Stockton, CA

Small Dogs for Adoption in Stockton, CA: 9 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Stockton, CA

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Stockton have 9 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 9, 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 Poodle, Chihuahua and Maltese.

1. Phoebe

Young (3 years 11 months) · Female · Poodle (Miniature) (short coat) · 43 mi from Stockton

Meet Phoebe

Phoebe is a sweet, loving girl who is house-trained and crate-trained. She is due to have her puppies in about a week and will be ready for her forever home in approximately 7-9 weeks, around December 14th. Phoebe was surrendered when her owner deployed to Iraq, and she will make a wonderful, fun addition to a loving family!

Also, Her puppies will be ready for adoption just before Christmas and can also be reserved now!

If interested in Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771

  • House-trained
Adopt Phoebe fromNorCal Freedom for PawsRancho Cordova, CA · listed Oct 16

2. Chip

Young · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 46 mi from Stockton

We love Chip, and we know you will, too!

Chip is estimated to be 7 months old, and he is a sweet and playful guy who is a little ray of sunshine. He has a happy personality and is quick to cover your face in kisses. He is a moderate-energy guy who would love a family to shower him with love. Chip weighs about 7-8lbs and we think he is pretty much fully grown.

Read more about Chip

Chip came to us from our local animal shelter after he was found as a stray. He arrived with his brother Dale, who has since been adopted, and the boys sat at the shelter for weeks with little adoption interest. We were more than happy to have Chip come to us, and he is now eager to find his fur-ever family.

Chip is the perfect mix of active and chill. He loves his daily walks and playing with his toys, but he is also happy to keep you company on the couch for downtime at home. He is a true lover boy who just loves quality time spent with the people he loves. In classic Chihuahua fashion, he loves to get cozy under the covers, and his favorite nap spot is in his foster mom's closet. He is a big cuddler and would love to be your snuggle buddy for cold Autumn nights. Chip has some basic training down, but would benefit from continuing to work on his training with his new family.

Chip loves other dogs and would adore having another playful pup to play with. He also could do well as an only dog, as long as he gets to have lots of dog friends. We have not seen Chip around cats, but he may do well with dog-savvy cats after a slow introduction and with proper supervision. Chip could be a wonderful addition to a family with kids 10 years and older.

Chip has been doing very well with his house-training using pee pads. He isn't the biggest fan of being in a crate, but has been doing well being left in a bathroom or bedroom for short periods during the day. He has done well living in an apartment with proper daily exercise.

Chip is such a sweet little guy, and he can't wait to be your new BFF. If he sounds like the pup for you, submit an application today!

Chip's adoption fee is $350.

Apply to adopt here! https://form.jotform.com/52017002013129/

Applications are also available on the website (www.yolospca.org)

It can take up to 3-5 business days to hear back once you have submitted an application.

The Yolo County SPCA is a private, not-for-profit, foster home-based animal rescue organization and does not have a shelter. All our animals awaiting adoption are in foster homes.

Our adoption fees help us cover the cost of spay/neuter surgery, microchip and registration, and rabies vaccination (if over 4 months of age at intake or spay/neuter) for all animals. Dogs are tested for heartworm, started on preventatives, and given a DAPP vaccination. Adult dogs are up to date on their vaccinations prior to adoption. Puppies will be current on the vaccinations appropriate to their age. The adopter is responsible for additional vaccinations as necessary after the adoption.

For more information about an animal, please email dogs@yolospca.org.

For more general questions, please see our website at www.yolospca.org.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Chip fromYolo County SPCADavis, CA · listed Oct 11

3. Emerald Green

Senior · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Stockton

Meet Emerald Green
Emerald is an approximately 10-year-old, 10-pound Chihuahua who has already survived more than most dogs ever should.
When his owner went to the hospital and never returned, Emerald was left behind inside the home. He survived there on his own for nearly a month before out-of-state family arrived to manage the property and discovered him.
They did not even know she had a dog.
There were no records. No one knew his name. No one knew his history. What they did know was that he was terrified.
The shelters were closed that day, the family was preparing to return home, and they brought Emerald to our veterinarian after being told repeatedly that euthanasia might be the only option.
Our veterinarian said absolutely not.
She called us.
And Emerald became an Umbrella of Hope dog.
At first, Emerald was deeply traumatized by everything around him. New people, sudden movements, unfamiliar places and even normal household activity could send him into panic. He is still cautious, but he is making real progress.
He recently attended an adoption event and did GREAT.
That was a huge milestone for a dog who once believed the entire world was dangerous.
Emerald has also shown us something very important: once he decides someone is safe, he is capable of forming a very strong bond. He seeks comfort from the people he trusts and clearly enjoys having a person nearby. When that person leaves the room, he may even sing a few dramatic little Chihuahua songs in protest.
Despite being around 10 years old, Emerald apparently did not receive the memo that he is a senior.
This little man can RUN.
He is fast, agile and fully capable of turning “come here” into an Olympic-level event if he is feeling playful.
Emerald is in good health for his age and is neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and free of parasites.
Because the outside world can still feel intimidating, he may initially have some potty accidents while learning the routine and understanding that a new home is truly his home. He needs a family willing to give him structure without pressure and patience without expectations.
Emerald does not need someone to “fix” him.
He needs someone willing to let him unfold.
Someone who understands that trust may come slowly, but when it comes, it is incredibly meaningful.
His ideal adopter will give him time to observe, decompress and decide for himself that he is safe. He may never be the dog who runs into a stranger’s arms five minutes after meeting them, and that is perfectly okay.
What he can become is deeply devoted to the person who earns his trust.
Emerald lost everything he knew without understanding why. He survived alone. He was almost written off before anyone had the chance to learn who he really was.
Now he just needs someone willing to give him the final piece of his story:
A home where nobody leaves him behind again.
Please don’t overlook an older boy because he needs a little extra time.
Sometimes the most frightened hearts have the most love left to give.

Read more about Emerald Green

GENERAL INFO:
Housebroken?: Yes, we think so
Crate Trained?: Unknown
Leash Trained?: Yes
Rides Well in Car?: Yes
Non-Shedding?: No
Good with cats?: Unknown
Good with dogs?: Yes
Qualifies for Seniors for Seniors?: Yes
Umbrella of Hope does not have any strict rules on ages of children because all children are different, but our best approximation is that this animal would do best with children over the age of 5
Umbrella of Hope is an all-volunteer, donation-run, non-profit animal rescue based out of Pittsburg, CA that rescues animals from local shelters, places them in private foster homes, provides them with needed medical care and then finds them new homes.
Also, ask us about our seniors for seniors program, where we adopt animals 5 years or older to qualified homes with a $5 donation as an adoption fee. All animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites and given any additional treatments (dental work, bloodwork etc) as recommended by our vet.
Adoptions to

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Emerald Green fromUmbrella of HopePittsburg, CA · listed Sep 5

4. Peridot GREEN

Senior · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 34 mi from Stockton

Meet PERIDOT
Peridot is an approximately 7-year-old, 12-pound mixed-breed girl—possibly a Dachshund/Poodle mix—who is spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, and free of parasites.
She also happens to be one of those dogs who makes it very easy to fall in love.Peridot is sweet, affectionate, easygoing, and happiest when she is close to her person. Her tail seems to have only one setting: wagging. Mornings are her favorite because that means she gets to see her people again, and she greets them with the happiest little wiggles.
She is potty trained, crate trained, and a very fast learner. She sleeps peacefully through the night and has shown no food aggression.

Read more about Peridot GREEN

She gets along well with other small dogs, but given the choice, Peridot would probably rather be curled up next to her human on the couch watching TV.
Peridot does have a medical condition that her future family should understand. She has been diagnosed with low-grade mammary adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer affecting the mammary glands. Her veterinarian estimates that she may have another 1–5 years, although every dog's journey is different. Her mammary glands and any changes in her masses will need continued monitoring so that her comfort and quality of life remain the priority. Umbrella of Hope is committed to Peridot's well-being and will cover the cost of euthanasia when the time comes and it is no longer kind to ask her to stay. She deserves to live out her days surrounded by love, comfort, and all the good things life has to offer.
And Peridot?
She is still her same happy, loving little self.
She wants to go for walks, snuggle up with her favorite people, collect all the treats, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being someone's beloved little dog. Her diagnosis hasn't changed her sunny personality or her desire to be part of a family.
Peridot would be a wonderful match for someone looking for a devoted little companion who enjoys a predictable routine, gets along with other small dogs, has excellent house manners, and thinks the best seat in the house is the one directly beside you.
Adopting Peridot means opening your heart to a dog whose future may be uncertain—but whose capacity to love is not. She doesn't need someone to feel sorry for her. She needs someone who sees the happy, affectionate little girl she is today and wants to make her days as wonderful as possible.
There are walks to take, cuddles to share, treats to enjoy, and so much love still to give.Peridot is waiting for someone to look at her and say, “That's my girl.”
GENERAL INFO:
Housebroken?: Yes, we think so
Crate Trained?: Yes
Leash Trained?: Yes
Rides Well in Car?: Yes
Non-Shedding?: No but lower shed
Good with cats?: Unknown
Good with dogs?: Yes, small dogs
Qualifies for Seniors for Seniors?: Yes
Umbrella of Hope does not have any strict rules on ages of children because all children are different, but our best approximation is that this animal would do best with children over the age of 5
Umbrella of Hope is an all-volunteer, donation-run, non-profit animal rescue based out of Pittsburg, CA that rescues animals from local shelters, places them in private foster homes, provides them with needed medical care and then finds them new homes.
Also, ask us about our seniors for seniors program, where we adopt animals 5 years or older to qualified homes with a $5 donation as an adoption fee. All animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites and given any additional treatments (dental work, bloodwork etc) as recommended by our vet.
Adoptions to veterans of the US Armed Services are ALWAYS free to thank you for your service.
We thank Well Pet Vet Clinic for providing most of our veterinary services and give a special thanks to volunteer photographers Tanya, Barbara, Kristy, Christine, Teressa and Natalie.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Peridot GREEN fromUmbrella of HopePittsburg, CA · listed Aug 30

5. Carey Martin

Young · Female · Unknown breed (short coat) · 37 mi from Stockton

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

6. Pierre Jacques

Adult · Male · Poodle (unknown type) / Schnauzer · 21 mi from Stockton

🤍 Meet Pierre! 🤍🐶 Pierre Jacques is an adorable 1½-year-old Poodle-ish Schnauzer terrier mix weighing about 13 pounds. He’s the perfect combination of sweet, smart, playful, and affectionate.🐾 Adoption Requirements (Please Read)Pierre is looking for a home that can meet his specific needs. His ideal home includes:* Another friendly, playful dog (preferred)* Children 12 years or older* An experienced adopter comfortable managing fear-based behavior during veterinary and grooming visits* Commitment to continued training, exercise, and mental enrichment* Professional grooming every 4â€"6 weeks* A home (not an apartment) where his vocal, talkative personality won’t be an issue🎾 Personality & LifestylePierre is a happy, energetic little guy who loves:* Going for walks* Riding in the car* Playing with toys* Exploring and joining in on adventuresHe is very intelligent and a quick learner.

Read more about Pierre Jacques

In his foster home, he is:* Doing great with potty training (always expect a learning curve when adjusting to new environments)* Fully mastering “Sit”* Progressing nicely with crate trainingPierre enjoys the company of other animals and gets along well with both dogs and cats. If a cat runs, he may try to join the chase, but it’s all in playful fun.Pierre is also a vocal little guy and can be barky and talkative, especially when he’s excited or alerting you to something. Because of this, apartment living or homes with close neighbors probably aren’t the best fit.🧠 Behavior & Training NeedsLike many rescue dogs, Pierre can become fearful in unfamiliar or stressful situations, especially at the veterinarian and during grooming. When scared, he may become defensive and nippy.He will need:* An adopter who understands canine body language and recognizes his fear signals* Continued positive reinforcement training and confidence building* A calm, patient home that can safely manage veterinary and grooming visits* Ongoing structure, exercise, and mental enrichmentDespite these challenges, Pierre is incredibly sweet in his everyday environment and thrives when he feels safe, understood, and included in the family.✂️ Grooming NeedsPierre will require professional grooming every 4â€"6 weeks. Regular grooming is essential, as his coat will become painfully matted if neglected.💙 Our CommitmentAt K9 Paw Print Rescue, we require a detailed adoption application because we are committed to finding the right homeâ€"not just the next home. Our goal is to ensure our dogs never have to experience the heartbreak of losing their family again.🐶 Ready to Apply?If you think Pierre might be your perfect match, we’d love to hear from you!🐾 Apply to adopt at www.K9PPR.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Pierre Jacques fromK9 Paw Print RescueOakley, Ca · listed Aug 17

7. Audrey

Young · Female · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 46 mi from Stockton

Audrey is the epitome of a big personality in a small package!

Audrey is estimated to be around a year old, and she is a bundle of fun who is always down for an adventure. Her favorite activities include wrestling with her foster sister, racing around the backyard, and cuddling with her foster parents. She would thrive with a semi-active family who would enjoy a moderately active puppy. She would be a great dog for dog sports! Audrey is a petite girl, weighing in at about 9lbs.

Read more about Audrey

Audrey came to us from our local animal shelter after she was adopted and returned after she and the older dog in the home didn't get along. We were quick to scoop her up, and she has been doing great in her foster home.

Audrey is a blast to be around, and she will keep you entertained with her morning zoomies and straight-into-the-air jumps. Audrey is also a big lovebug and is happiest when she can be with her people. She gets all cozy when settled down and makes a great late-night TV buddy. Her foster sisters have taught her the joy of sunbathing and lazy afternoons on the couch. Audrey loves her daily walks. She also does great for car rides. Audrey is still learning her basic manners and will need a family committed to continuing her training.

Audrey appears to have a strong preference for women and would do best in a home with mostly women.

Audrey loves playing with other dogs, so we would like her to be adopted into a home with another playful dog. She can be a little jealous sometimes, but with proper management, she has had no problem living with two other small female dogs. Audrey needs a home without cats or other small animals, as she has a high prey drive. Audrey has done great with respectful kids and could be a wonderful addition to a family with kids 7 years old or older.

Audrey has been doing great with her house training using a dog door. Audrey is used to sleeping in bed with her foster parents and happily sleeps through the night. Audrey has done well being left at home with her foster sisters for short periods during the day, both free roaming and in a crate. Audrey has a big voice and isn't afraid to use it, so apartment life isn't for her.

Audrey is such a dynamite dog, and she is going to bring so much fun and joy to her new family. If you think that might be you, submit an application today!

Audrey's adoption fee is $350.

Apply to adopt here!
https://form.jotform.com/52017002013129/

Applications are also available on the website (www.yolospca.org)

It can take up to 3-5 business days to hear back once you have submitted an application.

The Yolo County SPCA is a private, not-for-profit, foster home-based animal rescue organization and does not have a shelter. All our animals awaiting adoption are in foster homes.

Our adoption fees help us cover the cost of spay/neuter surgery, microchip and registration, and rabies vaccination (if over 4 months of age at intake or spay/neuter) for all animals. Dogs are tested for heartworm, started on preventatives, and given a DAPP vaccination. Adult dogs are up to date on their vaccinations prior to adoption. Puppies will be current on the vaccinations appropriate to their age. The adopter is responsible for additional vaccinations as necessary after the adoption.

For more information about an animal, please email dogs@yolospca.org.

For more general questions, please see our website at www.yolospca.org.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Audrey fromYolo County SPCADavis, CA · listed Jul 19

8. Mooncalf Beast

Senior · Female · Maltese / Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (medium coat) · 34 mi from Stockton

✨ PLEASE MEET MOONCALF — OUR NEWEST FANTASTIC BEAST ✨
Mooncalf is approximately 12 years old, and this tiny senior girl has already endured far more than she ever should have.
When she came into Umbrella of Hope Rescue, her diabetes was completely uncontrolled. Her blood glucose was so high that it was literally beyond the range the equipment could measure.
She will need insulin injections under the skin twice daily for the rest of her life.
Unfortunately, diabetes is only part of her medical story.
Mooncalf also has KCS (dry eye) affecting both eyes. This is a painful condition that requires specialized prescription eye medication twice daily to keep her comfortable and help protect her vision.
Her skin is also in terrible condition, as you can see in her photos, and we are working to determine the underlying causes and get her comfortable again.
She also has a mammary mass along with several other age-related medical concerns that still need evaluation and treatment.
And yet, somehow, Mooncalf remains incredibly sweet.
She is gentle. She is trusting. She still wants affection.
She has every reason in the world to be angry at what life has handed her, and instead she simply seems grateful that someone is finally taking care of her.
We are committed to giving Mooncalf the medical care she needs and the comfortable senior life she deserves.
But chronic illness is expensive.
Insulin.
Syringes.
Prescription eye medications.
Blood glucose monitoring.
Diagnostics.
Veterinary visits.
Skin treatment.
Evaluation of her mammary mass.
And whatever else we uncover as we continue working through years of neglected medical needs.
This is exactly why rescue takes a village.
If you can help Mooncalf, even a small donation makes a difference.
WAYS TO DONATE:
Check or money order:Umbrella of Hope4040 Railroad AvePittsburg, CA 94565
Venmo:@Umbrellaof-HopeResuce
PayPal:beourpet@gmail.com
Zelle:beourpet@gmail.com
Mooncalf did not get to choose the body she grew old in or the medical problems she developed.
But we can choose what happens next.
We can make sure her golden years are filled with comfort, proper medical care, good food, soft beds, and people who believe an elderly diabetic dog is still absolutely worth saving.
Please help us give Mooncalf the life she deserves. ❤️
Thank you for being part of her journey.

Read more about Mooncalf Beast

GENERAL INFO:
Housebroken?: Yes, we think so
Crate Trained?: Yes
Leash Trained?: Yes
Rides Well in Car?: Yes
Non-Shedding?: Most likely
Good with cats?: Unknown but we think so
Good with dogs?: Yes
Qualifies for Seniors for Seniors?: yes
Umbrella of Hope does not have any strict rules on ages of children because all children are different, but our best approximation is that this animal would do best with children over the age of 5
Umbrella of Hope is an all-volunteer, donation-run, non-profit animal rescue based out of Pittsburg, CA that rescues animals from local shelters, places them in private foster homes, provides them with needed medical care and then finds them new homes.
Also, ask us about our seniors for seniors program, where we adopt animals 5 years or older to qualified homes with a $5 donation as an adoption fee. All animals are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, treated for parasites and given any additional treatments (dental work, bloodwork etc) as recommended by our vet.
Adoptions to veterans of the US Armed Services are ALWAYS free to thank you for your service.
We thank Well Pet Vet Clinic for providing most of our veterinary services and give a special thanks to volunteer photographers Tanya, Barbara, Kristy, Christine, Teressa and Natalie.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Special needs
Adopt Mooncalf Beast fromUmbrella of HopePittsburg, CA · listed Jun 17

9. Laika

Young (1 year 2 months) · Female · Siberian Husky / German Shepherd Dog / Mixed (short coat) · 38 mi from Stockton

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 Stockton

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 Stockton

Questions about adopting small dogs in Stockton

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Stockton?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Stockton, California, have 9 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Stockton?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Stockton right now are Umbrella of Hope (Pittsburg, CA), Yolo County SPCA (Davis, CA) and NorCal Freedom for Paws (Rancho Cordova, 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.