows, it will cover the soft spot. Healthy pups will have clear eyes at birth and no signs of limping or imbalance.
Socialization
As stated earlier, Chihuahuas are social animals and love being around people and other animals, particularly other Chihuahuas. According to Next Day Pets, "the Chihuahua can be difficult to train, but with patience, love and consistency do well." It is important to start the socialization process around 5 to 6 weeks of age, so the pups learn not to fear humans. Drs. Foster & Smith Inc. advises owners to remember that your pup "is still a baby and must be handled with care, but you should start to introduce the pup to noises, grooming procedures, new people and pets."
Safety
Newborn Teacup Chihuahuas present special safety concerns. Because they are so small, they are easily lost or injured. Before you bring home a newborn Chihuahua, be sure to puppy-proof the house just as you would for an infant. Chocolate, cleaners, baits, other animals, washers, dryers and windows present safety hazards for these tiny pups. Since they are so small, they also often have trouble keeping warm. A mother dog usually provides adequate warmth for her pups, but if the mother is not available, a heat lamp may be required.
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