Just because your Chihuahua is easily carried, cute, and adored by all those who see her does not mean that owning a Chi gives you carte blanche when it comes to traveling. Before you take off for a day of shopping or to dine with a friend, find out whether the locations you are going to allow dogs. Be forewarned: Most do not. Those boutiques, stores, and cafes that do allow dogs are few and far between, but they are growing in popularity.

When taking your Chihuahua with you when you're running around town, here are some good rules to live by that will also serve to help keep dogs welcome:

• Don't think you can sneak your Chi in with you. If you get caught, and you will, the store has the right to prevent you from shopping there again — permanently. (It has happened.)

• Make sure your dog has good manners and is in control at all times.

• Know your dog's limits. If large crowds scare her, don't overwhelm her with a trip to a crowded park.

• Don't say “yes” when you mean “no.” Control what kind of contact your Chihuahua has and who she has it with. People will want to pet the cute doggie, but if you know your Chi snaps, warn them off (nicely).

• Clean up after your Chihuahua. Don't run to the next aisle and pretend it wasn't your dog.

• Even if you plan on keeping your Chi in an over-the-shoulder pet carrier, always carry a leash with you.

• Bring a portable, foldable water bowl.

• Don't leave your Chihuahua alone in the car even for a second. You may be delayed while shopping, and the car will heat up much more quickly than you anticipated, making your beloved Chi suffer or die.

• Be careful how wide you crack the window if your Chi is loose in the car. A Chihuahua can escape from any vehicle if she can squeeze her head through the opening.

A lot of success in taking your Chihuahua with you on a daily basis hinges on your common sense and good manners — on both your part and your dog's. If your Chihuahua is well trained, well socialized, and comfortable in new surroundings, and if you are cognizant of being a good dog owner, cleaning up after your dog and not trying to break the rules by toting your Chi along, you and your dog will not only be a welcome sight, but you'll also enjoy your outings that much more.