Chihuahuas: Input...UPDATE!!

[verity]

Several people have suggested Cavalier King Charles Spaniels --

This breed is being over-bred due to its sudden rise in popularity --

If you want the true Cavalier temperament, don't get one fo the "crosses" that are being done to cut down on the shedding -- cute dogs but most inherit the personality of the 'out-cross' dog and not the Cavalier --

Contact some breeders to see if there are 'retirees' available --

Kudos to you for 'thinking it through' ---

As an active member of Cavalier and Japanese Chin Rescue groups, I can tell you that many people go for 'get the cute puppy' and don't think about grooming, health, or temperament issues --

Good luck! it will be a fortunate dog who comes to live with you --

 

[schellie69]

I think that the 2 dogs would be great they know each other and it will help with the move I would also recommend that if the lady does decide that you get the dogs. That you go over to walk them a few times that way they are familiar with you. I would also stay away from dachshund's I have a mix one and he is the most yappy dog I have he drives me crazy. But I do love him. I hope you find the dogs of your dreams.

 

[Barred Rocks forever]

i think before making a decision i would want to meet the dogs first by the way my favorite lap dog would be the brussels griffon like pugs but on the smaller side

 

[BoldogKennel]

Kudos to you for 'thinking it through' ---

As an active member of Cavalier and Japanese Chin Rescue groups, I can tell you that many people go for 'get the cute puppy' and don't think about grooming, health, or temperament issues --

I wanted to add kudos as well for thinking it through! So few people do anymore. It so awesome when a person matches up with the PERFECT dog! : ) I researched Patterdales and got one sight unseen from a friend of a friend across the country (who was a serious hunter/breeder) and I have to say that NO little breed could have matched my needs so closely, nor could there have ever been a smarter,better little girl inthe WHOLE WORLD! (She's 10 years old now).

Good luck!​

 

[Laurajean]

Thanks to all who understand my thinking this through so much. I may lose the dogs as a result of my thinking, but so be it if that happens. I'm just taking a lot of time to imagine me with two dogs. Picturing everything from walks to bathroom breaks to fences.... just running it all through my head, wanting to be sure if I take them on it will be a forever home. The poor sweet things, it will be tough enough for them to lose their owner through death. The owners brother said they are sensing it and not wanting to leave her side. It's very sad. It's important for me that this is a good decision for them and me.

 

[bluebird]

I groomed dogs for 32 years. I have met and groomed just about every breed of dog out there. There are good and bad dogs in every breed! People, environment, and poor breeding ethics make bad dogs. I have met many a wonderful and friendly Chihuahuas and even Pit Bulls! I personally love Chihuahuas. I have a 7 year old female who loves people and children. She is great with my grandkids. Like with any and all puppies, you need to socialize them a lot, take them everywhere with you. Pet supply stores and outdoor cafes are great places for this...or anywhere pets are allowed. I don't believe toy breeds are any harder to house break than any other breeds. You have to be commited to getting it done. It's all about being patient and consistant... so many toy breed owners are not. I also believe in paper training the toy breeds first then work on going outside. Mine does both. And she does scratch at the door when she prefers to go outside. If the weather is really crappy, she uses paper. Small dog, small bladder. I can be gone for hours running errands or out to dinner and not have to worry about rushing home because my little girl needs to go out. Works for me. Like anything else, yappy barking is a 'lack of training' issue. Just don't allow it. My Chihuahua is a large one, 8lbs, but I searched out a larger one so she could keep up with DH and I when out for a long walk or hike in the woods... and she does. She also fits comfortably in my lap, under my arm, in a large tote, in the pet carrier attached to my bicycle and in my kayak.

Raising a puppy can be a PITA but gives "YOU" the opportunity to raise the "perfect companion" welcome just about anywhere. Rescues/shelters are great...I love rescues/shelters. They can be very helpful in matching you with the right pooch. Just make sure that whomever you get your pooch from is willing to take him/her back if it isn't working out after a few weeks.

Please don't let the negative remarks about Chihuahuas make you rule them out. Keep an open mind. There are bad temperments and nuisence barkers IN EVERY BREED. Use commen sense and reward 'good' behavior.

And it always helps if you "think like a dog"!

Good luck in your seach!

 

[Domestic_goddess]

Quote:
I apprecaite this comment and I couldn't agree more!

 

[Rammy]

Quote:
I AM NOT getting a St. Bernard. The visual of me with a St. Bernard in this small cottage is beyond laughable. The poor thing would try and turn around in the living room and send my clutter flying!

And that's not even imagining me trying to WALK it!

I know, I know, they're gentle giants.... but NO!

You never saw the movie Cujo, huh?


Rammy

 

[Barred Rocks forever]

any updates ?