Hi, I’m Cathy Bendzunas, and probably like you, I love Chihuahuas! Kilo (pictured with me below) was my first Chi but I have been a lifelong dog owner and lover.
Kilo passed away in June 2017 and at the end of July, I adopted Lucas, a 2-year-old Chihuahua-Yorkie mix. He is one of 4 dogs that live with me along with 5 Sugar Gliders and an Asian Fire-Belly frog.
Several years ago I adopted a pretty little 6-pound Lucy. She is the sweetest, calmest little dog I have ever seen and every time I sit down, she is in my lap. The ultimate lap dog.
Before I had Kilo, I never knew what special little dogs Chihuahuas were. I have lived and worked with dogs all my life. I would love to have another one…or two…or three.
Although not a Chihuahua, I also have the sweetest little Yorkie you could ever meet, named Ziggy.
I also got a second Yorkie, an all-black puppy named Bear.
I have been a dog groomer, worked in a Pet Hotel at PetSmart, and worked in a kennel. I used to breed and show Yorkshire Terriers many years ago.
One of my rescues was a therapy dog for several nursing homes and a local disabled children’s home. I currently do some pet sitting though I have scaled back my client list as I have gotten older. As you can see I’m a lifelong pet lover!
Anyway, I decided I wanted to start a website, really a community, where others who love the Chihuahua dog breed can share our problems, heartbreaks, and the joys we have with our Chi babies along with providing info that pet parents need.
I’m an experienced dog mom who shares what I know about Chihuahuas and dogs in general. Some of what I share are researched facts; some of it is what I have learned from living and working with dogs all my life, and some is just my opinion or the opinion of other pet parents. Please check with your veterinarian before taking medical advice, introducing a new food, treat or supplement, or to confirm anything else I suggest here to be sure it is a good fit for your dog.
Our Veterinarians
Most of our health-related articles are fact-checked and certified by veterinarians. Meet our vets:
First, we have Dr. Paula Simons an Emergency and Critical Care Resident who aspires to be a veterinary criticalist. She is originally from Pennsylvania but ventured to Canada where she pursued veterinary school and a rotating internship before returning to the United States.
She is passionate about supporting pets and humans during their times of need. She has a special interest in critical care nutrition and trauma. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, volunteering abroad, and spending quality time with her cats Moo and Kal.
Next, we have Sara Ochoa, DVM graduated from St. George’s University Veterinary School in 2015. Since then, she has been at a small and exotic animal practice in Texas. In her free time, she loves making quilts and spending time with her husband Greg and their 4 fur kids. Two dogs, Ruby a Schnoodle, and Bug a Japanese Chin, one cat named OJ, and a leopard tortoise named Monkey.
Please feel free to email me if you have any questions at ca***@********hi.com
Hi Cathy, My husband and l rescued a chi/dashhound chi weenie and we call him wee man. We already had a very spoilt Stafford bull terrier ( Shady ) Things were a bit tough to start with, fights and growling but now we have that sorted, sometimes if they get over excited there can be trouble. Now Wee man is terrible for attacking other dogs and nearly got very badly injured when he flew out my flat door when he heard the two pit bull dogs that stay downstairs. I was terrified and although wee man got hurt quite bad he continues to lunge at other dogs. We are always scared now when out walking with him as he seems to have no fear and my Staffie will get involved now and stick up for him. Any advice you could give me please Cathy, thanks in advance. Sylvia ( a very worried dog lover )
That’s one of the problems with Chis. They think they can take on anything and don’t realize how small they are. I posted your question on the Facebook page Sylvia. Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/ILoveMyChihuahuaClub/posts/612677872193992
Hi its been almost 2 years since i lost my minnie. And im so ready to love another baby. My name is Rose and we are retired. Please let me know if you know a sweetie i can love forever. roseponce95@yahoo.com
I don’t know of any Rose but do check our rescue page https://ilovemychi.com/chihuahua-rescues/
I need help desperately! My husband is sick and I’m 70. I just had to put my beloved chihuahua down. I still have one little girl. My cousin adopted a little boy chihuahua. She changes dogs more than she changes her clothes. So I am still morning my boy, and my cousin said her and her husband is going to give me her little boy. We really do want to out live our dogs, but she was saying she was going to put him in a shelter. This poor little guy already had three homes and I felt so sorry for him, so we took him. Now between my husband and the little girl, we are having a very tuff time, but we can’t find a good home for him. We Need Help for this little guy, Pico. Please Help!
What kind of help are you looking for Sandra? Are you looking for a new home for Pico? If so, where are you located? I can put your info up on our Facebook page and maybe find a new owner.
What I would need for you is a photo of Pico, basic info such as his age, weight, and is he neutered? Housetrained? Good with other pets? Also how you wish to be contacted. Email? Phone?
Where do u live ? I would love to have him
Is your message current?
Cathy , Did you live in Euless Tx 25 years ago ?
No Donald, I’ve lived in Virginia Beach VA all my life. I have never been to Texas.
This is my Mr. Boss he started my love for the breed.
He’s handsome little guy Gwendolyn!
This is Moose we adopted him July 2014 at our local animal shelter. He was very skinny and so scared it was so evident he had been badly abused. But not anymore,He goes to all of my son’s hockey practices and home games, he has even been smuggled in to out of town games, and out of state games. Guess you could say he is the team mascot. A true little blessing he has been.
Love that photo. What a great little mascot!
This is Moose we adopted him July 2014 at our local animal shelter.
I would love to send you a picture of my Herky bit I dont know how.
You can click the browse button below the comment area and upload your photo Sharlyn, or you can email it to me at cathy@ilovemychi.com
This is my first rescue Ziggy, he started my love for the breed.. I am now a rescue mom (and sometime foster mama) to him and 5 other chihuahuas. I think they are like potato chips! You can’t have just one 🙂
Ziggy is gorgeous Elizabeth!
Thank you 🙂
I LOVE Chihuahuas, and have for searching for one to adopt, but have been unsuccessful. I wish one of the sites where I have applied would tell me how to fill out an application that would bring me one….one that is an adult age, female, not too far from home. Know of one?
I am retired, a widow as of last November, single home with big fenced in yard; caretaker of 4 dogs in my past, (Old English, Fox Terrier, Wheaton Terrier, Cavalier.) It is so lonesome without a dog. Kathleen
Where are you located Kathleen? You sound like an ideal prospective pet mom.
This is my Jack, he is blind in one eye and also the namesake to my dog treats. One Eyed Jack’s Dog Snacks
This is Lily, she looks a lot like Ziggy 🙂
That’s a great name for dog treats! Jack looks like a happy little guy!
Thank you! They are all very spoiled, they have my heart.
This is Mia
This is Ruby, she had to have both of her eyes removed. She is my strong little old lady <3
What a sweetie!
And last but not least Rocco, he is my “foster fail”
Yo nunca pude enviar la foto de mi chihuahua para que la publiquen,me siento discriminada.
Usted no está siendo discriminado Mónica. Acabo de obtener demasiadas fotos cada semana y no he visto a los suyos antes. Quiero saber el nombre de su Chihuahua y voy a él o ella puse en la lista.
This my molly
I don’t see a photo Patti.
This is Newman Michael Massey, he is a Mexican Hairless Chihuahua, I found him in the local humans society back in 2011 he was a year old. Newman was rescued from a puppy mill. When I asked the humans society if they had any chihuahuas they brought him in and He CHOSE me.
The photo didn’t come through Jessie.
I tried posting a picture to Facebook but then saw that I had to sign up. Sorry about that.
So my story starts with finding the Chi love of my life after the loss of my oldest son. I was in search of a chi baby. While traveling on business I just happened to meet a veterinarian (wife of a client). She sent a message saying she just had a chi come in and I should come see him. Even though I wanted a baby, something told me to go. After my appointment I drove to the shelter in Charleston, SC to see this little guy. she guided me through a maze of doors until we reached the one area with smaller dogs. Most of them were quite scary as they barked and snarled as I walked by. Then I saw him. Instantly I fell in love!!! She opened the gate and he jumped into my arms as I kneeled down to get him. I’ve never been kissed so much! I found my soul Chi.
I took him everywhere with me. I even hid him in my shirt to take him in restaurants that didn’t allow dogs. Shhh. He protected my younger son and myself as well.
Sadly last October he was killed while I was away on business. After 3 years of traveling with me even on business trips, this time he could not go. it was an accident that he got out. So I’m told. However there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t miss him terribly, as I miss my son.
Alii (Hawaian for Chief) rescued me when I needed it most.
I would love to have a new Chi in my life. And I would prefer one that needs a safe loving home. If anyone knows of little ones that need rescuing, I’m a great mom in need.
Thanks for listening
That’s a great story Vanessa. Do you mind if I use it as one of the Chi Stories?
Sorry the grammar and spelling is bad. I did this one my phone.
Alii steady on watch. He might be sleeping, but don’t go near his human. 🙂
Was wondering where the rescue ” Amy” is located? I have a friend looking for a playmate for her chi.
I was wondering that too Linda. Here’s the actual YouTube page I got the video from, maybe you can ask there. There is an email button on it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avcruV1SOUs
THESE ARE MY FURBABIES MS.MINNIE AND MICKEY. I AM DISABLED AND MOSTLY HOME ALL THE TIME AND THESE TWO ARE MY LIFE…MICKEY THE WHITE AND BLUE MALE IS MY SNUGGLE BUG WHO IS CONSTANTLY AT MY SIDE OR WRAPPED AROUND MY NECK…MS.MINNIE IS MY MIRACLE GOOFY BABY. SHE IS ALWAYS INTO MISCHIEF BUT WHEN I BROUGHT HER HOME AT 8 WEEKS OLD SHE WAS COVERED IN THE WORSE CASE OF SCARCOPTIC MANGE MY VET HAD EVER SEEN AND WAS SURPISED SHE WAS STILL ALIVE. SO TWO MONTHS OF LIVING IN A PLAYPEN AND TREATMENTS SHE WAS FINALLY SET FREE FROM HER PLAY PEN AND HAS BEEN ON THE GO SINCE!!!
They are both beautiful Cindy!
My name is Pee-Wee, I am a tiny Chihuahua that was born without front legs and I am raising awareness for animals with disabilities via my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PeeWeesPlayground I also help to get wheels for disabled animals and I send care packages to animals all around the world. My motto is: “Never let adversity get in the way of your own happiness”.
This is my sweet little deer head chi Rikki. I found her at 1 month old. The poor little thing was living on the street. She is 7 months now and I’m glad to say that she is very healthy and happy. I wasn’t sure if I liked chihuahuas before her but I fell in love with her. She is such a sweet and affectionate dog. I’m even thinking about rescuing another chihuahua so Rikki has a friend to play with
Rikki is lucky she found you! She’s a pretty girl.
Hi my name is Valerie and I am from Southern Ontario Canada. I have two Chi’d one Fawn colored And1 black and tan. Darla who is my black and tan I felt was lonely after I first got her at 10 months old so I found a breeder in Niagara Falls and took her with me to find a friend. When I contacted the lady I told her that I was not interested in having a male dog , she thought that was kind of strange but when I got there she showed me 7 female Chi’s and she threw in a male , however at the time I did not know. Well what do you know my Darla took to that male and played with only him for 45 minutes. when I told her it was time to go she brought him over to me he jumped up on my lap he put his paws on my chest and then he reached forward like he was some movie star actor and gave me the most romantic gentle kiss on my nose that I’ve ever had in my life. How could I not bring him home. Since then he has brought so much joy to my life he’s had some medical issues and at the time I thought was going to cost me a fortune I would have spent every last penny I had to keep him with me. Unless of course he was going to be in pain or suffering then I could never do it but I would have missed him dearly. My Darla and Chico are very best friends and they’re my very best friends I will always have a Chihuahua from now on.
I am hooked on Chi’s!! This is my precious Sadie Mae. She is such a loving Chi and she never leaves my side.
Her favorite place to be is under the covers always touching me.
She is such a pretty girl Carole.
I have a little girl Chi Chloe who wants nothing more than her mama. She’s the first Chi that I’ve had. My first experience with one scared me because he was so mean. But 4 year ago I had the chance to get a puppy and being petless at the time I jumped at the chance. I’m so glad I did. She’s just the sweetest little girl ever. She’s just stole my heart. I’d love to get another one but she’s so jealous and doesn’t really like other people or pets I’m afraid to. But she’s changed my life. Glad I got her. Would love to show you a picture but it won’t let me.
Brenda, you are welcome to email me Chloe’s photo if you want to cathy@ilovemychi.com.
This is Penny. Her birthday is tomorrow. She will be 7 years old. She has been such a joy for our family. She goes everywhere with us and even her vet calls her Princess Penny.
the photo didn’t come through Debbie.
Hello!
Curious to know what type my little buddy is? I’m thi king deer head.
Yep, a deerhead. Love that cute little face.
These are my babies. Frankie and Mr Big.
Such cuties! I bet they bring you lots of joy Gigi.
Hi, I’m Braydon and I have a 7 yr old deer head chihuahua, I’ve noticed that he never walks with his spine straight, is this normal?
Is it like his back is humped? Sometimes if their legs are longer (or shorter) in the back, it will make their backs look curved. It’s normal for them.
Next time you take your chi to the vet, I’d ask him/her about it.
Cathy, just got my 1st newsletter! It’s awesome! Thanks so much. What a great community. Very professional & informative site!
Yay! So glad you like it Anni! You made my day.
✨♥️✨
My beloved Montana Sky passed away October 25 2019. She was an amazing Chihuahua. I miss my girl. I’m trying to find another dog but all I get are scams.
What did I love about my girl? She was incredibly smart! She had a kissable forehead. She would talk and I knew what each bark meant. And I would ask her questions and when I got it right she’d slap down her front paws butt in the air and tail wag. She was never left alone because she had a Siamese brother whose now 19 years old. And two years older.
It was love at first sight. She was white with toasty tan on her back that came as she aged but totally white when I got her and the biggest brown eyes.
I used to call her puppy girl, baby girl, honey bear, girly and bear cub and she knew all her nicknames. But her formal name was Montana Sky.
She was so smart it didn’t take long to housebreak and litter box train.
She was the big kind.
That last night when I knew what the Vet had to do I kept apologizing and she kissed me trying to comfort me. Age is a terrivle thing.
I loved her so much. I had her for 16 and a half of the most amazing years and I miss my little girl so much. I visit her grave in the back and never leave without telling her I love her. She comes in dreams.
She saved my life several times and was a great watch dog.
Chihuahuas are amazing. My Montana was an amazing girl.
Lisa, your story brought tears to my eyes. I wish I could have known your Montana Sky. She sounds like a special fur baby.
My girl was a special girl. I was so distraught that she passed in 2018 not 2019. I just haven’t been the same without her. I guess it doesn’t matter the year. My girl isn’t with me.
Dear Lisa,
My name is Val and I am sending you my most heart felt condolences on your loss of
Montana Sky ??? my heart is truly broken after reading your story. I have 2, 9 yr old Chis and have almost lost my little boy a couple of times. He has so much love in his heart but is a very clumsy guy and sometimes he eats things he shouldn’t, like sand for instants! I absolutely dread the day that one is taken from me. I’m not sure I could survive it. Again I am so sorry for your loss and know that she’s still looking out for you just from a higher place.
Praying to give you strength through this hard time
Val
Thank you.
I was so distraught telling about my Montana that I got the year she passed wrong. The time has gone by so fast that it feels recent. She passed in October of 2018. I hope her picture comes out OK.
No worries! I did not have a chance to offer empathy and ♥️ In response to previous posts. Montana was obviously a very special companion! One look at that darling little face and that is obvious! I lost my Cavalier in November of 2018. Have 2 rescues who are the loves of my life now. When you are ready, I urge you to adopt a dog that needs you as much as Montana did and ♥️ will flourish.
Anni so sorry about your loss and am very happy you adopted two. The other day I called a nearby shelter that my neighbor took me two a month after my girl passed where I had pulled a Pit Bull to comfort me. They knew who the dog was I took comfort from. I asked some questions about the adoption procedure and as soon as I scrape up the cab fare I’m going to see if I can adopt a Pit Bull to be my new love and a sibling for my old cat.
Thinking of giving the new one my girl’s name. Montana was a pretty little thing. Never a day goes by that I don’t tell her framed pictures how much I love her and I visit her a lot out in back. I still sleep with her teddy bear.
I have no doubt that I’ll fall in love at first sight like I did Montana when I go to the shelter.
If you have Uber in your area, they are usually much cheaper than cabs. Good luck!
Nope no Uber. It won’t take long to get cab fare. Thanks for the luck.
In my area – Uber is NOT cheap!!!
I guess I’m not missing anything then. Have a great rest of the weekend everyone!
Lisa – I don’t know if Uber is a big city vs smaller town thing or if it’s generational (I’m 67) – but my kids (early 30’s, live in 1 in Washington DC and the other in lge metro in Great Britain) think nothing of “Ubering.” Recently divorced, I looked into it as a way to stay safe if I wanted to enjoy a couple of glasses of wine when dining out if I did not have a ride. Per previous post, the costs were very high; as of 3 yrs ago, the coverage in my small Midwestern City was so spotty that I could get an Uber to a Charity Benefit Dinner . . . but it was being held at a restaurant in the “burbs” and there was no Uber coverage for the return! I chose to drive and only use 1 drink ticket. Another time, I was invited to attend a formal Scottish Heritage Gala at a downtown hotel over Thanksgiving Weekend. On a Saturday night – to and from Downtown. Again I checked Uber – I think the cost of the Uber was going to be 2/3 the cost of my ticket! I paid a college student to drive me ($25 round trip). Plus, so many scary stories about Uber drivers who are not honest.
Back to dogs – I have heard that Pitties are darling! For me, size was very important though. Just cannot handle a dog that big. And the older I get, the smaller my dogs are. Gigi and me are each 5.5 lbs. I’ll be down to tea-cups! Next!! Lol
You are smart Anni. I agree, that pittis are sweet but they don’t know their own strength. My friend who is almost 70 got one a few years ago after her other dog passed. I tried to talk her into getting a smaller dog as she’s older and her health isn’t good but she insisted on getting this pitbull.
Her dog is a total love bug but she has accidentally injured my friend and her husband more than once. She’s hurt me too when I go over there. She would never do it intentionally. She just has so much energy that her parents are too old to deal with. She tells me now that she wished she had listened to me.
I’m 60 and a dog with a lot of energy would wake me up a little. Since Pitties are filled with so much energy if people came over the dog would be on a leash to make sure no one is accidentally knocked over. But no one ever visits. A couple years ago as a pedestrian I got hit by a car and got a little rotator cuff lingering problem and my left arm can’t take a lot of pulling any more. When I go pick my new one I’ll ask them if I can walk the dog to make sure there is no pulling. I’ll also find a trainer who does house calls to help me control Pittie over energy. I learned the hard way NOT to board a dog at a trainer then come back to be trained together. I have so much guilt over that.
Pitties are fantastic. I figure since I had Montana for 16 and a half years how hard could it be to have a big dog.
In November of 2018 a month after my girl passed and by the way she was so bad from age I had to put her to sleep, my neighbor took me to a shelter and I had pulled a Pit Bull mix for comfort. It was an odd experience at first. He was about 3 years old and a stray and he was more interested in smelling the room than me. So I used their phone and said what do I do! Give him some treats we have in the room. So I opened the package and the dog named Pop Tart turned around came to me and I asked him to sit. Instant sit. I took out a treat and held it out for him and he took it very gently and as he chewed he looked intently at me just like my Montana did. Then out of habit I held out my hand and said gimme five expecting nothing. Pop Tart scraped his big paw along my palm just like my girl did. I treated him. Did it again and he did it perfectly and I treated him. He had some sort of healing dermatitis NOT bite marks that the shelter claimed he got fighting with another dog. I didn’t buy it at all. So I started picking off a scab. What did Pop Tart do? Nothing! I gave him a quick hug as a test. What did Pop Tart do? He gave me a hard kiss then another.
I started talking to him like I did my girl. He remained seated, intensely looking at me full attention. It was like I was with my girl who did the same. I thanked him for comforting me.
Now the odd thing was that the shelter made me sign a waiver saying if I got bitten they weren’t responsible. Why on earth, stray or not, would they put someone alone in a room with a biter. I needed a dog’s comfort so I signed. But never was I afraid. Pop Tart after I buttered him up to get his attention with snacks, was gentle, attentive.
Now let me tell more stories of other Pitties I encountered. When I was 20 I cleaned cages at a Vet Clinic. There were 4 Pit Bull puppies. I didn’t know what they were at the time. They were about 3 months old. Boy were they exuberant! I had a long sleeved shirt on and they all ganged up on my shirt playfully tugging. Not once did they grab flesh. Not once did they tug so hard to rip my shirt. But they wouldn’t let go and I’m trying to shake them off so I could continue doing my work. It took some doing. I finished my work went back to the cage and cuddled every one of them. They were all kisses.
About three years ago I saw this man as I was walking Montana a man with two Pit Bulls and stopped him to talk about his dogs which surprised him. One lay down bored the other he told to sit which she did. The man’s 5 year old just stared at me. But the interesting thing? My Chihuahua wasn’t scared of the dogs. They both looked at her then at me. Why is that important to mention? Other dogs have always tried to get to her making me pick her up. These dogs? They didn’t look at her as a meal, no lunging, no growling, nothing. I thanked the man for letting me talk to him and I watched those walk on either side of the little boy like bookends. It was so cute. I think the guy was surprised I wasn’t scared.
My neighbor had a Pit Bull puppy. She ran to me as I was pulling up weeds on my tree lawn. The funny thing? Everyone else she ran up to to say hello they ran away! Her name was Remmy. So wiggly and friendly. She was about 5 months old. A coupke weeks later she saw me again and ran to me greeting me with exuberance. I said to him I was suepeised she remembered me. “She forgets no one” he said. Well a year before my girl passed the neighbor knocked on my door. Who was in his arms? Remmy! He needed to use my phone. I said I don’t know Montana has never had another dog in the house. He said don’t worry! He came in put Remmy down and you know what? My girl didn’t bark once and she just watched Remmy. So while he’s making his call Remmy was full stop on me. Cuddles, kisses. I was amazed by her. Then last year Remmy ran to me again to me as I was out in front and his owner was right behind and I was playing with her and she got a little nippy. I stopped playing and said to her you know better in a conversational voice. The owner just watxhed. I started playing with her again and not one nip! She got the message. All she wanted was cuddle and I gave it. I loved that girl. When I heard she was given away I cried. I loved her that much. She was so friendly and understood boundaries.
There was another neighbor. I don’t have a car so I was walking home and this lady had two Pit Bulls. One on leash one off. On leash was a big steel gray one with a huge head. The other was tan and off leash. I asked if I could meet her dogs. They were both girls. The gray one wanted to jump on me and she was gently pulled off. Her eyes were gorgeous! I pet her huge head. Then the lady called the tan one. I asked if I could let that one and she said yes and the other dog had no problem. Now I’m only 4’9″ and both could’ve knocked me down but they were on their best behavior. The couple had kids whom the dogs adored. I thanked them for letting me meet their girls(dogs). They enjoyed the encounter and the lady said something very interesting. I didn’t raise my girls to be mean she said.
Now this next encounter was the most amazing. It was at night about three years ago. I’m walking to the corner Convenient and I hear this barking. It was a stray Pit Bull barking at me. Well I kept walking as I was hungry. The dog was dark so all I heard was this barking. Couldn’t even see eyes. Well the dog jumped on me and his nail ran along my leg and I just kept going. He wanted attention I wanted food. So here I am walking home and this dog is waiting for me yakking away. It was cold and I told him to leave me alone and he ran into the street and I said to him to get out of the street so he doesn’t get run over and he did! And the barking stopped! All he wanted was attention. My point is this. This dog could’ve easily been mean but wasn’t. He could’ve easily bitten me but didn’t. He listened to me when I told him to get out of the street. And once I paid attention he followed but no barking. I guess he got picked up.
My neighbor has an Australian Shepherd who has tried to attack me but his owner pulls her back. I don’t know why as I shared one of my girl’s treats with her. A man last month was walking his English Bulldog/Pug mix who was barking snarling and lunging at me and he had to hold him back. Those two dogs I was nervous about. But the Pit Bulls I’ve met? Those dogs I felt safe around! Even that stray who jumped on me wanting attention!
I’ve never met a mean Pit Bull. I’ve cuddled Pit Bulls. It was a Pit Bull mix who helped start my healing. All the other dogs in that shelter barked at me NOT the Pit Bulls. It was OTHER dogs who tried to go after my girl. Even that stray who was barking at me? All he wanted was attention. I was thinking too much about food.
Love Pit Bulls.
I haven’t met a mean one either but I know there are some out there (like all breeds).
A neighbor of mine was just attacked today by one while walking her dog.
I think a lot is how they are raised,
I loved your stories Lisa.
I am so sorry your neighbor was attacked by one. It all depends on how they’re raised and trained and that’s with any dog. It’s amazing how some owners just don’t do it. They don’t socialize the dog either.
It bothers me that my neighbor’s dog keeps trying to get at me. She doesn’t like me and she knows I don’t her. I can’t help it.
I like to tell these stories to let people know that Pit Bulls if not trained or socialized aren’t to be trusted but the ones who are trained, socialized, treated well are good with people.
As a kid I was afraid of dogs and they took advantage but it was a few dogs who got me out it because they were stable, people oriented and I got out of it.
I hope your neighbor and her dog are OK.
Yes they are ok although it took 3 people to get the dog off of my neighbor and her dog. They do have some bites that needed stitches but will be ok. It could have been much worse if those people didn’t help her.
Years ago, I was taking a walk with my 3 young kids and my next door neighbor’s 2 young boys and my tiny yorkie when a doberman came running up and attacked my dog. What really angered me was the dog’s owner just stood in his yard laughing while this was happening. The kids were screaming, I was screaming and my poor dog was being shaken like a toy.
I screamed to the man “Get your f ——g dog off my dog” and he finally called his dog back. My dog had to get stitches and one of the neighbor boys (who is now in his 30’s) has had a life long fear of dogs because of this.
I now carry pepper spray and a sound alarm when I go for a walk.
How awful!
I had that with people and their dogs. They’d go straight for Montana. I had to pick her up and when one dog started jumping on me to get to my girl I kept yelling call him off! And the neighbor couldn’t have cared less. When I was about 7 I was at my grade school’s playground and a guy told his Wimaraner to go after me and laughed when I was chased up the jungle jim. I’ve been scared of Wimaraners ever since. To use your dog as a weapon is sick! But then those people yell and scream when you defend yourself by hurting the other dog.
My neighbor before she got her yappy Yorkie was pacing my driveway 3 years ago. She kept looking in my backyard. So I went and found her little black mutt sniffing around. That was my girl’s bathroom. I ran outside and ran to the dog. Well she ran back to me and said “don’t you touch my dog!” I said I wasn’t gonna be bitten. I said if I find your dog in my backyard again two things will happen. You either never see your dog again or I’ll have your dog picked up and call the Police on your for tresspassing as you put your dog in my backyard. I wouldn’t have touched her dog personally but I would’ve called the pound for her violating leash laws and allowing her dog to mess up my yard and I would’ve called the Police. Why she thought she was entitled to put Her dog in my backyard and arrogantly told me don’t touch my dog was unbelievable! Well she took the hint and I never saw her in my yard again.
Irresponsible owners give us good ones a bad rap!
People will never cease to amaze me, and not in a good way.
Lisa – It is really obvious to me that you are called to give love ❤️ to and nurture dogs! You have a gift!!! There is a pup “soul mate” out there waiting to find her-his furever home with you! By the way – I’m 5’1” if I stand up REALLY tall.
That’s nice of you to say. I sure wish that Australian Shepherd neighbor dog liked me. I guess she is who she is and just hope she never gets to sink her teeth in me.
Like Montana I’m sure I’ll find my new dog soul mate. Furever home. I love that! I’m a Hobbit compared to you! Chuckle.
When I was looking for my girl I test drove several dogs. A Greyhound who was intent on untying my shoe laces, a White German Shepherd who thought my knee was a chew toy but gently, a Keeshound who got too excited and klunked me in the head, a Jack Russel more interested in his toy and a Lhasa Apso who moved in slow motion. But when I saw my girl and she was brought to me and yes it was at a pet shop, in the crowded room her eyes locked on me as if she knew. It was instant connection. I didn’t know about puppy mills then and when I got no papers on her then I knew. She had a back problem and an eating issue that we worked around. She even saved my life a couple times. She was special and my parents always said I was special. Never knew what that meant and all of my past pets have been shall I say…different. The only time we had a dog was when my brother brought one home. Everyone had to take care of her but my brother the dog knew was her real parent.
I’ll know the minute I see him/her they’ll be the one. You just know. I’m busy saving so I can get my new special one.
Lucy is so sweet! I want another Chi – but need to reign in my maternal instinct. Latest photo of my girls, Gigi the Chi & Mia the Mix!
Oh Anni! Your’e girls are gorgeous! Love them!
I know what you mean about wanting more but having to reign it in, I really want at least one (possibly 2) more but I know it’s not a good idea right now.
Hi, Cathy! Just now seeing this – forgot to check “notify me box!” Yup . . . discretion is the better part of being a superlative Dog Mum!
✨♥️?♥️✨
Can someone give me advice on food for your chi’s? I have 2 and they are so picky. I wish they would run to their food.
Thanks in advance
I have heard that picky dogs love Royal Canin for chihuahuas. My Ziggy is picky and will not eat kibble. But he likes the fresh delivered meals like Ollies, PetPlate, The Farmers Dog, etc. It’s more expensive than kibble but much healthier too. You can also make the same kind of food at home for them. We have an article on that here: https://ilovemychi.com/make-your-own-dog-food/
Hi My Name Is Stephanie Morales And i Really Won’t a puppy that i will love and hold in my arm’s and he will be my baby
I’m so glad I found your website. I look forward to every one. Thank you so much for all the articles you post. I have found many very helpful. I’m a first time Chihuahua owner and I learn something every time I read your emails. I pray you get rid of the cancer. Know you are very much appreciated. Thank you.
Thank you Sharon!
Hi
I have been a subscriber for some time
I have 2 chi’s Poquito and Franki
That’s great Eric. 2 chis are better than 1.
Are chis good at obedience training, if so, what should I start out trying. My chi is a 3 yo that I got from the humane society, She (Condi) is my dog in every way but I would like her to trust and go out w/ my Hubby ocassionally. She takes treats from him, he pets her if she is beside me, but that is all. Oh yes, she will sleep up against his back at night if she gets chilly. Other than that, she is glued to me. Thanks for reading my long comment.
Chihuahuas are smart so they can be easy to train but they are also very stubborn.
They do tend to pick one person that is “their” human and she will always prefer you over your hubby but you may be able to get her to form a bond with him by getting him to do a lot of enjoyable things with him. Get him to take her for walks, have him feed her all her meals that you can for awhile and all the treats too.
I have the most sweetest, loveable,, kindest, etc. longhaired, fawn/white Chi. Got her when she was 3-1/2 yrs. old. She is now 10 and so attached to me and me to her.
She sounds wonderful
Right now I have two mixed chihuahuas Snoopy and Frannie. They are both mixed, and we got them from a shelter 12 years ago. They are my babies a boy and a girl. But they have Chihuahua traits. They love to snuggle we are on a schedule we all eat at the same time and take naps at the same time. However us all being seniors they nap a lot on the one. Both of them enjoy their walks, dinner time is their favorite time of the day lol. It seems that like so many dogs do not like that’s not strong enough fireworks, thunder and lightning. One of my dogs Frannie is afraid of the broom she’s afraid of nothing else. Snoopy however is afraid of everything. LOL I am his thundershirt he always goes under me to sit when he feels threatened, on me and I tell him it is all right in the coming voice. I can go on and on. I am so glad I found you. Sincerely Cynthia
I’m glad you found us too Cynthia. It sounds like you have an awesome little fur family there.
All your dogs are adorable and your loving nature shows in your face and in the 4 little fluffy faces. Your newsletters always make me smile. thankyou.
Thank you Sandra. That means a lot to me.
Your info on large chi’s is very helpful. I drove a total of 8 hours to pick up my merle chi to be a companion to my 5 lb chi. I was told she is apple head and would weigh 5-7 lbs. She is 19 lb’s, is 16 inches tall, and stretched out is 24 inches long. The breeder told me I’m over feeding her. She doesn’t have any characteristics at all ear’s or tail don’t stand up, eyes and head shape are different. She looks like a sheltie doesn’t resemble a chi at all. My vet suggested a DNA test because she doesn’t think she’s a purebred chi. It came back as 100% chi. The breeder has a large group of chi’s and has a serious business. Is it possible to have one large chi in a litter? She is 21 months old. Is it possible that she’s not done growing? Don’t get me wrong, I’m completely in love with her, just disappointed. I recently retired and looked forward to traveling with them.
Yes, it is possible to have one large chi. It doesn’t happen often but I have heard of it happening and the same thing happened one time years ago when I was breeding Yorkies. At 21 months, she should be finished growing. She may fill out a little more but shouldn’t get any larger. If she does keep growing, she may have a pituitary gland problem.
Hi, I am the proud favorite person of two sibling chihuahuas, now just over 3 yrs old, Rocky and Gigi. I have a couple of questions:
1. Neither of mine will run to pick up a small ball. They won’t put it in their mouth. They only chew on those little squeaky cloth toys that are basically flat. Any suggestions on how to encourage run and fetch?
2. Their schedule includes two long naps each day that they will ask for by going into their crates but they always need the doors shut. Their crates are kept in our walk-in clothes closet. They sleep 12 hours at night in them. I have little tented areas with pillows they could lie in for naps during the day but they prefer going into the closeted crates. Is this something I should be worried about?
We have a quiet house. Just two retired seniors and no children.
Thanks for your reply
1. Sometimes if they see another dog chasing a ball, it makes them want to.
2. No need to worry. They just want to be in their bed. Some dogs can sleep anywhere, and other dogs feel more secure in their own bed (or crate).
Hi I have a 14 month old female chihuahua a was going to get another chihuahua female puppy off the same breeder will they get along and what should I do when the meet
They will most likely get along though it may take a few weeks. We have an article that should help you get them ready here: https://ilovemychi.com/how-to-introduce-a-new-pet-to-your-chihuahua/
Dear Cathy,
I want to try your recipe for my chihuahua, “My homemade Dog Food recipe, which starts with ground beef and ground turkey and ends with four eggs and vitamins. How many vitamins do I put in the meal?
It would be cool if you collected your recipes “for picky dogs across the land”! It will have a lot of us breathing easier.
Stay BLESSED,
Francesca
That’s not a bad idea Francesca!
Depending on which vitamins you buy will determine how much you put in and to tell you the truth I kind of wing it. The jar I buy has a little scoop that you pour the vitamins into the food with. When I’m making a batch of food, I put about 1/2 cup of vitamins in there because I estimated that’s about what it works out for each meal’s serving. I hope this makes sense.
I love your site and look forward to your weekly blogs. I have had two chihuahuas which both have passed away. I have a granddoggie, dear head chihuahua that I love to the moon and back! When my son moved out Bruiser was eight and he said that I was more upset over Bruiser leaving then 😆 lol well….it did take some adjusting. I have Bruiser five days a week while my son and his wife is working. I rescued a Chiwinne from a bad hoarding situation two and a half years ago and Bruiser and Winnie are the best of friends ❤
I really want to adopt a chihuahua now but I am in my late fifties but active and my world revolves around my doggies just wondering if you think that my age should be a factor in determining whether or not to adopt a young chihuahua? I realize that it’s only advice but with your experience I welcome it.
Your follower
Eleanor Paton
Epaton66@gmail.com
You have plenty of years left. I would adopt another dog. I’m 65 and have 4 dogs between the ages of 3 and 9. When I got cancer a few years ago, I did make sure all of my dogs would have homes if I should pass away so it’s always a good idea to do that.
Hello,
I’m new to blogging…I have three female Chihuahuas (London, Maddi and Taylor). They are very picky with dog food. I finally figured out a little of what they will eat but I worry that they don’t eat enough and I would feel better knowing they’re eating healthy. I decided to search ways to cook meals for them. I can use all your advice, Thank you.
I tend to worry about my 2 picky dogs eating enough too. Thank goodness my other 2 will eat anything. But these little guys don’t really need much food. They should have between 200-300 calories for the whole day.
Here’s a link to my homemade food recip that my picky dogs actually like. I do add vitamins to it and if you are worried your dogs are not getting enough nutrition, you may want to add some vitamins to their food too.
https://ilovemychi.com/my-homemade-dog-food-recipe/
Hi Cathy, I have a chi apple head she’s 9yrs old and now she has after her annual shoots discover a tumor in her intestine if don’t get operated will in keep on growing eating less keeping her comfortable with lots of treats
I’m so sorry Jennie. Is there anything they can do for her?
Hi Cathy…
I’m now have three Chihuahuas, mum, dad, abs baby, they are all a hand full, I live alone, but do have friends coming around regularly, so they are well Socialised. .
When they go out they turn into little demons,
I havnt found any advice, with their pack Mentality .. I could be invisible when we are out. The?
First fifteen minutes Of carnage Dennis half listen. The mum can be good as gold. It’s the two boys , dad and daniel , the son.
Any advice
Thanks for reading
That’s a tough one. Since you have multiple dogs, I don’t know how you can fix this without getting a dog behaviorist. Sorry I can’t be of more help.
Beautiful dog pictures.. I’m a #DogMomToo and I absolutely love it!
Thanks. Dogs are the greatest!