The black teacup shih tzu is a beautiful breed of dog that is popular in many households. It is bred for its petite size and can have some unique characteristics. This article discusses the breed characteristics and the health issues that it may face. It also covers the costs of owning one.
Breeders breed for smaller size
Some Shih Tzu breeders breed for smaller sizes, and these dogs are considered teacups. These breeders choose two dogs that are smaller than the breed standard, with the goal of breeding a small litter. While some breeders claim this is due to a genetic factor called the “imperial gene,” this has not been proven. The American Shih Tzu Club calls these claims a “Myth.
These dogs are small versions of the standard Shih Tzu, weighing under 9 pounds. They are playful and loyal, and have a unique appearance. The smaller size makes them perfect for homes, and they’re a good choice for people who don’t want a large dog.
Although the AKC doesn’t recognize the teacup breed as a separate breed, there are many teacup Shih Tzu breeders. These small Shih Tzus can be registered and are often sold for more money than the standard size. However, they are not considered a breed in their own right, and cannot compete in major dog shows.
While these breeders often breed for a smaller size, they are also happy to breed for a larger one. As a result, the teacup Shih Tzu can be found in a variety of sizes and shapes. This makes them a versatile choice for homes with small gardens and smaller spaces. Although they are a smaller version of the Shih Tzu, they’re still quite sturdy. They make great pets, but make sure to do your homework to make the right decision.
If you are looking for a teacup puppy, make sure to ask to see the parents. It’s important to make sure the breeder is responsible and screening for health problems before breeding their pups. A responsible breeder will breed puppies that fit the breed standard, while a disreputable breeder may purposely breed two runts together.
Characteristics
Black teacup Shih Tzu characteristics are very different from the typical yellow Shih Tzu. This breed is very sociable and loves to be with people. Their docile temperament makes them excellent companions, though they can be a little bit prone to separation anxiety. This can lead to problems such as chewing on furniture or urinating on the couch. To avoid these problems, it is important to exercise your teacup Shih Tzu frequently and consistently. Exercise will help manage your dog’s blood sugar levels, strengthen the immune system, and build stronger bones and muscles. Several 20-minute daily walks are recommended, and supervised cardio sessions can be added as well.
A Shih Tzu has a small mouth, so it is important to keep your puppy’s mouth clean and healthy. This small mouth makes them prone to dental problems, such as tartar and plaque. These two problems can lead to a poor quality of life for your pet. For these reasons, you should consider getting pet insurance for your Shih Tzu.
Some breeders breed below the AKC standard. Healthy dogs weigh between seven and eight pounds and are between 3.17 and 3.62 kg. The only exception to this rule is the Imperial type, which does not conform to the AKC standard, but is just as healthy as the standard size. In either case, an ethical breeder will produce a healthy dog. However, there will be a few pups that are smaller than expected. Remember, Mother Nature has the final say.
The head of a Shih Tzu is large and set high. The face should be pointing forward and the eyes should be facing in the front. The legs and feet are short, but do not overpronate. These features make the Shih Tzu a great companion.
Health issues
Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health problems in dogs. It causes displacement of the hip joint and can result in pain and limping. This condition can be treated with joint supplements, medications and weight management solutions, but in severe cases, corrective surgery may be necessary. Although this condition is most commonly associated with large breed dogs, it can affect smaller dogs as well. If left untreated, it can lead to arthritis and degenerative joint disease.
Eye problems are common in this breed. Cataract surgery can correct the condition. The surgery, known as phacoemulsification, involves breaking the cloudy lens with an ultrasonic probe. The lens is then removed and replaced with a new artificial one.
Some Shih Tzu breeds have a tendency to suffer from patellar luxation. This condition causes the front part of the dog’s kneecap to slip out of place. When this happens, the dog may have an abnormal gait, skip strides, and kick its back leg sideways to pop the kneecap back into place. While mild patellar luxation may require no treatment, more serious cases may require surgery to realign the kneecap.
Breathing problems are another common affliction in Shih Tzus. The tracheas in these small dogs are delicate, so weak cartilage can cause the windpipe to flatten. This condition can lead to trouble breathing, and the dog can collapse or even faint.
Obesity is another common health problem in this breed. Being overweight can aggravate joint problems, digestive problems and heart problems. The best way to prevent this problem is to avoid feeding your pet or giving it treats. Instead, offer your Shih Tzu hugs and give them exercise. By doing this, your dog will feel much better and will have fewer problems.
Cost
The cost of owning a teacup black Shih Tzu can be quite high, as veterinary expenses are significant. You should prepare for these costs, though. A sick or injured dog can require expensive medical care, and you should always consider insurance before making a decision.
Vaccinations are essential for Shih Tzus, so you should have them vaccinated against heartworms and fleas. These shots are typically around $55-$70 each. In addition, your dog may require annual boosters. Additionally, your pet may need a fecal examination, which can add up to $40-$50 to the total cost.
Health care costs for Shih Tzus vary by age and location. Depending on where you live and how old your dog is, the cost of medical care can total $590 in the first year of ownership. You should plan to make three visits to the vet during this time. Each visit will include a physical exam, rabies vaccination, heartworm prevention, flea preventative medications, and a fecal examination.
Despite their adorable appearance, Shih Tzus can be expensive. While they may be hard work, the rewards are immense, and you will form a special bond with your new friend. Puppies can also be expensive, and their price can vary considerably by region.
As with other breeds, color does play a large role in the price. Purebred Shih Tzus are typically cheaper than mixed breed puppies. However, if you’re on a budget, it’s probably best to look for a mixed breed. Many breeders mix Shih Tzus with other breeds, such as Chihuahua, Maltese, and Border Collie.
The cost of a black teacup Shih Tzu puppy can range from $700 to $10,000. It really depends on where you’re going to get your pup, how long you plan to keep it, and how much care it needs. You should also consider whether the breed is registered with a national dog registry. The American Kennel Club sets standards for purebred dogs, and registered dogs meet a higher breeding standard.
Where to buy
The teacup Shih Tzu is a miniature breed of the popular Shih Tzu. This tiny dog breed is extremely small and is great for apartments and small homes. They can even be kept in a small garden. These dogs are adventurous, courageous and have an energetic personality. However, they are not suitable for homes with large dogs because they might react aggressively to large breeds.
A teacup Shih Tzu can come in a range of colors. It can be completely black or completely white. Imperial Shih Tzus are often more expensive than their regular counterparts. They are bred for companionship and are outgoing and affectionate. They love to sit on people’s laps and are generally good with children and other animals. Although they are very friendly with children, they are not recommended for homes with small children.
A teacup Shih Tzu can be difficult to find if you don’t live in the area where the breed is popular. These dogs are small but can fit into a purse. They can be very cute and attract attention from everyone. However, they are also expensive and need constant care.
You should be aware of the many different colors that the Shih Tzu can come in. The most common color is black, but you can also find red or gold ones. The red Shih Tzu has a darker colored muzzle and eyes. The black teacup Shih Tzu is also known as the Maltese Shih Tzu.
A teacup Shih Tzu is one of the smallest Shih Tzu breeds. They are usually under seven pounds and measure between 7-9 inches. The Teacup Shih Tzu is considered a lapdog and loves human attention. It is also a small dog with a big heart.