Category: dog-breed

If you’ve ever encountered a teacup Corgi, you know how cute and attractive these little pups are. Due to their status as the ideal “purse dogs,” teacup Corgis are a relatively new phenomenon that has gained popularity in recent years, both in North America and overseas.

Let’s discover more about this unique breed and see if they’re right for you.

Breed Overview

As the name suggests, these teacup pups are just like normal-size Corgis, except that they are smaller than their larger counterparts. Even as they grow into adults, they will still retain some of their charming puppy-like qualities. However, keep in mind that their small size might lead to a few more health problems, so it’s best to get to know this dog better before you decide to bring them home.

Teacup Corgi Characteristics

The Earliest Records of the Teacup Corgi in History

First and foremost, a teacup Corgi is not an officially acknowledged dog, and there are only two recognized Corgi breeds, the Cardigan Welsh and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Teacup Corgis are relatively new, but standard Corgis have been around for a long time. People believe that the breed was brought to Wales by the Celtic tribes that migrated there from central Europe and has existed in Wales for more than 3,000 years¹.

These canines were once invaluable to farmers in Wales. From the very beginning, they used Corgis as family companions, herding dogs, and farm guardians. To this day, Corgis are still excellent herders, and many Pembrokes participate in the American Kennel Club’s herding competitions.

How the Teacup Corgi Gained Popularity

The Corgi’s primary role was lost when Welsh farmers began raising sheep in fenced pastures. Since farmers needed dogs with longer legs to herd their sheep, Border Collies eventually took the place of the Corgi as an all-around farm canine, and they still are today. Therefore, now the Corgi mainly serves as a companion and show dog.

There are multiple reasons why this beautiful breed has won the hearts of many fans and pet lovers all over the world. Yes, regular Corgi pups are adorable, but occasionally, people want to surpass that cuteness and choose something very delicate and sweet. More interestingly, these micro canines will look like puppies forever. That’s why teacup Corgis are very popular nowadays!

Formal Recognition of the Teacup Corgi

The Kennel Club (England) first recognized the breed in the 1920s². The Pembroke, also known as the Corgi from the county of Pembroke in South Wales, was later officially recognized as a distinct breed from the Cardigan in 1934.

All Corgi dogs belong to one of these two types, and the main difference between them is their tails. Unlike Cardigans, Pembrokes don’t have tails and are a bit larger, but usually not noticeable. As mentioned above, a Teacup Corgi isn’t considered a distinct breed; instead, they’re just Corgis, only smaller and cuter.

Top 5 Unique Facts About the Teacup Corgi

1. Corgi Means “Dwarf Dog”

It’s tough to pinpoint the name’s origin. Some state that it combines “cor,” which means gather or watch over, and “gi,” a form of the Welsh word for dog. Others believe that “cor” means “dwarf,” and when you mix that with “gi,” you get a dog that is like a dwarf.

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2. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi Is a Favorite Breed of the Royal Family

You may already know that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth. According to royal confidants, she preferred Corgis over other dog breeds because of their untamed spirit and energy. Not many people know the exact number of pups the queen owned during her lifetime. In fact, over the past 70 years, it is estimated that she had more than 30 Corgis.

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3. The Methods Used to Create a Teacup Corgi are Not Always Ethical

Teacup puppies can come from the crossbreeding of two naturally small dogs. When it comes to Corgis, this might be the outcome of a crossbreeding between a Corgi and a smaller type, such as a Chihuahua. However, due to the popularity of mini dogs, many breeders now use unethical breeding practices to produce the tiniest canines possible. This includes inbreeding, malnourishment, and breeding the runts of litters.

In order to avoid encouraging poor breeding and contributing to the fad, many dog enthusiasts are against purchasing teacup canines. However, if you decide on a teacup Corgi, make sure you do your research and choose only reputable breeders, or consider adopting from a rescue shelter. Additionally, don’t forget to ask breeders for the dog’s health documents and visit the puppy in person if possible.

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4. Pregnancy Can Be Difficult for Teacup Corgis

Because of the pressure it puts on their tiny bodies, pregnancy can be challenging for teacup Corgi mothers. A difficult birth, or dystocia, is common, and many of them require cesarean sections. Owners should learn the signs of dystocia in dogs and find out in advance where the nearest emergency veterinary hospital is to take precautions.

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5. The Cost of Teacup Corgis Is High

Currently, a teacup Corgi will cost at least $2,000 in the US. Due to the scarcity and fashionable nature of these mini pups, this is roughly twice as expensive as a Corgi of regular size.

However, the exact price will depend on a variety of factors, like coat color and lineage. The expense will also be significantly higher for those bred from show dogs, working stock, or competitors in canine sports.

Fortunately, you have a more affordable option—rescue teacup Corgis will only cost you the adoption fee, which may range from $50 to $400, depending on the size of the adoption facility and whether they are general or breed-specific. Expect that bringing a teacup Corgi home will take a long time and cost you a lot of money.

Does a Teacup Corgi Make a Good Pet?

Teacup Corgis are great family pets! These little pups appreciate participating in every aspect of family life and tend to get along well with both young children and older people. Bear in mind that although these dogs match the size of your small kid, they may not be able to fit their energy level. So it’s crucial to teach children to act gently, and you also need to be cautious when they interact to avoid any serious injury.

Teacup Corgis get along well with other dogs and pets if they are exposed to and socialized with other animals frequently. But it’s not a good idea if you want to add a mini dog like this to a household with a big, clumsy, or boisterous canine.

Conclusion

A teacup Corgi requires more attention than standard dogs because they are more at risk for health and safety problems. If you’ve decided to get one of these cute little puppies, it means you have to take good care of them, watch over them closely, and give them all the attention they demand. Finally, pay attention to where you buy or adopt. Do your research and only meet with trustworthy, highly-rated breeders. Teacup Corgis are sensitive dogs that deserve a happy and fulfilling life.

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Featured Image Credit: ABCDstock, Shutterstock

The post Teacup Corgi: Facts, Origin & History (With Pictures) appeared first on Pet Keen.

Shih Tzus are adorable little dogs with huge personalities. Lovingly referred to as “Little Lions,” this dog breed has been around for so long that it’s safe to consider them ancient! These dogs weigh no more than about 16 pounds and aren’t taller than about 11 inches when fully grown adults.

Breed Overview

The typical Shih Tzu gets along great with kids, can adapt to apartment and house environments, and takes well to obedience training, though they can be a bit stubborn. These dogs can have coats in all kinds of colors, but here, we focus on the chocolate, or brown, Shih Tzu.

Chocolate Shih Tzu Characteristics

The Earliest Records of the Chocolate Shih Tzu in History

It’s important to establish that there is no difference between the Chocolate Shih Tzu and any other Shih Tzu aside from coat color. That said, the Shih Tzu has a rich history in that they were referenced in documentation that dates back to 824 A.D. It is believed that these dogs first came from Tibet, where they were prized companions for Tibetan monks.

However, most of the details that we know about them come from China. Drawings from the Tang Dynasty period were found in the Forbidden City, where Shih Tzus were taken care of by Emperor Puyi, the last Emperor of China. Legend has it that before Emperor Puyi, Empress Wu was responsible for breeding the Shih Tzu to look like a fierce little lion by way of breeding small dogs like the Maltese, which came to China on the Silk Road with the help of Phoenicians.

At the time, only Chinese nobility was allowed to own the prized Shih Tzu. Dowager Empress Tzu Hsi oversaw the Shih Tzu breeding program in China and established strict breeding and care rules. While other small breeds, like Pugs, were bred and cared for in the Forbidden City, only the Shih Tzu was allowed in certain sacred areas of the compound.

Eventually, these dogs made their way into the hands of commoners and out of China to places like England and Scandinavia in the 1930s and then to places like the United States. So, this is a relatively new breed to the Western world!

How the Chocolate Shih Tzu Gained Popularity

Shih Tzus because popular in China because they were so beloved by royalty. Whatever the royals had, the commoners wanted too. Obtaining a Shih Tzu as a commoner would provide them with “clout” and a leg up in terms of class.

Shih Tzus have always been popular, and Chocolate Shih Tzus followed suit as the coat color gained notoriety, though most other colored dogs of this breed are just as sought after. Not one specific coat color stands out from the others.

Formal Recognition of the Chocolate Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is formally recognized by various organizations throughout the world. The Federation Cynologique Internationale first recognized the breed in 1957, and the British Kennel Club also recognized this breed. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1969. Other small clubs and organizations that are managed at the local and/or grassroots level also recognize and work with Shih Tzus.

Top 6 Unique Facts About the Chocolate Shih Tzu

Everything that you need to know about the Chocolate Shih Tzu, you can learn from the breed overall. Here are six interesting facts about the Shih Tzu that you may have never heard.

1. Their Name Means “Little Lion”

The reason that these dogs are sometimes referred to as “little lions” is not just because of their appearance. The phrase “Shih Tzu” translates to the phrase “Little Lion” in Mandarin. It is thought that the breed was named to represent the Tibetan Buddhist god of learning. According to legend, this god traveled with a small dog that could willingly transform into a real lion.

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2. They Are Sometimes Called Chrysanthemum-Faced Dogs

The hair on a Shih Tzu’s face grows in all directions, giving them a look that reminds many owners of a chrysanthemum. This is especially the case when the dog’s facial hair gets trimmed, and the short hair starts to grow back sporadically.

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3. They Almost Became Extinct

This breed almost became extinct while China experienced its Communist Revolution. It’s believed that the revolution wasn’t the cause of this problem, but rather that Dowager Empress Tzu Hsi, who was overseeing the breeding program of these dogs at the time, passed away. There was nobody there to maintain the breeding program, so it fell apart. However, a group of people later restarted it and brought the Shih Tzu back into popularity.

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4. Military Personnel Introduced the Breed to the United States

After being imported to England and Europe, American soldiers stationed in Europe took an interest in the Shih Tzu and decided to bring a few back to the United States during the mid-1900s. From there, breeding programs were created, and the breed became a household name throughout the country.

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5. These Dogs Are Loved By Celebrities

Many celebrities have decided to adopt Shih Tzus as pets, including Colin Farrell, Beyoncé, and Bill Gates, perhaps since the breed is so small, sweet, and easygoing. They are easy to travel with and can get along in many types of social situations. They are also amazing companions that can help keep celebrities grounded while away from home.

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6. They’re Surprisingly Athletic

These might be cute and cuddly dogs, but under that adorable exterior is a body that’s sleek, strong, and athletic. These dogs can run with the best of them and tend to do well on the agility course. They can keep up on moderate hikes, and they are not afraid to show off their skills at the park, on the beach, and in the yard.

Does the Chocolate Shih Tzu Make a Good Pet?

The bright personality and laidback attitude of the Shih Tzu are partly responsible for making this dog breed an excellent choice for families of all shapes and sizes. These dogs are gentle and patient with young kids and can play for hours with older children. They are extremely loyal to their human companions, and they tend to adapt well to various social situations.

These dogs should be socialized with other dogs while puppies to ensure that they do not become aggressive in social environments. Chocolate Shih Tzus have dark coats, which makes it easy to spot when they’re dirty and need a bath, so they don’t end up getting dirt and dander all over the house.

Conclusion

The Shih Tzu is a fun-loving dog that enjoys spending time with human companions. These dogs have a long, rich history that has been pieced together through depictions and writings from China. Today, this dog breed enjoys popularity all around the world and enjoys life in a variety of different household types.

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Featured Image Credit: franzlei92_Shutterstock

The post Chocolate (Brown) Shih Tzu: Facts, Origin & History (With Pictures) appeared first on Pet Keen.