Every Dog’s Chance

Chihuahua Dogs for Adoption

1,764 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1–30 of 1,764 below.

About adopting a Chihuahua

Do not let the size fool you: a Chihuahua carries a full-sized personality, and the ones waiting in shelters are often bold, opinionated, and fiercely loyal to whoever earns their trust. Many arrive from crowded homes or breeding situations and are cautious with strangers at first.

Young Chihuahuas are quick learners when handled gently. House training can take patience because of their small bladders and dislike of cold, wet grass, and many owners find a consistent schedule and indoor options helpful. Socialization to new people, larger dogs, and handling keeps a puppy from becoming a snappy adult. Exercise needs are modest but real; a brisk walk and play indoors go far.

Chihuahuas often bond tightly with one or two people and may guard them from others, so a calm adult household or older children tend to suit them better than a house full of toddlers. Many do well in pairs. Dental issues are common in tiny dogs and worth asking the shelter and your veterinarian about. Ask the shelter or rescue about the individual dog's background and how it has responded to training so far.

1,764 Chihuahua dogs available — page 1 of 59

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Photo of Sponsor Or, adoptable Chihuahua in Grafton, Wisconsin

Sponsor Or

Chihuahua • Female • Small • 0 years

Updated: 9/21/26 Dog Name: Mercedes Sex: Female Estimated Breed: Chihuahua Mix Approximate Age: 4-5 months Approximate Weight: 8-10 lbs Spay/Neuter St…

Tail Waggers 911 • Grafton, WI

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Photo of Sponsor Or, adoptable Chihuahua in Grafton, Wisconsin

Sponsor Or

Chihuahua • Male • Small • 1 year

Updated: 9/21/26 Dog Name: Nacho Sex: Male Estimated Breed: Chihuahua Mix Approximate Age: 1 year Approximate Weight: 9 lbs Spay/Neuter Status: Neuter…

Tail Waggers 911 • Grafton, WI

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Photo of Junior, adoptable Chihuahua in Westwood, New Jersey

Junior

Chihuahua • Male • Small • 1 year

Junior is a lovable, huggable 1 year old 19-pound Chihuahua mix who is looking for a new family to call his own. Unfortunately Junior’s previous owner…

Peace 4 Paws Inc. • Westwood, NJ

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Photo of Brunie, adoptable Chihuahua in Oakhurst, New Jersey

Brunie

Chihuahua • Male • Small • 1 year

Brunie is looking for his forever home Meet Brunie, the cutest little Chihuahua sidekick you could ask for! This sweet 1-year-old boy is full of kisse…

Wag On Inn Rescue • Oakhurst, NJ

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Photo of Mac, adoptable Chihuahua in Sacramento, California

Mac

Chihuahua • Male • Small • 5 years

City of Sacramento Animal Care Services • Sacramento, CA

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Photo of OB, adoptable Chihuahua in Sacramento, California

OB

Chihuahua • Male • Small • 2 years

City of Sacramento Animal Care Services • Sacramento, CA

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Chihuahua dogs by state

California607Texas255Arizona151Florida89North Carolina50New Jersey47Colorado42Illinois41New York40Nevada39Minnesota38Washington38

Other breeds

Pit Bull Terrier6638Labrador Retriever3816German Shepherd3651Mixed Breed2739Terrier1924Staffordshire Terrier1689Australian Cattle Dog1170Siberian Husky1036Shepherd965Husky763Boxer727Hound701

Adopting a Chihuahua — FAQ

Are Chihuahuas good with children?

Chihuahuas are often better suited to homes with older, gentle children than with toddlers, because they are small enough to be hurt by rough handling and may snap when frightened. With respectful kids and clear rules many do fine. Ask the shelter about the dog's history with children.

Why do Chihuahuas shake?

Chihuahuas shake for many reasons, including cold, excitement, nervousness, and simply being small with a fast metabolism. A sweater and a warm bed help in cool weather. Persistent shaking paired with other changes is something to mention to your veterinarian rather than assume is normal.

Are Chihuahuas hard to house train?

Chihuahuas have a reputation for being hard to house train, mostly because they are tiny and dislike bad weather. A firm schedule, frequent trips out, and rewards for success work as well as they do with any breed. Adult Chihuahuas from rescue are often already reliable.

How do I adopt a Chihuahua?

Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.

Are Chihuahua dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?

Many Chihuahua dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.

How much does it cost to adopt a Chihuahua?

Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.

Are Chihuahua dogs good with children or other pets?

It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.

Can I foster a Chihuahua instead of adopting?

Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a Chihuahua gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.

What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a Chihuahua?

Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.