Small Dogs for Adoption in Costa Mesa, CA: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Costa Mesa have 61 small dogs up for adoption. Here are the 30 newest, 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 Yorkshire Terrier.
- All dogs 521
- Puppies 64
- Adult Dogs 399
- Senior Dogs 52
- Kid-Friendly Dogs 108
- Cat-Friendly Dogs 57
- Large Dogs 20
Not in Costa Mesa? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Bandit
Young · Male · Shih Tzu (medium coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa



Meet Bandit! ❤️ This adorable 1-year-old Shih Tzu is full of happiness and personality. He’s playful, friendly, and loves everyone he meets. He especially enjoys playing with other dogs and would make a wonderful addition to just about any family. Bandit is ready to find his forever home and share lots of love, fun, and happy moments with his new family!
Visit fochp.org for more information or to submit an adoption application.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Miss Beth
Young · Female · Pomeranian (medium coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa


Meet Miss Beth!
At just 2 years old and about 15 pounds, Miss Beth is an absolutely adorable little girl with a BIG personality! She is so much fun, full of life, and has a way of making everyone around her smile. She’s wonderfully well-behaved, loves everyone she meets, and is just an all-around happy little dog.
Beth has so much love to give and would make a wonderful addition to just about any family. She’s the kind of little dog who brings a whole lot of joy in a very cute 15-pound package!
If you’re looking for a sweet, fun-loving companion, Miss Beth might just be your girl! ❤️
Visit fochp.org for more information or to submit an adoption application!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
3. Duncan
Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Catahoula Leopard Dog / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa


MEET DUNCAN! Just look at that adorable little face! Duncan is a precious 3-month-old Catahoula/Long-Haired Chihuahua mix with the cutest fluffy ears, a handsome little black muzzle, and big brown eyes that will melt your heart!This super sweet little boy is an absolute heart-stealer! With his soft, fluffy coat and irresistible puppy charm, Duncan is ready to find a loving family to call his very own.He’s still just a baby, with a whole lifetime of love, cuddles, and adventures ahead of him. All he needs now is someone to share them with!Could Duncan be the missing piece of your family? Apply to adopt Duncan today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
4. Dexter
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa



MEET DEXTER — YOUR NEW LITTLE BEST FRIEND! Who doesn’t love a scruffy little face?! Dexter is an adorable 2-year-old Wirehaired Terrier mix weighing just 12 pounds, with the cutest messy hair, expressive little eyes, and a face that will steal your heart!This sweet little gentleman is the total package! Dexter is quiet, gentle, gets along great with other dogs, and is already house trained! At just 2 years old, he’s past those mischievous puppy stages but still has plenty of life and love ahead of him. His easygoing personality makes him a wonderful candidate for someone looking for a sweet, low-key companion.Dexter isn’t asking for much — just a cozy place to call home, someone to love him, and a family who will never let him go. Could this adorable little scruff muffin be your perfect match? Apply to adopt Dexter today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
5. Rolfie
Young · Male · Collie / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa




Meet R O L F I E!This sweet 1-year-old boy is a little bundle of love just waiting for his forever home! We believe Rolfie is some sort of Collie mix, and at around 15 pounds, he’s the perfect little companion.Rolfie is great with other dogs, house-trained, and wonderfully quiet. He’s the kind of easygoing, sweet boy who would love nothing more than to find his person and settle into a home of his own.If you’re looking for a smaller companion with a big heart and a gentle personality, Rolfie might just be your perfect match!He’s ready to leave his past behind and start his happily ever after. Could that be with you?
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
6. Rango Mango
Puppy · Female · Shih Tzu / Poodle (Toy) / Mixed (long coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Rango Mango and his 2 siblings were born to Momma Zoey a 10 lb., Yorkie Terrier/Poodle mix on July 20, 2026. We believe his Dad was a Shih Tzu with the being the clue. Mango is a ball of fluff and has a sweet and playful personality. All 3 puppies are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Zoey was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She did have to have an emergency c-section to delivery her puppies. She is very sweet, playful and a very kind soul. These sweet fluffy puppies are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
Read more about Rango Mango
The adoption fee is $850 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed). If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
7. Missy Melon
Puppy · Female · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Poodle (Toy) / Mixed (long coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Missy Melon and her 2 siblings were born to Momma Zoey a 10 lb., Yorkie Terrier/Poodle mix on July 20, 2026. Missy is the the body type more of a poodle with longer legs, she is a happy go lucky girl and is very sweet. All 3 puppies are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Zoey was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She did have to have an emergency c-section to delivery her puppies. She is very sweet, playful and a very kind soul. These sweet fluffy puppies are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
Read more about Missy Melon
The adoption fee is $850 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed). If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
8. Lulu Lemon
Puppy · Female · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Poodle (Toy) / Mixed (long coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Lulu Lemon and her 2 siblings were born to Momma Zoey a 10 lb., Yorkie Terrier/Poodle mix on July 20, 2026. Lulu is the smallest, is a happy go lucky girl and is very sweet. All 3 puppies are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Zoey was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She did have to have an emergency c-section to delivery her puppies. She is very sweet, playful and a very kind soul. These sweet fluffy puppies are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
Read more about Lulu Lemon
The adoption fee is $850 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed). If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
9. Cyber
Puppy · Male · Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Cyber and his 3 brothers were born to Momma Chloe a 14 lb., Norfork Terrier mix on July 9, 2026. Cyber is the 2nd biggest, has shorter longer tall legs, is on the shy side, very sweet. All 4 boys are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Chloe was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She is very sweet, well behaved and a kind soul. These sweet boys are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
Read more about Cyber
The adoption fee is $650 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed). If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
10. Tundra
Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Tundra and his 3 brothers were born to Momma Chloe a 14 lb., Norfork Terrier mix on July 9, 2026. Tundra is the 2nd smallest, has shorter Dachshund-like legs, very sweet. All 4 boys are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Chloe was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She is very sweet, well behaved and a kind soul. These sweet boys are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
Read more about Tundra
The adoption fee is $650 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed). If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
11. Mack
Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Mack and his 3 brothers were born to Momma Chloe a 14 lb., Norfork Terrier mix on July 9, 2026. Mack is the smallest, has little short Dachshund-like legs, very sweet. All 4 boys are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Chloe was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She is very sweet, well behaved and a kind soul. These sweet boys are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
The adoption fee is $650 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed).
Read more about Mack
If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
12. Titan
Puppy · Male · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Titan and his 3 brothers were born to Momma Chloe a 14 lb., Norfork Terrier mix on July 9, 2026. Titian is the most like momma scruffy looking, he also is a sturdy body type, very sweet. All 4 boys are sweet, playful, happy and healthy. Chloe was surrendered to the rescue very pregnant. She is very sweet, well behaved and a kind soul. These sweet boys are looking for their forever families. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
The adoption fee is $650 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed).
Read more about Titan
If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
13. Opalyte
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua (short coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa








Opalyte and
her sister
Diamond were born to Momma Jewel on May 16, 2026. Momma Jewel looks like a LH Chihuahua. Looks like Dad was likely a Min-pin. She is super social with everyone she meets, loves to play with toys and other dogs, she really enjoys playing with the foster kitten in her foster home also. This adorable little girl is looking for her forever family. Because of her small size no larger breed dogs or small children please. As always, we do highly recommend positive reinforcement training to insure a well-rounded and well-behaved puppy/dog.
Read more about Opalyte
The adoption fee is $750 which includes: spay/neuter, microchipping with registration, up to date on vaccines, rabies vaccine (for dogs and pups over 4 months at time of alter), deworming, and topical flea treatment application (as needed). If interested in one if our dogs or puppies, please email pardonmeinc@yahoo.com for information and adoption questionnaire. Our animals can be seen by appointment only after approved application process. Please email to make sure the animal you are interested in is still available and/or will be attending or on-site adoption event. No phone calls please. If you are interested in adopting one of our animals, please send all inquiries to pardonmeinc@yahoo.com.
*FOSTER HOMES NEEDED***
We are always looking for loving foster homes for new arrivals! Please contact us at pardonmeinc@yahoo.com if you would be interested in fostering.
KK
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
14. Oscar
Adult · Male · Lhasa Apso / Shih Tzu (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa



Meet Oscar: a 5-year-old, 22-pound sweetheart with a big, happy smile and an even bigger personality.
When Oscar first came into foster care, he was the dog watching quietly from the corner, unsure whether people could be trusted. Four months later, he’s blossoming. He’s discovered a love of toys, so much so that he gathers all his favorites into one big pile. He plays fetch with enthusiasm and has a blast romping with other small dogs at the dog park. He’s even starting to enjoy walks, though he’s still getting the hang of them. And when it’s time to rest, you’ll find him burrowed deep in a blanket for a cozy nap.
Oscar is a one-person kind of dog.
Read more about Oscar
That’s not because he’s unfriendly, as he doesn’t have an aggressive bone in his body, but because he looks to one special person for guidance and affection. Right now that’s his foster mom, who gets all the belly-rub requests. He’s shy with new people and probably won’t show his true self at a first meeting, but the way to his heart is simple: bring treats! He’ll happily take them from new friends, and he’s so food motivated that he’s a joy to train. Once he decides you’re his person, you’ll have a loyal, affectionate companion for life.
At heart, Oscar is a homebody. He’d do best in a calm, adult-only home with a yard, ideally with a friendly small dog who can keep showing him the ropes. He’s fully potty trained with zero accidents in the house, sleeps quietly in his dog bed in the bedroom, rarely barks, and is very healthy. He doesn’t guard his food or toys. Car rides make him a little nervous, but he does great once he arrives. He hasn’t lived with cats, but his foster thinks he’d likely do fine with them.
If you’re looking for a devoted sidekick with a smile that will melt your heart, Oscar is ready to meet you.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
15. Chewy
Adult · Maltese (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa


Meet Chewy! ❤️
Chewy is an 8-year-old little guy weighing about 12 pounds, and he is just as sweet as can be. He has a mellow, easygoing personality and would love a home where he can relax, feel loved, and enjoy the simple things in life.
Chewy is at that wonderful age where he doesn’t need a lot of excitement — just someone to love him and a cozy spot to curl up. He has so much love to give and would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for a sweet little friend.
Could Chewy be the one you’ve been looking for?
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
16. Sparky
Young · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Shih Tzu / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa




MEET SPARKY! Your Playful, Loyal Little Sidekick! With his adorable scruffy face, charming little smile, and happy-go-lucky personality, Sparky is ready to steal someone’s heart! Sparky is a sweet, fun-loving boy who’s a few years old and weighs approximately 45 pounds. He’s the perfect mix of playful energy and loyal companionship! Toy enthusiast! Sparky absolutely LOVES his squeaky toys, especially his beloved Kong Wubba! Give this boy his favorite toy, and he’s one happy pup. Adventure buddy! He walks nicely on a leash and enjoys getting out to explore. Just be prepared for a little excitement when a squirrel crosses his path! Crate trained! Sparky is comfortable in his crate and happily heads into his own little space when it’s time to eat.
Read more about Sparky
Dog friendly with introductions! Sparky enjoys other dogs but appreciates a proper introduction so everyone can get comfortable. Loyal and watchful! Sparky has a protective side and takes his job as the household watchdog seriously. He’ll happily let you know when something catches his attention! Children: Sparky hasn’t been evaluated around children yet, so a home with older children or adults may be the best starting point while we learn more about him.More than anything, Sparky deserves a loving home where he can enjoy his favorite toys, explore the world, and have someone to call his very own. Could you be Sparky’s forever person? If you’re looking for a playful, loyal companion with a big personality and an even bigger heart, Sparky might just be your perfect match!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
17. Gwen
Adult · Female · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Schnauzer (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa


Gwen is a 11. pound bundle of energy who absolutely loves life. At three years old, she’s playful, social, and happiest when she has another dog to romp around with. She’s friendly, fun, and full of personality — the perfect little companion for anyone looking for a cheerful, active sidekick. Gwen is 2 years old.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
18. Princess
Young · Female · Lhasa Apso / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa




Meet Princess! This sweet one-year-old Lhasa Poo (Lhasa Apso/Poodle mix) is as precious as her name suggests! Princess has a heart of gold and a gentle, loving personality that’s sure to steal your heart.She currently lives with other pups and gets along wonderfully with everyone, making her a lovely addition to a home looking for a furry companion.Now, Princess is ready for her happily ever after! She’s dreaming of a family to love her, spoil her, and give her the forever home she deserves.Could you be the one to make Princess’s dreams come true?Apply to adopt this sweet girl using the link in our bio. Her castle is waiting, and all she needs is YOU!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
19. Denis
Young · Male · Lhasa Apso / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa



Meet Denis! This sweet one-year-old Lhasa Poo (Lhasa Apso/Poodle mix) is as adorable as they come! Denis has a loving personality and a heart full of sweetness that’s sure to steal yours. He currently lives with other pups and gets along wonderfully with everyone, making him a great potential addition to a home looking for a furry companion. Now, Denis is ready for his happily ever after! He’s dreaming of a family to love him, spoil him, and give him the forever home he deserves. Could you be the one to make Denis’s dreams come true? Apply to adopt this sweet boy using the link in our bio. His forever family is out there, and he can’t wait to meet you!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
20. Chuy
Young · Female · Lhasa Apso / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 17 mi from Costa Mesa



Meet Chuy!This sweet one-year-old Lhasa Poo (Lhasa Apso/Poodle mix) is as adorable as they come! Chuy has a loving personality and a heart full of sweetness that’s sure to steal yours.She currently lives with other pups and gets along wonderfully with everyone, making her a great potential addition to a home looking for a furry companion.Now, Chuy is ready for her happily ever after! She’s dreaming of a family to love her, spoil her, and give her the forever home she deserves.Could you be the one to make Chuy’s dreams come true?Apply to adopt this sweet girl using the link in our bio. Her forever family is out there, and she can’t wait to meet you!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
21. Tootsie
Adult · Female · Shih Tzu / Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (medium coat) · 16 mi from Costa Mesa




Welcome Tootsie!
Meet Tootsie, an adorable little girl who is ready to leave her past behind and find a loving forever home of her own.
Tootsie is approximately 5 years old, weighs just 12 pounds, and resembles a Shih Tzu/Yorkie mix.
This sweet girl found herself in a high-kill shelter after being discovered in a field with bite wounds to her neck. Thankfully, she has healed and is now ready for her next chapter—a life filled with love, comfort, and security.
Read more about Tootsie
Tootsie is the ultimate velcro dog! She loves being close to her person and will happily stick by your side for cuddles, pets, and companionship. She has a calm, gentle personality, gets along well with other dogs, and appears to be house-trained. While she gets along with canine friends, what Tootsie really wants is someone to call her own. Tootsie has not been around children or cats so we are not comfortable placing her in a home with small children.
Could you be the special person Tootsie has been waiting for? She has so much love to give and would make a wonderful, devoted companion.
Interested in meeting Tootsie? We must first have an adoption application. Please visit our website at www.greatpets.org, to complete the application.
Tootsie's $300 adoption donation includes her veterinary examination, spay surgery, vaccinations, microchip, fecal testing, and flea control.
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
22. Freddie
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 16 mi from Costa Mesa




Meet Freddie!
Freddie was rescued from a high-kill shelter and is now ready to find a loving forever home of his own! This sweet little guy is full of life and loves going for walks, playing, and spending time with his people. He also seems to get along well with other dogs!
A Little About Freddie:
• Breed: Terrier mix
• Age: Approximately 3–5 years old
• Weight: About 11 pounds
• Personality: Sweet, playful, and active
Read more about Freddie
Freddie is a young, energetic pup who would thrive in a home with an active lifestyle and a family ready to share plenty of walks, playtime, and love with him. Could you be the one to give Freddie the happy ending he deserves?
Interested in adopting Freddie? Please complete an adoption application on our website at greatpets.org
Freddie's $300 adoption donation includes his veterinary examination, vaccinations, neuter, bloodwork, fecal testing, microchip, and flea control.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
23. Dove
Young · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (medium coat) · 22 mi from Costa Mesa



Read her biography below to learn what she needs in a home placement and how to apply.
Name: DoveAge: DOB 10/18/24Sex: female, spayed Breed: Mix breedWeight: 10 lbs, full grownHousebroken: unsure, trying to get her into foster careKids: 6 and older will be fineOther dogs: good with all other dogsCats: cat safeHousing: A home with patio or backyard access is always easiest to housebreak if she needs it.Personality: She is a really nice dog. Friendly with everyone. She is sweet and very loving with a happy-go-lucky personality. She will settle in and bond well with her new owner with ease.What we know: She came from the streets.
Read more about Dove
She smiles when she is happy to see you. Her whole body wiggles as she wags her tail. Good on leash. •Medical: healthy, vaccinated, dewormed, spayed & microchipped.•How to apply: Dove can be seen by appointment only, with an approved application. If you are interested, visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Dove, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram page
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
24. Nikko
Young · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa


Meet Nikko! ❤️
Nikko is a 2-year-old Chihuahua weighing about 15 pounds, and he is just adorable! This little guy is ready to find a family of his own and a cozy spot to call home. If you’re looking for a cute little companion to add some extra love to your life, Nikko might just be your guy!
Could Nikko be the little one you’ve been looking for? ❤️
Apply to adopt at fochp.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
25. Duffy
Young · Male · Border Terrier / Jack Russell Terrier (Parson Russell Terrier) (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa


Meet Duffy!
Duffy is about 10 months old and weighs just 13 pounds. He’s a little guy with a whole lot of love to give! He’s sweet, cute, and at the perfect age to find his forever family and start making memories.
If you’re looking for a little companion to add some extra love to your life, Duffy might just be your guy! ❤️
Interested in adopting Duffy? Visit fochp.org for more information or to fill out an adoption application.
- Good with kids
- House-trained
26. Nina
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 14 mi from Costa Mesa




Sweet Nina is ready for her next chapter! This adorable 4-year-old girl was rescued from the shelter with a severely injured leg. Thanks to an incredible surgeon, her leg was saved, and she's now recovering from surgery in her foster home. Nina is a very sweet girl who deserves a loving family to call her own! She is spayed, house trained, crate trained, and has done well with small dogs. She's still healing from her surgery, but her future is looking bright!We're excited to help this special girl find a family who will give her the love, patience, and forever home she deserves.Interested in adopting Nina? Fill out an adoption application
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
27. Popeye
Adult · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie (medium coat) · 16 mi from Costa Mesa




Popeye was found as a stray and ended up in a high-kill animal shelter. He is estimated to be 5–6 years old and weighs just 7 pounds. He's a little rascal with a big personality and makes a wonderful companion! Popeye is easygoing, personable, and gets along well with other dogs. His damaged left eye was surgically removed on the recommendation of our veterinary ophthalmologist. He has his frisky moments, but most of all, Popeye loves to cuddle and spend time with you.
Read more about Popeye
Popeye is listed as "special needs" because leash walking is still completely alien technology to him! He isn't comfortable walking on a leash just yet, so he'll need a home with a secure, private, fenced yard of his own where he can take care of bathroom business in peace, stretch his little legs, and slowly practice the art of the leash. He's still building his confidence, and we hope with patience and encouragement, he'll get there in time.
If you are interested in meeting Popeye, please complete the adoption application on our website at www.greatpets.org.
Popeye's $300 adoption donation includes his veterinary exam, neuter surgery, dental cleaning, vaccinations, fecal exam, and microchip.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- Special needs
28. Stanley
Young · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa



Meet Stanley! ❤️
Stanley is nine tiny pounds of pure sweetness! At just one year old, Stanley is a wonderful little dog with a gentle, lovable personality and so much love to give.
One of Stanley’s favorite things is other dogs! Stanley genuinely loves canine company and would be thrilled to have a friendly dog buddy to play with, hang out with, and enjoy life alongside.
Stanley is easy to love, easy to carry, and pretty darn easy to fall for. Stanley is ready for a loving home where Stanley can be part of the family and enjoy all the good things life has to offer.
If you’re looking for a tiny best friend with a big heart, Stanley might just be your perfect match.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
29. Milo
Puppy · Male · Pomeranian · 17 mi from Costa Mesa




Meet Milo!Milo is a 4.5-month-old fluffy white Pomeranian who is absolutely adorable! This little guy is sweet, playful, and full of puppy charm. His gorgeous fluffy white coat makes him look like a tiny cloud, and his happy personality makes him even harder to resist.Even though he’s still a baby, Milo is already potty trained and crate trained! He’s ready to find his forever family and grow up surrounded by love, cuddles, and plenty of fun.If you’re looking for the perfect little companion, Milo may be your boy!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
30. Buddy
Young · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 12 mi from Costa Mesa



Meet this tiny guy with a BIG personality!
This adorable 4-pound black Chihuahua was rescued from the euthanasia list at Downey Animal Shelter and is now getting his second chance. ❤️
He’s about 4 years old and has lots of energy! He’s still learning the basics — including house training and walking on a leash — but his foster family is patiently helping him along.
He can be a little shy with new people, but once he trusts you, he LOVES attention and will definitely let you know when he wants more!
✨ Sleeps quietly in his crate all night ✨ Loves jumping on the sofa ✨ Just discovered that toys are pretty fun! ✨ Tons of personality ✨ Learning what it’s like to be loved and part of a family
We think he may have spent much of his life as a backyard dog, so he’s still learning about all the good things that come with being a family dog.
He doesn’t need someone looking for a perfect dog.
Read more about Buddy
He needs patience, consistency, love, and someone willing to give him a chance. ❤️
Could you be the person who shows this little guy what a forever home feels like?
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
Adopting a small dog in Costa Mesa
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 Costa Mesa
- Friends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · 9 small dogs above
- Love All AnimalsDana Point, CA · 8 small dogs above
- Pardon... Me Inc.Chino Hills, CA · 8 small dogs above
- New Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · 3 small dogs above
- Animals Rule Placement FoundationSan Pedro, CA · 1 small dog above
- The Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · 1 small dog above
Questions about adopting small dogs in Costa Mesa
How many small dogs are up for adoption in Costa Mesa?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Costa Mesa, California, have 61 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a small dog in Costa Mesa?
The rescues with the most small dogs near Costa Mesa right now are Friends of Orange County's Homeless Pets (Menifee, CA), Love All Animals (Dana Point, CA) and Pardon... Me Inc. (Chino Hills, CA). 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.