Perhaps you have decided to finally get a Chihuahua. Or unfortunately, circumstances have occurred that require you to find a new family for your pet. You need to find a Chihuahua rescue. But where do you start?
How to Rescue a Chihuahua
If you want to adopt locally, begin with an internet search for “dog rescue” or “Chihuahua rescue near me“, or visit your local animal shelter.
Browse through locally available dogs, as there may be a Chihuahua waiting for you just a few miles from your home. PetFinder can help you locate Chihuahuas who are waiting for their furever homes by distance from your zip code.
If you do not mind traveling to rescue a Chihuahua, you could widen your search beyond your local area.
National Mill Dog Rescue specializes in rescuing dogs who were part of a puppy mill operation.
As Chihuahuas are a popular breed in the puppy mill industry, they have many rescued chihuahuas needing adoption who are very deserving of a loving home.
Adopting a Chihuahua
There are several things to consider before moving ahead with a Chihuahua adoption. Are you truly ready to take on the responsibility?
All dogs are emotional creatures who bond with their families, but the bond between a Chihuahua and its owner is one of the strongest.
To protect your potential Chihuahua and yourself from the heartbreak of re-homing, consider the following before meeting the Chihuahua you are considering adopting:
- Can you afford the Chihuahua? Dogs can be expensive: veterinary care, medicine, food, toys, grooming, etc, can really add up.
- Can you afford an emergency veterinary visit? Do you have $1,000 or more in savings for emergency surgery? Chihuahuas can be little gluttons, and they may eat something they are not supposed to. Their little legs can be fragile, and they may break a leg.
- Could you afford your Chihuahua to have an expensive medical condition? If you are considering a special needs Chihuahua, be sure to do research on their conditions to see if you can afford to care for them properly. If you are interested in adopting a healthy dog, consider if you could afford a medical condition if they developed one.
- Do you have enough time for a Chihuahua? Do you enjoy attending parties after work and traveling? Could you take your Chihuahua with you to work and/or the places you usually go? These small dogs will get lonely if they are alone for too long.
- How long are you gone every day? Are you able to take them for potty breaks mid-day, or if you can’t, can you afford a dog walker?
- Chihuahuas can live to be 20 years old or older! Are you ready to care of a Chihuahua for 20 years? Through life transitions, through being in plenty and being in want?
Re-Homing or Surrendering your Chihuahua
Personally Re-homing
Consider that there are many Chihuahuas in need of homes, and some of their situations are urgent. If you can, re-home your Chihuahua without surrendering them to a rescue, as there are other Chihuahuas who may need the rescue’s help more.
Begin by considering anyone you know personally who has always been partial to your Chihuahua. If you could trust them to take good care of your dog, ask if they would be interested in adopting your Chihuahua.
PetFinder can also help you find a rescue to re-home your Chihuahua.
Re-homing to a third party
If you will be trying to have your Chihuahua adopted by a third party that you do not know, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind:
- Always ask for a re-homing fee, because if someone is unwilling to pay it, they are likely not willing to fully commit to caring for your Chihuahua.
- Never hand your Chihuahua to a stranger blindly. Always ask to do a home inspection and see where they will be living. If the potential adopter refuses, this is a red flag.
- Always ask what veterinarian they plan to use to care for your rescue Chihuahua. If they can answer quickly, they have put thought into caring for the dog properly.
- NEVER EVER USE CRAIGSLIST. Most dogs re-homed on Craiglist are abused, used as bait dogs, or sold to labs.
- NEVER EVER ADVERTISE YOUR CHIHUAHUA AS FREE TO GOOD HOME. Dog fighters or owners of large carnivorous animals will be waiting to take your free dog to train their fighting dogs or feed their carnivorous pets. I would make the rehoming fee at about $100 if it were me to avoid evil people who are looking for bait dogs to train their fighting dogs. And don’t be deceived by the person who says they want your dog. These people often get their wives, girlfriends, and sometimes even their mothers to do the “adopting” as you are more likely to trust a woman. You could donate the fee to a local dog rescue if you are uncomfortable keeping it.
Surrendering to a rescue
If you were unable to re-home your Chihuahua yourself, begin looking for a rescue to surrender them to using a basic online search for a dog rescue.
Start with these Chihuahua Rescues listed according to state.
Of course do a Google search too, as you may find something in your area that’s not on our list.
When considering if you will be surrendering your Chihuahua to a rescue, keep the following in mind:
- Ask to see where your Chihuahua will be living while they wait for their new home.
- Always ask how their general care, nutrition, grooming, and health care will be handled.
- Ask about the adoption process; if it is strict, your Chihuahua is more likely to be adopted by a responsible person who truly wants them.
Animal Shelters
This should be a last resort.
The environment of living in a kennel atmosphere is very difficult for Chis, as they are very social and bonded to people.
The stress of living in that environment can shut down their personalities, or the fear of it can make them snappy, making it more difficult for potential adopters to see why they are amazing.
A private rescue where they would live in a foster home as they wait to find their forever home is best for their mental and emotional needs.
Chihuahua Rescue Takes Commitment
Adopting a Chihuahua can be one of the best decisions you make! However, you must make sure that you are ready to take on the responsibility of ownership before committing to adopt.
Try not to become emotionally invested before making sure that you can give your Chihuahua a forever home. Re-homing a Chihuahua can be a very difficult experience.
The kindest thing you can do for your rescue Chihuahua is to help them through this transition emotionally and to do everything you can to make sure their next home is their forever home.
Cathy Bendzunas
Pet Blogger
I need a chihuahua I had one for 22 years finally it passed two years ago I’m ready for another one
Wow, 22 years!
Hi, what state are you living?
I know of someone looking for a home for a five year old female.
@Stephanie, where are u located? Do u have a pic?
Cathy, I just sit here crying tears down my face reading some of the surrender options. I cannot do it. Maybe it is that I am selfish but I have instructed my hub and my son and daughter to put all of my chi babies down when I die. I have had three chis that worshiped me as I worshiped them and now I have Rosa and William and Pinto. Rosa never leaves my side unless I have to go someplace that I cannot bring her. She is my tiny brown sparrow and is completely devoted to me. William would be stronger and Pinto has attached himself to John and BO, so they would be OK. I do not think Rosa would ever recover from losing my attention and love. I do not know anybody who would or knew how to calm and love Rosa through that but one person and that is you, Cathy!!!!
they are very special fur babies. I recently had my 9 yr old go to Heaven and I miss her so much. She was always with me.
I’m so sorry you lost her Renee/
Please do not put your babies down. Rescues work very hard to find good homes for them because they deserve to live. I foster for Chihuahua Rescue of San Diego County. We do home checks, ask all the right questions and care for these dogs as if they were out own.
LOL, yeah I’d take that cutie in a minute!
I struggle with what to do with my dogs if I die before they do. Family members would take Lucas and Ziggy and they would be just fine with them but I don’t think Lucy would be.
Oh, Rosa is the tiny sweet love and I don’t think her life would be good without me. She cuddles up with me in bed at night and feels just like a tiny brown sparrow. It is a question of her being sad and lonely and unsure of her life without me and I do not think my family could handle that and make her happy, so just a couple of seconds with the vet and she would not have to endure that. I am glad you understand the same feeling you and Lucy share. William is devoted to me but he does like to sit with John and follow him around the house and BO and Pinto would be OK. It is a serious matter to think about.
I am a 71 yr old blind lady, my Chica has been my baby got 11 years now and facing a housing dilemma. I DO NOT want to give her to a shelter as she is very shy until she gets to know you, also an awesome snuggler! What should I do? Thanks, dana
What area do you live in Dana?
My Pink never barked or bit. I took her everywhere. She attended many conventions, went to church and so many other places. After 15ish years she was blind and not easily digest. I hung on to number 12 as long as it was right.
She longs like a wonderful little dog Jack!
I had my little boy for 3 yr my ex brother in law kill him by tring him witha golden retriever dog that 3time tallerthem my baby
I’m so sorry Stephanie! That’s horrible!
@Cathy, my Heart is broken ! My 19 year old Vino died in my arms! I want another chocolate Chihuahua just like him!💔
I’m looking for a female chihuahua to love.
I just lost my baby who was my emotional support, she was a long haired chihuahua
I would like to find a young puppy
May I ask where you are located?
Thank
you
You’re welcome Vivian.
Hi I am looking for a female chihuahua puppy. I just lost my chihuahua after 20yrs Jan 13,2021 I am so lonely with out her and the unconditional love that we shared I just can’t explain. I have cried every day since the day she went to the rainbow Bridge.
I’m sorry I put the wrong date my Baby passed a way Jan
13,2021
I am looking for a companion for myself and my small dog. She is 5 years old . we live in a small space. It must be house broken or puppies pad trained. Have a good personality. I have had a Chihuahua before for 19 years.
Looking for a female Chihuahua puppy. I lost my Baby Girl from a heart at age ten. I had had her eight years. Miss her so. I live in Billings Montana.
I have a 7 year old beautiful Chica and Chica and doxie mix. They are buddies. I love them however, they were my mom’s dogs. I lived with her and she passed away. I had to move and now I am living in a hotel. My niece has the dogs but more and more I am realizing even when I find an apartment… I am gone alot. I am in theatre and a college professor… I was going to just find a foster family until I can get my place… but I think it would be better to find them a home. One is 7 and the other is 12. They are great dogs. God this is so hard… I need to find them a great home.
Good luck Laura! I hope you can find the perfect home for these fur babies.
I live in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Can you help me find a chihuahua in Calgary?
Thanks. Judy
No, sorry Judy, I don’t know of any there.
Not sure where to start. Looking to long for a under 1 or male puppy..hoping some one can help me out, prefer chihuahua, mix, anything small at this point!
I recently lost my best friend of 15.5 years due to congested heart failure. I’m in love with Chihuahua’s and haven’t had any luck finding another. I have a wonderful home and live alone. I’m seeking a younger one since I just would like time to bond with the baby. I live in SW Florida. Anyone know where I can search? I’ve tried a few sites but nobody ever replies.
Best Wishes To All
Angela
@Angela, i live in sarasota, fl and got my chi from
Underdog Rescue. I went to an adoption clinic and had
no intentions of getting a chi! My daughter saw her
and prompted me to take her for a walk. I did, picked
her up and it was all over. She was waiting for me and
I for her. She is now 9 and I got her at 7. I love
her dearly and cannot imagine my life without her.
Please try Underdog Rescue, Bradenton, Fl. They
seem to get alot of chi’s and do a wonderful job
getting their dogs ready for their forever homes.
Good luck and God bless, someone is waiting for you.
Theresa
Thanks for the info Theresa!
I would like to find a female companion for my chi.
@Angel, My wife and I are fostering a 9lb female smooth/short coat deer head Chihuahua, and are looking for a forever home for her. The vet estimated she’s anywhere from 3 to 8 years old. Completely housebroken, doesn’t chew anything, and a very good demeanor for an abandoned Chihuahua. We got her shots and immunizations, and have all the food, cage, and accessories to go with her. Only thing she needs is to be spayed. Let us know if you’re interested, we can send pics.
@John M,
Did you find a home for you chi? What state are you in? I’m in Maine. I’m retired, home all day, and would really like a chihuhua.
@John M, I’m interested in your lil girl I have plenty of room as I live alone I just recently had my baby girl pass away and I’m missing her so much. She was my everything I’ve had her father whom had passed away two years ago in oct.2023.
I had him 15years &I had rogue my daughter as I can’t have children so these were my children . And she passed from natural causes and I’m my arms I’m just finding it very hard to go on with our her little face and happiness in the mornings and cuddling in nites her little cuteness. I would love to have ànd build a bond with yourlittle girl if she will have me I will guarantee a loving and happy healthy protected home for her she will never have to be alone or unloved ever again for I have so much love to share if you would like to contact me and it consider for her forever home I would be so blessed to have her please reach out to me
I live in boulevard CA 91905 . My name is Marsha McCannna thankyou
We had Cotton Candy for 19 Years and 50 weeks, She was almost TWENTY Years old. and was the Most loveab;e thing in our Lives, We also Now have Coco Puff and she just turned 9 Years. We all miss our little Cotton Candy. and we are wanting to try to get another. She was a Apple Head and when we got her she was Solid White and turned to a Fawn color. She was 6 weeks old when i purchased her at a flea market in Augusta Ga.and I carried her around in my Jacket pocket. She helped pick out Coco and they were the greatest Pals and I do belive she assumed Coco was her puppy. She never had any of her own. We purchased Coco in Biloxi and had the Animal Shelter Fix her. We are wanting to see about getting a New Born Puppie, Female, Teacup, Applehead and as close to white as we can, We want to have another Cotton Candy.. And if you have a litter on the way or due please let us know. We are in Biloxi and would like for ya’ll to be pretty close to us we will travel to pick a new Baby up.. Thanks and God Bless.
Sorry, I missed this before Ester. Good luck in your quest for a puppy. I don’t have any access to breeders or puppies myself, I just write about chihuahuas. Did you check out our how to find a good breeder page? Here it is: https://ilovemychi.com/how-to-find-a-reputable-chihuahua-dog-breeder/
Hi my name is Karla and I am looking for a smooth coat female Chihuahua. I have had the experience of a chihuahua because of my Ozzie. He has been gone for 3 years and I absolutely fell in love with the breed.
Hi Karla, I hope you are able to find your new chihuahua soon.
@Karla Acton, My wife and I are fostering a 9lb female smooth/short coat deer head Chihuahua, and are looking for a forever home for her. The vet estimated she’s anywhere from 3 to 8 years old. Completely housebroken, doesn’t chew anything, and a very good demeanor for an abandoned Chihuahua. We got her shots and immunizations, and have all the food, cage, and accessories to go with her. Only thing she needs is to be spayed. Let us know if you’re interested, we can send pics.
I am looking for a white short haired male chihuahua 4 pounds. I lost my baby due to heart failure. May 9, 2022. He was my service dog for 8 years. I rescued him, but he really rescued me. His name was Romeo, my little love. Could you please help me find another little baby? Thanks
dhoppers2962@gmail.com
I live in Danville Al
Sorry Janet, I’m not able to find dogs for people. I just write about them and this post should give you some tips on how you can find a new dog. I’m so sorry you lost your little Romeo.
@Janet vargas, My wife and I are fostering a 9lb female smooth/short coat deer head Chihuahua, and are looking for a forever home for her. The vet estimated she’s anywhere from 3 to 8 years old. Completely housebroken, doesn’t chew anything, and a very good demeanor for an abandoned Chihuahua. We got her shots and immunizations, and have all the food, cage, and accessories to go with her. Only thing she needs is to be spayed. Let us know if you’re interested, we can send pics.
@John M, r
Hi I’m Mary live in lake village Arkansas. I had a deer head chihuahua, who passed two months ago. She was my rock and she also slept with me. I’m retired and we were like two peas in a pod. I miss her very much. I have ptsd and she kept me together.
I am looking for a female blonde Chihuahua! I have rescued dogs from owners and 1 year ago I lost my saved Chihuahua. She lived in a hoarder environment. Needless to say I am down to 1 and really would love a Chihuahua. Me and husband are disabled and have a lot of time on our hands, have clothes too for her and lots and lots of love. Please help me find one. I live in Saratoga Springs NY thank u!!
Am looking for a chihuahua in the alabama area I hve 1 n wanting her to hve a friend..
I’m retired, live in Maine and looking for a female Chihuahua puppy or young adult. Not finding one in my area. I’m looking forward to having a little companion. She will be pampered. Any leads greatly appreciated. ❤️
I’ve had 3 chihuahuas! Abby my first lived until 12 😔
Howie lived to turn 17🫢
Wilbur was our last that lived until right before he turned 13!
All were such loving pets. Miss those little babies so much! Two we bought. Wilbur was a rescue.
Hello. I lost my baby Pepper of 12 years this past Monday. My husband and I need another baby to love. We are looking for a female chihuahua. 1 year of age or younger . Very loving home. Will be spoiled . If you have one, or know someone, please email me at chloe92805@yahoo.com.
I don’t know of any Darla. You may want to check out these posts: https://ilovemychi.com/buy-dog-without-getting-scammed/
https://ilovemychi.com/how-to-find-a-reputable-chihuahua-dog-breeder/
i have 3 chis but ive looking butno wants to go easy on money or they want deposit such scammers i want male possible the runt of litter
I’m looking for a free Chihuahua full breed. I would take excellent care of it.
We are looking for another chihuahua after the passing of my daughter.
We had one till his death from old age.
I’m sorry, I don’t know of any available chihuahuas.
My name is Tammy I LOVE animals soooooo much more than humans. I now have four furbies I just lost my oldest mini me at the age of 12. She was a beautiful little fawn reindeer colored name Reighnae. I have had several others but none are hurting as much as loosing her. I really would LOVE to get maybe a mom and little girl to fill my heart and help someone out. I would have the mom fixed so the rest of her days are worry free. I have a little boy is why I would like to have a little girl he is soooo smart and would make amazing babies. Only one litter then I would have her fixed. If there is anyone who needs this please contact me.
To whom it may concern:
The purpose of this email is to reaching out to your organization to find out if you have an Adoption Fee Waiver Program for Seniors. Or if you know who I can contact regarding same. Whatever information you can provide is greatly appreciated.
Some information about myself; In 2021, I loss my companion Chihuahua, Kissy of 10 years. Then in 2022, I loss my Calico cat also my companion of 20 years. I cannot put in to words how difficult their loss was. Especially, losing both of them so close together. They were the best of friends and my emotional support.
For your information, I live in senior housing and would welcome providing a small dog (preferably a female), between the ages of one to five years, a loving home.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you kindly.
Luz V. Perez-Cala
141 N. Chestnut Avenue
Unit 333
Green Bay, WI 54303
or
Cellphone: (920)857-8809
Sorry Luz, I just write about chihuahuas. I don’t have anything to do with selling them or adopting them out or anything.
I’m want to find a chihuahua. I had one before but, had to put him down. I am ready for another one
Good luck Charlotte! Hope you find the perfect dog for you.
In the past 6 months i have lost 2 senior dogs I miss my dogs
I’m so sorry Mary! That has to be hard to deal with.
When I was a child, my Dad was in the military, I had to give up several dogs every time we moved. In my adult years, I have had my dogs from puppyhood until they went to the Rainbow Bridge. It would just kill me to have to give up and rehome one of my dogs. I understand there are circumstances that happen in life, however, please folks take the time and find a good, loving, caring home for your beloved pooch. They won’t understand why you left them, but it will be much easier on their little hearts to have someone to love and care for them. It will also alleviate that guilt feeling you might have.
I totally agree.
I lost my husband 5 years ago. The my niece gave me a little long hair chihuahua brown and white. She had been my companion for 5 years and I loved her so much. I had a boy cut my grass and he left the gate unlashed and she got out and got hit by a car. I have been in depression ever since. I wou;d like to find one like her. She looked like the one you have in your grooming picture. I am a widower on social security so Ican’t pay a lot.. I don’t need a puppy to be a pedigree. I just need someone to live. I can assure you she or he will be greatly ta
my email ken care of. I live in Tennessee near the Georgia line so if you know of any puppy like her in either state I would appreciate getting information. Thank you so much
My email is connieedge62@comcast.net
I’m sorry Connie, I don’t know of any. Have you looked on Petfinder.com ? I just looked on there and did see some in TN listed so check it out.
My Heart is Broken! I lost my 19 year old Vino . He died in my arms 💔I want another Chocolate Deer head with huge ears. He was my Baby. I know he is Heaven and out of pain.
I’m so sorry Kate. It’s so hard to lose them.
My last puppy, a Pomchi died at 15 after a remarkable wonderful life I was privileged to share. I am through the grief of La Pinga’s
Loss and ready for a new companion.
I would I’ll d. Love to have a young female mine past away last June 2024 ,,: I miss her every day
I promise she will get vet station & loved very much!
Gertie is my Angel & I’ll will
always love & miss her!!!
I hope you are able to find another fur baby to love.