Gracie *Arriving 9/12* D12286 - Chihuahua and Miniature Dachshund Dog for Adoption

Gracie came into rescue in Texas with her puppies, and now that her momma duties are behind her, she's ready to discover what it means to simply be a spoiled, loved, and cherished dog.
Gracie is a sweet, shy, low-energy girl who is still coming out of her shell. She's a pretty easygoing dog, but she needs a patient family who will give her the time and space to settle in, build confidence, and discover her personality at her own pace.
She does well with other dogs, including playful dogs. Gracie doesn't really play yet herself, but she seems comfortable being around dogs who do. As she becomes more confident and learns what it means to just be a dog, we suspect she may discover that playing is pretty fun, too! She does not need another dog in her home, but a calm, friendly canine companion could be a nice influence for her.
Gracie has not been exposed to cats, so we don't yet know how she would feel about feline roommates. She does well with older, respectful children who understand that a shy dog may need a little time to warm up.
She is good in her crate and is slowly learning what that funny leash thing is all about. Like so many dogs who haven't had much experience as pets, Gracie is still learning some of the basics, and she's been so brave, learning to open up and trust her people.
We expect that as Gracie settles in and feels safe, more and more of her personality will come out. There may be a silly, playful, affectionate girl hiding in there who just needs the opportunity to blossom.
For now, Gracie is looking for a quiet, patient home where she can learn, grow, and finally experience the life she deserves. She was a mom. Now it's Gracie's turn to be someone's baby.

Gracie is from Texas. They arrive in Minnesota on 09/12/2026 and will need to be picked up from the Ruff Start Rescue office in Princeton, MN between the hours of 8:30 and 11:30am. 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. Once they get to Minnesota, they might require further veterinary care. Ruff Start's veterinary suite is located in Princeton, MN, and, as the foster, you will be required to transport your dog to and from these vetting appointments.

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 miniature dachshund is a small breed known for its elongated body and short legs, originating from Germany. These dogs are playful, affectionate, and courageous, with a strong hunting instinct. They are loyal companions and can adapt well to various living situations, making them popular family pets. Despite their size, miniature dachshunds are outgoing and curious, always eager to explore their surroundings. Regular exercise and proper weight management are essential for maintaining their overall health and well being.

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