What to look for when purchasing a Chihuahua
Don't Be Fooled – Common Mistakes Puppy Buyers Make .
There are many myths about Chihuahuas. Don't be fooled by the newspaper, internet or pet store. Be sure to do your homework and know where you are purchasing your puppy from. Beware of these common mistakes:
- BE PATIENT! Everyone gets excited when they make the decision to get a new puppy, but please be patient and educate yourself on the breed and breeders. If you find a breeder that you are comfortable with, work with them to get just the right dog for you .
- Do your homework! The best place to start is with the Chihuahua Club of America.
- Cheaper is not always better! There will be a difference between the $300 puppy in the paper and the $1,000 one from a reputable breeder. Good breeders aim to improve the breed, have sound temperaments, and guarantee health. Puppies are a lot of work and the first 3 months
of their life are some of the most critical times for shaping temperament.
- Please stay away from pet stores and big internet operations! Pet stores and the large internet operations help promote bad breeding and puppy mills. You have no way to know where your puppy came from, what the parents are like, if there were any health issues in the lines, etc....
- There are no such things as “Teacup”, “Deer” or “Apple” Chihuahuas. There is only a Chihuahua. Don’t be tricked into paying more for a “rare” Chihuahua. Review the Chihuahua standard so you have an idea of what a good breeder should be breeding for.
- Ask to see the parents. If the breeder cannot, or will not, show you one of the parents you should be careful. Ask about pedigrees, temperaments, and general health. A good breeder will take the time to discuss all of these topics with you and answer any questions that you may have.
- Go with your gut feeling. If you sense that something may not be right, it probably is not!