Surprise, AZ

Small Dogs for Adoption in Surprise, AZ: 18 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Surprise, AZ

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Surprise have 18 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 18, 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, Terrier and Pug.

1. Chickpea

Young (1 year) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 21 mi from Surprise

Say hello to Chickpea! Chickpea is an approximately one-year-old, nine-pound Terrier mix, adoptable through Chi Town Rescue in Phx., Az. When Chickpea first came to the shelter from her former home, she was extremely fearful and wouldn't allow us to pet her without running away or nipping at us. Chickpea has been at the rescue about two months and has made enough progress that we are comfortable listing her for foster or adoption. That said, Chickpea is still fearful with new people and will need a family willing to go slow and let her progress on her own time. Chickpea needs a home with no young children, and a home with a secure yard that she can access for playtime/potty-time.

Read more about Chickpea

Chickpea is not leash trained yet and will do best working up to this slowly. Chickpea is social with other dogs and a canine buddy in her new home will likely help her warm up to a new environment faster. Chickpea has made a lot of progress behaviorally in the few months she's been at the shelter, and we are confident she will blossom even further in a loving and patient home setting. Does Chickpea sound like she might be a match for you? Email us at chitownrescue@gmail.com for more information/meet and greet appointment. Chickpea's adoption fee includes spay surgery, vaccinations up to date including Rabies certificate, and microchip.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Chickpea fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Nov 4

2. Linda

Young · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Maltese / Mixed (long coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

Meet Linda! A little girl who is finally learning what love feels like.

For the first 1–2 years of her life, Linda was nothing more than a matted yard dog. She never received the love, attention, or companionship that every dog deserves. But now that she’s discovered what it feels like to be loved, she just can’t get enough!

Linda becomes incredibly attached to her person. She wants to be close, soak up every bit of attention, and finally have someone to call her own. She has so much love to give and is just waiting for someone to give that love back.

Read more about Linda

She’s a happy, energetic little girl with a big personality! Linda is smart and eager to learn, but she still needs some guidance and training as she adjusts to being a cherished family member. She also gets along well with other dogs!

Linda doesn’t need a perfect home. She just needs someone patient, loving, and willing to show her that she’ll never be forgotten in a backyard again.

She’s ready to be someone’s whole world. Could that someone be you?

Linda is approximately 1–2 years old, spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped.

Adoption fee: $400

Text 602-908-6215 to meet Linda!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Linda fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Oct 31

3. Licorice

Puppy · Male · Pomeranian / Papillon / Mixed (long coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

Meet Licorice! This adorable little 3-month-old, 4 lb bundle of sweetness is ready to steal your heart! Licorice is believed to be a Chihuahua/Papillon mix, and he is just as sweet as his little face! Licorice is a happy, loving, playful puppy who absolutely adores attention and cuddles. He loves playing with his furry friends and gets along wonderfully with both dogs and cats! He is also incredibly gentle and sweet with children, making him a wonderful little family companion. He’s a smart little guy who is already crate trained and working hard on his house training. Licorice has the sweetest personality and would make a wonderful addition to a loving family. He’s the perfect mix of playful puppy energy and snuggly little lovebug! Licorice is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Adoption fee: $500 Text
602-908-6215
to meet this precious little boy!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Licorice fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Oct 31

4. Chloe

Adult (3 years 11 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

Meet Chloe, a precious 4-year-old Dachshund/Chihuahua mix with a heart full of love and the sweetest little personality. Chloe is truly one of those special dogs who makes you fall in love the moment you meet her. She is affectionate, playful, loves cuddling, and is wonderful with both people and other dogs. This little girl has so much love to give and just wants what every dog deserves: a family to call her own, a cozy place to curl up, and people who will love her unconditionally. She is ready to be someone's little shadow, cuddle buddy, and best friend. Chloe has so much happiness to bring into a home, and we would love nothing more than to see her find the forever family she deserves.

Read more about Chloe

Her adoption fee is $200

includes her spay,

vaccinations,

microchip.

If you think Chloe might be the missing piece of your family, please call or text 602-908-6215 to adopt her. She has a lifetime of love waiting to give to someone.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Chloe fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Oct 31

5. Stewart

Young (2 years) · Male · Xoloitzcuintle/Mexican Hairless (short coat) · 17 mi from Surprise

Hi my name is Stewart, I am very sweet boy who loves to chase balls and cuddle under blankets. I'm about 2 years old and I’m friendly with dogs, cats and birds. I get a little protective of people so I might do better with kids that are a little older and will understand that I need a minute. I don’t shed and have a really amazing Mohawk that matches my feet hair I absolutely love toys and to play fetch. I can jump really high, and over gates but I don’t chew on anything in the house.

I am looking for my forever family and would love to meet you. Please fill out an application on www.communitypaws.org if you would like to meet me.

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Stewart fromCommunity PawsBuckeye, AZ · listed Oct 30

6. Shaboozy

Puppy (10 months) · Female · Pug / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Surprise

This is a courtesy post for Frosted Faces, Vintage Paws Animal Rescue
This wild and crazy young pup is sure to make you feel tipsy- meet Shaboozy! Shaboozy is an approximately 11-month-old female Pug mix who was surrendered to the shelter. Shaboozy hasn't let her recent circumstances get her down though. She's a happy-go-lucky and super active young gal! Shaboozy loves to run and play with other dogs, chase toys (especially squeakies), and cover her human friends with kisses. Shaboozy isn't shy and is always happy to meet a new friend. She will hop right in your lap right away and beg for attention; and what Shaboozy wants, Shaboozy gets! You will be hard-pressed to not fall in love with this adorable and fun dog! Shaboozy's adoption fee includes spay surgery, vaccinations up to date including Rabies certificate, and microchip.

Read more about Shaboozy

Email chitownrescue@gmail.com and we will get you in touch with the Frosted Faces director for a meet and greet appointment.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Shaboozy fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Oct 24Courtesy listing: Shaboozy's family is rehoming her through this rescue.

7. Suku

Puppy · Female · Rat Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

MEET SUKU — YOUR FUTURE BEST FRIEND!

Looking for a little bundle of happiness to add to your family? Meet Suku! This adorable 8-month-old female rat terrier mix is happy, playful, sweet, and ready to find her forever home! ❤️

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with Suku:
8-month-old female Chihuahua mix
Happy, playful, and full of love
Excellent with other dogs
Even good with cats!
Ready to be someone’s beloved best friend

Suku is at that wonderful age where she’s ready to learn, play, cuddle, and grow with her new family. All she needs now is someone to give her the love and security he deserves.

Read more about Suku

Adoption fee: $150
Includes spay, vaccinations, and microchip.

Interested in adopting Suku? Call or text 602-908-6215!

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Suku fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Oct 20

8. Buster

Adult (5 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Surprise

Say hello to Buster! Buster is an approximately five-year-old, 25-pound mutt mix, available for adoption through Chi Town Rescue. Buster first came to the shelter in July 2024 with 10 other dogs, as part of a hoarding case in Concho, Az. All of the dogs were fearful to varying degrees and all but three (including Buster) have found forever homes. Buster was one of our hold-outs as far as being comfortable with the humans. A few months ago, Buster broke through those walls and decided to let the humans start petting him! Not only is Buster allowing us to pet him, he will even nudge us if we stop AND offer us his paw to hold (it's the cutest thing!).

Read more about Buster

Buster will undoubtedly be shy with new people, but if you go slow and have patience, we are sure Buster will eventually warm up to his new human friends. Buster is social with other dogs and enjoys playing and zooming. He would do best in a home with another dog (or two!), as they can help him feel more comfortable in a new environment. Buster also enjoys squeaky toys, zoomies, and snacks. He is a curious guy who will follow you around once he trusts you (and especially if there's food involved). Buster would do best in a home with no small children, and a secure yard/fencing. No apartments please, as Buster is not yet leash-trained and will need a yard he has access to, for potty training. If you have room in your heart and home for a special dog like Buster, please send us a message! Email chitownrescue@gmail.com for more information/meet and greet appointment with Buster. Buster's adoption fee includes neuter surgery, vaccinations up to date, and microchip.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Buster fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Oct 12

9. Lilly

Young (1 year) · Female · Pug / Beagle / Mixed (short coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

MEET LILLY — YOUR FUTURE BEST FRIEND!

Get ready to fall head over heels for Lilly, the most precious 1-year-old puggle mix! This adorable little girl has the sweetest Pug personality and a wonderful attitude that will light up your life.

A little about Lilly:
1 year old and absolutely adorable!
Loves everyone she meets
Loves playing with her dog friends
Enjoys playing with her favorite toys
Listens very well
Has a loving, happy personality that shines wherever she goes!

Lilly is one of those special little dogs you simply have to meet to appreciate. She is SO cute, full of love, and guaranteed to steal your heart in person!

Read more about Lilly

All this sweet girl needs now is a FOREVER HOME where she can be loved, spoiled, and cherished for the rest of her life. Could that be with you?

Adoption Fee: $250

Her adoption fee includes:
✔️ Spay surgery
✔️ Vaccinations
✔️ Microchip

Ready to make Lilly part of your family?

Please call or text 602-908-6215 to adopt this precious little girl!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Lilly fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Oct 10

10. Pimento

Adult (6 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Surprise

This is a courtesy post for Frosted Faces, Vintage Paws Animal Rescue

Read more about Pimento

Say hello to Pimento! Pimento is an approximately six-year-old male Chihuahua mix, weighing around 20-pounds currently. Pimento came to the Frosted Faces shelter over a year ago, as one of twenty-five dogs who were taken in from a severe hoarding case. All of the dogs were fearful to varying degrees and only a few were social enough to be adopted. Pimento has made great improvement during his time at the shelter and loves attention from those he knows and trusts. He will allow you to pick him up once he is used to you, and will lay by you or climb in your lap for gentle pets. Pimento had never met our photographer but allowed her to pet him as he was being held by his trusted human friend. Pimento's hobbies include squeaky toys and chew bones! Pimento enjoys being social with other dogs and is pretty easy-going with a variety of temperaments, even getting his play on from time to time! Pimento will need a patient and secure home environment that is willing to go slow and let him come to them on his terms. We expect that he will be nervous in a new environment and will do best in a home with no small children. Pimento is social with his kennel mate, Olive, and with other small dogs (unknown on large dogs or cats). If you have the patience to help a shy dog blossom and love a project- get in touch with us to meet Pimento!

Pimento's adoption fee includes neuter surgery, vaccinations up to date, and microchip. Email chitownrescue@gmail.com and we will get you in touch with the Frosted Faces shelter for a meet and greet.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Pimento fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Oct 7Courtesy listing: Pimento's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

11. Olive

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

This is a courtesy post for Frosted Faces, Vintage Paws Animal Rescue

Read more about Olive

Meet Olive! Olive is an approximately three-year-old female Chihuahua mix, weighing around 15-pounds. Olive came to the Frosted Faces shelter over a year ago, as one of twenty-five dogs who were taken in from a severe hoarding case. All of the dogs were fearful to varying degrees and only a few were social enough to be adopted. Olive has been working hard on her social skills and is finally at a point we are comfortable listing her for adoption! Olive is still quite shy, but with those she knows, she will allow them to pick her up and seeks out attention and pets. Olive LOVES a good back/booty scratch and will kick her hind leg when you've found the spot! Olive does well with her kennel mate and is used to being around other small dogs (unknown on large dogs/cats). We are sure you noticed that Olive has just one eye. She developed a cyst on her eye and unfortunately the eye could not be saved, despite seeing the eye specialist. This does not seem to bother Olive overall and she still gets around great. Olive will need a patient and secure home environment that is willing to go slow and let her come to them on her terms. She likely will take time to warm up to a new environment, but we promise you there will be nothing more rewarding than that first moment Olive decides to trust you. <3

Olive's adoption fee includes spay surgery, vaccinations up to date, and microchip. Email chitownrescue@gmail.com and we will get you in touch with the Frosted Faces shelter for a meet and greet.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Olive fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Oct 7Courtesy listing: Olive's family is rehoming her through this rescue.

12. Snoopy and Lucy

Adult (2 years) · Male · Shih Tzu / Mixed (long coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

Meet Snoopy & Lucy — proof that true love has no boundaries. ❤️

These two were found running the streets of Phoenix together in the brutal summer heat. Somehow, through all of that, they had each other.

Now, I’m not one to call every pair of dogs that comes in together a “bonded pair.” Snoopy and Lucy actually do just fine when they’re separated. They don’t need each other.

But do they love each other? Absolutely.

They are best friends. He loves her. She loves him. Watching them together is ridiculously sweet, and there’s something special about the friendship these two have formed.

Both are around 2 years old and sweet as can be.

Read more about Snoopy and Lucy

Snoopy is the little guy with a big personality. He loves his toys, loves attention, and is happiest snuggled up with his humans.

Lucy is pure sweetness. She loves her people, loves affection, and has such a goofy fun way about her.

Two completely different dogs. Two completely different sizes. One very adorable friendship.

We would absolutely love to see Snoopy and Lucy find a home together, because seriously… look at them!!

Adoption fee is $600 for the pair. Text (480) 718-1312 to apply

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Adopt together
Adopt Snoopy and Lucy fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Oct 4

13. Carly

Young (3 years 1 month) · Female · Terrier / Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (medium coat) · 21 mi from Surprise

Meet Carly! Carly came to our rescue from a shelter (Huesito's Rescue) in Hermosillo, Mexico. We help out Huesitos Rescue from time to time when they are over-crowded, and a portion of each dog's adoption fee goes directly to that rescue. Carly was very shy/fearful when she first came to our shelter but has really blossomed in the time she's spent with us so far. She does still display some fear-based behaviors when meeting new people. We will detail those in the next section, but we want to lead with Carly's best paw forward! Once Carly knows and trusts you, she will follow you around and seek out attention. Carly is a curious and cuddly dog who loves lap time with her human friends (and belly rubs!). Carly is social with other dogs and enjoys running and playing. She has a fun moderate energy level. Now on to the more "serious" stuff...

Read more about Carly

When Carly meets a new person, she will likely not show you her best side. Carly takes time to warm up and only shows her fun and affectionate side to those she knows and trusts. Carly may avoid a new person by running or by seeking comfort hiding behind someone she knows. She may also "alarm bark" or lunge at the new person and try to intimidate them into going away. These are all fear-based behaviors that Carly displayed to us at the shelter when first meeting us. Carly spent a week in a foster home but was returned to the shelter related to her fear issues. She had bonded with the female in the home, but was growling when male family members walked in and she was near "her person". Carly would do best in a dog-experienced home that doesn't have a lot of members coming and going.

Carly is looking for a patient home who will give her the time she needs to warm up on her terms. Carly is approximately three-years-old and weighs around 20-pounds. Her adoption fee includes spay surgery, vaccinations up to date/Rabies certificate, and microchip. Email chitownrescue@gmail.com for more information/meet and greet appointment with Carly!

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Carly fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Sep 20

14. Zach

Young (2 years 11 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (medium coat) · 21 mi from Surprise

Say hello to Zach! Zach is one of our very special longtimer PROJECT DOGS who is looking for a family that is just as special as he is. After two years, we finally feel that Zach is ready to officially start the search for his forever family. Zach is approximately three-years-old. He came in to Chi Town Rescue August 2024, with 10 other dogs as part of a hoarding case in Concho, Arizona. All the dogs were fearful/unsocialized to varying degrees and three (including Zach) are still with us at rescue. Zach has made great progress during the time he has been at rescue, and even recently started seeking out pets from his trusted volunteer friends! His favorite place to be pet is the side of his face/chin and he will lean into our hands (and melt our hearts).

Read more about Zach

Zach is very social with other dogs and has always enjoyed zooming and playing with his dog pals. He has a fun energy level and enjoys toys and the play pool also. Zach MUST go to a home with at least one other playful dog, as his greatest joy in life is play time with his pals. Zach also needs to go to a home experienced with fearful dogs, and with no small children. Zach would do best in a home (no apartments) with access to a secure and fenced yard, as he is not leash-trained. If you have room in your home and heart to help a dog as special as Zach, please email us at chitownrescue@gmail.com!

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Zach fromChi Town RescuePhoenix, az · listed Aug 26

15. Jimi

Adult · Male · Cairn Terrier / Norfolk Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

Meet Jimi!

Jimi is an 8-year-old Terrier mix weighing in at the perfect 23–24 pounds. With his adorable scruffy face and soulful eyes, he’s the kind of dog who quietly steals your heart.

Jimi isn’t the type to make friends with everyone right away. New people can be scary for him, and he needs a few days to learn that he’s safe. He isn’t looking for someone to “fix” him—he’s simply looking for someone patient enough to let him come around on his own terms.

And when he does… it’s something truly special.

Read more about Jimi

Once Jimi trusts you, he becomes your loyal little shadow, happily following you from room to room, curling up nearby while you relax, and loving you with his whole heart. The bond you build with him is one that’s earned, making it all the more rewarding.

Jimi gets along well with other dogs, but he would be happiest as the only dog in the home where he doesn’t have to share your attention. He would thrive in a calm, quiet household with a predictable routine and not a lot of new people coming and going. His adoption fee is $100 and he is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. To meet him text 602-908-6215.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Jimi fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Jul 18

16. Stitch

Adult · Male · Terrier · 19 mi from Surprise

In Stitch's words:

“I was rescued from a possible hoarding situation. The humans were not able to care for all of us, and they allowed others to help them reduce the number. That is how I got to Robin Hood Animal Rescue. I was one along with my dad, Scrappy and Pugsley who found our way to the rescue.

I have to admit that I am a daddy's boy. My dad was there with me while we lived in the hoarding situation.

I have to admit that I am cautious at first. But I am learning how to be more trusting.

So what that means is that I can be skittish but at the same time, I want to be given loving attention.

Read more about Stitch

I am trying to not be such a daddy's boy. And at times, I am successful.

I will need someone who will be patient and understanding with my adventure in trusting.”

As with all our foster dogs/puppies, Stitch has been altered, microchipped, and has had his shots.
Please text or call Bob at (623) 680-1170 for more information on this goofy boy.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Stitch fromRobin Hood Animal RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Jul 11

17. Scrappy

Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 19 mi from Surprise

In Scrappy's words:

“I was rescued from a possible hoarding situation. The humans were not able to care for all of us, and they allowed others to help. That is how I got to Robin Hood Animal Rescue. I was one along with my son,Stitch and Pugsley who found our way to the rescue.

Once there, we were shown love and patience as we readjusted to an different life.

After being neutered, given the required shots and the compassion, I have been able to realize how wonderful life can be with other dogs and humans.

Now, I have to admit that I am somewhat bonded with my son, Stitch.

The two of us play together. Sometimes, too rough.

Read more about Scrappy

We also sleep next to each other up on the bed.

Compared to Stitch, I am smaller in size. (I don't know how that happened.) I am more open to being hugged and given loving than Stitch is, but he is coming along.”

As with all our foster dogs/puppies, Scrappy has been altered, microchipped, and has had his shots.
Please text or call Bob at (623) 680-1170 for more information on this little character.

Adopt Scrappy fromRobin Hood Animal RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Jul 10

18. Nim

Adult · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 23 mi from Surprise

Meet Nim!

Nim is an adorable 3-year-old Chiweenie mix with a big heart and an even bigger devotion to his person. He is very cautious when meeting new people, give him some time and patience and you’ll discover one of the sweetest, most loyal little companions around.

Once Nim trusts you, he loves with his whole heart. He forms strong bonds and wants nothing more than to be close to his favorite human. Because of this, Nim would thrive in a calm home where he can soak up all the love and attention he craves. He would do best with a single owner or someone looking for a devoted little shadow to share life with.

Read more about Nim

Nim gets along well with other dogs and is crate trained. He enjoys the simple things in life—being near his person, feeling safe, and receiving affection from those he trusts.
Adoption fee is $60 that includes neuter, vaccinations, microchip, 30 days of free pet insurance, and veterinary examination. Please call 602-908-6215 to adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Nim fromAdopt A Dog RescuePhoenix, AZ · listed Jun 6

Adopting a small dog in Surprise

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 Surprise

Questions about adopting small dogs in Surprise

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Surprise?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Surprise, Arizona, have 18 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Surprise?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Surprise right now are Adopt A Dog Rescue (Phoenix, AZ), Chi Town Rescue (Phoenix, az) and Robin Hood Animal Rescue (Phoenix, 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.