Chihuahua Dogs for Adoption

1,822 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,441–1,470 of 1,822 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.

1,822 Chihuahua dogs available — page 49 of 61

Photo of Madison, adoptable Chihuahua in Arlington, Virginia

Madison

Chihuahua FemaleSmallest. 2–7 yrs

Meet Madison! This beautiful little Chihuahua mix came from a hoarding situation. At one point, Madison's owner had 51 dogs living in a small trailer.…

Worthy Dog Rescue • Arlington, VA

Photo of Indiana Jones, adoptable Chihuahua in Phoenix, Arizona

Indiana Jones

Chihuahua MaleSmall0 years

Why I'd make a great companion: ~Hi! My name is Indiana Jones and I weigh 10 LBS! ~I'm a sweet, shy, handsome fella with a tender little heart! ~I'm l…

Arizona Humane Society - Sunnyslope • Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Munchkin, adoptable Chihuahua in Fort Collins, Colorado

Munchkin

Chihuahua MaleSmall0 years

Hey, I'm Munchkin! I am a sweet and silly little puppy in search of my forever home. I love to play and snuggle. I hope you come visit me soon!

Larimer Humane Society • Fort Collins, CO

Photo of Pebbles, adoptable Chihuahua in Charlotte, North Carolina

Pebbles

Chihuahua FemaleSmall2 years

Meet Pebbles, a two year old,11 pound Chihuahua mix whose ultimate goal in life is to be curled up in your lap. When she isn't enjoying a cozy cuddle …

Greater Charlotte SPCA • Charlotte, NC

Photo of Wilson, adoptable Chihuahua in San Diego, California

Wilson

Chihuahua MaleSmall2 years

Meet Wilson! Wilson is a 2-year-old, 20-pound super mutt who likely has a little Chihuahua, Min Pin and Corgi mixed in—and a whole lot of personality!…

Second Chance Dog Rescue • San Diego, CA

Photo of Fiona, adoptable Chihuahua in Phoenix, Arizona

Fiona

Chihuahua FemaleSmall0 years

Why I'd make a great companion: ~Woof! My name is Fiona and I weigh 8 LBS! ~I’m full of puppy energy, happy wiggles, and lots of love to give! I love …

Arizona Humane Society - Campus for Compassion • Phoenix, AZ

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.