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Teacup Chihuahuas are not an official breed of the immensely popular Chihuahua breed of dogs. In fact, major dog-related associations such as the American Kennel Club do not list 'Teacup' as an official breed of the Chihuahua family. Rather, the term is derived from sellers who dub this particular species of Chihuahua 'Teacups' given their comparatively smaller size with regular Chihuahuas. In any case, the Teacup Chihuahua has enjoyed increasing popularity of late in part due to the extensive media coverage of Tinkerbell, Paris Hilton's Teacup Chihuahua. This has resulted in increasing adoption of these tiny dogs as pets.

Choosing a Teacup Chihuahua puppy for adoption is of primary importance for the potential Teacup Chihuahua owner. While Teacup Chihuahuas are extremely lively and can make great pets, the small size of these dogs underlines their comparative fragility to other dogs as well as the need for special attention by its owner. Choosing the wrong puppy would often mean even greater commitment and effort required to ensure the well being of the Teacup Chihuahua. Adopting a Teacup Chihuahua without evaluating one's own lifestyle and ability to commit to taking care of the dog would spell misery for the animal. A quick guide to choosing a suitable Teacup Chihuahua would list the following key points to be noted for:

1. Evaluate your own schedule and ability to commit towards taking care of the Teacup Chihuahua. Chihuahuas are sociable animals and require their owners to socialize with them on a regular basis. Lacking the time for socialization, bonding and training with the Teacup Chihuahua puppy might mean an indifferent and ill-disciplined grown-up in the future.

2. If you have children, make sure they are of a certain age before getting a Teacup Chihuahua. Chihuahuas are temperamental dogs and can get aggressive when provoked. Also, given the Teacup Chihuahua's small size, accidents are more likely to happen when children are involved, leading to injuries for the Teacup Chihuahua.

3. Set your time frame for commitment. Chihuahuas have relatively long life spans. On average, Chihuahuas enjoy a life span between 11 and 18 years. Do not get one if you are not prepared to make such a commitment.

4. Chihuahuas do not get along well with other dogs. If you own another dog, it would be advisable not to get a Chihuahua.

5. Chihuahuas do not adapt easily to new environments. If you travel around frequently, getting a Teacup Chihuahua is generally not advisable.

6. Place priority on 'health' over 'smallness' when choosing a Teacup Chihuahua puppy. Make sure the puppy has straight, clean teeth with a normal bite. Do not choose Teacup Chihuahua puppies with teeth or gum deformities. Also make sure that the puppy's fur is clean without fleas, spots or flakes.

7. Teacup Chihuahua puppies are generally active and jumpy. Do not choose a Chihuahua which shows signs of lethargy. Puppies displaying lethargy could be suffering from hydrocephalus.

8. It is important to get your Teacup Chihuahua puppy neutered regardless of whether a male or female puppy is chosen. This is to prevent unwanted agitation during mating season.

With the following quick advice and a healthy amount of commitment, an enjoyable pet-owner experience is guaranteed!