If you’ve fallen in love with the idea of bringing a tiny, sassy Chihuahua into your life, you’re not alone! I get asked this question every day.
These little dogs are full of personality and loyalty. But when it comes time to find a purebred Chihuahua puppy, you might be shocked at the high prices legitimate breeders are charging!
Plus, there are so many scams when it comes to looking for a puppy; it’s hard to know where to turn.
But, there is GOOD NEWS! There are smart, budget-friendly ways to find a healthy, purebred Chihuahua puppy without tempting your savings account. Here’s how:
1. check chihuahua specific rescues
There are many rescue organizations devoted entirely to Chihuahuas. Because Chihuahuas are so popular, they frequently end up needing new homes. Groups like Chihuahua Rescue & Transport (CRT) and Tiny Paws Rescue regularly have young purebred Chihuahuas available. Adoption fees are much lower than breeder prices and usually include vaccinations and spay/neuter services.
Chihuahua Rescue & Transport will transport a dog to a loving home anywhere in the United States. Tiny Paws Rescue has small-breed dogs available in Central and Southern New Jersey as well as Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Montgomery and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania.
2. keep an eye on local shelters to find a chihuahua puppy
Animal shelters often have purebred Chihuahuas, especially if you’re willing to check in frequently or set up online alerts. Sites like Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet, and RescueMe.org let you filter searches for Chihuahua puppies. Persistence pay off here!
3. browse local facebook groups and classifieds
Look for Facebook groups or community classifieds focused on dog rehoming. People sometimes have accidental litters or need to rehome a Chihuahua quickly.
Be very careful to vet the situation thoroughly — ask about health records and visit in person if possible, or live video chat if not — but you might find a purebred puppy for just a small rehoming fee.
4. Network with local dog lovers
Let your local vets, groomers, trainers, and pet store owners know that you’re looking for a Chihuahua puppy. Sometimes they hear about litters from trusted sources before they are publicly listed. Getting the word out could lead to the perfect match!
5. consider older Chihuahua puppies or young adults
Sometimes breeders lower their prices when a puppy is no longer a “tiny baby” — around 4-9 months old. By that time, they know whether or not that puppy will be a good show dog. If not, they will then sell them at a much lower price to a good home as a pet. At that young you will have many, many years of love a joy together.
6. look into guardian home opportunities
Some breeders offer free or low-cost puppies to carefully selected “guardian homes”. You raise the dog as your own, and the breeder retains the right to breed them once or twice. This is more common with larger breeds, but it’s worth asking about if you find a responsible Chihuahua breeder near you.
7. Find hobby breeders
Hobby breeders priortize the health and happiness of their dogs over making big profits. They often produce only a litter or two each year. Their puppies may be priced more reasonable, especially if they trust you’re a good home.
a word of caution! Health matters
Even if you’re saving money, never compromise on the health of your future puppy. Chihuahuas are prone to certain issues like patellar luxation, heart disease, and dental problems. Whether you’re adopting from a rescue or buying from a small breeder, ask about:
- Veterinary records
- Vaccination status
- Health guarantees (if bying from a breeder)
- Socialization and early care
Taking teses steps can help you avoid heartreak — and unexpected vet bills — later on.
final thoughts
Finding a purbred Chihuahua puppy without paying outrageous prices is totally possible if you’re patient, persistent, and a little strategic. Whether you find your tiny companion through a rescue, a small breeder, or a networking connection, the joy and love your new Chihuahua brings will be priceless!
want to learn more?
the hidden cruelty: Inside the life of a puppy mill puppy
The second week of May is Puppy Mill Action Week. So I do want to bring awareness to the plight of these poor dogs. The only way I can do that effectively is to show just how bad it is and how much these little dogs suffer.
Believe it or not, there are still people who don’t really know what puppy mills are and what they subject their dogs to. So, I warn you now that this post may be too disturbing for some.
simple ways you can help stop puppy mills
Believe it or not, there are still people who don’t really know what puppy mills are and what they subject their dogs to. If you’d like to learn more about puppy mills and how they operate, read the article above. However, the good news is that there are simple things that each one of us can do to help and that is what this post is about. So, if you don’t want to read about the bad stuff, just scroll to the bottom for the more positive stuff.
