Chihuahua puppies and dogs in Airdrie, Alberta

Location: Didsbury, AB// Age: Approx 5 years// Size: Small// Sex: Neutred Male// Energy level: Low// Vaccines: Up to date// Dogs: Yes// Cats: Yes// Kids: Kids 15+// Toto has been in long-term foster care with our rescue’s founder for about two years, and during that time he has made incredible progress. When he first arrived, his foster couldn’t even come within a few feet of him for the first six months. With patience, love, and positive reinforcement, Toto has slowly learned that the world—and people—can be safe. Toto is still a very fearful boy, especially when it comes to physical touch. Most of the time he prefers to keep his distance, but when he does choose to snuggle, he shows so much love. In those moments, you can tell just how badly he wants to be cuddled and cherished, even if it’s scary for him. Recently, he’s even started sitting on his foster mom’s lap once in a while when he’s feeling brave. These tender milestones are proof of how far he’s come. Toto has also started exploring his backyard—something he couldn’t do before. He is a very routine-oriented boy who thrives on predictability and the security of knowing what to expect each day. He doesn’t have a mean bone in his body—he’s incredibly sweet and gentle. New people don’t seem to scare him as long as they give him space; from a distance, he seems perfectly content having humans around. While Toto isn’t comfortable going for walks and finds the leash and outside world overwhelming, he has recently allowed his harness and leash to be put on slowly if needed for a car ride. Getting in the car is tough, but once he’s in his foster family’s car or camper, curled up in his bed, he’s happy to be part of the adventure. He no longer needs his crate, either—another big step forward! Most nights, he sleeps in bed with his foster parents or in his dog bed nearby. Toto eats a special dehydrated food that works best for him since many of his teeth have been removed. One of his most endearing quirks is his pre- and post-meal “happy dance”—a little wiggle and shuffle that never fails to make his foster family smile. Toto’s progress may be slow and steady, but he is a completely different dog today than he was two years ago. He may always be a work in progress, and it’s possible he will remain a forever Ruff Start resident—but he is still adoptable to the right home. Toto needs: An adopter with experience working with very fearful or previously feral dogs. A quiet, predictable home with a fully fenced yard. A slow, patient transition into his new home. Someone who understands that Toto may never be a typical snuggly dog, but who will celebrate every small step forward. Toto is good with other dogs, respectful cats, and would do best in a calm home with no young children. What he needs most is safety, stability, and unconditional love. If you have the heart and patience to continue Toto’s journey and give him a safe place to land, he just might be the perfect match for you. If you think your home would be a good match for Toto, please complete an adoption application on our website and one of our team members will be in touch with you shortly via email to arrange a phone interview.

Location: Blairemore, AB // Age: Approx: 2 years // Sex: Spayed female // Size: Approx 12 lbs // Energy level: High // Dogs: Yes, she needs another playful dog // Cats: Untested // Kids: Older, dog savvy kids // Meet Amber, a 12lb bundle of love and loyalty currently looking for her forever home in Blairmore, Alberta. Described by her foster family as a wonderful and affectionate companion, Amber is a "velvet velcro dog" who thrives on human connection. While she can be a bit shy when venturing out into the world, she is incredibly confident and happy once she settles into her home environment. One of her most endearing and unique traits is her habit of standing up on her back legs to let you hold her front paws—a sure sign that she is ready for some love and attention. Amber is a high-energy girl who absolutely lives to run and play. Her favorite pastime is racing back and forth in a large grassy yard, and she would be the perfect match for a family that enjoys staying active. Because of her zest for life and her desire for constant interaction, Amber should go to a home with another playful dog. She currently lives with a senior dog whom she "bugs" innocently to play, so she would truly thrive with a canine sibling of a similar age and energy level who can keep up with her zoomies and wrestling matches. In her daily life, Amber is a smart and motivated learner who already knows commands like "come," "quiet," and "no." She is doing fantastic with her house training and will stand by the door when she needs to go outside. While she is a total pro at car rides and enjoys her walks, she can be a bit skittish around loud traffic and will bark at new people when she is feeling scared. She is looking for a patient family who will give her the time she needs to decompress and feel safe. Once she knows she is part of the pack, she is a world-class snuggler who loves to spend her evenings tucked under a blanket right beside you. Amber handles her kennel well for a few hours at a time and is very content playing with toys in her pen. Because she is so high-energy and prone to running laps at top speed, she would do best in a home with older children who won't be accidentally knocked over by her enthusiasm. Amber is a gentle, kind, and beautiful soul who just wants a family to call her own. If you have a yard for racing and a spot on the couch for cuddling, Amber will reward you with a lifetime of unwavering loyalty. If you would like to meet Amber, please complete an application: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form

Location: Calgary, AB // Age: 6 and 7 Years Old // Sex: Spayed Female and Neutered Male // Dogs: Yes // Cats: Untested // Kids: 12+ // Meet Cera & Ducky 💕 The sweetest little married couple searching for their forever home! These two are completely devoted to one another and have perfected the art of being a bonded pair. They share blankets, exchange kisses, groom each other, nap together, and generally spend their days being outrageously cute. If one of them is nearby, the other isn't far behind. Their foster family describes them as "**100% married**" and honestly, we couldn't agree more. 🐾 After arriving in foster care, Cera and Ducky settled in almost immediately. Within a couple of days they had found all the best napping spots, learned the household routine, and made themselves right at home. They're easy-going, affectionate little dogs who are happiest simply being part of the family. ❤️ About Cera: Cera is a happy, affectionate little lady whose greatest passion in life might just be belly rubs. Approach her and she'll happily roll onto her back in anticipation, hoping you've come to admire her tummy and provide the attention she deserves. She's playful, loving, and always ready to hand out kisses. Cera loves her daily walks and is currently embracing her fitness journey with enthusiasm. She walks beautifully on leash and enjoys getting outside to explore the neighbourhood. She's also recently discovered her talent for neighbourhood watch duties and may let everyone know when someone passes by the house or fence. Despite occasionally giving another dog a dramatic side-eye when sharing a blanket, she's wonderfully social and has integrated beautifully with the resident dogs in her foster home. ❤️ About Ducky: Ducky is a gentle, sweet-natured little guy who approaches life with a calm attitude and a love of adventure. While Cera prefers to walk, Ducky enjoys cruising around in his stroller like the distinguished gentleman he is. His daily stroller rides are one of his favourite activities, and watching him happily take in the sights and smells of the world is guaranteed to make people smile. Don't let the stroller fool you, though. Ducky still enjoys exploring the yard, following his people around, and joining in on family activities. He loves being included and has no intention of missing out on the fun. Ducky has a suspected neurological condition, likely IVDD, which has caused him to lose some function in one of his back legs. He currently takes a mild pain medication and uses a stroller for walks, while being carried up and down stairs. Despite this, he doesn't act like he's in pain and continues to enjoy life to the fullest. He remains curious, happy, playful, and eager to explore. His future family should be prepared to monitor his mobility as he ages and continue any veterinary recommendations to help keep him comfortable and thriving. When Ducky wants a cuddle or needs a helping hand onto the couch, he'll let you know with the sweetest little chirp. It's impossible not to fall in love with him. 🏡 Living with Cera & Ducky: These two are wonderfully easy companions. ✔ Fully house trained ✔ Crate/pen trained ✔ Sleep quietly through the night together ✔ Comfortable being left alone for 4–5 hours ✔ Great in the car ✔ Easy to handle ✔ Affectionate without being clingy When left alone, they simply curl up together and nap until their people return. Their favourite activities include cuddling on soft blankets, spending time with their humans, relaxing in the yard, and heading out on nature walks (or stroller rides). They have done wonderfully with the resident dogs in their foster home. They happily share space, go for walks together, and often snuggle up alongside them. They are not tested with cats. Older, gentle, dog-savvy children would be best. Cera is comfortable around children, but Ducky prefers calm and respectful interactions. Due to his mobility challenges, a home without toddlers or grabby little hands is ideal. They are friendly and welcoming with new people. Ducky has a possible chicken allergy and requires a chicken-free diet. He also has a suspected neurological condition, likely IVDD, which affects one of his back legs. He currently takes a mild pain medication and uses a stroller for walks. While his mobility should be monitored as he ages, he continues to live a happy, active life and enjoys all the things that make dogs happy. 🐾 Both Ducky and Cera are currently working toward healthier weights, and their future family should be committed to helping them continue their wellness journey through regular exercise and appropriate portion management. 🌟 Their Perfect Home: Cera and Ducky are looking for a calm, loving home where they can continue enjoying life together. They don't need endless excitement or constant activity. What they really want is a cozy bed, daily walks, plenty of affection, and people who appreciate the joy of sharing life with two incredibly sweet little dogs. In return, you'll receive double the cuddles, double the kisses, double the companionship, and the privilege of witnessing one of the sweetest canine love stories we've ever seen. And as a bonus, you'll probably become known around the neighbourhood as "the people with the stroller Chihuahua"—a title Ducky wears with pride. 🐾 If you're ready to open your heart to a bonded pair that is equal parts adorable, affectionate, and easy-going, Cera and Ducky are ready to meet you. Because true love is hard to find. Luckily, these two already found each other. ❤️ If you're interested in meeting Cera and Ducky, please complete an application: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form

Location: Calgary, AB // Age: 6 and 7 Years Old // Sex: Spayed Female and Neutered Male // Dogs: Yes // Cats: Untested // Kids: 12+ // Meet Cera & Ducky 💕 The sweetest little married couple searching for their forever home! These two are completely devoted to one another and have perfected the art of being a bonded pair. They share blankets, exchange kisses, groom each other, nap together, and generally spend their days being outrageously cute. If one of them is nearby, the other isn't far behind. Their foster family describes them as "**100% married**" and honestly, we couldn't agree more. 🐾 After arriving in foster care, Cera and Ducky settled in almost immediately. Within a couple of days they had found all the best napping spots, learned the household routine, and made themselves right at home. They're easy-going, affectionate little dogs who are happiest simply being part of the family. ❤️ About Cera: Cera is a happy, affectionate little lady whose greatest passion in life might just be belly rubs. Approach her and she'll happily roll onto her back in anticipation, hoping you've come to admire her tummy and provide the attention she deserves. She's playful, loving, and always ready to hand out kisses. Cera loves her daily walks and is currently embracing her fitness journey with enthusiasm. She walks beautifully on leash and enjoys getting outside to explore the neighbourhood. She's also recently discovered her talent for neighbourhood watch duties and may let everyone know when someone passes by the house or fence. Despite occasionally giving another dog a dramatic side-eye when sharing a blanket, she's wonderfully social and has integrated beautifully with the resident dogs in her foster home. ❤️ About Ducky: Ducky is a gentle, sweet-natured little guy who approaches life with a calm attitude and a love of adventure. While Cera prefers to walk, Ducky enjoys cruising around in his stroller like the distinguished gentleman he is. His daily stroller rides are one of his favourite activities, and watching him happily take in the sights and smells of the world is guaranteed to make people smile. Don't let the stroller fool you, though. Ducky still enjoys exploring the yard, following his people around, and joining in on family activities. He loves being included and has no intention of missing out on the fun. Ducky has a suspected neurological condition, likely IVDD, which has caused him to lose some function in one of his back legs. He currently takes a mild pain medication and uses a stroller for walks, while being carried up and down stairs. Despite this, he doesn't act like he's in pain and continues to enjoy life to the fullest. He remains curious, happy, playful, and eager to explore. His future family should be prepared to monitor his mobility as he ages and continue any veterinary recommendations to help keep him comfortable and thriving. When Ducky wants a cuddle or needs a helping hand onto the couch, he'll let you know with the sweetest little chirp. It's impossible not to fall in love with him. 🏡 Living with Cera & Ducky: These two are wonderfully easy companions. ✔ Fully house trained ✔ Crate/pen trained ✔ Sleep quietly through the night together ✔ Comfortable being left alone for 4–5 hours ✔ Great in the car ✔ Easy to handle ✔ Affectionate without being clingy When left alone, they simply curl up together and nap until their people return. Their favourite activities include cuddling on soft blankets, spending time with their humans, relaxing in the yard, and heading out on nature walks (or stroller rides). They have done wonderfully with the resident dogs in their foster home. They happily share space, go for walks together, and often snuggle up alongside them. They are not tested with cats. Older, gentle, dog-savvy children would be best. Cera is comfortable around children, but Ducky prefers calm and respectful interactions. Due to his mobility challenges, a home without toddlers or grabby little hands is ideal. They are friendly and welcoming with new people. Ducky has a possible chicken allergy and requires a chicken-free diet. He also has a suspected neurological condition, likely IVDD, which affects one of his back legs. He currently takes a mild pain medication and uses a stroller for walks. While his mobility should be monitored as he ages, he continues to live a happy, active life and enjoys all the things that make dogs happy. 🐾 Both Ducky and Cera are currently working toward healthier weights, and their future family should be committed to helping them continue their wellness journey through regular exercise and appropriate portion management. 🌟 Their Perfect Home: Cera and Ducky are looking for a calm, loving home where they can continue enjoying life together. They don't need endless excitement or constant activity. What they really want is a cozy bed, daily walks, plenty of affection, and people who appreciate the joy of sharing life with two incredibly sweet little dogs. In return, you'll receive double the cuddles, double the kisses, double the companionship, and the privilege of witnessing one of the sweetest canine love stories we've ever seen. And as a bonus, you'll probably become known around the neighbourhood as "the people with the stroller Chihuahua"—a title Ducky wears with pride. 🐾 If you're ready to open your heart to a bonded pair that is equal parts adorable, affectionate, and easy-going, Cera and Ducky are ready to meet you. Because true love is hard to find. Luckily, these two already found each other. ❤️ If you're interested in meeting Cera and Ducky, please complete an application: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form

Location: Leduc, AB // Age: Approx 9 years old // Sex: Neutered male // Size: Approx 8lbs // Energy Level: Low/Medium // Dogs: Yes // Cats: Yes // Kids: Older kids // 🐾 Meet Nito — your tiny, devoted shadow. Nito is the definition of small but mighty. This sweet senior boy has seamlessly settled into foster life, proving that age is just a number. Whether it’s a leisurely 45-minute walk, a car ride adventure (bonus points if there’s a drive-thru involved 🍟), or curling up beside you on the couch, Nito is simply happiest being wherever you are. 🐾 He’s an easy, joyful companion on leash—no pulling, no fuss—just a friendly little gentleman who wants to say hello to everyone he meets. And while he may be tiny, he’s not afraid to stand up for himself if another dog isn’t polite. We love a confident king 👑 At home, Nito is affectionate, funny, and just the right amount of quirky. He adores being close to his person, happily snoozing beside you at night and soaking up every ounce of love during the day. He also fully embraces the spoiled life—think cozy beds, adorable outfits (which he loves wearing), and being carried like the royalty he clearly believes he is. 🐾 Nito gets along beautifully with people, dogs, cats and just about everyone he meets. Because of his small size, he would do best in a home with other small dogs who will respect his space—especially when he’s snuggled up with his favourite human. However he does love a good play buddy🐾 As a senior, Nito is looking for a home that truly understands and embraces the commitment of caring for an older dog. He has had an eye surgery and he requires eye drops minimum three times a day (some days up to six times!), so his future family will need a schedule that allows for consistent care. Regular veterinary check-ups and attentive monitoring will also be important to keep him feeling his best. There will be ongoing eye care for this sweet boy. In return, you’ll get a deeply loyal, loving companion who will make every single day brighter. 🐾 He’s still working on perfecting his housetraining (he’s getting there!) and may occasionally forget his manners in public spaces—but honestly, it just adds to his charm. 💛 Nito’s dream home? A calm, loving household where someone is home often and ready to dote on him endlessly. A family who will take him on walks, play with him and cherish these golden years, keep him cozy and cared for, and treat him like the incredibly special little soul he is. Because make no mistake—Nito isn’t just looking for a home. He’s looking for his person. And when he finds them… he’s not letting go. 🐾 If you're interested in learning more about Nito, please complete an application on our website: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form

Location: Olds, AB // Age: Approx 2 years // Sex: Spayed female // Energy level: Medium // Dogs: Yes, confident dogs // Cats: Yes, dog savvy cats // Kids: No // 🐾 Meet Penny – Tiny, Sensitive, and Deeply Devoted 🌶️ Penny isn’t your typical dog — and she’s not trying to be. She’s a one-of-a-kind, deeply sensitive little soul who is looking for something very specific: not just a home, but her person. This tiny chihuahua has a big personality, strong opinions, and an even bigger capacity for love — but that love is earned, not given freely. Penny is what we lovingly call a “relationship dog.” She doesn’t belong to everyone… but to the right person, she will be everything. 💕 🐾 Her Personality: Penny is a one-person dog through and through. She forms a deep bond with her chosen human and devotes herself completely — often ignoring everyone else. She has shown a clear preference for men and would likely thrive in a home with a male primary caregiver. 🐾 With her person, Penny is: • Affectionate and snuggly (on her terms) • Playful and engaging • Eager to please • Incredibly loyal 🐾She loves cozy spaces, curling up beside you, and playing little games with her human. She may even invite play with small, confident dogs who understand her communication style. 🐾 Understanding Penny Penny is not aggressive — she is sensitive and handling-aware. She communicates clearly using body language, and she thrives when people listen. She needs: • Choice and control in her interactions • Predictability in her environment • People who respect her boundaries 🐾When she feels safe, her defensive behaviours fade — because underneath it all is a dog who simply wants to feel secure. 🐾 Boundaries = Trust Penny does not enjoy being picked up, restrained, or handled unexpectedly. She is especially sensitive when resting or in her safe spaces. Her ideal person understands that: • Trust is built by letting her come to you • Affection happens on her timeline • Respecting her “no” is what earns her “yes”. 🐾Once that trust is there, her bond is incredibly deep and rewarding. 🐾 Her Needs & Routine: Penny thrives in a calm, low-pressure home with a predictable routine. She is: • Pee pad trained and very reliable • Quiet and settled when left alone • Comfortable free roaming in the home. 🐾She enjoys enrichment like lick mats, snuffle mats, and food puzzles, which help her relax and feel secure. While she’s still building confidence with harness and leash work, she currently prefers indoor play and gentle interaction over busy outdoor environments. 🐾 Medical Note: Penny has urinary crystals and will need to remain on a prescribed diet, along with consistent access to fresh water. This is easy to manage but important for her comfort and wellbeing. 🐾 Her Ideal Home: Penny is looking for a home that is: • Adult-only • Calm and quiet • Experienced with small, sensitive dogs • Respectful of a consent-based relationship 🐾She may do well with a small, confident dog — or she may thrive best as the center of someone’s world. 🐾 The Right Match: Penny isn’t for everyone — and that’s okay. She doesn’t want to be everyone’s dog. But for the person who understands her… The one who gives her space, earns her trust, and lets her choose them. 🐾 Penny will become a fiercely loyal, deeply loving companion who bonds in a way that is incredibly special and rare. 💘 She’s not just looking for a home. She’s looking for her person. 🐾 Interested in meeting Penny? Please apply here: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form