Tucson, AZ

Small Dogs for Adoption in Tucson, AZ: 8 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Tucson, AZ

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Tucson have 8 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 8, 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 Dachshund and Chihuahua.

1. Buster

Puppy (8 months) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 93 mi from Tucson

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

2. Mira

Adult (1 year 1 month) · Female · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 85 mi from Tucson

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

3. Dolly

Adult (1 year 1 month) · Female · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 85 mi from Tucson

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

4. Jalapeno

Puppy · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 98 mi from Tucson

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

5. Dusty

Young (8 months) · Chihuahua / Pug / Mixed (short coat) · 85 mi from Tucson

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

6. Nugget

Young (4 years 1 month) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 93 mi from Tucson

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

7. Hugo

Young (6 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 85 mi from Tucson

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

8. Oscar

Young (6 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 85 mi from Tucson

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

Adopting a small dog in Tucson

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 Tucson

Questions about adopting small dogs in Tucson

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Tucson?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Tucson, Arizona, have 8 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Tucson?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Tucson right now are Back The Blue Pet Rescue (Queen Creek, AZ), Underdog Rescue of Arizona, LLC (Chandler, Az) and Cooper's Chance Animal Rescue (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.