Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Maltese - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Maltese - Breed ComparisonTea Cup Chihuahua is originated from Mexico but Maltese is originated from Italy. Tea Cup Chihuahua may grow 13 cm / 6 inches higher than Maltese. Both Tea Cup Chihuahua and Maltese are having almost same weight. Both Tea Cup Chihuahua and Maltese has almost same life span. Both Tea Cup Chihuahua and Maltese has almost same litter size. Both Tea Cup Chihuahua and Maltese requires Moderate maintenance.

History

tea cup chihuahua - historyChihuahua is a state in the country of Mexico. From this state, the dog breed Chihuahua and the “teacup, or toy” chihuahua take their name. Interestingly the Chihuahua Club of America maintains that “teacup” Chihuahuas do not exist and that the size differential is normal for the breed. Chihuahuas or their ancestors have been around a very long time, sadly the exact origins of the Chihuahua are lost into the pages of history, but archaeological clues such as wheeled dog toys, art, and pottery link the Chihuahua to Mexico and to the Techichi dog. The Techichi dog at the time of the Spanish Conquistadors was sold for food (not unlike we sell beef or chicken) and also as a companion dog to death. Cortez even mentioned the Techichi dog in a letter sent back to Spain, describing them as being raised for food and sold in the marketplace.

When a death occurred a dog was chosen as a companion and cremated with the deceased. It was believed that the dog helped the soul of the decedent reach their eternal destination. The Techichi dog from which the modern-day chihuahua likely descended was very plentiful in the central American area that is now the country of Mexico and raised by the ancient Toltecs and later the Aztec people.

Chihuahuas are little dogs and come in a variety of coats, head shapes and even (within the designation small) sizes. The designation “teacup, toy or pocket” while not an official breed name is a useful descriptor, since they are the littlest of an already small breed and these minute pets, as puppies, may fit into a teacup or a pocket.

Fortunately while no longer a food source, the chihuahua is now sought after as a loyal and lively pet and companion.

maltese - historyThe Maltese dog hardly needs any introduction as this is an ancient breed which is still as popular as ever. Some people refer to it as the "Maltese Lion Dog," or "Melita" which was Malta’s previous name.

It was in the 19th century, that the Kennel Club settled on the name of Maltese for the dog breed. The dog has been selectively bred to keep its small size. The exact origin of the dog is unknown and there are various stories surrounding where its origins are, thought to be Italy.

It is believed that dogs such as spaniels and poodles have been used to bring about the Maltese. The American Kennel Club, a registry for pure bred dogs, recognized the breed in 1888.

Description

tea cup chihuahua puppy - descriptionChihuahuas are small. Even the bigger ones are only about six pounds and a “teacup” or “toy” is often three pounds or less. Their bodies are slightly longer than they are tall, but even the tallest are not over nine inches. Chihuahua standing under five inches in height is not uncommon in the “teacup” or smallest of these dogs. They have two different head types and a domed skull. One type of head shape is like a deer while the other is described as an apple-shaped head. The apple-shaped heads are more popular than the deer shaped heads, although sometimes in the “teacup” especially the soft spot fails to close at maturity when growth is complete and the bones should knit, therefore leaving a soft spot in their skull – this is called a molera.

Like different shaped heads chihuahua may have long hair or short-haired coats. The short-haired coats are smooth. The Chihuahua coats may be a large variety of colors ranging from black to white, with red, brown, fawn, cream and chocolate and they may be solid-colored, spotted or sabled. Personal preference is the determining factor on the type of coat a pet Chihuahua has since the breed does not have a preferred color, pattern, hair length or feel. Their muzzle (nose/mouth combination) is short and pointed. Chihuahua have have naturally erect pointed ears and large round eyes. A Chihuahuas tail is relatively long and mostly either curled up and over the back or carried up.

maltese puppy - descriptionThe Maltese is looked upon as a toy dog. Both male and female stand roughly between 20-25cm in height and weigh between 1 and 4kg.

He is as cute as a button with a rounded skull, a pitch black nose, brown eyes and medium length floppy ears. The tail is feathery and is curled. He has a long, silky coat without an undercoat.

The color of his coat is pure white, and because he doesn’t shed he is looked upon as being hypoallergenic. Most people who own a Maltese like having the coat short to one length all round.

Temperament:

These little dogs have been bred to be companion dogs. They may be little, but it is a good idea to have him trained and socialized as they are inclined to be a bit snappy, especially with children.

He is intelligent, so training him won’t be difficult. Brought up the right way though, he can be good with children as well as pets in the home. They love their human families and want to be constantly with them. He is an energetic little dog too, and will just love ball games both inside and outside.

His very temperament and smallness make it that he fits perfectly into life in the city or the countryside. He is sweet and gentle but he makes a good watchdog, alerting you with his barking to strangers coming close by. Don’t leave him for long period of time as he hates being on his own and then he may start barking from sheer boredom and frustration.

Characteristics

tea cup chihuahua dog - characteristicsChildren friendliness very interactive with family but has been known to nip at small children and bark, so no not really

2. Special talents more stamina than expected in such a small dog and barking

3. Adaptability yes but they are better off in apartments and homes not out in the country where their size makes them targets for predators.

4. Learning ability average ability to learn but Chihuahua can be but stubborn which may impact ability and willingness to learn.

maltese dog - characteristicsThe Maltese is a popular dog no doubt, and his smallness is a draw-card as he adapts easily to life in the city or the countryside.

He is loving, loyal, intelligent and responsive, making him a good family dog and being an excellent playmate for children. Teach your children how to respect animals because raucous, disrespectful kids might produce a nip from an agitated Maltese.

Being a light shedder is another draw-card, with him being looked upon as a hypoallergenic breed. He has got so many good things going for him that he is guaranteed to make you an ideal pet.

Health Problems

tea cup chihuahua puppies - health problemsChihuahuas live on average fourteen to eighteen years. There are some issues that may cause concern or lower life expectancy.]

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is something to watch for. Low blood sugar can cause death in just a few hours but when caught is very easily treated. Some of the symptoms are being uncoordinated when walking, acting sleepy or lethargic, unfocused sight, fainting, having a seizure or having spasms in the muscles of the neck. First aid can right this condition with a sweet supplement like corn syrup, or honey. This is more common in puppies, but the teacup chihuahuas are susceptible.

• Hydrocephalus (water on the brain) can affect many toy dog breeds. The puppy or dog will appear to have an oversized head, and be slow (display lethargy) and grow slower than its littermates.

• Pulmonic stenosis (a heart condition) occurs when the right ventricle is impeded. Teacup Chihuahuas are also susceptible to heart murmurs.

• Collapsed trachea this occurs when the cartilaginous rings in a Chihuahua do not form completely or weaken. This can be hereditary or an acquired condition and occurs in other small breeds of dog.

• Molera – where after finishing growth a soft spot remains in the skull and the bones do not knit. As a puppy, the owner must remain vigilant about head injuries.

• Obesity (overweight). Most of the time this is a result of the Teacup Chihuahua being overfed. Obesity can contribute to a shortened lifespan and chronic bronchitis.

• Cold susceptibility. Cold weather can cause Teacup Chihuahuas to shiver or tremble when exposed and during cold temperatures, the dogs may need to wear a sweater and boots outside and cuddle with their owners under blankets or bask in the sun to stay warm.

• Infected or injured eyes. Due to the prominent eyes, exposure to irritants such as dust, allergens, or dry air can cause the dog to develop this beginning with watering eyes.

maltese puppies - health problemsYour Maltese is a feisty little thing who, with good care, can live for a good few years – up to 15 or even longer. As with any other dog, he can become ill. One or two illnesses to look out for include -

Skin Problems:

Sebaceous adenitis is caused by inflammation of the sebaceous glands and is an uncommon skin disease found in some breeds of dog.

There are two types - one for long coated breeds and one for short coated breeds. For long or double-coated dogs, you’ll notice a white/silvery kind of dandruff on the coat as well as hair loss. There can also be skin lesions along the back and ears. It can make your pet miserable and he will need to see a vet.

Thyroid Problems:

A common hormonal problem is canine hypothyroidism, brought on by inadequate levels of thyroid hormones. Symptoms include hair loss, weight gain, coldness and a weakened immune system.

Caring The Pet

tea cup chihuahua dogs - caring1. Feeding the Puppies. Puppies should be fed four times a day. Underfeeding can cause the issues of low blood sugar and overfeeding can result in obesity increasing the risk of other health complications.

2. Feeding the Adult. Adult teacups are also vulnerable to hypoglycemia and obesity. Of course, the low blood sugar will be much more acute than obesity and need prompt care if it occurs. Adult teacups should be fed twice a day.

3. Points for Good Health. The chihuahua generally exhibits more vigor and endurance than pet owners expect from such a small breed of dog.

4. Games and Exercise for Teacup Chihuahua. Go ahead and run and play but remember even with the unexpected stamina and endurance this is a very small dog, small legs, using discernment, judgment, and restraint so the games and exercise is fun and builds health and is a special bonding time, without jeopardizing the sugar levels or causing exhaustion or misery.

Diet:

maltese dogs - caringYour Maltese is going to require quality food, water, exercise and shelter to enjoy a good life. The type of food you feed any dog has a direct impact on his health.

You need to provide him with quality food, and if its commercially manufactured food, you need to read the labels carefully so that the food is appropriate to your Maltese. For instance, you can’t mistakenly pull a ‘large-breed’ packet of food off the shelves and expect your Maltese to be able to stomach it.

If you do buy him this kibble, make sure the ingredients are wholesome. To break the monotony of eating kibble every day, give him some boiled chicken, brown rice and some raw or cooked vegetables chopped up finely into his kibble. He will love you for this as it makes a tasty meal for him and will keep him healthy.

Try to keep his diet nice and simple to avoid digestive problems.

Make sure he has constant access to fresh, cool water.

General Care:

Make sure your Maltese dog has a nice warm, dry place to sleep.

Get him to the vet if you notice that he is ill.

Brush his hair twice a week and take him to have it professionally cut if you prefer.

Clip his nails when they become too long and check around his eyes and inside his ears for any kind of infection.

These little dogs are prone to dental problems and he will need to have his teeth brushed 2 or 3 times a week.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Toy dog
Origin:
Mexico
Italy
Height Male:
15 - 38 cm
5 - 15 inches
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
Height Female:
15 - 35 cm
5 - 14 inches
20 - 25 cm
7 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
2 - 3 kg
4 - 7 pounds
1 - 5 kg
2 - 12 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 3 kg
4 - 7 pounds
1 - 5 kg
2 - 12 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 4
1 - 3
Size:
Toy dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Toy Chihuahuas
Melita, Maltese Lion Dog
Colors Available:
any color combination ranging from splashed or solid to marked. One can see solid black, spotted or sabled variations of their coat colors and pattern. The most common coat colors are black, white, cream and chocolate., red, brown, white, fawn
White
Coat:
long haired and short dense coarse hair
Long and silky
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Cheerful, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  3. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  4. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  5. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chorkie - Breed Comparison
  6. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Pekingese - Breed Comparison
  7. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chiweenie - Breed Comparison
  9. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chug - Breed Comparison
  10. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  11. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  12. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chipoo - Breed Comparison
  13. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Chiapom - Breed Comparison
  14. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) - Breed Comparison
  15. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Long Haired Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  16. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  17. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Russian Toy Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Franzuskaya Bolonka - Breed Comparison
  19. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Phalene - Breed Comparison
  20. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  21. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Cockachon - Breed Comparison
  22. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Shih Tzu - Breed Comparison
  23. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Snorkie - Breed Comparison
  25. Tea Cup Chihuahua vs Toy Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  26. Pomeranian vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  27. Maltese vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  28. Maltese vs Cockapoo - Breed Comparison
  29. Maltese vs Cavapoo - Breed Comparison
  30. Maltese vs Cavachon - Breed Comparison
  31. Maltese vs Japanese Chin - Breed Comparison
  32. Maltese vs Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  33. Maltese vs Italian Greyhound - Breed Comparison
  34. Maltese vs Jug - Breed Comparison
  35. Maltese vs Australian Silky Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Maltese vs Dorgi - Breed Comparison
  37. Maltese vs Belgian Griffon - Breed Comparison
  38. Maltese vs Carlin Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  39. Maltese vs Dorkie - Breed Comparison
  40. Maltese vs German Spitz (Klein) - Breed Comparison
  41. Maltese vs Doxiepoo - Breed Comparison
  42. Maltese vs Bospin - Breed Comparison
  43. Maltese vs Bantam Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  44. Maltese vs Damchi - Breed Comparison
  45. Maltese vs Lowchen - Breed Comparison
  46. Maltese vs Cyprus Poodle - Breed Comparison
  47. Maltese vs Doxiepom - Breed Comparison
  48. Pug vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  49. Maltipoo vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  50. Papillon vs Maltese - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds