The Essentials


  1. Food:
    I highly recommend the brand "Avoderm" because it is small, easy on their stomachs, all natural, and promotes a healthy coat
  2. Food Dishes:
    I actually went to the cat section and found two small bowls. Depending on how small your chihuahuas are (mine are 4lbs.) you need to make sure to buy ones that they can reach! You may have to buy a new set when they are full grown.
  3. Blanket:
    Every chihuahua needs his/her own place to snuggle up. Especially if you do not plan on allowing your chihuahua to sleep with you, you need to buy your pup a blanket!
  4. Collar:
    If your little one is a chewer, you may want to consider buying a leather collar. Also, make sure that it fits well. So check size, fit it around the dog's neck and make sure that one of your fingers can fit comfortably between the dog's neck and the collar.
  5. Doggy Tag:
    This is often a mistake of new owners. Your new puppy does not know where he/she is so you want to buy a doggy tag (or have a micro chip inserted at the vet's) put on his collar with your phone number and address.
  6. Harness:
    Because of their fragile throats and necks you will need to buy a harness for your chihuahua.
  7. Leash:
    Make sure that the opening is small enough to fit into the harness you bought.
  8. Clothes:
    Especially if your chihuahua is short-haired, he/she will NEED clothes. The rule is: if you are cold, he/she is probably too. Chihuahuas tend to get cold so even in the summer it is a good idea to have a t-shirt for little one.
  9. A Vet:
    Every puppy (especially if he/she has not completed his shots) needs a doctor. If you are on a budget, SHOP AROUND--vet prices vary tremendously. Also be sure to ask if your chihuahua has any knee problems that need to be addressed since this is common in the chihuahua breed.
  10. Newspaper:
    You will need lots of newspaper until your pup becomes potty trained! Newspaper works just as well as potty pads and is much cheaper! You can also hear when your pup goes on the newspaper and you can reward him/her for it!

Here is a list of what I have found my chihuahua wants MOST:


  1. Treats:
    Treats can be tricky. You need to consider how you want to train your dog (I used the clicker method) and how sensitive his/her stomach is. You'll find many different kinds at the grocery store so do some research before choosing--it really depends on your dog. I use organic carrots. Chihuahus love carrots--plus they are healthy and promote dental health!
  2. Bones:
    Bones can be a great way to keep your chihuahua entertained while you are at work or running errands. For chihuahuas, you want to make sure that the bones are small enough. If you have light carpet, you also want to make sure that they are not basted heavily--they will stain!
  3. Tooth brush:
    Yep--I said it. Dogs need their teeth brushed too. If you want to save money at the vet's (if your pup's teeth become decayed he/her will need the tooth removed which can be a bit pricey) you are going to want to brush his/her teeth 2-3 times a week. You may also consider buying a bulk container of "greenies" which you can find at your local grocery or pet store.
  4. Heat Pad:
    As I said earlier, Chihuahuas love to be warm! Buying a small heat pad at Target or Bed, Bath, & Beyond make great beds for these little animals. They will love you for it!
  5. A car seat:
    Many chihuahuas are terrified of riding in cars, but many also love tagging along with their owners! If you are going to take your chihuahua on a car ride it is always better being safe than sorry--buy a dog seat!
  6. Toys:
    Chihuahuas are very playful dogs and enjoy playing with toys. Especially if you are going to be working full-time,you will want to make sure that your dog has plenty of toys. I recommend small furry toys that resemble real animals. Most chihuahuas are not fond of rubber toys. Small tennis balls work great as well as cat toys!
  7. Attention:
    Chihuahuas want petting, kissing, hugging, and all of its owner's attention!