The teacup breeds are often sought after because of their “convenient” size. Their tiny stature can be inconvenient at times. If you are – or soon will be – a pooch parent of a teacup breed, there are a few unexpected dangers to keep watch for when raising these tiny pups. Because of their small size, they can be as fragile as they are fashionable. These dogs can get into nooks and crannies that you didn’t know existed around your home, they are snack size for chicken hawks and tiny compared to your slippers when underfoot.
Teacups & Hawks
Teacup breeds do not look like a typical dog to the owl, chicken hawk, or snake in your backyard. Their size is more like a hearty snack. The inclination of many people is to let a dog run and romp freely in the yard, and while most dog containment systems are designed to keep dogs in, they may not keep other animals out. Even while you are outside with your pooch offering your supervision, a teacup canine can still fall victim to the swift dive of a hawk.
Teacups & Larger Canines
Naturally, you want to be cautious when your pup is the smallest pooch at the doggie park, but constantly holding your teacup hound will not allow him to socialize. Socializing early with other dogs of all sizes will help keep him from becoming a nervous, shy and even scared little pup around other canines. He will learn to play and even stick up for himself when needed if he is given some wiggle room.
Teacups & Children
Canines are wonderful for teaching children to be gentle. But this lesson is crucial if a child’s dog is a teacup breed. While a teacup dog may be the perfect lap size dog for a toddler, chances are that the toddler is not ready to hold a dog even if he is the perfect size for such an activity. Children should always be supervised when they are playing with a dog, but in the case of a teacup breed it is just as critical to supervise and look out for your tiny pup’s welfare in addition to the child’s well-being.
Teacups & Tiny Household Hazards
There are certain household hazards that should be addressed with any puppy. Things like removing electrical cords to avoid the risk of chewing and electric shock; storing all chemicals and poisons in a place that your dog cannot attempt to consume them. However, with a teacup puppy and even a full-grown teacup canine, you should take the time to get on their level and seek out additional hazards. For example, that small space between the washer and dryer may be just big enough for your pup to squeeze himself into. Or that object you did not realized was stored under the bed or couch can become a choking hazard to your tiny furry friend. Thinking small may just help protect your little teacup.
Veterinarian assistant, Shannon Davis dedicates a portion of her professional career to dog advocacy and writes articles to educate people on adopting dogs from animal shelters and breeders.
