Gilbert, AZ

Small Dogs for Adoption in Gilbert, AZ: 15 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Gilbert, AZ

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Gilbert have 15 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 15, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Every dog on this page is listed by their rescue as small, with breeds like Chihuahua, Dachshund and Terrier.

1. Relish

Puppy · Male · Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed · 22 mi from Gilbert

Hi! My name is Relish and I am from the Pickles litter. My siblings and I were transferred to ATR by some Rescue friends after an accidental litter! Now, we have a safe and loving place to stay until we find our furever home! I will be available on 11/8/26, I can’t wait to meet you!Think we might be a perfect match? Visit adoptapup.as.me to schedule your appointment. I can't wait to find my forever family!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs

2. Gherkin

Puppy · Male · Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed · 22 mi from Gilbert

Hi! My name is Gherkin and I am from the Pickles litter. My siblings and I were transferred to ATR by some Rescue friends after an accidental litter! Now, we have a safe and loving place to stay until we find our furever home! I will be available on 11/8, I can’t wait to meet you!Think we might be a perfect match? Visit adoptapup.as.me to schedule your appointment. I can't wait to find my forever family!

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Gherkin fromAlmost There: A Mom + Pups RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Nov 3

3. Buster

Puppy (8 months) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 10 mi from Gilbert

MEET BUSTER!!! Buster is still a very young puppy, close to a year old. He has puppy energy and puppy playfulness. As such, he will do best in a highly active home and with a family familiar with continuing regular puppy training skills. He is smart and learns quickly, he's already housebroken and crate trained, AND knows how to use the doggy door.

Buster loves other dogs and would REALLY MOST LIKE another super playful dog to play with! He's great with all people, and absolutely adores kids. A home with children would be ideal for him.

Read more about Buster

He is a good leash walker and a decent car rider! He's still learning basic obedience commands so he will need to have continuing puppy obedience.

Buster is goofy and funny and LOVES belly rubs. He is a great "people" dog, and is happiest cuddling with you on the couch.

If you are interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website for our online application www.underdogaz.com

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Buster fromUnderdog Rescue of Arizona, LLCChandler, Az · listed Oct 22

4. Mira

Adult (1 year 1 month) · Female · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

DOLLY & MIRA — TWO LITTLE HEARTS WAITING TO FEEL SAFE

Some dogs know what it feels like to have a home, but they’ve never truly experienced what it means to be loved. Dolly and Mira are two of those little souls.

These beautiful sisters were part of a group of three puppies, but one of their sisters was given away. Dolly and Mira had an owner from the time they were puppies, yet they didn't receive the attention, time, socialization, and training they needed to grow into confident, secure dogs.

Read more about Mira

Born in September 2025, these little girls are still so young. They should be experiencing the world with confidence, learning new things, playing, and feeling safe in the arms of the people who love them. Instead, they're now learning that the world doesn't have to be so scary.

Dolly and Mira are in a new foster home, and right now, they're frightened and unsure of their surroundings. But slowly, little by little, they're beginning to relax. They're starting to realize that life can be different — that gentle hands, kind voices, patience, and love are possible. ❤️

They're learning the basics, including potty training and adjusting to crate training. They still have a lot to learn, and they'll need a family who understands that progress may take time. There may be setbacks, nervous moments, and days when they need extra reassurance.

But please don't overlook them because they're scared.

These girls aren't broken. They aren't bad dogs. They're simply learning things that should have been taught to them from the beginning. They need someone willing to see their potential rather than their fears.

Meet Dolly & Mira
❤️ Born September 2025
Chiweenies (Dachshund/Chihuahua mixes)
Learning potty training and crate training
Looking for a patient, loving family committed to helping them build confidence

We would love for these sisters to find a home together, if possible. After losing the third member of their little trio and going through so many changes, there is something special about the comfort they may find in one another. Separate homes may also be considered if the right families come along.

Dolly and Mira don't need someone to make them perfect overnight. They need someone who will celebrate the little victories — the first time they approach without fear, the first time they settle comfortably in their crate, and the first time they truly believe they're home.

Please be the person who shows them that they were always worth the time, the effort, and the love. ❤️

Ready to give Dolly or Mira the fresh start they deserve? Submit an adoption application at https://backthebluepetrescue.org/

Approved applicants can arrange a meet-and-greet, followed by a home check.

Please SHARE. Their forever family may be the one person willing to look past their fear and see the sweet little dogs they are becoming.

#AdoptDontShop #RescueDogs #Chiweenie #DachshundMix #ChihuahuaMix #SecondChances #BackTheBluePetRescue

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Mira fromBack The Blue Pet RescueQueen Creek, AZ · listed Oct 12

5. Dolly

Adult (1 year 1 month) · Female · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

DOLLY & MIRA — TWO LITTLE HEARTS WAITING TO FEEL SAFE

Some dogs know what it feels like to have a home, but they’ve never truly experienced what it means to be loved. Dolly and Mira are two of those little souls.

These beautiful sisters were part of a group of three puppies, but one of their sisters was given away. Dolly and Mira had an owner from the time they were puppies, yet they didn't receive the attention, time, socialization, and training they needed to grow into confident, secure dogs.

Read more about Dolly

Born in September 2025, these little girls are still so young. They should be experiencing the world with confidence, learning new things, playing, and feeling safe in the arms of the people who love them. Instead, they're now learning that the world doesn't have to be so scary.

Dolly and Mira are in a new foster home, and right now, they're frightened and unsure of their surroundings. But slowly, little by little, they're beginning to relax. They're starting to realize that life can be different — that gentle hands, kind voices, patience, and love are possible. ❤️

They're learning the basics, including potty training and adjusting to crate training. They still have a lot to learn, and they'll need a family who understands that progress may take time. There may be setbacks, nervous moments, and days when they need extra reassurance.

But please don't overlook them because they're scared.

These girls aren't broken. They aren't bad dogs. They're simply learning things that should have been taught to them from the beginning. They need someone willing to see their potential rather than their fears.

Meet Dolly & Mira
❤️ Born September 2025
Chiweenies (Dachshund/Chihuahua mixes)
Learning potty training and crate training
Looking for a patient, loving family committed to helping them build confidence

We would love for these sisters to find a home together, if possible. After losing the third member of their little trio and going through so many changes, there is something special about the comfort they may find in one another. Separate homes may also be considered if the right families come along.

Dolly and Mira don't need someone to make them perfect overnight. They need someone who will celebrate the little victories — the first time they approach without fear, the first time they settle comfortably in their crate, and the first time they truly believe they're home.

Please be the person who shows them that they were always worth the time, the effort, and the love. ❤️

Ready to give Dolly or Mira the fresh start they deserve? Submit an adoption application at https://backthebluepetrescue.org/

Approved applicants can arrange a meet-and-greet, followed by a home check.

Please SHARE. Their forever family may be the one person willing to look past their fear and see the sweet little dogs they are becoming.

#AdoptDontShop #RescueDogs #Chiweenie #DachshundMix #ChihuahuaMix #SecondChances #BackTheBluePetRescue

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Dolly fromBack The Blue Pet RescueQueen Creek, AZ · listed Oct 12

6. Stella

Adult (2 years 5 months) · Female · Pug / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

Stella is a Pugchi. She and her sister Monroe will be ready for their new home after Oct 29.

They are very playful and fun. Not to mention they have the cutest under bites.

Would love to keep together but can be separated. Adopt fee $250

Apply at www.animalrescuefriends.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Stella fromAnimal Rescue Friends LtdMesa, AZ · listed Oct 12

7. Monroe

Adult (2 years 5 months) · Female · Pug / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

Monroe is a Pugchi. She and her sister Stella will be ready for their new home after Oct 29. They love to play and are alot of fun and have the cutest under bites. Would like to keep them together but can separate. Adopt fee $250 Apply at: www.animalrescuefriends.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Monroe fromAnimal Rescue Friends LtdMesa, AZ · listed Oct 12

8. Jalapeno

Puppy · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 5 mi from Gilbert

Don't let the name fool you—Jalapeño isn't spicy, he just adds a little flavor to life! ️
This adorable 10-week-old Chihuahua is a teeny tiny bundle of happiness, weighing just 5 pounds and expected to stay under 10 pounds when fully grown. Jalapeño is super friendly, sweet, and always ready to make a new friend!
He's great with kids, cats, and other dogs, and his favorite place just might be curled up in your lap. Whether you're looking for a pint-sized sidekick, a cozy couch companion, or a little buddy to brighten your days, Jalapeño is ready to fill that role!
Life is better with a little spice—and Jalapeño is the sweetest ingredient you'll ever need!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Jalapeno fromCooper's Chance Animal RescueChandler, AZ · listed Oct 12

9. Dusty

Young (8 months) · Chihuahua / Pug / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

Hi, My Name Is Dusty, and I'm Looking for My Forever Family

Hello there! My name is Dusty, and I'm a little Chihuahua mix with a big heart and an even bigger hope that my forever family is reading this right now.

Read more about Dusty

My story didn't start out the way every puppy deserves. I came to Central Arizona Animal Rescue along with my five sisters after being surrendered from a difficult situation. We weren't the only puppies there. We were told another litter of six puppies had already been given away at a gas station without vaccinations, microchips, spay or neuter surgeries, or any of the things that help keep dogs healthy and safe. There are reportedly even more older dogs still living in the home who haven't been fixed either. The humans at the rescue say this is what happens when animals don't receive proper medical care and responsible ownership. They were also told the owner has struggled with drug abuse, which made it even harder for all the dogs in the home to get the care they needed.

But enough about my past. I'd rather tell you about who I am today.

I'm a happy little guy who loves people, especially kids! I was raised around children and think they're pretty wonderful. Whether it's playing in the yard, snuggling on the couch, or following them around to see what adventure comes next, I'm always happy to be part of the fun.

I also have a special soft spot for adult women. They make me feel safe and comfortable. Adult men? Well, I'm still working on that. I don't dislike them at all, but sometimes I can be a little suspicious when I first meet one. Can you blame me? My early life didn't always show me that every human could be trusted. The good news is that I'm learning every day, and with patience, kindness, and a few treats, I warm up nicely.

The wonderful people at Central Arizona Animal Rescue have worked hard to give me a fresh start. I've been neutered, so I won't be contributing to the cycle of unwanted litters. I've also been vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped. For the first time in my life, I'm getting the care every dog deserves.

My sisters are safe too. The rescue is working to get all five of them spayed as soon as time becomes available with their very busy veterinarian. The rescue is doing everything it can, but resources and space are limited.

That's why finding homes for dogs like me is so important.

When you adopt me, you're not just changing my life. You're helping create room for the rescue to save more dogs from situations like the one I came from. Every kennel that opens up gives another dog a chance at safety, medical care, and a better future. The rescue hopes to help as many animals as possible before the situation grows even larger and even more dogs are left without proper care.

And here's something important: even if a Chihuahua mix like me isn't exactly what you're looking for, adopting any dog from Central Arizona Animal Rescue helps. Every adoption opens a space and allows the rescue to continue helping animals in need.

So, what do you think? Could you be the family I've been dreaming about? I promise to bring love, loyalty, smiles, and plenty of Chihuahua-sized personality into your home.

If you'd like to meet me, Dusty, or any of the other wonderful dogs at Central Arizona Animal Rescue, please email mike@caaronline.org to schedule an appointment.

I'm ready for my second chance.

Maybe it's with you.

Love, Dusty

PLEASE e-mail (do not call) mike@caaronline.org for more information and to set up an appointment to adopt. Do not e-mail us with a request to call you, if you have a question, please ask in the e-mail.

All dogs are adopted on a first come - first served basis.

Central Arizona Animal Rescue is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation.

We are located in San Tan Valley, AZ.

If you have other dogs already, you must bring them for introduction prior to adoption.

Follow us on Facebook - www.facebook.com/CentralArizonaAnimalRescue

Follow us on Instagram -
www.instagram.com/c

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Dusty fromCentral Arizona Animal RescueSan Tan Valley, az · listed Oct 11

10. Nugget

Young (4 years 1 month) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 10 mi from Gilbert

MEET NUGGET!!!

This sweet boy is only 4 years old, is very sweet and friendly!

He loves other dogs, and adores kids. He's also good with cats! Nugget is already housebroken and crate trained.

Medium energy.

If you are interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website for our online application www.underdogaz.com

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Nugget fromUnderdog Rescue of Arizona, LLCChandler, Az · listed Sep 25

11. Hugo

Young (6 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

Meet the Sweetest Chihuahua Mix Puppies! ❤️

Girls: Molly, Mia, Penny, Lola, and Ruby
Boys: Luka, Oscar, and Hugo

Born in April 2026, these adorable puppies are ready to find the loving forever homes they have always deserved! Their mom was a Chihuahua, and the veterinarian has identified the puppies as Chihuahua mixes. As of September, they weigh approximately 12–15 pounds.

This sweet litter came from a heartbreaking situation. They were removed from a hoarding home along with another litter of puppies who are also searching for their forever families. When they arrived, the puppies were suffering from skin issues and were extremely underweight.

Read more about Hugo

Thankfully, they are now safe and recovering beautifully in their loving foster home! ❤️ They are learning what it means to be happy, carefree puppies and are enjoying all the things they should have had from the beginning—love, comfort, playtime, and a safe place to call home.

They are currently working on potty training and continuing to learn all the important puppy skills. With patience, love, and consistency, each of these precious pups will make a wonderful addition to a family.

After such a difficult start, Molly, Mia, Penny, Lola, Ruby, Luka, Oscar, and Hugo are ready for their new beginnings. Could one of these sweet babies be the perfect addition to your family?

The adoption fee for each puppy is $175.00. This helps cover their vet fees to include their spay/neuter, current vaccines, dewormer, and microchip. An application and home check is required.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Hugo fromBack The Blue Pet RescueQueen Creek, AZ · listed Sep 2

12. Oscar

Young (6 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 9 mi from Gilbert

Meet the Sweetest Chihuahua Mix Puppies! ❤️

Girls: Molly, Mia, Penny, Lola, and Ruby
Boys: Luka, Oscar, and Hugo

Born in April 2026, these adorable puppies are ready to find the loving forever homes they have always deserved! Their mom was a Chihuahua, and the veterinarian has identified the puppies as Chihuahua mixes. As of September, they weigh approximately 12–15 pounds.

This sweet litter came from a heartbreaking situation. They were removed from a hoarding home along with another litter of puppies who are also searching for their forever families. When they arrived, the puppies were suffering from skin issues and were extremely underweight.

Read more about Oscar

Thankfully, they are now safe and recovering beautifully in their loving foster home! ❤️ They are learning what it means to be happy, carefree puppies and are enjoying all the things they should have had from the beginning—love, comfort, playtime, and a safe place to call home.

They are currently working on potty training and continuing to learn all the important puppy skills. With patience, love, and consistency, each of these precious pups will make a wonderful addition to a family.

After such a difficult start, Molly, Mia, Penny, Lola, Ruby, Luka, Oscar, and Hugo are ready for their new beginnings. Could one of these sweet babies be the perfect addition to your family?

The adoption fee for each puppy is $175.00. This helps cover their vet fees to include their spay/neuter, current vaccines, dewormer, and microchip. An application and home check is required.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Oscar fromBack The Blue Pet RescueQueen Creek, AZ · listed Sep 2

13. Macro

Young · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed · 22 mi from Gilbert

Hi, I'm Macro! I'm a young Chihuahua/Terrier mix weighing about 10 lbs. I may be little, but I've already proven that I'm one resilient guy!I'm a sweet, happy pup who doesn't let life's challenges slow me down. I have congenital hydrocephalus, a lifelong neurological condition, and may have limited vision. But don't worry, I navigate the world using my other senses and have adapted incredibly well! I love spending time with my people and enjoy the companionship of respectful and easygoing four-legged friends. With a consistent routine and a safe environment, I can continue to thrive and enjoy all the things dogs love.I'm looking for a family that's committed to providing my lifelong medical care and understands that my condition will require ongoing monitoring and twice daily medication.

Read more about Macro

Because of my vision and medical needs, I'd do best in a calm home. But rest assured, I will still bring plenty of energy and excitement into your life!If you're looking for a partner in crime and can provide me with the love and support I deserve, I just might be your special match! My adoption fee is $450. I'm neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Schedule an appointment to meet me now by visiting AlmostThereRescue.org/adopt/To arrange a meet and greet and ensure a smooth introduction, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice. This allows us the necessary time to coordinate schedules with their wonderful foster family.Think we might be a perfect match? Visit adoptapup.as.me to schedule your appointment. I can't wait to find my forever family!

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • Special needs

14. Crystal

Adult (3 years 3 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Gilbert

Meet Crystal and Missy Bonded Pair!

Crystal (3 years old, 11 pounds) is looking for a loving home after her owner had to make the difficult decision to surrender them to Help A Dog Smile Rescue. Crystal can be a little shy with new people but once you earn her trust, she becomes a incredibly loyal, affectionate and loving companion. Crystal loves snuggling on the couch under cozy blankets or pillows and she also has playful bursts of energy.

Read more about Crystal

Crystal is house-trained, walks nicely on the leash and is well-mannered in the home. Crystal can be a bit picky with traditional dog food and tends to prefer fresh foods like chicken or beef along with her favorite treats and chicken jerky. If you are looking for a sweet soul who will fill your home with unconditional love, cuddles and companionship, Crystal is the gal for you.

Crystal is spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped. Her adoption fee of $225 helps offset the rescue's medical expenses. If you live in the Phoenix metro area and think she could be the right fit for you, please complete an adoption application*:

helpadogsmile.org/adoption-application/

.

*Please note that the application is not a commitment to adopt–it is a tool used to help determine if a dog and applicant would make a good match. Applications are forwarded to the foster family for review and follow-up.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Crystal fromHelp A Dog SmilePhoenix, AZ · listed Aug 4

15. Squeaky & Jordan

Adult · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Gilbert

Meet the Dynamic Duo of Squeaky and Jordan! We MUST be adopted together as we really love playing, eating and sleeping together:) These two each have their own stories and met in their foster home and are absolutely in love with each other:)

Jordan is the male and white and black spotted 18 month old Jack Russell mix. He is housetrained, loves to play, loves to sleep right next to you and can be a little shy until he knows you and then he is a fun playful guy who loves his people, his toys and Squeaky most of all! He is fine at home during work hours and is just a little delight!

Read more about Squeaky & Jordan

Squeaky is 2 to 3 years old and loves all people at first sight. She is housetrained, and loves to play with her toys and Jordan:) She is a fun girl who truly enjoys her people, her home and the fact that water, cool air and love are never ending!

Squeaky
is spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped.

Jordan is neutered

, vaccinated, and microchipped.

Their adoption fee of $500 helps offset the rescue's medical expenses. If you live in the Phoenix metro area and think they could be the right fit for you, please complete an adoption application*:
helpadogsmile.org/adoption-application/

*Please note that the application is not a commitment to adopt–it is a tool used to help determine if a dog and applicant would make a good match. Applications are forwarded to the foster family for review and follow-up.

  • Good with dogs
  • Adopt together
Adopt Squeaky & Jordan fromHelp A Dog SmilePhoenix, AZ · listed Jul 19

Adopting a small dog in Gilbert

Small dogs suit apartments and smaller homes, are easy to take along, and many live well into their teens.

They still need daily walks, play and training. Small dogs can be fragile, so ask the rescue how they are with young children, who can easily drop or step on them.

Rescues with small dogs near Gilbert

Questions about adopting small dogs in Gilbert

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Gilbert?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Gilbert, Arizona, have 15 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Gilbert?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Gilbert right now are Back The Blue Pet Rescue (Queen Creek, AZ), Almost There: A Mom + Pups Rescue (Phoenix, AZ) and Underdog Rescue of Arizona, LLC (Chandler, Az). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are small dogs good for apartments?

Often, yes. Many small dogs are happy with a smaller space and short walks, but energy matters more than size: ask the rescue how active the dog is and whether they bark when left alone.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.