Stewart

Available

8 years and up|Chihuahua|Male|Small|Foster, RI

💪 Independent🐾 Friendly🙈 Shy

Stewart

Available

8 years and up|Chihuahua|Male|Small|Foster, RI

💪 Independent🐾 Friendly🙈 Shy

Stewart is a senior, small Chihuahua living in Foster, RI, with a short apricot and cream coat. He was recently neutered and is up to date on his vaccinations. Stewart is not house trained and has limited vision, being blind in one eye and partially sighted in the other.

About Stewart

Stewart is winding down after a long life and looking for a place to retire comfortably. At somewhere between 10 and 12 years old, this small Chihuahua weighs about 9 pounds and has learned to do things on his own terms. Stewart can be wary of new people and doesn’t appreciate sudden moves or forced affection, tending to react with a nip or showing his teeth as a way to ask for space. When he first arrived, Stewart kept to himself, usually curled up along the wall and quietly watching everything. With time, he's started to relax, explore the room, and even sleep closer to the other dogs. Lately, he’s become more comfortable around people and enjoys joining in activities like spending time outside or hanging out in the kitchen for treats. Stewart has made noticeable progress but will likely always need a patient environment where his space and pace are respected. He is blind in his right eye and has limited sight in his left. He was recently neutered, had dental work, and his liver values—which were elevated when he arrived—are now back to normal. Stewart is up to date on his vaccinations and recently had comprehensive blood work. They are ready to love you; are you ready to apply?

Questions about Stewart

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Chihuahuas like Stewart do best in calm, stable homes where their independence and need for space are respected. Small, quiet households are often ideal.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Chihuahuas are low-maintenance when it comes to outdoor space. Stewart would be content with short walks and a secure yard or patio.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Because Stewart is a senior Chihuahua who values his independence, he will do best in a home without young children, as he reacts strongly to sudden movements or forced affection.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Chihuahuas can be challenging for first-time owners, especially if they're sensitive like Stewart. He would benefit from someone with experience in handling shy or fearful dogs.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Stewart gets along with other dogs, especially after he's had time to settle in. Chihuahuas can usually coexist well with calm canine companions.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Chihuahuas often adapt well to living with cats, as long as introductions are slow. Stewart’s independent nature means he likely won’t bother feline family members.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Chihuahuas like Stewart are usually fine with small animals if supervised, though their prey drive is generally low compared to larger breeds.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Stewart is wary of strangers and tends to need a slow introduction. Most Chihuahuas take time to warm up and can be reserved or fearful at first.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Stewart is fairly independent, but as a senior Chihuahua, he shouldn’t be left alone for extended periods. Four to six hours at a time is usually manageable if he’s comfortable.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Chihuahuas respond best to gentle, consistent training and patience. Stewart is not house trained, so ongoing work will be needed in this area.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest breeds, with Stewart weighing around 9 pounds, which is typical for his kind.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Chihuahuas often live long lives, with many reaching 14 to 17 years old. Stewart, at 10-12 years, still has good years left.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Chihuahuas with short coats like Stewart shed minimally, making them relatively easy to care for in terms of grooming.