Once people have decided to purchase or adopt a specific breed of dog, it is not uncommon for them to immediately start looking at litters of puppies. Often, however, this headlong jump into searching for a Chi winds up with the individual making an impulsive, emotional choice.

There's nothing necessarily wrong with choosing the puppy or adult that strikes your fancy and has won your heart over virtually upon sight. Appearance and an emotional connection are certainly two factors that are important when selecting a canine companion. But just as with personal relationships that are built on love at first sight, it's often only a matter of time before you realize that the person who's swept you off your feet (or, in this case, the Chihuahua that wriggled into your heart) is neither what you thought she was nor what you were really looking for in the first place.

When choosing a Chihuahua, the more you can focus your search before you look at that first puppy or dog, the better your chances of getting what you want. For example, by simply deciding whether you want an apple-headed Chihuahua with correct conformation or the “can't-take-it-in-the-show-ring-but-they're-still-pretty-cute” deer-type Chihuahua, you will have narrowed your search substantially.

Then there are the issues of size, color, and markings, coat type, and sex (if it matters whether you get a boy or girl). Are you absolutely set on purchasing a puppy, or would you consider a slightly more mature model? Developing a good understanding of the personal preferences you have for your new dog makes you more likely to find precisely the Chi you are looking for and one that will meet (and exceed) all of your expectations.