Ventura, CA

Small Dogs for Adoption in Ventura, CA: 13 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Ventura, CA

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Ventura have 13 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 13, 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 Dachshund, Cocker Spaniel and Maltese.

1. Otis

Young · Male · Cocker Spaniel / Curly-Coated Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from Ventura

Meet Otis! Such a loving affectionate boy!! Otis is a 2 year old spaniel mix. He has the cutest curls on the top of his coat so maybe some Curly coated Retriever mixed in, but he isn't very big. Otis was rescued out of the San Bernardino shelter which sadly is overflowing with dogs that desperately need rescue. Euthanasia rates are very high so we were so thankful we had space to save this beautiful boy. Otis is now safe, happy and loved while waiting for his forever family to find him. If you are interested in adopting, please go to our website and fill out an online application form. https://form.jotform.com/oscarlucy/dog-adoption-app

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Otis fromLIFE Animal RescueAgoura Hills, CA · listed Nov 2

2. Louie

Puppy · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from Ventura

Meet Louie! Such a loving affectionate boy!! Louie is a 1 year old Doxie mix. Louie was rescued out of the San Bernardino shelter which sadly is overflowing with dogs that desperately need rescue. Euthanasia rates are very high so we were so thankful we had space to save this beautiful boy. Louie is now safe, happy and loved while waiting for his forever family to find him. If you are interested in adopting, please go to our website and fill out an online application form. https://form.jotform.com/oscarlucy/dog-adoption-app

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Louie fromLIFE Animal RescueAgoura Hills, CA · listed Nov 2

3. Lou

Young · Male · Maltese / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from Ventura

Meet Lou! The sweetest little boy!! Lou is a 5 year old Maltese mix. Lou was rescued out of the San Bernardino shelter which sadly is overflowing with dogs that desperately need rescue. Euthanasia rates are very high so we were so thankful we had space to save this beautiful boy. Lou is now safe, happy and loved while waiting for his forever family to find him. If you are interested in adopting, please go to our website and fill out an online application form. https://form.jotform.com/oscarlucy/dog-adoption-app

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Lou fromLIFE Animal RescueAgoura Hills, CA · listed Nov 2

4. Darong

Young · Female · Corgi / Fox Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from Ventura

Meet Darong! She is the sweetest girll! She is a 3 year old rescued in South Korea from a dog meat farm. We have partners there we work with to get these dogs out of the worst horrors imaginable and bring them to safety. We fly them here for their only chance at survival and a home. Darong and some of her family and friends have been flown here for a chance at a future and a real life. These are miracle dogs that they are alive today. Our adoption fee is $600 which helps offset some of the flight costs. If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application form at https://form.jotform.com/oscarlucy/dog-adoption-app

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Darong fromLIFE Animal RescueAgoura Hills, CA · listed Nov 2

5. Bruno

Adult (4 years 11 months) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 49 mi from Ventura

Meet Bruno

A sweet soul with a love for company and cozy blankets

Male • Standard Dachshund, mix • Approximately 5 years old • 24 pounds

With his warm brown eyes and affectionate nature, Bruno has a way of making you feel like the most important person in the room. He enjoys attention from adults and children alike, and when he’s especially happy to see you, he’ll stretch up against your legs to get a little closer.

Read more about Bruno

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.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Bruno fromDachshund Rescue of Los AngelesLos Angeles, Ca · listed Oct 31

6. Darwin

Senior (8 years 11 months) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) (medium coat) · 37 mi from Ventura

Meet Darwin – Our Sweet Senior Miniature Poodle Looking for a Forever Home! ❤️

Darwin found himself on the cold ground of East Valley Shelter in his senior years, through no fault of his own. Now, this sweet boy deserves a second chance at a life filled with love, comfort, and security.

Darwin is approximately 9–10 years old and weighs about 24 lbs. He is vaccinated and microchipped. Due to his age and medical considerations, Darwin cannot be neutered, and we have a medical exemption letter from his veterinarian.

Read more about Darwin

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! ❤️

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Darwin fromMelita's Dream Animal RescueWoodland Hills, CA · listed Oct 28

7. Anton

Young (1 year) · Male · French Bulldog / Mixed (medium coat) · 2 mi from Ventura

Breed: French Bulldog X DOB: 10/2025 Gender: male Altered: yes Coat: medium Size: small Color(s): brown merle Description: Needs a Foster Home This dog is in need of a foster home as well as a permanent home. If you are interested in fostering please fill out an online application. Hi, I'm Anton, a fun and energetic French Bulldog X brimming with potential and in need of a loving home. I am a special guy who loves to play fetch and takes walks like a pro on a leash. I enjoy love, affection, attention, and toys, and can be a delightful companion for those who understand my needs. My previous owners had to surrender me because they could not provide the care I require.

Read more about Anton

I have some challenges that need attention from a patient and experienced owner. I would do best in a home with no cats or other dogs, and due to my food aggression, I may nip or bite when eating. I am also scared of loud trucks, so a calm and quiet environment would be ideal for me. I am house and crate trained, which is a great start! I will need continued training and behavior correction to help me become the best version of myself. I am not suitable for homes with young children but might do well with older children who know how to respect a dog's space and boundaries. I am looking for that special someone who can give me the time, love, and training I need. If you are up for the challenge and believe you can provide a stable, loving home, please fill out an online application to come and meet me. I am ready to give all my love and affection to the right family.

  • No young kids
  • Only dog
  • No cats
  • House-trained

8. Bolt

Young (1 year) · Male · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 2 mi from Ventura

Breed: Terrier X DOB: 10/2025 Gender: male Altered: yes Coat: medium Size: small Color(s): tan/cream Description: Needs a Foster Home This dog is in need of a foster home as well as a permanent home. If you are interested in fostering please fill out an online application. Hi, I'm Bolt, a dashing Terrier X brimming with excitement and wagging tails! I was surrendered due to my previous family not having the time to give me the attention I deserve. With a heart full of love and a spirit of adventure, I'm ready to take on the world—one walk at a time, but I'll need a bit of leash training. My zest for life is contagious, and my friendly nature make me a fantastic companion for both humans and other small dogs.

Read more about Bolt

Whether I'm sprinting through the yard or cuddled up for a nap, my playful and social demeanor ensures I'll bring endless joy to any home. Here's hoping you'll be the one to welcome me into your life and share in my exciting escapades! Please fill out an line application to meet me.*Thank you to The Little Dog Team for sponsoring this wonderful dog at the Burnice Kraemer Sanctuary and giving him the chance for a better life.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs

9. Teddy

Young (2 years) · Pomeranian / Mixed · 2 mi from Ventura

Breed: Pomeranian X DOB: 10/2024 Gender: male Altered: yes Coat: medium Size: small Color(s): red/tan Description: Needs a Foster Home This dog is in need of a foster home as well as a permanent home. If you are interested in fostering please fill out an online application. Hi, I'm Teddy, a lively Pomeranian X who is in need of a new home. Even though I was surrendered due to lack of time for me, I still hold an endless capacity for love and affection. I'm a charming lad who is not only a fantastic lap dog, providing snuggles and warmth, but I also boast an active spirit that makes me a perfect playmate for both humans and other small dogs.

Read more about Teddy

My friendly demeanor shines brightly when I meet children, promising countless joyful moments and adventures. I'm active and playful, have excellent walking skills and will come when called. My affectionate nature means I'll be by your side through thick and thin, offering unwavering companionship. I am ready to fill your life with love, laughter, and endless wagging-tail greetings. I'm hopeful to find a forever home where I can be the cherished center of attention I truly deserve to be. Could that home be with you? Please fill out an line application to meet me.*Thank you to The Little Dog Team for sponsoring this wonderful dog at the Burnice Kraemer Sanctuary and giving him the chance for a better life.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs

10. Cleo

Young (1 year 6 months) · Female · Dachshund (short coat) · 49 mi from Ventura

Meet Cleo — Your New Best Friend and Forever Shadow! ❤️

Say hello to beautiful Cleo, an absolutely darling black-and-tan dachshund with soulful brown eyes, an irresistible little face, and a heart full of love!

At approximately 1½ years old and 18 pounds, Cleo is what we affectionately call a tweenie — that wonderful size right between a miniature and a standard dachshund.

And this little girl is an absolute sweetheart!

Read more about Cleo

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! ❤️

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Cleo fromDachshund Rescue of Los AngelesLos Angeles, Ca · listed Oct 22

11. Rusty

Young (1 year 1 month) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (long coat) · 49 mi from Ventura

Rusty is a 1-year-old, 15-pound, neutered long-haired dachshund mix looking for a loving home. He’s currently fostered in Orange County.
Found on July 4, Rusty’s owners were never located. Now we’re helping this sweet boy find a family of his own. He enjoys walks, playtime, and the other dogs he’s met—and clearly knows how to settle in for a good cuddle!

Rusty seems to bond with men almost immediately. With women, he needs a little more time, patience, and gentle reassurance to feel comfortable. A home with plenty of companionship and people willing to let him settle in at his own pace would mean so much to him.

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Rusty fromDachshund Rescue of Los AngelesLos Angeles, Ca · listed Sep 1

12. Harley bonded with Frankie

Senior (14 years 2 months) · Female · Dachshund (long coat) · 49 mi from Ventura

Meet Harley! A Darling Senior Lady with a Little Sass and a Whole Lot of Love! ❤️

Some girls are born to be princesses, and Harley is quite certain she's one of them!

Meet beautiful Harley, a 14-year-old, 13-pound, long-haired Dachshund with a lovely black coat, a sweet silver-dusted face, and a personality that will absolutely steal your heart.

Harley is a delightful little senior lady who knows what she likes, isn't afraid to express her opinions, and believes that the finer things in life include warm sunshine, a comfortable place to nap, tasty little treats, and having her favorite people nearby.

Read more about Harley bonded with Frankie

And, of course, there's Frankie, her devoted boyfriend and constant companion!

A Love Story Worth Keeping Together

Harley and Frankie have shared their lives together for years. Sadly, their world changed when their beloved owner entered hospice care and could no longer look after them.

Through no fault of their own, these two sweet seniors found themselves needing a new home at an age when comfort, familiarity, and companionship mean so much.

Thankfully, they still have each other.

Harley and Frankie are a bonded pair, and our greatest wish is to see them spend their golden years together, surrounded by the security and affection of a loving family.

To help make that possible, DRLA is offering an ADOPT ONE, GET ONE FREE adoption special for Harley and Frankie!

When adopted together, the adoption fee for one of them will be waived. Two precious senior companions, one loving forever home, and twice the happiness!

A Little Lady with a Big Personality

Harley may be a senior, but don't let her age fool you. This girl still has plenty of personality!

She loves to amble around the house, carefully supervising the activities of her humans. Whether you're preparing dinner, folding laundry, or simply going about your day, Harley likes to know what's happening. She's an inquisitive little soul who enjoys being included, even if she's just observing from a comfortable spot nearby.

And when Harley wants something, she has her own wonderfully amusing way of telling you.

Rather than barking up a storm, this clever little lady will stroll right up and give you a soft, gentle grumble. It's her own special language, and it might mean, "I'd like to be picked up, please," "Excuse me, I need to go outside," or perhaps her favorite request, "I believe it's time for a snack!"

It's not an aggressive growl, just Harley's charming way of making her wishes known.

A little bit diva? Absolutely. Completely lovable? Without question!

Life in the Slow Lane

These days, Harley prefers life's gentler pleasures.

She absolutely adores sunbathing and would be delighted to have a safe, sunny spot where she can stretch out, enjoy the warmth, and watch the world go by.

She also enjoys leisurely little strolls, although long walks can be difficult for her. Harley doesn't need miles of exercise or an action-packed schedule. Short, comfortable outings, a little exploring, and plenty of time to relax are much more her style.

Harley is a low-energy, generally quiet companion who would be happiest in a peaceful home where she can enjoy a predictable routine, soft places to rest, and the companionship of people who appreciate the special joys of senior dogs.

She is friendly with adults, children, and other dogs, although she has one particular preference: Harley would really rather be the only lady dog in the household!

Her Frankie is, of course, nonnegotiable. And if there happen to be a few other friendly Dachshund gentlemen around, well, Harley certainly wouldn't object to having her own little harem of admirers!

Keeping Harley Happy and Healthy

Harley has recently received dental care and is current on her vaccinations. She is also spayed and already housetrained.

Like many senior Dachshunds, Harley needs a few thoughtful accommodations to keep her comfortable.

She has a cataract in her left eye, but she continues to enjoy exploring her surrou

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Harley bonded with Frankie fromDachshund Rescue of Los AngelesLos Angeles, Ca · listed Aug 13

13. Frankie bonded with Harley

Senior (10 years 2 months) · Male · Dachshund (short coat) · 49 mi from Ventura

Meet Frankie! A Gentle Little Gentleman with a Heart of Gold! ❤️

Some dogs are born adventurers. Others are born entertainers. And then there's Frankie — a sweet, easygoing little gentleman who has discovered that life's greatest pleasures are often the simplest ones.

Meet Frankie, an absolutely darling senior Dachshund with a beautiful red coat, soulful eyes, and a heart full of quiet affection. Weighing just 11 pounds, this handsome little fellow is the perfect size for cuddling up beside you on the sofa, which just happens to be one of his favorite places in the world!

Read more about Frankie bonded with Harley

Frankie is a peaceful, contented little soul who doesn't ask for much. Give him a comfortable place to rest, a warm patch of sunshine, some gentle affection, and the companionship of his favorite people, and he's a happy boy.

But there is one thing Frankie simply cannot do without.

His beloved girlfriend, Harley!

A Love Story That Deserves a Happy Ending

Frankie and Harley, a beautiful black long-haired Dachshund, have shared their lives together for years. Their bond is deeply special, and these two sweet seniors find comfort and companionship in one another.

Sadly, their lives took an unexpected turn when their previous owner entered hospice care and could no longer care for them.

Imagine how confusing such a change must be for two little dogs who had known the comfort and familiarity of their home for so long.

Thankfully, Frankie and Harley still have each other, and we are determined to keep it that way.

To help these two precious seniors find their forever home together, DRLA is offering an ADOPT ONE, GET ONE FREE adoption special!

When Frankie and Harley are adopted together, the adoption fee for one of them will be waived.

Two devoted companions, twice the love, and one wonderful opportunity to give a bonded senior pair the happy ending they deserve.

A Gentleman Who Appreciates the Finer Things in Life

Frankie is what you might call a true connoisseur of comfort.

He's happiest lounging on the sofa with his favorite people, enjoying a little companionship without needing to be the center of attention every minute.

He also happens to be an enthusiastic sun worshipper! Find him a sunny window where he can settle down and bask in the warmth, and you've given him his very own little piece of paradise.

Frankie doesn't need a packed social calendar, long hikes, or endless excitement. His idea of a perfect day is spending time with the people he loves, enjoying a little sunshine, taking a leisurely stroll, and settling in for a peaceful evening.

He's a wonderfully mellow companion whose calm, affectionate nature makes him especially endearing.

And while Frankie is generally a quiet fellow, he does take his responsibilities as household greeter seriously. If someone knocks on the door, he'll offer a few barks to let you know there's a visitor. Once his announcement has been made, he's usually content to return to his regularly scheduled relaxation.

A Little Patience, a Lot of Love

Frankie is a gentle boy, although he can be a little cautious when meeting unfamiliar people in his home.

His first instinct may be to hang back and observe, taking a little time to decide whether this new person is someone he'd like to know.

But give him the opportunity to become comfortable, and you'll discover the affectionate, devoted companion beneath that initial shyness.

Frankie isn't interested in rushing into new friendships. He simply appreciates being allowed to make them at his own pace.

Once he knows and trusts you, he's more than happy to join you on the sofa, keep you company, and enjoy all the wonderful comforts of being a cherished family member.

Frankie gets along with people of all ages, including children, and generally enjoys the company of other dogs, particularly those he already knows.

Larger dogs, however, can make him uncomfortable, so we're looking for a home without large dogs where he and Harley can feel secure and relaxed.

And

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Frankie bonded with Harley fromDachshund Rescue of Los AngelesLos Angeles, Ca · listed Aug 13

Adopting a small dog in Ventura

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 Ventura

Questions about adopting small dogs in Ventura

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Ventura?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Ventura, California, have 13 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Ventura?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Ventura right now are Dachshund Rescue of Los Angeles (Los Angeles, Ca), LIFE Animal Rescue (Agoura Hills, CA) and Canine Adoption and Rescue League (Ventura, 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.