Tea Cup Statement
The Chihuahua Is A Chihuahua
The Official AKC Breed Standard describes
the Chihuahua as a small dog that comes in two varieties or coat types. The difference in coat type (the Long Coat and the
Smooth Coat) is the only official description used to identify a difference within this breed. Our standard does not categorize
the Chihuahua by size.
For the purpose of showing and record keeping, the American Kennel club includes the Chihuahua (along with
19 other breeds) in the Toy Group. Therefore, irrespective of their weight or physical stature ALL Chihuahuas registered with
the AKC are considered to be a toy breed of dog.
As with all living things, there will be size variance between individual dogs within this breed. Look within
the human family - brothers and sisters will differ in height and in weight, as well as other physical attributes. They are
described as humans, male or female, and there is seldom if ever a need to break the description down further. The same holds
true in regard to the Chihuahua; they are Chihuahuas - Long Coat / Smooth Coat!
Unfortunately, the additional adjectives used to describe the size differences and physical appearances
are many and have been misused for so long they now seem legitimate. Teacup, Pocket Size, Tiny Toy, Miniature or Standard
- are just a few of the many tags and labels that have been attached to this breed over the years. The Chihuahua Club of America
is concerned that these terms may be used to entice prospective buyers into thinking that puppies described in this way are
of greater monetary value. They are not
and the use of these terms is incorrect and misleading.
Occasionally, within a litter, there may be a puppy that is unusually small. That puppy is a small Chihuahua
and any other breakdown in description is not correct. To attach any of these additional labels to a particular puppy is to
misrepresent that Chihuahua as something that is rare or exceptional and causes a great deal of confusion among those new
fanciers who are looking for a Chihuahua.
The Chihuahua Club of America does not endorse nor condone the use of any of these terms and would caution
the perspective puppy buyer not to be misled by them.
We recognize that many Chihuahua fanciers do want the very small puppy. While they are adorable and can be
perfectly healthy, the buyer should be cautioned as to the extra care that may be required with regard to their general
health and well-being.
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