I have to admit, I’m really feeling the creativity lately. After the relaunch and rebranding of my site, Rescue in Style has become an outlet I believe in. I also believe in ending sentences with prepositions and nobody can stop me now.
Before I get to the breed spotlight though, I wanted to highlight something else pretty awesome. I’ve told you how badass ALIVE is before, but I’m even more convinced now. They were part of the rescue efforts that took place right after Hurricane Harvey. A group of volunteers and Kristen, the founder, drove down and delivered supplies to a local shelter. Then they ran errands and bought necessary items not only for animals, but for people too. They dropped off an entire load of diapers and other resources to a church and continued to drive to Costco to buy and donate whatever they could. They then found some four-legged friends, and packed them up, and brought them to Chicago to find their forever homes. So, there you have it. ALIVE rescue, caring for people and animals.
To support ALIVE’s mission, you can donate here or gift them items off their wish list. If you’d rather show support by attending events, well there’s plenty of those too! This Saturday, November 11, is their Lucky for Life Gala, purchase tickets here. Finally, I’ve partnered with Joriki Yoga for a dog-friendly yoga class. All the proceeds from the event will be donated to ALIVE rescue so grab your tickets before they’re gone!
Okay, I’ve been excited about this post for sometime because it’s another breed spotlight. I think these posts are always fun to write and research because I inevitably learn something new. The reason I decided to feature these little guys is that they are commonly found in shelters. They are the second most common dogs in shelters behind Pit Bull type dogs.
While it’s hard to know the exact reason why this is the case, there’s been a huge upswing in the breed’s popularity. The Taco Bell Dog, the Paris Hilton era and Legally Blond all launched this teeny pup into the spotlight. People see a cute dog on TV and they want it not knowing much about the breed itself. People buy Chihuahuas because they’re so tiny only to realize how much work these pint-sized pups actually are. While they’re small, they still need the same training as larger dogs which they often don’t receive. Sadly, owners will then surrender or abandon these dogs which is how they end up in shelters.
There is good news though since Chihuahuas are small, it can be slightly easier to adopt them out.
So without further ado, here are the top ten characteristics of the breed. Please note these are general characteristics of the breed that should not be applied to every Chihuahua.
1. Size – This one might be obvious but they average between two to six pounds. This is about 1/3 the size of Cheese. Their size can be advantageous because they can be easily transported and it doesn’t take a whole lot to feed them.
2. Personality – Oh boy. For what they lack in size, they more than make up for in personality. Chihuahuas are known to be sassy and lively. Always telling you what they do and do not want.
3. Loyal – During my research, this was one of the characteristics that came up often. They tend to choose their people and keep everyone else at bay making them extremely loyal.
4. Guard Dogs – You may laugh because of their size, but their loyalty is what also makes them a top guard dog. While they may not scare people away, they’ll certainly act as an alarm.
5. Talkative – This also goes hand in hand with their guard dog abilities. Chihuahuas are not known to be quiet dogs. They are alert and tend to bark which can be an annoyance to some owners if they’re not trained properly.
6. Low Exercise Needs – I consider this a positive, so if you’re looking for a running partner, you won’t find it here. While they are high in energy, they don’t need tons of exercise like some other dogs (read: labradors) so a good 25-minute walk should do it.
7. Minimal Grooming – While both the long and smooth coat Chihuahuas shed, because they’re so small, there’s not a ton of hair to shed. A simple daily brush is all they require.
8. Variety – I’ve seen a good amount of these tiny pups and each one is different from the next. Both physically and personality wise. Chihuahuas have a wide range of coat colors and types making them each unique. Add a big personality to the mix and you’ve got yourself a one-of-a-kind pup.
9. Warm Weather Friends – This can be a pro or con depending on what sort of weather you enjoy, but Chihuahuas are all about that warmth.
10. Intelligent – These little dogs might have small brains, but they’re smart by nature. They enjoy challenges and mental stimulation and can learn quickly with proper training.
Chihuahuas always make me laugh with their tiny little bodies and big attitudes. With ears the size of their body, they’re hard not to love.
To adopt a Chihuahua, search for the breed on PetFinder, contact your local shelter, or reach out to any of the following rescues:
Have you ever owned or thought about adopting a Chihuahua? What’s your favorite breed? Let me know in the comments below!
THE RESCUES:
When I got to ALIVE Rescue, I arrived just in time to see four Chihuahuas hop out of a car one by one. This was perhaps one of the funniest and cutest moments so far in my writing journey. The little pups just kept coming! I learned from the volunteer that two of the pups were alumni and the other two are available for adoption. Lucky me (and you!) because these two are both gems.
Flo Jo – Remember when I talked about personality? Yeah, this girl has that. Determined to be the leader of the group, Flo Jo walked ahead of everyone with a little pep in her step. She was eager to be held and loved and wanted all your attention. She also gave kisses and snuggled right into me for a little photoshoot. She’s good with other dogs, cats and kids so basically, she’s perfect. For more information about Flo Jo, click here.
Guacamole – Yes, we all know Guacamole is extra, and this little dude is no exception. He’s extra sweet and while he takes a minute to warm up to you, it’s because he’s had a tough start. He is actually one of the Hurricane Harvey dogs and is patiently waiting for his happily ever after. He loves to be held and would do well in a home with another dog. For more information about Guacamole, click here.
THE RUNWAY:
Who says fall has to be dark colors? Not me. I actually wore this outfit for my engagement photos last fall and still love to rock this look. The creams along with the crisp fall colors just work for me. Shop the look below!
xoxo,
Christine
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