Hayward, CA

Small Dogs for Adoption in Hayward, CA: 21 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Hayward, CA

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Hayward have 21 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 21, 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, Poodle and Maltese.

1. Scruff

Adult (2 years) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (long coat) · 16 mi from Hayward

Hi there! My name is Scruff. I am a 2-year-old, neutered male, long-haired Dachshund mix who currently weighs about 13 lbs. While I'm a bit on the shy side at first, give me time and I will show to have a level of sweetness that will sweep you off your feet. I do have a thing for exploring when I'm out and about in the world, but once I'm done enjoying the best snifaris, I will certainly relax for the loveliest of pets to my handsome coat. I'm still working on my doggy social skills and may do best as an only dog with a family with kids 10 years or older. If you're interested in adding me to your home, please bring in the entire household, including any mellow, well-matched resident dogs to meet with me.

Read more about Scruff

Scruff ID# A0997543

Adopt Scruff fromPeninsula Humane Society & SPCABurlingame, CA · listed Oct 29

2. Max

Adult (1 year) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 16 mi from Hayward

Hello there! My name is Max! I am a 1-year old, neutered male chihuahua mix that currently weighs about 15lbs. I am known to be quite the friendly little guy, but I do start off a bit shy. Once I warm up, my sweet, affectionate personality comes out. While I get along great with my human friends, I am still working on my doggie social skills, and would prefer to be the only dog in the household. If you're interested in adding a charmer like me to your family, just be sure to have everyone in the household come meet me before you take me home with you!

Max ID#A0997348

  • Only dog
Adopt Max fromPeninsula Humane Society & SPCABurlingame, CA · listed Oct 27

3. Angus

Young · Male · Unknown breed (medium coat) · 12 mi from Hayward

This dog is available to meet by appointment only.

Angus is a 14-pound, 1-year-old small mixed-breed dog with a medium-length black coat. He can be fearful and avoidant of handling, and leashing can be difficult. Treats and a patient, unhurried approach help him warm up, but he will need time and space to build trust. He shares a kennel and attends playgroups with other small male dogs. Angus needs a patient adopter who understands fearful dogs and is willing to work at his pace. A home without young children would be best

Please submit an adoption questionnaire to meet him.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Angus fromOakland Animal ServicesOakland, ca · listed Oct 18

4. Biscuit

Adult (3 years) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Biscuit is about 3 years old and 8 pounds.

B

Read more about Biscuit

iscuit is such a lover. She takes a little to warm up but once she bonds she bonds quickly and shows it- she loves deeply with wiggles to match. Her potty training is going great' she learned quickly how to use the doggy door. She loves her morning walk but also is very content to do a quick potty and snuggle. She’s gotten along well with the resident dog, sometimes being a bit bossy, but at others wanting to play. She’s easy but prefers avoiding the big dogs and is choosy of small dogs. She’s very easy to handle and allows you to dress her up in cozy sweaters. She’s working on basic commands and just learned sit! When left alone it appears she’s done well- by herself and left with our resident dog. She has also shown a recent interest in toys and loves her lamb chop. She really is such a little love and someone will be very lucky to have her in their forever family.

Grateful Dogs Rescue incurs substantial veterinary and other expenses in rescuing our dogs. In order to recoup some of these costs, we request a tax-deductible donation for each adoption. The suggested donation for Biscuit is $300.

If you are interested in adopting Biscuit, please complete our online adoption application at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/adoption-process/

. One of our volunteers will get back to you. Adoptions are local, confined to the SF Bay Area.

See our other available dogs at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/available-dogs/

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Biscuit fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed Oct 16

5. Cheese

Puppy · Female · Unknown breed · 12 mi from Hayward

Cheese is a 10-week old, 13 pound lab mix who wants to show everyone her love. She is equal parts love bug and attentive companion, always happy to cuddle with her person and watch them do tasks around the house. Cheese loves to explore and play with her toys by herself or with her person. She’s great at entertaining herself and does well in a pen and a crate. She is a great listener and is super good at coming when called. Cheese is working on basic obedience commands and is already learning how to sit. She is not a big barker and only really whines when her pen is dirty, but otherwise she sleeps through the night and loves to nap throughout the day.

Read more about Cheese

Cheese enjoys meeting new people and is always happy to watch other animals and people outside. She is social and friendly and the most affectionate little puppy with anyone who gives her attention.

Her house training is going wonderfully. Cheese knows how to alert when she needs to go and easily uses potty pads, or will go outside when she’staken out.

Cheese will thrive with someone who wants a lovable companion and who enjoys cuddles, playing, and who is ready to put in work for positive reinforcement training. She is a calm, silly, and social puppy with tons of potential!

Click here to learn how to adopt and submit your adoption questionnaire.

Adopt Cheese fromOakland Animal ServicesOakland, ca · listed Oct 14

6. Dulce de Leche

Adult · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Terrier / Mixed · 21 mi from Hayward

Dulce de Leche is the sweetest boy. He loves to be around his humans. He has a healthy appetite and is not picky. Him and 7 other dogs all scruffy and a bit run down likely came from a hoarding situation. All a bit scared and undersocialized this guy is just the most loving little man. Will jump right into your lap and is happy to be cuddled. He came to us with terrible dental disease and will be getting extractions likely most of his teeth will be removed. He came with raging ear infection that will be dealt with at the same time. Right now we are looking for a foster who has lots of love to give during his recovery. All dogs/puppies will be spayed/neutered unless spay/neuter contract is signed with additional deposit.We do NOT adopt puppies in pairs.For more photos and videos please see our website www.hdbnqrescue.org/bitches youtube page: https://www.youtube.com/@HDBnQRescue

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Dulce de Leche fromHELLA DAM BITCHES N QUEENS RESCUE INCPacifica, CA · listed Oct 7

7. Jimothy

Young (2 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Are you looking for an all around good boy? Meet Jimothy. He is about 9.5 pounds and 2 years old. He is a little shy to start, but gets over it in about 5 minutes and then can be your friend for life.

Jim is housetrained, loves his canine foster brother, and his human foster brother too. His short red coat is thick and soft. He loves having a lap to nap in. He is also great on leashed walks. He does OK when left alone with his canine foster brother, but is hoping for a forever home where he doesn't get left alone too much. He loves running errands with his foster mom. He is really a perfect little guy.

Read more about Jimothy

Jimothy seems a little frightened of men and small children. Children in the home should be at least tweens, and men should be patient.

Grateful Dogs Rescue incurs substantial veterinary and other expenses in rescuing our dogs. In order to recoup some of these costs, we request a tax-deductible donation for each adoption. The suggested donation for Jimothy is $300.

If you are interested in adopting Jimothy, please complete our online adoption application at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/adoption-process/

. One of our volunteers will get back to you. Adoptions are local, confined to the SF Bay Area.

See our other available dogs at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/available-dogs/

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Jimothy fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed Oct 6

8. Taffy

Adult (5 years) · Female · Pug / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Who loves a sweet piece of Taffy! Well we have your girl right here. This gentle lady is such an easy going pleasure to keep you company. She came to us carrying way too many extra pounds for her age , she’s probably about 5 years old, but she has been exercising and eating correctly everyday and can now jog a little on her daily romps.

Taffy enjoys her walks and then snuggling in next to you on the couch in the evening.

She is a little shy at first and will just lay on a dog bed and snooze quietly but once she warms up, she seeks affection from you.

Read more about Taffy

Taffy is an easy going companion just looking for a loving home that will help her continue on her health journey. She gets along with dogs, kids, and we would suspect cats also given her kind nature.

Grateful Dogs Rescue incurs substantial veterinary and other expenses in rescuing our dogs. In order to recoup some of these costs, we request a tax-deductible donation for each adoption. The suggested donation for Taffy is $300.

If you are interested in adopting Taffy, please complete our online adoption application at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/adoption-process/

. One of our volunteers will get back to you. Adoptions are local, confined to the SF Bay Area.

See our other available dogs at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/available-dogs/

Adopt Taffy fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed Oct 2

9. Ricky

Adult (5 years 1 month) · Male · Maltese (short coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Meet Ricky

Ricky is a 5-year-old, 8-pound Maltese with a big heart packed into a tiny body! This sweet little guy loves his people and is happiest when he can be close to his human. If you’re looking for a loyal little companion who wants to be by your side, Ricky may be your perfect match.

Ricky is an affectionate, lovable boy who is a pleasure to care for. Like many small dogs, he can get a little excited at times, but he is easy to calm down and responds well to gentle reassurance. He is also learning how to stay calm and comfortable around other dogs and will benefit from continued patience and positive guidance as he builds confidence.

Read more about Ricky

Ricky can occasionally be a little protective of his things, so his adopter should be mindful of his tendency to resource guard and continue working with him using positive, reward-based training. He also has occasional accidents in the house, although he seems to understand that the yard is the place to do his business and is making progress with his house manners.

Most of all, Ricky is simply a very sweet, loving little guy who wants what most dogs want: to be loved, cared for, and close to his person. He has so much affection to give and would love to find someone who will appreciate his gentle, endearing personality while helping him continue to learn and grow.

If you’re looking for a tiny companion with a huge capacity for love, Ricky would be thrilled to meet you! ❤️

Adopt Ricky fromSilicon Valley Pet ProjectSan Jose, CA · listed Sep 28

10. Lucy

Adult (7 years 1 month) · Female · Chihuahua / Miniature Pinscher / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Lucy is a 7–8‑year‑old, 12‑lb female dog who was scheduled for euthanasia on September 23, 2026. A last‑minute social media post prompted two Grateful Dogs Rescue volunteers to intervene, allowing her to leave the shelter safely. And what a change! She is now a fun, goofy, food loving dog that will control you with her chocolately eyes!

Read more about Lucy

Lucy is a quiet, gentle dog who enjoys a nice quiet home; she's hanging with two other chihuahuas and does great with them. Lucy did meet some cats and no one seemed to care so yes, we'd say she can live with cats! She enjoys spending long periods in the garden and relaxing in the sun. Indoors, she likes laps, soft sofas, and rearranging throw pillows.

She is potty trained, uses a doggy door, and will use a potty pad at night. Lucy walks well on leash and enjoys slow neighborhood strolls. She may initially appear aloof for a few minutes, but she warms up quickly and accepts gentle affection. She rides well in the car.

Lucy is spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, and recently had a wellness exam. Based on her condition, her age estimate was revised from 10 years to 7–8 years old. She also had a major dental procedure and is now fully ready for adoption.

A yard not required but sunspots a must :)

Grateful Dogs Rescue incurs substantial veterinary and other expenses in rescuing our dogs. In order to recoup some of these costs, we request a tax-deductible donation for each adoption. The suggested donation for Lucy is $300.

If you are interested in adopting Lucy, please complete our online adoption application at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/adoption-process/

. One of our volunteers will get back to you. Adoptions are local, confined to the SF Bay Area.

See our other available dogs at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/available-dogs/

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Lucy fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed Sep 25

11. Quinn

Young · Male · Maltese / Mixed (long coat) · 12 mi from Hayward

This dog is available to meet by appointment only.

Quinn is a 10-pound Maltese mix who appears to have had a difficult start in life. He is learning to trust familiar people and now approaches favorite volunteers for attention, puts his paws in their laps, enjoys being petted, and likes being carried. With less familiar people, he may snap when approached or handled, and his responses can be unpredictable.

Because he can be unpredictable, Quinn will need a very experienced adopter who understands canine behavior, can recognize and respect his boundaries, and will give him the time and space he needs to build trust at his own pace.

Read more about Quinn

Quinn deserves someone willing to look beyond his rough beginnings and champion a little dog who needs extra understanding, patience, and care.

Quinn requires regular grooming to maintain his health and comfort and may need sedation for grooming. Adopters should be prepared for the additional time, care, and expense involved.

Quinn is available for adoption by appointment only

Please submit an adoption questionnaire to meet him.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Quinn fromOakland Animal ServicesOakland, ca · listed Sep 24

12. Wendy

Young (4 years) · Female · Chihuahua / Italian Greyhound / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Hayward

Wendy is the cuddliest little love bug!
She’s super sweet, smart, playful, and happiest when she can curl up in someone’s lap. She loves playing with other playful dogs, but when playtime is over, she’s more than ready for cuddle time.

Energy Level? Medium - High

House trained? Working on it. Wendy is still having some accidents in the house, particularly after playing. Seems potty pad trained

Describe how they are on leash? Very good.

Describe how they are with other dogs? Wendy loves to play with other playful dogs.

Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they? She was fine meeting Dusty the cat.

Read more about Wendy

Commands they know? She’s learning “sit.”

What are their favorite things? Being on someone’s lap!

What do they need to work on? Continuing to work on house training.

How are they when left alone? How long have they been left alone? Wendy does well when left alone, either in her crate or out. She may cry a little at first but settles down.

Where do they sleep? In her crate.

What is their ideal home? Wendy would be happy anywhere she has a lap to cuddle up on! She loves playing with the resident dog, so a playful canine friend could be fun for her, but what she really wants is a person to be close to. She’s perfectly happy snoozing on a lap while you work at the computer or relax on the couch.

What is their meal schedule and what are they eating? She eats 1/3 cup of dry food including a wet food topper, twice a day.

The Adoption fee is $325.

For adoption consideration or to meet our dogs

, please complete our online adoption application at

www.everypetsdream.org/adopt

. W

e will have everything we need to know to call you back and set up an appointment. Follow us: Facebook and Instagram

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Wendy fromEvery Pet's DreamSanta Clara, CA · listed Sep 17

13. Buddy Boy

Senior (13 years 8 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Hayward

Buddy is a happy, spunky little guy with lots of personality! He tends to ignore other dogs and isn’t a big fan of cats, so he would be happy as an only pet or could potentially live with other calm dogs. Once Buddy warms up, he bonds strongly with his people and loves following them everywhere. He’s a great little car companion, loves being held, and is always up for some cuddles. With new people, Buddy likes to make his own decisions. Sometimes he needs a little time to warm up, while other times he decides he likes someone right away!

Read more about Buddy Boy

Energy Level? Medium
House trained? Yes
Describe how they are on leash? Good
Describe how they are with other dogs? Good
Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they? Buddy doesn’t care for cats but has not been aggressive with them. He has chased them, though, so a cat-free home would likely be best.
Commands they know? Sit, stay, no, go potty
What are their favorite things? Food and cuddles!
What do they need to work on? Nothing really. He’s a good boy!
How are they when left alone? How long have they been left alone? He does just fine when left home alone.
Where do they sleep? In bed, of course!
What is their ideal home? Buddy would love a person or family who is home often, wants a little companion by their side, and is ready to spoil him with lots of love and cuddles.

The Adoption fee is $325.

For adoption consideration or to meet our dogs

, please complete our online adoption application at

www.everypetsdream.org/adopt

. W

e will have everything we need to know to call you back and set up an appointment. Follow us: Facebook and Instagram

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Buddy Boy fromEvery Pet's DreamSanta Clara, CA · listed Sep 17

14. Niffty

Young (10 months) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 21 mi from Hayward

Niffty
is a sweet and playful pup. She was hit by a car and survived! What a resilient girl. She has healed nicely and is ready for her forever home!

Energy Level?
Medium

House trained?
Yes

Describe how they are on leash?
She has come a long way. She was initially apprehensive, but now she is enjoying her walks. She is unsure of some surfaces, walkways, and hallways. With a little time and gentle coaxing, she has done much better.

Describe how they are with other dogs?
She is great! Niffty is friendly and comfortable with dogs big and small. She likes to be around dogs and cuddles with the resident dogs in her foster home.

Read more about Niffty

Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they?
No

Commands they know?
We are working on: leave it, stay, sit, and off

What are their favorite things?
Her favorite things are squeaky toys, laying in the sun, and belly rubs.

What do they need to work on?
Commands, walking on the leash, and comfort with new things. She is very shy at first.

How are they when left alone?
How long have they been left alone? She is good when left alone.

Where do they sleep?
In her bed in the family room.

What is their ideal home?
A calm, gentle home where she can get plenty of time and attention. She could do well with a friendly, calm dog, but does not need to live with another dog. She would enjoy one or more short walks each day.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Niffty fromEvery Pet's DreamSanta Clara, CA · listed Sep 17

15. Junior Walker

Young · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Terrier / Mixed (long coat) · 12 mi from Hayward

This dog is available to meet by appointment only.

Junior Walker is a 23-pound poodle-terrier mix with lots of energy and an affectionate side. Junior may be wary of unfamiliar people and may be reactive toward people and other dogs on leash. Children may also be a trigger, so he needs an experienced adopter in a calm, adult-only home. A securely fenced yard would be a plus.

Read more about Junior Walker

Junior walks well on leash in quiet areas and warms up to treats and affection when given time and space. He loves cuddling, playing fetch, and hiding his toys under blankets. He knows “sit” and “down” and is very treat-motivated. He participates in playgroups with select dogs, though his compatibility with other dogs in a home would need careful assessment. Regular grooming is essential for his health and comfort.

Could you offer Junior the calm, structured home he needs

Please submit an
adoption questionnaire
to meet him.

  • No young kids
  • Only dog
Adopt Junior Walker fromOakland Animal ServicesOakland, ca · listed Sep 3

16. Rocky

Adult (7 years 1 month) · Male · Jack Russell Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Rocky is a cute Jack-Chi mix. Full disclosure: He gets his perky look from the chihuahua side, but his behavior is 100% Jack Russell. Rocky is looking for an active home with a family who can give him firm consistent discipline, plenty of play time, and an ability to see the good heart inside a feisty dog. Also no small children and no male dogs in the household please.

In his foster setting, Rocky is sweet, loving, and funny. But sadly he and the resident male dog have irreconcilable differences.

All that said ... when Rocky finds the right home, he will be your best friend forever!

Read more about Rocky

Rocky would be a great farm, ranch, or barn dog (watch). Jack Russells are famous for enjoying livestock. Got a horse? Rocky will help out around the barn or pasture!

He also thrives indoors on ear scritches and neck rubs (watch),

chilling while you work, or going out for walks in your favorite city. He is cheerful, fearless, and well trained on leash.

He is in love with his little green tennis ball & can play fetch (watch) for ... well ... a long time

He will entertain himself with games he makes up himself. Like dropping his ball into a shoe (watch) to see if he can get it back.

He will bark angrily at windshield wipers (watch) and UPS trucks, but nibble his "Mr. Lamb" toy with the tenderness of a new father.

Rocky likes both men and women, as long as they are active and confident.

Rocky

walks beautifully on a leash but does not know basic commands like "sit" or "stay'. That said, he is very treat-motivated and young enough to still learn new tricks.

Grateful Dogs Rescue incurs substantial veterinary and other expenses in rescuing our dogs. In order to recoup some of these costs, we request a tax-deductible donation for each adoption. The suggested donation for Rocky is $300.

If you are interested in adopting Rocky, please complete our online adoption application at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/adoption-process/

. One of our volunteers will get back to you. Adoptions are local, confined to the SF Bay Area.

See our other available dogs at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/available-dogs/

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Rocky fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed Sep 2

17. Carey Martin

Young · Female · Unknown breed (short coat) · 14 mi from Hayward

Carey Martin arrived in Valley Humane's care with two tots in tow; she was a loving, dedicated mama and now her pups have been neutered and adopted to their forever homes. Carey is ready to find hers! She's a low-key housedog; she loves being in the backyard and sunbathing. Carey is housetrained and crate-trained but will not go out for a walk on leash. She's a great eater and really just wants a companionable home where she can hang out near her person.

Carey Martin weighs 10.2 pounds and is a young adult (estimated to be aged between 1 and 4 years).

Read more about Carey Martin

Do you have questions about this animal or are you ready to take the next step to adoption? Complete our Adoption Inquiry Form (copy and paste the following URL into your browser address bar) or call us 925-426-8656. We are looking forward to hearing from you!

  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Carey Martin fromValley Humane SocietyPleasanton, CA · listed Aug 20

18. Pearl

Puppy (3 months 1 day) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (medium coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Adventurous, always the first on the scene. Pearl is the biggest girl of the litter, and the only one with long, coarse hair — which seems to allude to some terrier heritage. Pearl is brave and always excited to meet new people, dogs, and cats — while also being polite enough not to overwhelm new animal friends with too much aggressive friendliness.
Born 7/30/26 predicted adult weight 10-16 lbs Mother is an exceptionally friendly and cuddly 9lb chiweenie mix, dad is unknown
"An only pup is a lonely pup!" Pearl MUST go to a home with another friendly dog (

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Pearl fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed Aug 3

19. Maisy

Adult (8 years 2 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 21 mi from Hayward

Maisy
is an incredibly sweet, affectionate dog who is a joy to have around. She loves being part of whatever you're doing and quickly wins people over with her fun, social personality.

Energy Level?
Medium. Maisy has bursts of playful "mountain goat" energy and enjoys exploring, but she's equally happy relaxing with a sunny spot for a nap.

House-trained?
Mostly. Maisy does well about going outside to potty but has had some accidents on the rugs
, so her foster has found it easiest to keep those picked up while she continues to build good habits.

Read more about Maisy

Describe how they are on leash?
Maisy walks well on leash and enjoys getting out for walks and adventures.

Describe how they are with other dogs?
When meeting new dogs, Maisy may bark or lunge initially, but once she has a chance to settle in and become comfortable, she does well and enjoys canine companionship.

Have they been around cats or other animals? How were they?
Yes. Maisy has lived with a cat, whom she happily ignores, and she gets along very well with another dog in her foster home.

Commands they know?
Maisy is still learning her basic commands and is currently working on "sit," "off," and "quiet." She's eager to learn with positive reinforcement.

What are their favorite things?
Attention, affection, affection, affection,
food (especially treats!), walks, and spending time with her people. She also enjoys social outings after she's had a little time to check out her surroundings.

What do they need to work on?
Maisy is continuing to learn her basic manners and commands. Like many curious dogs, she'll occasionally help herself to shoes or laundry if they're left within reach, so she'll benefit from continued training, puppy proofing, and management.

How are they when left alone? How long have they been left alone?
Maisy does well when left alone. She is crated for up to four hours at a time, typically no more than a couple of days each week, and handles it well.

Where do they sleep?
Maisy sleeps comfortably in her crate.

What is their ideal home?
Maisy is a wonderfully adaptable dog who would fit into many different types of homes. She has done well with dogs and cats, and while she hasn't been around children yet, her sweet, social nature suggests she could do well with a family willing to give her a proper introduction. Whether it's a single person, a couple, or a family, Maisy will thrive with people who enjoy including her in their daily lives and can provide moderate exercise, continued training, and lots of love. She's an easygoing, affectionate companion who forms strong bonds and will make a wonderful addition to a lucky family.

The Adoption fee is $325.
For adoption consideration or to meet our dogs
, please complete our online adoption application at

www.everypetsdream.org/adopt

. W
e will have everything we need to know to call you back and set up an appointment. Follow us: Facebook and Instagram

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Maisy fromEvery Pet's DreamSanta Clara, CA · listed Jun 6

20. Sugar

Adult (3 years 4 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Papillon / Mixed (medium coat) · 20 mi from Hayward

Sugar is simply adorable. She has lots of Chihuahua

attitude and likes to bark at dogs on walks, but just to make sure they know she is coming and they should wait to meet her. She loves car rides, snuggles, playing with her canine foster sister, meal times, exploring the back yard, and giving kisses. She is slow to meet new people, but will give them a sniff. She likes meeting new dogs of all sizes.

Sugar is about 3 years old and 6 pounds. She is a fun, loving girl that wants a home where she can spend most of the time with her person(s). Another dog would be nice, but not a requirement.

Read more about Sugar

She is active, and playful, and goes on 2 mile walks every day with her larger canine foster siblings.

Sugar has GERD, Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease, and takes a daily antacid to keep it under control. Luckily she really enjoys pill pockets. She also take cough meds as needed. She needs 3-4 small low fat meals per day to keep food in her tummy but not to let it be full. This sweet girl is worth it!

Grateful Dogs Rescue incurs substantial veterinary and other expenses in rescuing our dogs. In order to recoup some of these costs, we request a tax-deductible donation for each adoption. The suggested donation for Sugar is $300.

If you are interested in adopting Sugar, please complete our online adoption application at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/adoption-process/

. One of our volunteers will get back to you. Adoptions are local, confined to the SF Bay Area.

See our other available dogs at
https://www.gratefuldogsrescue.org/available-dogs/

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Sugar fromGrateful Dogs RescueSan Francisco, CA · listed May 29

21. Laika

Young (1 year 2 months) · Female · Siberian Husky / German Shepherd Dog / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Hayward

Laika came to NorSled as a puppy, and now at about a year old, she’s ready to find the forever home she’s been patiently waiting for.

At just 35 pounds, she’s the perfect pint-sized adventure buddy, but don’t let her size fool you. This girl has enough enthusiasm, zoomies, and kisses for two big dogs.

We think Laika is a Shepsky (Siberian Husky + German Shepherd), which means she’s equal parts sass, smarts, and loyalty.

Like any young dog, she’ll thrive with structure, training, and an active family ready to help her be her very best. She’s fully vetted, ready to learn, and even more ready to love.

Could Laika be the missing piece of your family?

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Laika fromNorthern California Sled Dog RescueWalnut Creek, CA · listed May 23

Adopting a small dog in Hayward

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 Hayward

Questions about adopting small dogs in Hayward

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Hayward?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Hayward, California, have 21 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Hayward?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Hayward right now are Grateful Dogs Rescue (San Francisco, CA), Oakland Animal Services (Oakland, ca) and Every Pet's Dream (Santa Clara, 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.