How to Care for a Tea Cup Puppy

Teacup puppies are not a recognized dog breed but rather an unofficial size classification of toy dogs generally including toy dogs of many different breeds weighing between 2 to 4 pounds. The small "teacup" size appeals to many pet owners and has gained in popularity in recent years. However, because of its diminutive size, special care must be taken to ensure good health and safety of teacup puppies.

Things You'll Need

  • Small food bowl
  • Small water bowl
  • Dog kibble, specifically formulated for small puppies
  • Leash
  • Collar with identification tag
  • Grooming brush
  • Toothbrush
  • Bedding or crate
  • Carrier
  • Chew toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain feeding information from the breeder or whoever gave you the dog. This should include what type of food the puppy is being fed, how much food and the feeding schedule. A teacup puppy should be fed three to four times a day. Teacup puppies need small kibble, premium puppy food for healthy growth. To avoid or minimize upset stomach, any change in puppy food should be implemented over a seven- to 10-day period, slowly introducing small amounts of new food with the old. By the 10th day, the puppy should be fed only new food. Always have fresh water available, and keep small nutritional treats to a minimum.

    • 2

      Visit a veterinarian soon after your teacup pup comes home, preferably within the first 10 days. Before the visit, write down any specific questions you might have and bring pen and paper to take notes. The veterinarian will give your puppy a physical exam and should review nutritional needs, vaccination recommendations and specific care instructions, if any, for your particular breed of teacup puppy.

    • 3

      Create a calm, quiet environment to welcome the puppy into your home. Show your puppy its food and water dish as well as its bed or crate. Slowly introduce your puppy to members of your household. Too many hands petting your puppy and too much excitement can be stressful, so be mindful of this. Never let your teacup puppy wander the home without supervision. If you are unable to supervise your puppy for a short period of time, place it in a contained, safe area with its food, water, bedding and training paper or litter box. At bedtime, keep the puppy's bed near your bed for the first few nights to help it feel less lonely.

    • 4

      Whether you want to train your pup to relieve itself on paper, in a litter box or outside, be consistent. Place your puppy on the place where you would like it to relieve itself in the morning after it wakes up, at night before bed, after eating or exercising and every two hours during the day. Praise it when it is successful. Do not punish it when it has accidents.

    • 5

      A teacup puppy should be brushed daily or weekly, depending on the specific breed. For example, a Yorkshire Terrier will need brushing more often than a Chihuahua. Bathe your puppy regularly. Frequency will depend on the breed of puppy. Too much bathing will cause dry skin. Check with your vet if you are unsure how often to bathe your puppy. For good dental hygiene, introduce a toothbrush gently and slowly. Regular brushing, along with dental chews, will keep your puppy's teeth and gums healthy. Your puppy's nails will need to be kept trim. If you decide to trim them yourself, check with your vet for special instructions; otherwise, leave it to professionals groomers or your vet.

    • 6

      Teacup puppies were bred to be companion pets and need lots of attention. Their small size makes it convenient to take them almost anywhere. Use a carrier to transport your puppy, and always bring a leash and fresh water. Never leave your teacup puppy in a locked vehicle.