How can I find a Chihuahua to adopt?

First, I’d like to commend you for your willingness to delay gratification and adopt. It’s so easy to buy a dog online or in a pet store, but the fact that you have decided to wait and offer your home to a dog in need speaks volumes about your character and compassion for animals. Kudos!

Believe it or not, there are parts of this country where there are so many Chihuahuas in the shelters that many never find homes! First, search your local sheltering system. You can also use our ASPCA nationwide adoptable dog search to cast your net a little wider, and still search by breed!

Another great option is a breed-specific rescue group. Pretty much all dog breeds have devotees who have organized and banded together to focus on rescuing, fostering and re-homing the dogs they love. Some breeds are lucky enough to have rescue groups in every state or region of the country! So if you’ve got your heart set on a Chihuahua (or a Dalmatian, or a Westie, or an Akita, etc.), this might be your best bet. Find a breed-specific rescue group near you by doing an Internet search for “Chihuahua, rescue,” and your state.

If it turns out that there are no adoptable Chis near you, expand your search to places like California and Texas, where many homeless little guys and gals looking for a home just like yours!