There are many organizations that focus on finding homes for dogs of specific breeds and their mixes. Small dog rescues usually specialize in dogs under 25 pounds, but rescues do differ from organization to organization. In big cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles, there are hundreds of small companion animals waiting for a loving home.
Table of Contents hide
1. SAVE A SMALL DOG RESCUE, USA
2. TINY PAWS SMALL DOG RESCUE, USA
3. TINY PAWS RESCUE, USA
4. CLIVE GLEN SMALL DOG RESCUE, UK
5. MINIMUTTS DOG RESCUE, UK
6. ANGELS SMALL PAWS DOG RESCUE, UK
Where is the best place to get a small dog?
What is the best website to adopt a dog?
What is the cutest smallest dog breed?
References
1. SAVE A SMALL DOG RESCUE, USA
Save A Small Dog is an amazing charity based in California, rescuing small dogs from high-kill shelters, as well as receiving surrendered and displaced dogs. They have a small rescue facility in Phelan, California and have a weekend partnership with PETCO.
The charity is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming small dogs and will ensure all dogs are spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, dewormed and behavior assessed before being matched with their future family.
The rescue also has the Guardian Angel Sponsorship program where you can make a small monthly donation to support the charity. All donations go towards vet treatment, food and microchipping.
- Website: saveasmalldogrescue.org
- Telephone: (760) 269-4519
- Postal Address: Save a Small Dong Rescue, PO Box 290462, Phelan, CA 92329
2. TINY PAWS SMALL DOG RESCUE, USA
Tiny Paws Small Dog Rescue is a non-profit foster-based organization located in Wisconsin. They do not use shelters to house their dogs. Although they began as a dog rescue, they also foster and rehome cats.
The rescue’s mission is to keep as many dogs as possible out of high-kill shelters where they are likely to be euthanized due to limited space. The rescue works tirelessly to find foster homes for surrendered or homeless dogs until they can be found in new homes.
Tiny Paws Small Dog Rescue uses Petfinder.com to post their dogs available for adoption, with the contact details of the dog’s foster home.
- Website: tinypawssmalldogrescue.org
- Telephone: (262) 496-9324
- Address: 2616 200th Ave, Union Grove, WI 53182
3. TINY PAWS RESCUE, USA
Not to be confused with Tiny Paws Small Dog Rescue, this Tiny Paws has foster homes in Central and Southern New Jersey, as well as Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester and Delaware counties. They take in small-breed dogs from high-kill shelters like ACCT Philadelphia and place them with loving foster homes until they are matched with their forever homes.
All dogs rescued by Tiny Paws are vet checked, neutered/spayed, vaccinated, microchipped and undergo a Heartworm test. They have a thorough adoption process including a home check, 2 personal references, meeting all people and pets in the household and a deed verification to confirm the owner of the property where the dog will live.
Tiny Paws does not receive any public funding and relies solely on fundraising and private donations. They also have 2 support programs; Gizzy’s Gift and Tiny Wings. Gizzy’s Gift provides permanent foster homes to elderly dogs with terminal illnesses or disabilities that make adoption difficult. Tiny Wings is a program for terminally ill shelter dogs who have only hours or days to live. These dogs are removed from shelters and placed in a lovely foster home so they can spend their remaining short time in a warm and safe environment.
Website: tprescue.org
NB: TINY PAWS does not have a physical address or phone number. All contact is via their website or Facebook page Tiny Paws Rescue NJ.
4. CLIVE GLEN SMALL DOG RESCUE, UK
4th on our list of small dog rescues is Clive Glen, a small dog rescue based in Walsall, England. They are a no-shelter organization, relying on a network of wonderful foster homes to care for the dogs until they are matched with their forever family.
Clive Glen deserves to be on our list due to their dedication to matching dogs to the perfect owners. All the dogs they rescue are vet checked, microchipped, neutered/spayed, vaccinated and treated for any underlying health conditions. Clive Glen has a very strict adoption application to ensure their dogs are rehomed to suitable adopters.
- Address: Landywood Lane, Walsall, United Kingdom, WS6 &AJ
- Telephone: 01785 302025 (answerphone service) 01922 415919 (Branch office)
- Website: cliveglen.wixsite.com/dogrescue
5. MINIMUTTS DOG RESCUE, UK
5th on our list is Minimutts Dog Rescue. This fantastic rescue has foster groups in Dorset and Hampshire in the South of England and Northumberland in the North.
All the dogs adopted from Minimutts are placed in foster homes until their forever family are found. The rescue does not use kennels or any of their dogs. They believe in maintaining a safe and healthy home environment to help their dogs adjust better when they reach their forever homes.
The volunteer staff at Minimutts spend time with every dog, evaluating their temperament and going through training for those dogs with behavioral issues. They perform home checks of all prospective adopters and their dogs can be viewed with their foster family.
Website: minimuttsdogrescue.co.uk
NB: MINIMUTTS do not have a branch office or phone number. All contact is made via their website.
6. ANGELS SMALL PAWS DOG RESCUE, UK
Angels may be one of the newest rescues on our list, but they definitely deserve their place here. The rescue was set up by Chrissy marshall in 2010 and they became a registered charity in 2017.
Like most of the other organizations on our list, Angels Small Paws Dog Rescue does not use kennels. All of their dogs are placed in foster homes until they have been vet checked, behavior assessed and matched with the perfect family.
They arrange regular events such as dog walks, auctions and raffles to raise funding for the charity. They also rely on public donations to cover the cost of vet fees, transportation costs and various admin/paperwork.
- Website: angelssmallpawsdogrescue.com
- Telephone: 07772 947 258
- Email: [emailprotected]
Where is the best place to get a small dog?
Shelters and rescue organizations: These organizations often have a variety of small dogs available for adoption, including purebreds and mixed breeds. Not only will you be giving a loving home to a dog in need, but many of these organizations also provide veterinary care and spay/neuter services.
Breed-specific rescues: If you have your heart set on a specific breed of small dog, breed-specific rescues may be a great option. These organizations focus on rescuing and rehoming dogs of a specific breed, and often have a good understanding of the breed’s characteristics and needs.
Responsible breeders: A responsible breeder will have a deep understanding of their chosen breed and be able to provide you with information about the dog’s health, temperament, and potential genetic issues. It’s important to research and visit the breeder before making a purchase to ensure they are providing healthy and well-socialized puppies.
Pet Stores: Some pet stores sell small dog breeds, but it’s important to make sure they are sourcing their puppies from reputable breeders. Some pet stores may acquire puppies from puppy mills which are unethical and provide unhealthy puppies.
Online Platforms: Online platforms like pet classifieds and social media groups are a place where you can find small dog breeds but it’s important to be cautious and be sure that you are buying from a reputable breeder. Research and ask for references before making a purchase.
Ultimately, the best place to get a small dog will depend on your personal preferences and needs. It’s important to thoroughly research any organization or breeder before bringing a new dog into your home and to ensure that they are providing healthy and well-socialized puppies.
What is the best website to adopt a dog?
Here are some potential options to consider when searching for the best website to adopt a dog:
- Petfinder: Petfinder is one of the largest and most popular pet adoption websites, with over 300,000 adoptable pets listed from over 14,000 animal shelters and rescue groups across North America. It allows you to search for adoptable pets based on your location and specific criteria, such as breed, size, and age.
- Adopt-a-Pet: Adopt-a-Pet is another well-known pet adoption website with a large database of adoptable pets from shelters and rescue groups across the United States. It also allows you to search for adoptable pets based on your location and specific criteria.
- The Shelter Pet Project: The Shelter Pet Project is a website run by the Humane Society of the United States and Maddie’s Fund. It allows you to search for adoptable pets from shelters and rescue groups across the United States and provides resources and information on how to adopt a pet responsibly.
- Local shelters and rescue groups: While national pet adoption websites can be helpful, it’s also important to consider looking for adoptable pets from local shelters and rescue groups. These organizations often have a more personal connection with the pets they have available for adoption, which can make the adoption process smoother and more successful.
- Social media: Many rescue groups and shelters now have a presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, which can be a great way to find adoptable pets in your area. Keep an eye out for local groups or hashtags, and you might find the perfect furry companion.
What is the cutest smallest dog breed?
Here are some of the most adorably small dog breeds that are perfect for those who want a pint-sized companion:
- Chihuahua: This breed is known for being the smallest dog in the world, weighing in at just 2 to 6 pounds. They have a distinctive apple-shaped head and large, expressive eyes that make them hard to resist.
- Yorkshire Terrier: Often referred to as “Yorkies,” this breed weighs in at 4 to 7 pounds and is a popular choice for those who want a small dog with a big personality. They are active and playful, making them great companions for families.
- Pomeranian: This fluffy, little ball of fur weighs in at 3 to 7 pounds and is known for being a friendly and outgoing breed. They are a popular choice for those who want a small dog that is easy to train and socialize.
- Papillon: This tiny breed weighs in at 4 to 9 pounds and is known for its distinctive butterfly-like ears. They are playful and energetic, making them a great choice for those who want a small dog with a lot of personalities.
- Shih Tzu: This breed weighs in at 9 to 16 pounds and is known for its long, silky hair that requires regular grooming. They are affectionate and loyal, making them a great choice for those who want a small dog that will be a loyal companion.
It’s important to note that size alone should not be the only factor when choosing a dog breed, as there are many other factors to consider such as personality, training, and exercise needs. It’s always better to research and find the breed that fits well with your lifestyle and family.
References
- 10 Free or Low Cost Nearby Schnauzer Rescue
- 5 Free or Low Cost Nearby Pit Bull Rescue
- 5 Free or Low Cost Nearby Poodle Rescue
- 5 Free or Low Cost Nearby Pug Rescue
- Best Dog Food for Older Small Dogs With Few Teeth
- 13 Best Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs
- Freshpet Dog Food Complaints: Is There a Problem…
- My Dog Ate a Grape: How Long After Eating Grapes…
FAQs
Where is the best place to get a small dog? ›
Consider adoption first
Your local animal shelter or rescue organization can help you find the right match for your family. There are also breed-specific rescue groups for every breed of dog, including "designer" or "hybrids" like labradoodles and puggles.
Some rescue dogs are free but often you will have to pay a small fee to cover their costs to the rescue center.
What time of year is best to adopt a dog? ›Spring is a great time to adopt a new dog because you can participate in more outdoor activities together. With nature back in bloom, you and your new puppy pal can establish a walking routine and discover exciting new sights and smells.
What dogs have the hardest time getting adopted? ›Pit bulls, pit bull mixes, black cats and black dogs are the most unlikely animals to be adopted from local shelters, according to those who run them. While stigma and negative perceptions may make pit bulls or pit bull mixes an undesirable adoption choice, overbreeding may also play a factor.
What should you not do when adopting a dog? ›- Mistake #1: Rushing Into It.
- Mistake #2: Overlooking Older Dogs.
- Mistake #3: Not Getting to Know the Dog.
- Mistake #4: Introducing Too Much Too Soon.
- Mistake #5: Forcing Familiarity.
- Mistake #6: Switching Diets Too Quickly.
- Mistake #7: Allowing Too Much Freedom.
One experienced dog trainer and expert on dog development suggested that the optimum age for a puppy to go to its new owner is about 8-to-9-weeks, when the pup is ready to develop a strong bond.
What is the best puppy to adopt? ›- Labrador Retriever. ...
- Poodle. ...
- Irish Setter. ...
- Vizsla. ...
- Newfoundland. ...
- Bull Terrier. ...
- Beagle. ...
- Bulldog. For a devoted, patient pup that's sure to act affectionately towards kids, the Bulldog is your go-to breed.
Labrador Retrievers
This is America's most popular dog, which, at times, leads to overbreeding by irresponsible breeders. It's unfortunate because they're loyal and loving, with more than enough attention to give to an entire family. Plus, they really love playing in the water.
The survey shows that of the people who adopted pets during the pandemic, 52% were male and 48% were female. Furthermore, the survey revealed that Millennials were the most likely to adopt during the pandemic, with 43% contributing to the fur baby boom.
Why are rescue dogs so expensive? ›Shelters and rescue groups typically cover initial veterinary costs, which may be high for an animal in poor health. They also pay for the animals' food, transportation and other expenses.
Is it a good idea to get a rescue dog? ›
Why should I adopt a rescue dog? The benefits of adopting a pet from a shelter are endless. When you adopt a dog from an animal shelter, you are saving a life. By adopting, you are not only providing a loving home for a deserving animal, but you are freeing up space and resources for another animal in need.
What is the difference between a rescue and shelter? ›What Is an Animal Rescue? Animal rescues are similar to animal shelters in that they protect unhoused animals. However, they're volunteer-run and supported because they don't get government funding. Instead of public buildings with kennels, rescues run out of private homes.
What is the happiest small dog? ›"Bichon Frise is a small dog with big and happy personality. Despite their cuddly looks, Bichons are lively and outgoing dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners. Their friendly personality and affection they show to their owners, made them into a popular show dog as well as a family companion."
What is the easiest small dog to keep? ›- Dachshund. This small dog breed is known first for bravery, and second for stubbornness. ...
- Boston Terrier. ...
- French Bulldog. ...
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. ...
- Maltese. ...
- Short-coat chihuahua.
Due to their small size and resilient health, the Chihuahua is the cheapest dog breed to own. Cost of ownership includes food requirements, grooming, veterinarian visits, medication, exercise needs, fencing or crating, price of initial purchase, training, and toys.
What dogs do vets not like? ›Pugs, French bulldogs, bulldogs
The No. 1 dog on the list isn't just one breed, but basically "any one flat-faced or brachycephalic dog breed," such as a French bulldog, bulldog, or pug. (Singer Lady Gaga owns two French bulldogs, who were dognapped and returned unharmed in 2021.)
The Pit Bull is the most common dog breed (along with pit bull breed mixes) found in shelters in the United States. They are also the most abused, neglected, and the most euthanized.
What's the most stubborn breed of dog? ›- #1 Akita. The 80 to 90-pound Akita is a gorgeous pooch, but it is the most stubborn, according to dog owners and experts. ...
- #2 Shiba Inu. ...
- #4 Jack Russell Terrier. ...
- #5 Beagle. ...
- #6 English Bulldog. ...
- #7 Dachshund. ...
- #8 Siberian Husky. ...
- #9 Chihuahua.
Whether you rescue an older dog or a puppy, a lot of dogs tend to follow the 3-3-3 rule when getting acclimated: 3 days of feeling overwhelmed and nervous. 3 weeks of settling in. 3 months of building trust and bonding with you.
What are red flags in rescue dogs? ›Three other notable red flags to look out for when you initially meet the dog include: Excessively energetic or anxious behavior. Growling or overly aggressive behavior. Missing or purposely withheld information in the dog's medical records.
What I wish I knew before adopting a dog? ›
- Research breeds before choosing a dog. ...
- Get ready to sacrifice your time. ...
- If you have kids, schedule a home visit before adopting or buying. ...
- They can cost you — a lot. ...
- Puppy training is tough stuff. ...
- They become a part of the family.
- Talk to the owner. Ask about appetite and eliminations. ...
- Observe the litter mates in action. Do they all play together or is there a quiet one that retreats to a corner? ...
- Survey their overall appearance. Do the puppies' coats shine? ...
- Watch them move. Do they hop around on all four legs?
A good mother should correct and encourage." But puppies don't stay with their mothers forever. If a puppy is separated too young, it can have issues, including separation anxiety. Even if it isn't taken away too young but is kept isolated from other animals, it will lose valuable socialization time.
Where is the best place to get a pet dog? ›- Lower back near the base of the tail.
- Belly and underside of the chest.
- Top of the head and neck.
- Under the chin.
- On the front of the neck.
- On the sides of the thighs.
The safest way to find a puppy is not to source your puppy through an online advertising website. Seek recommendations from your local vet, approach local dog clubs, look for established breeders with a proven history and good reputation, or consider getting your puppy or dog from a re-homing centre.
Where is it best to buy a dog? ›A charity or pet shelter
Rehoming centres and animal charities are always full to the rafters with pets needing new forever homes. As well as cats and dogs, most other types of animals including birds, reptiles and small caged animals can be found across the country at different rehoming centres.
There are both initial and recurring costs to consider. The main costs include vet care, food, grooming, boarding and preventative treatments. According to the ASPCA, small dogs have an estimated monthly cost of $43, medium dogs cost an average of $56 per month and large dogs cost an average of $87 monthly.
What is the number 1 dog to get? ›The Labrador Retriever holds the top spot, and this friendly favorite has been No. 1 since 1991. Below, find ranked annual lists of AKC-recognized breeds.
What do dogs love the most? ›They love to eat, sleep and run around outside. Interestingly, dogs have preferences unique to canines. Most people are not aware of these particular tastes. Dogs, like humans, enjoy certain activities, mostly related to their breed, instinct, temperament and personality.
Why do dogs lick you? ›Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them!
What is the best state to buy a dog? ›
Arizona ranks as the best state for pets, whereas Rhode Island ranks last.
Where do dogs like to be touched best? ›You should first pet the dog on the chest, shoulder or base of the neck rather than moving your hand over the top of their head. Make the initial petting slow and a little bit like a light massage. Avoid the base of the tail, under the chin and the back of the neck.
What I wish I knew before getting a dog? ›- Research breeds before choosing a dog. ...
- Get ready to sacrifice your time. ...
- If you have kids, schedule a home visit before adopting or buying. ...
- They can cost you — a lot. ...
- Puppy training is tough stuff. ...
- They become a part of the family.
So what is the ideal age for a puppy to be when you welcome him into your home? There are different opinions, as well as a variety of factors, that influence the answer to this question. However, most veterinarians and breeders would put the optimum age to bring home a puppy somewhere between 8-to-10 weeks old.
Which dog is cheaper to buy? ›#1: Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the cheapest dog breed because of how affordable it is to take care of them.
1 day for us, 24 hours of human time, is 7 days in dog time. So one day of dog will be 3.42 hours of human.
How old should a small dog live? ›The average lifespan for small dog breeds ranges from 10 to 15 years, with some breeds living as long as 18 years.
How long do dogs live? ›The Average Dog Lifespan
The average lifespan for dogs is between 10-13 years, though there is variability among breeds and sizes.