Chihuahua and Dachshund Dogs Available for Adoption

Hershey was surrendered when her owner had to move and could not take her along. She came in in good overall condition, just carrying some extra weight that she would benefit from losing over time.
Hershey is calm, quiet, and very low maintenance. She keeps her kennel clean, rarely makes noise, and is happiest parked on a soft bed or right in your lap. She has no interest in toys and does not go looking for entertainment. She is content just being near her person and relaxing.
She can be a little shy in new environments and does not enjoy a lot of commotion. She may get nippy if someone tries to pick her up, likely because it is uncomfortable for her, so she needs a home that respects her space and lets her come to people on her own terms. Once she settles in, she is affectionate in her own quiet way.
Hershey loves treats and will always show up when food is involved. She would do best on a structured diet to help her get to a healthier weight, which should also improve her comfort.
She does not need another dog and is perfectly fine on her own. She has lived with kids before, but she would do best in a calm, low-traffic home without a lot going on. Hershey is an easy companion for someone who wants a quiet, steady presence and a dedicated lap dog.

Hershey is from Texas. They arrive in Minnesota on 05/16/2026 and will need to be picked up from the Ruff Start Rescue office in Princeton, MN between the hours of 9am and noon. Please plan for their arrival accordingly as we cannot accommodate pickups outside of this time frame. Since they haven't arrived yet, they are available exclusively through Ruff Start's Foster to Adopt (FTA) Program. Visit our Foster to Adopt Program page to learn more.
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This pet is currently undergoing treatment for heartworm disease. Activity must be restricted for several weeks during recovery. RSR will cover the full cost of treatment. RSR will provide heartworm preventatives until the retest is due. The adopter will be responsible for scheduling the retest and obtaining any follow-up prescriptions through their veterinarian.

The Chihuahua is a small breed famous for its confidence, loyalty, and big personality, despite its tiny size. Originating from Mexico, these dogs are known for their large, expressive eyes and alert, curious nature. Chihuahuas make excellent companions, forming strong bonds with their owners and displaying a protective nature. They come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, with both long and short coats, making them a diverse and adorable addition to any family.

The dachshund is a small dog breed known for its long body, short legs, and distinctive appearance. Originally bred for hunting badgers, these playful and loyal dogs make loving companions for families. Dachshunds come in three coat varieties smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired each with its own unique charm. Despite their size, dachshunds are bold and courageous, with a curious nature that can sometimes lead to mischief. Their endearing personality and adaptability make them popular pets worldwide.

Our vision is simple: We strive for a world where every companion animal has a safe and loving forever home...