Small Dogs for Adoption in Santa Monica, CA: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Bruno appreciates the simple pleasures: a leisurely walk, a tasty treat, a friendly game of chase, and a comfortable couch beside his people. In true dachshund fashion, he loves burrowing into pillows and blankets. If your idea of a lovely evening includes a cozy spot and a devoted companion, Bruno would be happy to join you.

He has been friendly and nonreactive with the dogs he’s met so far, both large and small. He plays appropriately with his foster sisters and enjoys their company. Found as a stray alongside another dog, Bruno also shared space with other dogs during his shelter stay.

Bruno walks beautifully on a leash, making outings together a pleasure. Toys haven’t caught his interest just yet; for now, people, treats, and his canine companions seem to be his favorite things.

He is still working on his indoor manners and currently marks in the home. His foster family is managing this with belly bands, and his adopter should be prepared to continue patient, consistent housetraining as he adjusts.

Bruno would love a family who will include him in everyday life, enjoy his affectionate personality, and give him the time and guidance he needs to settle in. Another friendly dog could be a lovely match, given how much he enjoys his foster sisters.

Could your home be Bruno’s next cozy place to land? Submit an adoption application through Dachshund Rescue of Los Angeles and tell us about the life you could share with this lovable boy.

At seven years old, Sombra has moved beyond the demanding puppy stages, making her a wonderful candidate for someone interested in adopting an adult dog. Her individual personality is still being evaluated, but she has the opportunity to build a loving bond with a family who will give her time to settle in.

About the Dachshund Terrier Mix

Dachshunds and Terriers are known for their intelligence, determination, loyalty, and curious personalities. Originally bred as working dogs, both breeds can have strong instincts to explore, investigate interesting scents, and engage with their surroundings.

As a Dachshund Terrier mix, Sombra may display some of these characteristics:

Loyal and Affectionate: Many develop strong attachments to their families.

Intelligent and Curious: They often enjoy exploring, scent games, and interactive activities.

Independent: Their determined personalities benefit from patient, consistent guidance.

Playful: Even mature adults may enjoy toys, games, and daily adventures.

Alert: They can be observant and attentive to their surroundings.

Because Sombra is a mixed breed, her individual temperament and energy level may vary from these general characteristics.

At 16 pounds, Sombra is a manageable size for many households. Her ideal home will provide appropriate exercise, companionship, and a comfortable environment where she can feel secure.

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

Although Sombra is seven years old, adopters should not assume she is fully house-trained or familiar with household routines. Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best.

Her future family should be prepared to reinforce house training, leash manners, basic commands, and appropriate household behavior using positive reinforcement.

Dachshund Terrier mixes often benefit from daily walks, scent-based activities, and mental enrichment. Exercise should be adjusted to Sombra's individual energy level and physical condition.

Sombra is considered suitable for homes with dogs and children, with proper introductions and supervision. Her compatibility with cats is unknown.

Understanding the 3-3-3 Rule

Every rescue dog needs time to adjust:

3 Days: Decompress and begin feeling safe.

3 Weeks: Learn household routines and build confidence.

3 Months: Develop trust and become more comfortable in the family.

These are guidelines, not deadlines. Patience, consistency, and a predictable routine will help Sombra settle into her new home.

Owner Responsibilities & Veterinary Care

Sombra's current spay and vaccination status have not been confirmed. Her adopter should review her medical records and arrange any necessary follow-up care.

Dachshund Terrier Health Considerations

Because of her breed mix and age, Sombra's future family should be aware of several potential health considerations:

Back and Spinal Health: Dachshunds are predisposed to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). If Sombra has inherited a longer back, limiting repetitive jumping and maintaining a healthy weight may help protect her spine.

Joint Health: Smaller dogs may develop kneecap instability or age-related joint discomfort.

Dental Care: Regular tooth brushing and veterinary dental examinations are important.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body condition supports mobility and overall health.

Age-Appropriate Care: As Sombra gets older, regular wellness examinations can help

Meet Estella, an adorable 3-month-old Terrier mix weighing just 6.5 pounds! This precious little girl is at the beginning of her life and searching for a loving family who will help her grow into a happy, confident companion.

Her beautiful name is associated with the stars, and Estella is ready to become the shining star of someone's home!

At three months old, Estella is experiencing the exciting world of puppyhood. Like most puppies her age, she is expected to be curious, playful, and eager to explore her surroundings. Her individual personality is still developing, giving her future family the wonderful opportunity to watch her grow and discover what makes her special.

Currently weighing only 6.6 pounds, Estella is a petite puppy with more growing to do. Her adult size will depend on her genetics and development.

About the Terrier Breed

Terriers are known for their intelligence, lively personalities, curiosity, and determination. Originally developed for various working purposes, many Terriers are energetic little dogs who enjoy exploring, playing, and spending time with their families.

As a Terrier mix, Estella may inherit characteristics such as:

Intelligence: Terriers are often quick learners who enjoy mental challenges and interactive activities.

Playfulness: Many enjoy games, toys, and opportunities to explore.

Affection: Terriers can develop strong bonds with their families and enjoy companionship.

Confidence: Their spirited nature can make them entertaining and engaging companions.

Independence: Some Terriers have a determined personality and benefit from consistent, patient training.

Curiosity: They may enjoy investigating new sights, sounds, and smells.

Because Estella is a mixed breed, her temperament, appearance, adult size, and energy level may vary from these general breed characteristics.

Estella's Ideal Home

Estella would be a wonderful addition to a family prepared for the joys and responsibilities of raising a young puppy.

Her ideal home will provide a safe environment, plenty of companionship, appropriate exercise, and consistent guidance as she grows.

She is considered suitable for homes with other dogs and children, provided introductions are handled carefully and interactions are supervised. Her compatibility with cats has not yet been established.

Because Estella is currently very small, young children should be taught to handle her gently, and playtime with larger dogs should always be supervised.

Estella doesn't need a perfect family. She needs a patient, committed family who will love her through every stage of life.

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

At just three months old, Estella is beginning to learn the skills she will need throughout her life.

Puppies are not born knowing household rules, and rescue puppies may arrive with little or no formal training. Her future family should be prepared to teach her through positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency.

Essential Puppy Training

House Training: Establish a regular bathroom schedule, offer frequent potty breaks, and reward successful habits.

Crate Training: Introduce a comfortable, secure resting space using positive experiences.

Basic Commands: Begin teaching sit, come, stay, and leave it through short, engaging training sessions.

Leash Training: Help Estella become comfortable wearing a properly fitted harness and walking safely.

Bite Inhibition: Redirect normal puppy mouthing and nipping toward appropriate toys.

Socialization: Introduce her gradually to peop

Despite everything he has been through, Darwin is a very sweet and gentle soul. He loves being around people, enjoys playing with other dogs, and is always happy to take a cozy nap. He would make a wonderful companion for someone who appreciates the simple joys of having a loving senior dog by their side.

Darwin is looking for a special home that will love him for the rest of his life. He has already experienced the uncertainty of ending up in a shelter, and we want to make sure he never has to go through that again. He deserves a family who will cherish him, care for him, and give him the safe and loving home he has always deserved.

Could you be Darwin’s happy ending?

If you are interested in adopting Darwin or offering him a foster-to-adopt home, please contact Melita’s Dream Animal Rescue.

Please share Darwin’s story. His forever family may be just one share away! ❤️

I'll be ready for my forever home soon. If you’re looking for a sweet, loyal girl who’s learned what it means to be loved, I’d be so happy to meet you. ADOPT ME!
*This is a courtesy post. If you're interested in adopting Princey, please fill out an application with Big Love Animal Rescue https://bigloveanimalrescue.org/

*This is a courtesy post. If you're interested in adopting Trixie, please fill out an adoption application with Big Love Animal Rescue https://bigloveanimalrescue.org/

Meet Tancho, an adorable 6-year-old Pug with a tender heart, an affectionate personality, and just a little bit of attitude that makes him uniquely lovable!

Tancho is a very sweet, loving, and affectionate boy who enjoys companionship and has so much love to share with his future family. At six years old, he's a mature adult who is ready to enjoy the comforts of a forever home where he can feel safe, appreciated, and cherished.

One of the wonderful things about Tancho is that he has experience living with other dogs, cats, and children. This makes him a promising companion for a variety of households, provided his individual needs and boundaries are respected.

However, Tancho also has a spirited side! While he can live with other dogs, he can occasionally become feisty or confrontational toward larger breeds. His future family should understand this behavior and be prepared to manage interactions carefully.

This doesn't take away from his loving personality. It simply means Tancho needs a family who will recognize his boundaries, supervise introductions, and help him feel comfortable around other dogs.

About the Pug Breed

Pugs are known for their affectionate personalities, charming expressions, loyalty, playful nature, and strong attachment to their families.

Originally bred as companion dogs, Pugs often enjoy spending time close to their people and being included in everyday family activities.

Tancho may share several typical breed characteristics:

Affectionate and devoted: Pugs often form strong bonds with their families and enjoy regular attention.

Friendly and social: Many enjoy interacting with people and participating in household activities.

Playful and entertaining: Pugs are known for their amusing personalities and individual quirks.

Adaptable: They can thrive in apartments or houses when their needs are met.

Occasionally stubborn: Some Pugs have independent personalities and benefit from patient, consistent training.

Moderate exercise needs: Short walks and gentle playtime are generally more appropriate than strenuous activity.

Sensitive to heat: Their shortened muzzles make them especially vulnerable to overheating.

Tancho's combination of affection, maturity, and spirited personality makes him a special little companion.

His ideal family will appreciate his loving nature while understanding that he may need additional guidance and supervision around larger dogs.

Tancho has a gentle heart, a loving spirit, and just enough sass to keep life interesting!

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

At six years old, Tancho is a mature adult who will benefit from a predictable routine, positive reinforcement training, and a peaceful home environment.

Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best, so adopters should be prepared to continue working on house training if needed, leash manners, basic obedience, calm greetings, household boundaries, and appropriate socialization.

Although Tancho is described as affectionate and loving, his occasional confrontational behavior toward larger dogs is an important consideration for his future family.

Living With Other Dogs

Tancho has experience living with other dogs, but he can sometimes become bravucón—feisty, challenging, or confrontational—when interacting with larger breeds.

This behavior does not necessarily mean he cannot live with another dog. However, it does mean his future family should take int

Meet Tigre, an adorable 5-year-old purebred French Bulldog weighing just 12 pounds! This handsome little gentleman has a calm, affectionate personality and is searching for a loving family who will appreciate his gentle nature and give him the comfortable, happy life he deserves.

Tigre is a calm and loving boy who enjoys affection and companionship. Unlike puppies who are constantly on the move, Tigre has a more relaxed personality, making him a wonderful potential companion for someone looking for a dog who appreciates life's quieter moments.

At five years old, Tigre is a mature adult who has moved beyond the energetic stages of puppyhood. His easygoing nature makes him a lovely candidate for a family that enjoys spending quality time together without needing a high-energy adventure companion.

Whether it's relaxing beside his favorite person, enjoying gentle attention, or simply being included in everyday family life, Tigre has the kind of personality that can make a house feel more like a home.

About the French Bulldog Breed

French Bulldogs are beloved for their affectionate personalities, charming expressions, playful nature, loyalty, and strong attachment to their families.

Originally developed as companion dogs, Frenchies often thrive in homes where they receive regular attention, affection, and opportunities to spend time with their people.

Tigre may share several typical French Bulldog characteristics:

Affectionate and devoted: French Bulldogs often form strong bonds with their families and enjoy being close to their favorite people.

Calm and adaptable: Many are comfortable with a relatively relaxed lifestyle when their exercise and enrichment needs are met.

Charming personalities: Frenchies are known for their entertaining expressions and individual personalities.

People-oriented: They often enjoy companionship and being included in household activities.

Moderate exercise needs: Short walks and gentle playtime are usually more appropriate than strenuous exercise.

Sensitive to heat: Their shortened muzzles make them especially vulnerable to overheating and breathing difficulties.

At just 12 pounds, Tigre is a petite French Bulldog, but his small size does not lessen his need for proper veterinary care, companionship, and attention.

His ideal family will appreciate his calm, affectionate nature while understanding the specific health and lifestyle needs associated with French Bulldogs.

Tigre doesn't need a life filled with constant excitement. He needs a family who will appreciate his gentle heart, enjoy his companionship, and give him a comfortable place to call home.

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

At five years old, Tigre is a mature adult who will benefit from a consistent routine, gentle guidance, and positive reinforcement training.

Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best, so adopters should be prepared to continue working on house training if needed, leash manners, basic obedience, household boundaries, and appropriate socialization.

Because Tigre has a calm personality, he may be a wonderful match for someone who prefers a more relaxed daily routine.

French Bulldogs can be intelligent but occasionally independent, so training should focus on patience, consistency, encouragement, and positive reinforcement.

Exercise & Daily Activities

Although Tigre is not described as a highly energetic dog, regular physical activity and mental enrichment r

Meet Misty, an adorable 8-month-old Cocker Spaniel mix weighing just 15 pounds! This beautiful little girl has a friendly, loving personality and is ready to find a forever family who will cherish her for the wonderful companion she is.

Misty is a sweet young dog with so much love to give. Her friendly nature and affectionate personality make her a lovely candidate for a family looking for a companion who enjoys being part of everyday life.

At eight months old, Misty is at a wonderful stage of development. She's moving beyond early puppyhood but still has plenty of youthful energy, curiosity, and opportunities to learn. She's ready to experience all the wonderful things that come with having a family of her own.

Whether it's enjoying a walk, spending time with her favorite people, or simply relaxing in a comfortable home, Misty has the potential to become a treasured member of the family.

About the Cocker Spaniel Breed

Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle personalities, affectionate nature, intelligence, playful energy, and strong bonds with their families.

Originally developed as sporting dogs, Cocker Spaniels often enjoy activities that combine physical exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship.

As a Cocker Spaniel mix, Misty may share some of these typical breed characteristics:

Affectionate and people-oriented: Many Cocker Spaniels enjoy close relationships with their families and appreciate regular attention.

Friendly and social: They often enjoy interacting with people and participating in family activities.

Playful and cheerful: Their happy personalities can make them entertaining and enjoyable companions.

Intelligent and responsive: Many respond well to positive reinforcement training and gentle encouragement.

Moderately active: They typically enjoy daily walks, interactive games, and opportunities to explore.

Sensitive and gentle: Cocker Spaniels often thrive with patient, kind training methods and a predictable routine.

At 15 pounds, Misty is currently a small companion, although she may continue growing as she approaches adulthood.

Her ideal family will appreciate her loving personality while providing the exercise, enrichment, training, and companionship she needs to thrive.

Misty has the kind of sweet personality that can make an ordinary day feel a little more special. All she needs now is someone to share those days with!

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

At eight months old, Misty is entering adolescence, an important stage when young dogs continue developing confidence, learning boundaries, and building good habits.

Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best, so adopters should be prepared to continue working on house training if needed, leash manners, basic obedience, recall, calm greetings, appropriate chewing, household boundaries, and positive socialization.

Because Cocker Spaniel mixes can be intelligent and sensitive, Misty will benefit from positive reinforcement, patience, consistency, and gentle encouragement.

Short, enjoyable training sessions using treats, praise, and interactive games can help her learn while strengthening her bond with her new family.

Exercise & Daily Activities

Misty would benefit from a balanced daily routine that includes:

Regular walks and opportunities to explore.

Interactive games and supervised playtime.

Positive reinforcement training and basic obedience practice.

Puzzle toys and enrichment activities.

Meet Mickey, an adorable 1-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix weighing just 9 pounds! This handsome little guy may be small in size, but he has a big personality and a wonderful enthusiasm for life.

Mickey is a happy, playful boy who loves having fun and is ready to bring laughter, excitement, and companionship into someone's home. With his cheerful personality and youthful energy, he's a wonderful candidate for a family looking for a small dog with plenty of spirit.

At just one year old, Mickey is entering young adulthood. He's moved beyond the earliest stages of puppyhood but still has lots of energy, curiosity, and opportunities to learn new things.

Whether he's enjoying playtime, exploring his surroundings, or spending time with his favorite people, Mickey has the potential to become a wonderful lifelong companion.

About the Jack Russell Terrier Breed

Jack Russell Terriers are known for their intelligence, athleticism, curiosity, confidence, and lively personalities. Originally developed as working terriers, these small dogs were bred to be energetic, determined, and quick-thinking.

As a Jack Russell Terrier mix, Mickey may share several typical breed characteristics:

Playful and energetic: Jack Russells often enjoy interactive games, regular walks, and opportunities to explore.

Intelligent and curious: They are often quick learners who benefit from positive reinforcement and mental stimulation.

Affectionate and loyal: Many develop strong bonds with their families and enjoy spending time with their favorite people.

Confident and spirited: Despite their small size, Jack Russells often have bold personalities and plenty of enthusiasm.

Active and athletic: They typically enjoy activities that keep both their minds and bodies engaged.

Mickey's future family should understand that small dogs still need regular exercise, training, and mental enrichment.

Although he weighs only 9 pounds, Mickey may have the energy and determination commonly associated with terrier breeds.

His ideal home will provide daily walks, interactive playtime, positive training, and plenty of companionship.

Mickey is proof that happiness doesn't come in one size. Sometimes, it comes in a tiny 9-pound package with a big personality!

Training, Adjustment & What to Expect

At one year old, Mickey is a young adult who will benefit from continued training, positive socialization, and a consistent daily routine.

Rescue dogs may arrive with basic training at best, so adopters should be prepared to continue working on house training if needed, leash manners, basic obedience, recall, appropriate chewing, calm greetings, and household boundaries.

Because Jack Russell Terriers are intelligent and can be independent thinkers, Mickey will benefit from positive reinforcement, patience, consistency, and short, engaging training sessions.

Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, scent games, and supervised outdoor activities can help keep his curious mind occupied.

Exercise & Daily Activities

Mickey may enjoy activities such as:

Daily walks and opportunities to explore new environments.

Interactive games and supervised playtime.

Positive reinforcement training with treats and praise.

Puzzle toys and enrichment activities.

Spending quality time with his family.

Despite his small size, Mickey should not be expected to spend all day indoors without exercise or stimulation. A balanced routine that includes physical act

Cleo has a wonderfully sweet, affectionate, and easygoing temperament. She adores people of all ages, children and adults alike, and seems to believe that everyone she meets is a friend she hasn't had the pleasure of cuddling with yet!

Speaking of cuddling, Cleo is a champion snuggler. She's happiest being close to her people, and if you're looking for a devoted little companion who wants to be wherever you are, you've found your girl. Cleo is going to be someone's very own four-legged shadow! Whether you're relaxing on the sofa, moving from room to room, or settling in for the evening, you can expect Cleo to be right there beside you.

But don't let her love of cuddles fool you! Beneath that sweet exterior is a spirited young dachshund who's just waiting for her chance to run, explore, and enjoy life at full speed. Once her veterinarian gives her the all-clear, we have a feeling this little lady is going to have a wonderful time stretching those short legs and showing off her playful side!

Cleo was recently spayed and is currently recovering from surgery, so she's taking things easy for now and enjoying some extra TLC.

❤️ Cleo is currently being fostered in Calabasas, California.

With her loving personality, affectionate nature, and enthusiasm for everyone she meets, Cleo is going to make one very lucky family an incredibly devoted companion.

Cleo isn't quite ready for adoption just yet!
We're giving her the time she needs to fully recover and settle into foster care. But don't worry — we'll let everyone know as soon as this beautiful girl is ready to begin her search for a forever home!

For now, please join us in welcoming sweet Cleo to the DRLA family! ❤️

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.
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