The First Twenty-Four Hours
If you are adopting a Chihuahua from an outstanding breed rescue or purchasing a former show dog from a breeder, you aren't likely to have many — if any — surprises when you bring your new adult dog home.
If, however, you are adopting a Chi that you really don't know much about, you should anticipate potential challenges. Knowing what to expect and exactly how to respond when issues arise is key in helping your adopted Chi continue to move forward in the right direction. A few training skills and a lot of patience can help even a problem child become an ideal companion.
Just as with a puppy, the first day your rescued Chihuahua comes home is typically the most stressful. Everything and everyone is strange and new. A bolder Chi may walk into your home, look around, figure out which couch is the plushest and settle right in. Often, these are the older Chihuahuas who have experienced nothing but a wonderful life all their years.
Senior Chis are often overlooked at shelters and rescues because potential adopters fear that they won't have as long to enjoy these dogs. Senior Chis, however, have shown their robust health by making it to their senior years. These are also the dogs that fit most easily into new households, which is a huge benefit.
A dog that was bold and playful at the foster home may take one step into your home and try to scramble back out the door. She may be terrified of everything she sees and start trembling, freeze in place, or pancake (the Chi's way of flattening themselves to avoid predators).
Most likely, however, you will be adopting a dog that falls somewhere between the two extremes. This is the dog that has limited experience with a family but is ready and willing to make your house her home. She's ready for a lifetime bond, but because of her past experiences and limited time with you, she's not quite ready to completely put her life in your hands and trust you implicitly. Trust takes time.
