My name is Juliette, I'm 30 this year, and I got my first Chihuahua when I returned from South Korea where I was studying. Because of Covid, I had to come back to France, and to make this life change more bearable, I decided to adopt a little ball of fluff.
I wasn't a Chihuahua person at all, but by going to dog cafes in Seoul, I learned about the breed and came to appreciate it. I also had a blast shopping there once I'd reserved my first Chihuahua (Neyney) because it's truly a paradise for small dog accessories!
Later, thanks to Neyney, I was able to meet other dog owners through social media, and my passion truly ignited when I was able to share it with others. Then I adopted two retired breeding dogs through connections I made on Instagram. Tillie, my fourth little one, actually comes from a breeder I also discovered on Instagram.
The subsequent adoptions were made with more thought because I was really eager to discover the world of dog shows.
Find them on their Instagram: @verychichipompom
Why did you choose this particular breed?
First, for practical reasons, I was returning to France somewhat urgently and was going to live in a studio apartment. Also, their small size made traveling with them much easier. Then I discovered just how intelligent and determined they are. I have eight Chihuahuas, and each one has a very different physique and personality; that's what truly fascinates me about this breed.
How do you manage daily life with 9 dogs at home?
It's quite a challenge! It requires a lot of organization and adaptability. My whole life revolves around them, and I really do everything around them while trying not to neglect myself either. I recently moved to a different region so I could live in the countryside for them because I really wanted to give them the best life possible. They're very flexible because they've experienced all types of housing: apartments, village houses, and now a house with a garden right above a lake! It's truly luxurious, and you can't imagine the sense of accomplishment I feel when I see them running in the garden or swimming in the lake.
Does each Chihuahua have its own personality? Can you describe them for us in a few words?
Absolutely, as I said before, they each have a very distinct personality. Here they are in the order they arrived:
Neyney
He's my first and the most level-headed. He's very self-reliant and independent. He likes to live his life as he sees fit and he's a dog I trust completely.
Lala
She's my first retired breeding dog, whom I adopted at the age of 3. I had to learn to adapt to her personality and her past. It wasn't easy, especially since she's my second dog after a puppy, but it's been a wonderful experience.
However, adopting a dog that's a few years old is very different from adopting a puppy, so keep that in mind. That said, she's a well-adjusted, balanced, very affectionate, and above all, food-motivated little dog!
Irina
She is my second retiree and also Neyney's mother. Her arrival was very smooth and she is a quiet force. She quickly found her place.
Tillie
This dog is my shadow; I never thought it was possible to be so close to an animal. I discovered the joy of playing sports with my dog thanks to her, and she is unfailingly loyal. She has an unusual physique for a Chihuahua, but an extraordinary temperament.
Ughes
My one and only Spitz. A completely different approach, but a little ball of love. Thanks to him, I discovered dog shows and met some amazing people. A sweet boy I love to chill with at the lake because his favorite activity is splashing around in the water.
Ambrose
More commonly known as Ninou. He's my little temperamental one of the group, not to mention grumpy, haha. He was the cutest baby and the cuddliest, but as he grew up, he revealed his true colors! I love that kind of strong personality, even if it's not always easy with other dogs—nobody's perfect, after all!
Jude
My little show prodigy. A very self-assured dog who has never ceased to impress me since he was a puppy, truly the perfect physique and character for a Chihuahua in my opinion.
Ivy
She's my only intact female and my god, she's something else! I was only used to males, so it felt strange! In the end, she's the one who gets up to all sorts of mischief and drags the boys into the worst trouble.
Valentino
VAVA, the youngest of the group, was a real instant favorite. He's from the same line as Tillie and Ambrose, a line I truly adore.
Do you have a specific routine for their meals, walks, or care?
Honestly, no. Our lives have changed a lot in recent years, and because of that, or perhaps thanks to it, we don't have a routine. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it's allowed them to avoid being disrupted by changes in schedule, shifts, or holidays.
I do everything for their development, and adaptability has become our philosophy of life.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to adopt one or more Chihuahuas?
First, it's essential to seek information from the right people, as prejudices about Chihuahuas unfortunately die hard. You need to find a reputable breeder, with a passionate breeder who won't leave you facing the unknown alone and who will remain available should you have any questions or concerns.
Don't underestimate them; they have a tremendous need for exercise, both physical and mental. They are truly amazing little dogs.
THE IDEAL MEAL FOR A CHIHUAHUA?
the complete food from BF Petfood:
The Chihuahua is a small dog with a fast metabolism and often a delicate palate. It needs a diet that is tasty, digestible, and well-balanced.
BF Petfood's complete duck food ticks all the boxes: rich in meat (duck and chicken), gluten-free, highly palatable, digestible, and above all suitable for all profiles from puppies to nursing females.
