Updated June 2026
Planning a trip is exciting. Figuring out what to do with your Chihuahua while you’re away? Not so exciting.
Many of us worry more about our dogs than ourselves when we’re traveling. Will they miss us? Will they be happy? Will they be safe? And if your Chihuahua is anything like mine, they probably think being separated from you is the greatest tragedy ever invented.
The good news is that there are more options available today than ever before. Whether you’re going away for a weekend, taking a long vacation, or traveling for an emergency, you can find a solution that works for both you and your Chihuahua.
Let’s look at the most common options and the pros and cons of each.
Can You Take Your Chihuahua With You?
Before making arrangements for someone else to care for your dog, consider whether your Chihuahua can travel with you.
One of the advantages of having a Chihuahua is that they are small enough to travel more easily than larger breeds. Many hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds now welcome dogs.
Traveling together may be a great option if your Chihuahua:
- Enjoys car rides
- Is comfortable around new people
- Doesn’t get overly anxious in unfamiliar places
- Is healthy enough for travel
If you decide to bring your Chihuahua along, don’t forget:
- Food and treats
- Medications
- Leash and harness
- Travel carrier
- Favorite blanket or bed
- Waste bags
- Vaccination records
- ID tags and microchip information
For some Chihuahuas, staying with their favorite person is less stressful than being left behind.
Option 1: Leave Your Chihuahua With Family or Friends
Many people first think about asking a friend or family member to care for their dog.
This can be a wonderful solution if the person already knows your Chihuahua and understands their needs.
However, not everyone is comfortable handling a Chihuahua. Some Chihuahuas can be nervous around strangers, and others have very specific routines.
Before asking someone to help, make sure they understand:
- Feeding schedules
- Medication requirements
- Potty routines
- Exercise needs
- Any behavior quirks
- Emergency contact information
The biggest advantage is that your Chihuahua may already know and trust the person caring for them.
The downside is that even well-meaning friends sometimes forget instructions or underestimate the responsibility.
Option 2: Hire a Pet Sitter
For many Chihuahuas, this is one of the best options available.
A pet sitter comes to your home to care for your dog while you’re away. Depending on the arrangement, they may visit several times a day or stay overnight.
Because your Chihuahua remains in their familiar environment, they often experience less stress.
Benefits include:
- Familiar surroundings
- Consistent routine
- Less exposure to illness
- Reduced anxiety
- Someone is checking on your home
When interviewing a pet sitter, ask:
- Are you insured and bonded?
- Do you have experience with Chihuahuas?
- Are you trained in pet first aid or CPR?
- How many visits are included each day?
- Will you send updates and photos?
- What happens if my dog becomes ill?
Many pet owners find that a good pet sitter becomes an invaluable resource.
Option 3: In-Home Boarding
In-home boarding has become much more popular in recent years.
Instead of leaving your Chihuahua at a traditional kennel, your dog stays in someone else’s home.
This option can provide a more relaxed environment with fewer dogs and more individual attention.
It’s often a good middle ground between pet sitting and kennel boarding.
There are several sites where you can check this out and book a sitter. DogVacay.com is one, and Rover.com is another.
Before choosing an in-home boarding provider:
- Visit the home first
- Meet any resident pets
- Ask about supervision
- Discuss feeding routines
- Verify vaccination requirements
Every Chihuahua is different. Some thrive in this environment, while others prefer to stay at home.
Option 4: Traditional Boarding Kennels
Boarding kennels have come a long way over the years.
Many modern facilities offer:
- Individual playtime
- Comfortable sleeping areas
- Grooming services
- Cameras for owners
- Specialized care plans
For social dogs, boarding can even feel like a vacation of their own.
However, not every Chihuahua enjoys a kennel environment.
Some Chihuahuas find the barking, activity, and unfamiliar surroundings overwhelming. Senior dogs and dogs with anxiety may struggle more than confident, outgoing dogs.
If you are considering boarding:
- Tour the facility beforehand
- Ask about staff supervision
- Review vaccination requirements
- Discuss medications and special needs
- Observe cleanliness and safety
Never wait until the day before your trip to investigate a boarding facility.
Option 5: A House Sitter
A house sitter stays in your home while you’re away.
This option offers the greatest level of consistency for many dogs because:
- Your Chihuahua stays in their own home
- Their routine remains mostly unchanged
- Your home is occupied
- Mail and packages can be monitored
While this is often one of the more expensive options, it can be ideal for:
- Dogs with medical needs
- Multiple pets
- Senior Chihuahuas
- Dogs with separation anxiety
- Dogs with medical needs
Which Option Is Best?
There isn’t one right answer for every Chihuahua.
Over the years, I’ve learned that dogs have very different personalities. Some would happily make new friends at a boarding facility, while others would spend the entire time wondering where their family went.
The best choice depends on:
- Your dog’s personality
- Age
- Health
- Anxiety level
- Budget
- Length of your trip
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Option | Stress Level | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family/Friends | Low to Medium | Low | Dogs familiar with caregiver |
| Pet Sitter | Low | Moderate | Most Chihuahuas |
| In-Home Boarding | Medium | Moderate | Social dogs |
| Boarding Facility | Medium to High | Moderate | Confident dogs |
| House Sitter | Very Low | Higher | Seniors, anxious dogs, multiple pets |
| Travel With You | Varies | Varies | Travel-friendly dogs |
Chihuahuas Have Special Needs
Because Chihuahuas form such strong bonds with their people, they can sometimes have a harder time when separated.
Some may:
- Refuse food initially
- Become withdrawn
- Act clingy when you return
- Show signs of stress
This doesn’t mean they’ll be traumatized.
Most dogs adjust quickly when their caregivers maintain familiar routines.
To help your Chihuahua feel secure:
- Leave their favorite blanket
- Leave familiar toys
- Keep feeding times consistent
- Provide written instructions
- Avoid making a dramatic departure
Dogs often take emotional cues from us. The calmer you are, the calmer they’re likely to be.
Leave These Items With Your Caregiver
Whether you’re using a pet sitter, family member, or boarding facility, provide:
- Your veterinarian’s contact information
- Emergency veterinary hospital information
- Feeding instructions
- Medication instructions
- Vaccination records
- Emergency contacts
- Microchip information
- Your travel itinerary
Having everything written down can save valuable time in an emergency.
Chihuahua Vacation Checklist
Before you leave, make sure you have:
✓ Enough food
✓ Medications
✓ Favorite toys
✓ Favorite blanket or bed
✓ Leash and harness
✓ Updated ID tags
✓ Vaccination records
✓ Emergency contacts
✓ Vet information
✓ Written care instructions
✓ Treats
✓ Waste bags
Final Thoughts
Leaving your Chihuahua behind doesn’t have to ruin your vacation.
With a little planning, you can find a safe and comfortable solution that gives you peace of mind and keeps your dog happy.
Whether you choose a pet sitter, a boarding facility, a trusted friend, or decide to bring your Chihuahua along for the adventure, the goal is the same: making sure your little companion is safe, loved, and well cared for until you’re back together again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Chihuahua miss me while I’m away?
Yes, most dogs notice when their owners are gone. However, the vast majority adjust well when their routines remain consistent, and they’re cared for by someone they trust.
Is boarding stressful for Chihuahuas?
Some Chihuahuas do very well in boarding facilities, while others find the environment overwhelming. It depends on the individual dog’s personality.
Is a pet sitter better than boarding?
For many Chihuahuas, staying in their own home with a pet sitter is often the least stressful option.
How long can a Chihuahua stay with a pet sitter?
A Chihuahua can stay with a pet sitter for as long as necessary, provided their physical and emotional needs are being met.
Should I leave my Chihuahua with family or friends?
If your Chihuahua already knows and trusts them, this can be an excellent option. Just be sure they understand your dog’s routine and needs.
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Cathy Bendzunas
Pet Blogger
Dale
Monday 9th of September 2019
I take my little one with me , will not leave her with nobody. Did that one time and she cried until I got back only three day’s.
Cathy
Monday 9th of September 2019
She sounds well loved Dale.
Dixie Greschuk
Saturday 6th of July 2019
Cathy, this is kinda off the subject but I want your opinion of any of the flea killing pills. I have used Bravecto for a few years but I am not entirely sure that my Henry passed because of the pills. He had a neurological problem and I sometimes think it was because of the pills. What does all of the members of this site use to control fleas and ticks? Thanks in advance for the information.
Cathy
Saturday 6th of July 2019
I have heard of dogs having issues with Bravecto. I'm kind of leery about the flea killing pills for our little guys and also of the spot on meds for fleas and heartworm. But I do use Advantage Plus for fleas, ticks and heartworm but only from May to December and I kind of cringe every time I give it to them. But heartworm is pretty bad in my area so I figure it's the lesser of two evils. I just asked on the Facebook page to see what others use. Here's the link to it: https://www.facebook.com/ILoveMyChihuahuaClub/posts/2121539251307839?__xts__[0]=68.ARBjV0UEO52qRAqshMWEIkSUAgNSeu7lbUYzBwxJb7cIPghxKBwnKSqzKbIoCamMyNObPEBFqj0eipEVZ7l1GM4z2-Es8sgAt6oghLc3ZT2zZNlkPDYo-CTAcOisFqof1ZaUsdtmAHRkdYOLBEiHDzp1qzOy7yd5_lY6An92-wgokRkrKP7GKqWrRWMrK2a_7cSxGfLXt5xhgRHchsDAz86_AisbFGXAyyh4GmH3wMuu7wdJrA7vZNgxDq-_CN3Jkxc2TE78jhZyEizFGf5Lwf2DurTGltjJSvyq524wsKW4l4ua1kA9OPnNLBMQRuJvwa5dOmLn_gBrXNXGNNmqpQ&__tn__=-R
Cathy
Sunday 22nd of October 2017
I think a lot of times, the first time you leave them somewhere else, they think you have abandoned them. So no wonder Keltie was so happy to see you. I think it's best if you can leave them in their own homes. I pet sit for a handful of families and the dogs love it when I come stay with them. They think of me as part of their family and I adore them too. They definitely are not stressed at all when their families are away.
June
Saturday 21st of October 2017
We boarded my chi and my daughter's chis one time 10 years ago. We were going out of town for about 4 days for a wedding and just couldn't take them. Since it was a family wedding, we were all going out of town and I didn't have anyone I could leave them with. I researched many boarding facilities in our area, and found one place about 45 minutes away that would have our 3 dogs in one room all by themselves. The room was set up like a small living room - a couch, chair, TV, etc. We brought their blankets and beds, along with their food and their dishes. When we went back to get the dogs, my little boy Keltie was so overcome when he saw me! I carried him on my shoulder all the way home, and he cried great big crocodile tears all the way. I decided then and there I would never board them again. If a family member isn't available to take care of my babies, we take them with us. I don't think the boarding facility was bad; I think Keltie thought I had abandoned him. I lost Keltie a little over a year ago and I still miss him. My two girls that I have now both have some anxiety issues when I go out for a few hours, so I know they'd have a tough time if I had to board them. So for now, they go where I go! Fortunately, they are both good travelers.
Amanda
Monday 10th of August 2015
I always bring my babies along! I think I probably have worse separation anxiety than them! The one time Matt and I left Khloee and Wynston behind for our anniversary weekend this year, we left them with my mom. She definitely treats them like her grandkids and they love Grandma's house!
kilosmom
Monday 10th of August 2015
My daughter does the same thing to me. When she goes out of town I take care of my grandpuppy, a Frenchie. He loves it here with me as much as he loves being with his family. I spoil him and he gets to play with my 3 dogs.