Newport Beach, CA

Small Dogs for Adoption in Newport Beach, CA: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Newport Beach, CA

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Newport Beach have 48 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 Lhasa Apso.

1. Bandit

Young · Male · Shih Tzu (medium coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Bandit fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Nov 3

2. Miss Beth

Young · Female · Pomeranian (medium coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Miss Beth fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Nov 1

3. Duncan

Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Catahoula Leopard Dog / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Duncan fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 30

4. Dexter

Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Dexter fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 30

5. Rolfie

Young · Male · Collie / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Rolfie fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 30

6. Oscar

Adult · Male · Lhasa Apso / Shih Tzu (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Oscar fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Oct 28

7. Chewy

Adult · Maltese (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Chewy fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Oct 25

8. Sparky

Young · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Shih Tzu / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Sparky fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 24

9. Gwen

Adult · Female · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Schnauzer (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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

10. Princess

Young · Female · Lhasa Apso / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Princess fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 23

11. Denis

Young · Male · Lhasa Apso / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Denis fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 23

12. Chuy

Young · Female · Lhasa Apso / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Chuy fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 23

13. Tootsie

Adult · Female · Shih Tzu / Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (medium coat) · 14 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Tootsie fromNew Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · listed Oct 23

14. Freddie

Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 14 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Freddie fromNew Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · listed Oct 22

15. Dove

Young · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (medium coat) · 24 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Dove fromAnimals Rule Placement FoundationSan Pedro, CA · listed Oct 21

16. Nikko

Young · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Nikko fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Oct 21

17. Duffy

Young · Male · Border Terrier / Jack Russell Terrier (Parson Russell Terrier) (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Duffy fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Oct 20

18. Nina

Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Nina fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Oct 17

19. Popeye

Adult · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie (medium coat) · 14 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Popeye fromNew Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · listed Oct 12

20. Stanley

Young · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Stanley fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Oct 8

21. Milo

Puppy · Male · Pomeranian · 13 mi from Newport Beach

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
Adopt Milo fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Oct 7

22. Buddy

Young · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

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

23. Chewie

Senior · Male · Maltese / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 14 mi from Newport Beach

Meet Chewie! ❤️

Chewie is an approximately 11-year-old Maltese mix who weighs 14 pounds, and this sweet little boy is ready for a fresh start and a loving home to call his own. He came to us as an owner surrender due to a life-changing family situation.

Read more about Chewie

Chewie is a lovable, mellow, and sweet little guy. He is housetrained, happily sleeps in his crate, and is an easygoing companion who would love nothing more than to be part of a family. He enjoys his daily walks and, despite his age, still loves to show off his playful side with some adorable zoomies in the backyard! While Chewie is dog friendly, he prefers to socialize with smaller dogs his size. He also tends to be more cautious with men and will need a slow introduction to men he doesn't know.

Chewie recently underwent extensive dental surgery. Because he had never received previous dental care, he unfortunately lost all of his teeth. But don’t let that worry you—Chewie doesn’t seem to know he’s missing a single tooth! He is happy, comfortable, and enjoys his meals. He will simply need to remain on a soft-food diet.

His bloodwork shows that he is in good health for his age, and he has completed his medical intake. Now all Chewie needs is someone to give him the love, comfort, and happily-ever-after he deserves.

If you’re looking for a sweet, gentle little companion who will be grateful for every bit of love you give him, Chewie may be your perfect match.

If you are interested in meeting Chewie, please first complete an adoption application on our website: www.greatpets.org.

Chewie’s $200 adoption donation includes his veterinary examination, vaccinations, bloodwork, extensive dental surgery, fecal examination, microchip, and flea control.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Chewie fromNew Beginnings for AnimalsMission Viejo, CA · listed Sep 17

24. Buster

Puppy · Male · Terrier / Pug / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

Meet Buster!Buster is an adorable 3–3½-month-old little mystery mix who may have some Terrier, Pug, Spaniel… and who knows what else! Whatever he is, he’s 7–8 pounds of pure sweetness.Buster is a little shy when he first meets you, but give him a little time and he warms up quickly. Once he’s comfortable, his playful, happy personality starts to shine!Buster came into rescue with his brother. They don’t look much alike, but they were rescued together after they were both at risk of euthanasia because they had upper respiratory infections. Thankfully, they made it to safety and are now ready for their next chapter.Buster is great with other dogs and would make a wonderful family dog.

Read more about Buster

We think he’d be a fantastic addition to a family with kids who will give him a little time to come out of his shell.This sweet little guy has so much love to give. Now he just needs a family of his own!Apply to adopt Buster using the link in our bio.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Buster fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Sep 14

25. O’Brien

Puppy · Male · Poodle (Toy) / Terrier (short coat) · 16 mi from Newport Beach

Meet O’Brien! Eight months ago, I entered the world with a extra special heart! During my very first puppy checkup, the vet caught a heart murmur. They sent me to a specialist who found out I was born with a defective heart valve. But don't worry—thanks to expert care and an awesome rescue team, I had a successful balloon procedure to fix it! Now, I have a completely clean bill of health, a 100% healthy ticker, and a big, bright future ahead.At 8 months old, I’m feeling fantastic and living life to the absolute fullest! I’m a happy, active Poodle/Terrier mix who loves nothing more than romping around with other dogs, making new friends, and giving endless cuddles.

Read more about O’Brien

I’ve got the sweetest soul and a heart full of love just waiting for you.I’m fully recovered, in great shape, and ready to find my forever family!• Age: 8 months • Breed: Poodle / Terrier Mix • Temperament: Sweet, playful, affectionate • Good with: Dogs & people • Health: Heart repaired, fully recovered & 100% healthy!Ready to let this brave boy steal your heart? Apply to adopt O’Brien today! FOCHP.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt O’Brien fromFriends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · listed Sep 13

26. Nugget

Adult · Female · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

Nugget is an adorable little 11-pound lady born in 2021 who was found as a stray and is ready to leave her past behind and start her next chapter. She’s a sweet, gentle girl who is good with other dogs and would love a safe, loving home where she can settle in and finally know she belongs. Nugget may be small, but she has a whole lot of love to give. Could you be the one to give this sweet girl her happily ever after?

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Nugget fromThe Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · listed Sep 11

27. Elmer

Senior · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 24 mi from Newport Beach

Name: ElmerAge: 10-12 yrs Sex: male, neuteredBreed: ChihuahuaWeight: 10 lbsHousebroken: yes, in a house with backyard space Kids: 9 and older should be just fine.Other dogs: friendly with all other small dogs. Is fostered with another senior male & seems to enjoy the companyCats: cat safe, currently fostered with catsHousing: We are looking to put him in a house with yard or patio spacePersonality: Elmer is a darling dog. He has a very happy-go- lucky personality. He loves going on walks but due to his grade 4/6 heart murmor its 2 houses max to pee, then in the dog stroller or carry sack for the rest of the walk.

Read more about Elmer

He loves to snuggle with you on the couch. He will bond quickly with his new owner. He's a lover boy for sure.What we know: found as a stray in terrible condition. We had a dental w/extractions done. He'sbeen neutered and completely vaccinated & microchipped. His bloodwork is good. He is on Vetmedin for his 4/6 heart murmur and we have 6 months of meds to go with him. Elmer is good on leash & loves walks, but unfortunately he can not walk far due to the heart murmor. He wants to go, but you will need to carry him or put him in a doggie stroller for his own good. He loves to go out with you around town also, he's very social and an attention grabber. Medical: healthy, good bloodwork, has had a dental w/extractions, completely vaccinated, dewormed, neutered and microchipped.How to apply: No out of state. Visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Elmer, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages
Elmer is in foster care & 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.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Elmer fromAnimals Rule Placement FoundationSan Pedro, CA · listed Sep 9

28. Maya

Senior · Female · Maltese / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

Meet Maya! Maya is an approximately 10–11-year-old small Maltese/Poodle-type mix with a gentle, sweet personality. She was rescued after her previous owner was no longer able to provide the care she needed. Her coat had become severely matted and needed to be completely shaved, but she’s now comfortable, clean and ready for a brand-new beginning.Maya does well with people and other dogs and is an incredibly sweet little lady. At this stage of her life, she deserves nothing more than a safe home, a cozy bed and a family who will absolutely adore her.She’s had a rough chapter, but that doesn’t have to define the rest of her story. Maya is ready to be someone’s cherished little girl.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Maya fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Sep 8

29. Toby

Young · Male · Poodle (Miniature) · 13 mi from Newport Beach

Meet Toby! Toby is a handsome 2-year-old Poodle weighing in at 13 pounds, with a sweet personality and a heart full of love. He’s very friendly with other dogs and would happily have a furry friend by his side.Toby is crate trained and is the kind of dog who really loves having his person. He’s incredibly loyal and wants nothing more than to be near you, showering his favorite human with affection and soaking up all the love in return.If you’re looking for a devoted little companion who will happily follow you around and make you feel like the most important person in the world, Toby may be your perfect match.Toby is ready to find his forever person and a home where he can be loved as much as he loves.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Toby fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Sep 8

30. Pippin

Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 13 mi from Newport Beach

PIPPIN |Meet Pippin—the little lady in pink! This Chihuahua mix has the cutest expressive face and those absolutely fabulous puppy ears. Pippin is still just a baby and ready to learn everything about being part of a family. She’s looking for a loving home where she can play, grow, cuddle and become somebody’s very best girl.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Pippin fromLove All AnimalsDana Point, CA · listed Sep 8

Adopting a small dog in Newport Beach

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 Newport Beach

Questions about adopting small dogs in Newport Beach

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Newport Beach?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Newport Beach, California, have 48 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Newport Beach?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Newport Beach right now are Love All Animals (Dana Point, CA), Friends of Orange County's Homeless Pets (Menifee, CA) and New Beginnings for Animals (Mission Viejo, 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.