One of the questions I get asked most often is; “Where (how) can I find the right Chihuahua for me?” In this post, we will address that question. Whether you are looking for a pure-bred Chi or a rescue or an older Chihuahua these are some great tips to help you find the one that is perfect for you.
Finding The Perfect Pure-Bred Chihuahua
If you are looking for a pure-bred puppy to raise and love you first need to know where to look. Never go to a pet store looking for your perfect Chihuahua. Use extreme caution if buying online, on Facebook, or on Craigslist.
Instead, look for a Chihuahua breeder that is not in the business of selling puppies. Responsible breeders do it because of their love for the breed. Most enter their dogs in dog shows and competitions. However, they will also sell some of their puppies to people they know will give them loving homes.
Even then, each Chihuahua is different with its own little personality. So, before you go looking you should research the Chihuahua breed and understand your own expectations. In that way, you and your perfect Chihuahua are better equipped for a happily ever after.
What Are Your Expectations?
Are you impatient and want a puppy tomorrow? Prepare to be disappointed. It takes time to find a Chihuahua that is the right fit for you. Puppy scammers take advantage of those that just can’t wait.
You need to find the right breeder, you may have to wait for the next litter, or for a puppy that is just a little older.
What Is Your Lifestyle?
Ask yourself these questions and it may be helpful to write them down so you can help the breeder to know exactly what puppy will fit best with you and your lifestyle.
- Do you love to go hiking, bike riding, boating? Or do you prefer to curl up with a good book or watch Netflix?
- Do you have children or plan to have children? Do you have other pets? Will they get along with the new addition?
- No one likes to think about the money side of owning a dog, however, it is a fact of life that owning a dog costs money. Will you be able to affored veterinary visits, both routein and unexpected? Don’t forget about food and supplies.
- How much time do you have to train and socialize your puppy?
- Will you be gone during the day? How long?
- How often do you travel? Do you have plans for what you will do with your Chihuahua? Will you board him or hire a pet-sitter, or will you be able to take him with you?
How To Find A Responsible Breeder
The next step is finding a responsible breeder to sell you a puppy. You can start by visiting the AKC-affiliated breed club’s website, which will likely allow you to search for breeders near you. You should be able to visit the puppies before they are ready to come home (at 8 to 12 weeks of age) and meet at least one of the parents.
You can also ask the veterinarians in your area. They will know the breeders in your area that are breeding their Chihuahuas for the right reasons and not to just make money. Be sure to ask questions of any potential breeders, and learn how to avoid puppy mills, backyard breeders, and puppy scammers.
Keep in mind that as a general rule, you will pay more for a pure-bred puppy from a breeder. However, not always. Sometimes you’ll find a breeder that held a puppy back, hoping it would be their next show dog, and after a few weeks or months, they reevaluate and decide it’s not a dog they want to invest thousands of dollars into. This is why if you are willing to get a puppy a little older than 8 weeks, it might be a good idea to ask if the breeder has any older puppies. They will usually sell for a lot less than those from a brand new litter.
Choosing a Rescue or Older Chihuahua
One of the biggest benefits of getting a purebred puppy is that they are predictable and that by answering some simple questions from the breeder, getting one with temperament and personality that is best suited for you and your lifestyle.
However, we know that there are Chihuahuas, young and old in shelters and rescue organizations that desperately need loving homes. When choosing one it is still important to consider your lifestyle and your expectations as mentioned above and discuss them with the shelter or rescue organization.
Find The Right Rescue Organization
Are you looking for a purebred rescue Chihuahua? With patience, there are purebred Chihuahuas that are looking for forever homes.
A good place to start is found on the AKC Rescue Network. Many breed clubs devote time and resources to rescuing dogs of the breed that they love. Be extremely cautious of rescue organizations charging high “adoption fees” or those selling rescue dogs over the internet. Scammers will prey upon those that are in a hurry to get a Chihuahua and their heartfelt wish to help save a needy Chihuahua.
I have a list of Chihuahua rescue organizations here on this website. One of which will transport (with a guardian) a Chihuahua anywhere in the United States to a suitable loving home.
Take your time, don’t try to find a Chihuahua in a hurry. You can Google “Chihuahua Rescue Organizations” in your area. Do your homework and diligently check them out before you agree to anything.
My four Chihuahuas and I wish you luck finding the perfect Chihuahua for you and a lifetime of love, adventures, and happiness together!
