Bringing home a new Chihuahua puppy is one of the most exciting milestones you’ll ever experience! These tiny companions bring massive amounts of love, but because of their small size and sensitive nature, the first seven days are crucial for helping them feel safe and secure.
To help you and your new best friend get off to a perfect start, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist for your first week together.
1. Prepare the “Tiny” Essentials
Before you pick up your puppy, ensure you have supplies specifically sized for a toy breed:
- A Secure Crate or Playpen: Chihuahuas love to burrow. A small crate with a soft blanket makes a perfect “den.”
- Extra-Small Harness & Leash: Their necks are delicate, so a harness is always safer than a collar for walks.
- High-Quality Puppy Food: Small breeds have fast metabolisms. Make sure you have the specific brand they’ve been eating to avoid tummy upsets.
- Tiny Toys: Ensure toys are small enough for them to carry but sturdy enough not to break.
2. Set Up a “Safe Zone”
The world is a big place when you only weigh a few pounds! Choose a quiet corner of your home to be the puppy’s home base.
- Place their bed, water bowl, and a few pee pads in this area.
- Limit their access to the rest of the house for the first 2-3 days to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed.
3. Establish a Routine Immediately
Consistency is the secret to a happy puppy. Start your schedule on Day One:
- Feeding: Feed them 3–4 small meals a day at the same times.
- Potty Breaks: Take them to their designated potty spot immediately after they wake up, eat, or play.
- Bedtime: Keep bedtime consistent to help them adjust to their new sleeping quarters.
4. The First Vet Visit
Schedule a wellness check-up within the first 48–72 hours. This ensures your puppy is healthy and gets them started on their vaccination and deworming schedule. It’s also a great time to ask your vet about the specific nutritional needs of Chihuahuas.
5. Focus on Bonding (But Give Them Space)
It’s tempting to hold your new puppy 24/7, but they also need time to decompress.
- Gentle Handling: Encourage children to sit on the floor when holding the puppy to prevent accidental drops.
- Quiet Time: If the puppy retreats to their crate, let them rest.
- Early Socialization: Start introducing them to the sights and sounds of your home—the TV, the vacuum, and different family members—in a calm, positive way.
Final Thought:
The first week is all about building trust. Be patient, give plenty of praise, and get ready for a lifetime of loyal companionship!
