Small Dogs for Adoption in Vista, CA: 20 Little Dogs Looking for a Home
Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Vista have 20 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 20, 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, Maltese and Cocker Spaniel.
Not in Vista? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Sampson
MEET SAMPSON, A LITTLE SURVIVOR WITH A BIG HEART! ❤️
Sampson is a handsome 10-pound 3 yr old Poodle mix who has beaten the odds in ways no little puppy should ever have to.
He had owners, yet he was still abandoned on the streets to fend for himself.
What could a 5-month-old puppy have possibly done so wrong to endure this kind of heartbreak?
His old tag said Oreo, but he is now our brave Sampson.
He fought his way through starvation on the streets until he was rescued.
But the unthinkable happened, while out there all alone, he caught distemper.
Read more about Sampson
Distemper takes so many. But Sampson was rescued for a reason, and he was so, so worth fighting for!!
Today, he is truly the happiest, bravest boy we know
Yes, the virus left him with nerve damage in his lower legs. But watching him go from complete lameness to getting up, walking, wobbling, and actually playing... words can’t even describe how much joy that brings to our hearts. Every little wobbly step he takes just shows us there is so much hope for his future.
What is most breathtaking about Sampson is that none of this agony took away his beautiful spirit.
He is so deeply affectionate, trusting, and just desperately wants to be loved.
He walks right up to everyone he sees, ready to give his sweet heart away, and he is so happy just to be held by anyone willing to wrap their arms around him. Everyone who met him today absolutely fell in love with him!
After everything this sweet little boy has endured, I know in my heart his special person is out there. ❤️
He deserves a safe, soft, loving home where someone will cherish him, protect him, and hold him tight for the rest of his life.
Sampson has survived the hard part. Now, he just needs someone to love him forever.
If Sampson has touched your heart, please fill out an adoption application at tlck9rescue.org
Please SHARE his post, let’s help this brave little boy find the home he fought so hard to reach!
Thank you TLC K9 Rescue
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Special needs
2. Bixby
Meet Bixby — The Little Protector With the Biggest Heart! Bixby’s story is one that will absolutely break your heart and then put it back together again. This precious little boy was dumped in a huge park with his two friends, Rupert and Mallow. For days, the three stayed huddled together, scared and waiting for someone to come back for them.When rescuers finally arrived, they were able to safely trap his two friends. But Bixby wasn’t having it!He watched his friends go into the trap and refused to go in himself. Instead, he lay right beside them, refusing to leave their side. The rescuers weren’t about to leave him behind, either!They drove their van into the park, placed his two friends safely inside in a crate, and left the van door open.And they waited.About ten minutes later, BIXBY JUMPED RIGHT INTO THE VAN! All three were finally safe!This loyal little boy had spent days sticking by his friends, and now it’s his turn to have someone who will always stick by him.Bixby is good with other dogs and cats and is ready for his happily ever after! About Bixby:Good with dogs and catsNeuteredMicrochippedCurrent on vaccinesBixby has already shown what a loyal little soul he is.
Read more about Bixby
Now he just needs a family who will show him that same loyalty and love for the rest of his life. Adoption fee: $450Applications at http://www.secondleashonlife.org/2 years oldhttps://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02AxhrdRMsAh5BXEQvicerHYsK5SSTPukpqpoLjZJPGgG3NCZxwDw8WdAp6npmFCbFl&id=100006429525698&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
3. Mallow
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02AxhrdRMsAh5BXEQvicerHYsK5SSTPukpqpoLjZJPGgG3NCZxwDw8WdAp6npmFCbFl&id=100006429525698&mibextid=wwXIfr Meet Mallow — A Little Survivor Looking for Forever! Sweet Mallow is one of three little dogs whose rescue story touched so many hearts. Mallow and his two friends, Rupert and Bixby, were heartlessly abandoned in a huge park and left completely alone.For days, these three little souls stayed together in the exact spot where someone had dumped them. They huddled together for comfort, waiting and hoping someone would come back. Thankfully, their story didn’t end there! Dedicated rescuers worked tirelessly to make sure NOT ONE of them was left behind! Today, Mallow is safe and has been given a second chance at life.
Read more about Mallow
All he needs now is a forever family to call his own.Mallow is good with other dogs and cats, making him a wonderful candidate for a home with other furry companions. About Mallow:Good with dogs and catsNeuteredMicrochippedCurrent on vaccinesMallow has already experienced what it’s like to be left behind. Now we’re looking for someone who will make sure he never experiences that feeling again.Three little lives saved. Three second chances. Now three forever homes needed! Adoption fee: $450Applications at http://www.secondleashonlife.org/://www.secondleashonlife.org/
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Rupert
Meet Rupert — From Abandoned to Adored! Rupert is one of three precious little dogs who were cruelly dumped in a huge park and left to fend for themselves. For days, Rupert and his two little friends, Bixby and Mallow, stayed huddled together in the exact spot where they had been abandoned. Scared, confused, and waiting for someone who wasn’t coming back, all they had was each other.Thankfully, some wonderful rescuers refused to give up until all three were safe!Now Rupert has a second chance at the wonderful life he deserves!Rupert is good with other dogs AND cats and is ready to find a family who will love him forever.
Read more about Rupert
About Rupert:Good with dogs and catsNeuteredMicrochippedCurrent on vaccinesAfter everything Rupert has been through, he deserves a home where he will never have to wonder if someone is coming back for him. Adoption fee: $450Applications at http://www.secondleashonlife.org/1-2 years oldhttps://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02AxhrdRMsAh5BXEQvicerHYsK5SSTPukpqpoLjZJPGgG3NCZxwDw8WdAp6npmFCbFl&id=100006429525698&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
5. Mercedes
Mercedes is 5 months old and weighs 7 lbs. She’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Mercedes and her brother, Russell, are stray rescues.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
6. Moony
Meet Moony! She is around 3 years old and we believe she is a Wirehaired Terrier mix. Moony wasn't treated very well by her previous family, but she is a very sweet and loving girl in spite of it all. She had a broken leg when she arrived with Labs and More but is just about healed and ready for adoption. She enjoys attention, is good with kids, housetrained, and is good with other dogs. If you think you are ready to add to your family by adopting Moony then fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website today! We recommend completing the questionnaire and connecting with an adoption coach before looking for a dog or puppy you'd like to adopt.
Read more about Moony
If you're already approved to adopt or if you've adopted from Labs and More before, connect with your adoption coach for the next steps. Your interest in adopting a rescued dog or puppy from Labs and More Rescue is appreciated! Please find our adoption information at www.labsandmore.org. Your adoption donation provides funding for Labs and More, a nonprofit organization which is supported solely by Volunteers and funded by donations. Good news is your adoption donation can be considered tax deductible. So much care is provided to your new dog prior to the adoption, including: spay and neuter, microchip, veterinarian visit(s), vaccinations, and other medical care as needed. Many of the dogs we rescue require extensive surgeries and care prior to adoption. Please understand we are unable to predict future behavior or medical needs of your adopted dog. We provide no guarantees regarding behavior, breed, or age of the dogs. Thank you for rescuing. Thank you for joining the Adoption Family with Labs and More Rescue. We are here to help you find a furry companion. You will find our quick and easy adoption application at www.labsandmore.org and click on Adopt. Please email us at I doginfo@labsandmore.org if you need assistance. Thank you for looking to a rescue group to fulfill your dream of adding a new dog to your life! Dogs + Love = Family
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Mini
Meet Mini — A Tiny Girl Who Truly Deserves Her Happily Ever After ❤️
When we found little Mini on the streets of Tijuana, she was absolutely starving. It was obvious that this precious 10-month-old puppy had been dumped and left to fend for herself.
During her veterinary exam, we discovered that Mini was pregnant. She was far too young, weak, and severely malnourished to safely carry her babies. Sadly, because her little body was so depleted, she lost her babies.
My heart broke for this tiny girl. She was still just a baby herself, yet she had already endured hunger, abandonment, and the loss of her puppies.
But Mini’s story doesn’t end there. ❤️
Read more about Mini
Today, she is safe, healthy, and finally getting the chance to simply be the puppy she was always meant to be.
And what a wonderful little girl she is! Mini is playful with all dogs, wonderful with cats, and I’m absolutely certain she would be wonderful with children, too. She has been fully vetted, vaccinated, and microchipped.
After everything Mini has been through in her short life, all she wants now is what every little dog deserves — a family to love her, a warm bed to sleep in, someone to spoil her, and a place she can finally call home.
Her beginning was heartbreaking, but we are determined to give her the happy ending she deserves. ❤️
Apply to foster or if youd like to give Mini her forever home apply at: www.tlck9rescue.org
Please help us find this tiny girl the family she has been waiting for.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
8. Phoenix Pup
Meet the Phoenix puppies! These adorable cuties are ready to rise up and begin new lives with lucky forever families to call their own. Mama Phoenix is a little lap sized possible Chihuahua and Terrier mix. We don't know who their dad was, but believe these puppies are on track to stay small to medium sized as well. They are friendly, wiggly and happy puppies that love to give kisses. Pima is a little shy but very sweet. He loves to watch TV. She is doing well with housetraining and gets along with other dogs. Pima is looking for a family that understands the time, patience, and energy needed to raise a young pup.
Read more about Phoenix Pup
We require all puppy adopters to provide training that includes: house training, basic training, leash training, and socialization. Additionally, this cutie is going to need proper exercise, mental stimulation, and your attention and love to grow up to be the best companion. We do not allow our dogs or puppies to sleep or live outside; they must be incorporated into your family and be made a priority in your life. In return, you will have the most loving and loyal family member you could ask for. If you think you are ready to add to your family by adopting a Phoenix puppy then fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website today! We recommend completing the questionnaire and connecting with an adoption coach before looking for a dog or puppy you'd like to adopt. If you're already approved to adopt or if you've adopted from Labs and More before, connect with your adoption coach for the next steps. Your interest in adopting a rescued dog or puppy from Labs and More Rescue is appreciated! Please find our adoption information at www.labsandmore.org. Your adoption donation provides funding for Labs and More, a nonprofit organization which is supported solely by Volunteers and funded by donations. Good news is your adoption donation can be considered tax deductible. So much care is provided to your new dog prior to the adoption, including: spay and neuter, microchip, veterinarian visit(s), vaccinations, and other medical care as needed. Many of the dogs we rescue require extensive surgeries and care prior to adoption. Please understand we are unable to predict future behavior or medical needs of your adopted dog. We provide no guarantees regarding behavior, breed, or age of the dogs. Thank you for rescuing. Thank you for joining the Adoption Family with Labs and More Rescue. We are here to help you find a furry companion. You will find our quick and easy adoption application at www.labsandmore.org and click on Adopt. Please email us at I doginfo@labsandmore.org if you need assistance. Thank you for looking to a rescue group to fulfill your dream of adding a new dog to your life! Dogs + Love = Family
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
9. Phoenix Pup
Meet the Phoenix puppies! These adorable cuties are ready to rise up and begin new lives with lucky forever families to call their own. Mama Phoenix is a little lap sized possible Chihuahua and Terrier mix. We don't know who their dad was, but believe these puppies are on track to stay small to medium sized as well. They are friendly, wiggly and happy puppies that love to give kisses. Pinal is very sweet and loves to jump up into your lap. She is doing well with housetraining and loves other dogs. Pinal is looking for a family that understands the time, patience, and energy needed to raise a young pup.
Read more about Phoenix Pup
We require all puppy adopters to provide training that includes: house training, basic training, leash training, and socialization. Additionally, this cutie is going to need proper exercise, mental stimulation, and your attention and love to grow up to be the best companion. We do not allow our dogs or puppies to sleep or live outside; they must be incorporated into your family and be made a priority in your life. In return, you will have the most loving and loyal family member you could ask for. If you think you are ready to add to your family by adopting a Phoenix puppy then fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website today! We recommend completing the questionnaire and connecting with an adoption coach before looking for a dog or puppy you'd like to adopt. If you're already approved to adopt or if you've adopted from Labs and More before, connect with your adoption coach for the next steps. Your interest in adopting a rescued dog or puppy from Labs and More Rescue is appreciated! Please find our adoption information at www.labsandmore.org. Your adoption donation provides funding for Labs and More, a nonprofit organization which is supported solely by Volunteers and funded by donations. Good news is your adoption donation can be considered tax deductible. So much care is provided to your new dog prior to the adoption, including: spay and neuter, microchip, veterinarian visit(s), vaccinations, and other medical care as needed. Many of the dogs we rescue require extensive surgeries and care prior to adoption. Please understand we are unable to predict future behavior or medical needs of your adopted dog. We provide no guarantees regarding behavior, breed, or age of the dogs. Thank you for rescuing. Thank you for joining the Adoption Family with Labs and More Rescue. We are here to help you find a furry companion. You will find our quick and easy adoption application at www.labsandmore.org and click on Adopt. Please email us at I doginfo@labsandmore.org if you need assistance. Thank you for looking to a rescue group to fulfill your dream of adding a new dog to your life! Dogs + Love = Family
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
10. Phoenix Pup
Meet the Phoenix puppies! These adorable cuties are ready to rise up and begin new lives with lucky forever families to call their own. Mama Phoenix is a little lap sized possible Chihuahua and Terrier mix. We don't know who their dad was, but believe these puppies are on track to stay small to medium sized as well. They are friendly, wiggly and happy puppies that love to give kisses. Mercury is the most active of his siblings and is ready to take on the world. She is very silly, playful and doing well with housetraining. Mercury is looking for a family that understands the time, patience, and energy needed to raise a young pup.
Read more about Phoenix Pup
We require all puppy adopters to provide training that includes: house training, basic training, leash training, and socialization. Additionally, this cutie is going to need proper exercise, mental stimulation, and your attention and love to grow up to be the best companion. We do not allow our dogs or puppies to sleep or live outside; they must be incorporated into your family and be made a priority in your life. In return, you will have the most loving and loyal family member you could ask for. If you think you are ready to add to your family by adopting a Phoenix puppy then fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website today! We recommend completing the questionnaire and connecting with an adoption coach before looking for a dog or puppy you'd like to adopt. If you're already approved to adopt or if you've adopted from Labs and More before, connect with your adoption coach for the next steps. Your interest in adopting a rescued dog or puppy from Labs and More Rescue is appreciated! Please find our adoption information at www.labsandmore.org. Your adoption donation provides funding for Labs and More, a nonprofit organization which is supported solely by Volunteers and funded by donations. Good news is your adoption donation can be considered tax deductible. So much care is provided to your new dog prior to the adoption, including: spay and neuter, microchip, veterinarian visit(s), vaccinations, and other medical care as needed. Many of the dogs we rescue require extensive surgeries and care prior to adoption. Please understand we are unable to predict future behavior or medical needs of your adopted dog. We provide no guarantees regarding behavior, breed, or age of the dogs. Thank you for rescuing. Thank you for joining the Adoption Family with Labs and More Rescue. We are here to help you find a furry companion. You will find our quick and easy adoption application at www.labsandmore.org and click on Adopt. Please email us at I doginfo@labsandmore.org if you need assistance. Thank you for looking to a rescue group to fulfill your dream of adding a new dog to your life! Dogs + Love = Family
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
11. Phoenix
Meet Phoenix! This girl is eager to rise up and share a new beginning with a forever family to call her own. Around 2 years old, Phoenix looks to be a Chihuahua and Terrier mix. She puts the More in Labs and More at not quite 20 lbs. Phoenix is very sweet, affectionate, and loves to give kisses. If you think you are ready to add to your family by adopting Phoenix then fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website today! We recommend completing the questionnaire and connecting with an adoption coach before looking for a dog or puppy you'd like to adopt. If you're already approved to adopt or if you've adopted from Labs and More before, connect with your adoption coach for the next steps.
Read more about Phoenix
Your interest in adopting a rescued dog or puppy from Labs and More Rescue is appreciated! Please find our adoption information at www.labsandmore.org. Your adoption donation provides funding for Labs and More, a nonprofit organization which is supported solely by Volunteers and funded by donations. Good news is your adoption donation can be considered tax deductible. So much care is provided to your new dog prior to the adoption, including: spay and neuter, microchip, veterinarian visit(s), vaccinations, and other medical care as needed. Many of the dogs we rescue require extensive surgeries and care prior to adoption. Please understand we are unable to predict future behavior or medical needs of your adopted dog. We provide no guarantees regarding behavior, breed, or age of the dogs. Thank you for rescuing. Thank you for joining the Adoption Family with Labs and More Rescue. We are here to help you find a furry companion. You will find our quick and easy adoption application at www.labsandmore.org and click on Adopt. Please email us at I doginfo@labsandmore.org if you need assistance. Thank you for looking to a rescue group to fulfill your dream of adding a new dog to your life! Dogs + Love = Family
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Tulsa
Tulsa is sponsored by the 15/10 Foundation which covered all medical costs associated with her broken leg. Meet Tulsa! She is about 2 years old and is a super sweet Chihuahua/Terrier mix. She is perfect lap size and just as happy and loving as can be! This adorable girl came to us with an injured leg and sadly we were not able to save her leg, but she is getting along great without it. She still loves to run and play. Tulsa is housetrained, crate trained and gets along with other dogs in her foster home. If you think you are ready to add to your family by adopting Tulsa then fill out an adoption questionnaire on our website today! We recommend completing the questionnaire and connecting with an adoption coach before looking for a dog or puppy you'd like to adopt.
Read more about Tulsa
If you're already approved to adopt or if you've adopted from Labs and More before, connect with your adoption coach for the next steps. Your interest in adopting a rescued dog or puppy from Labs and More Rescue is appreciated! Please find our adoption information at www.labsandmore.org. Your adoption donation provides funding for Labs and More, a nonprofit organization which is supported solely by Volunteers and funded by donations. Good news is your adoption donation can be considered tax deductible. So much care is provided to your new dog prior to the adoption, including: spay and neuter, microchip, veterinarian visit(s), vaccinations, and other medical care as needed. Many of the dogs we rescue require extensive surgeries and care prior to adoption. Please understand we are unable to predict future behavior or medical needs of your adopted dog. We provide no guarantees regarding behavior, breed, or age of the dogs. Thank you for rescuing. Thank you for joining the Adoption Family with Labs and More Rescue. We are here to help you find a furry companion. You will find our quick and easy adoption application at www.labsandmore.org and click on Adopt. Please email us at I doginfo@labsandmore.org if you need assistance. Thank you for looking to a rescue group to fulfill your dream of adding a new dog to your life! Dogs + Love = Family
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Dusty
❤️ Meet Dusty — He Just Needs Someone to Love Him ❤️
Dusty is a sweet 4-year-old Cocker Spaniel/Papillon mix who I rescued just three weeks ago in Tijuana, Mexico.
Like so many dogs there, Dusty had been dumped and left to fend for himself. We found him late at night at a supermarket after being told he had been wandering the area for several days looking for food—right beside a very busy main road.
We couldn't leave him behind. There are 15 large dogs nearby that have already killed other dogs. Dusty was simply too vulnerable.
Thankfully, he is safe now. ❤️
Dusty is calm, very obedient, loves everyone and an absolute lap dog.
Read more about Dusty
He loves being petted and has even learned to give you his paw!
Because he is still decompressing and currently lives with several other rescue dogs, we feed him separately. He worries that another dog might take his food, but with patience and security, we know he will learn that he never has to worry about going hungry again.
Now Dusty needs a family to call his own.
A loving foster or, even better, a forever family who will give him the safety, patience, and love he deserves.
He has already been through enough. All he needs now is a family to show him that he is finally home. ❤️
Please apply to foster or adopt Dusty at www.tlck9rescue.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
14. Pearl
Meet Pearl
When TLC K9 Rescue saved Pearl from the streets of Tijuana, she was so filthy that we couldn’t even tell what breed she was. But after a much-needed bath, this little girl transformed before our eyes into a beautiful white Pearl—and the name simply fit her perfectly.
We don’t know much about Pearl’s past. She was wearing a groomer’s bandana when we found her, so we believe she once had a family. Sadly, no one knew where she lived, and we were told she had been wandering the area for months, begging people for food.
Pearl was very sick when we rescued her, and her right eye looked especially concerning.
Read more about Pearl
We immediately took her to the veterinarian, where she had extensive bloodwork, an ultrasound, and an examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist. We learned that Pearl was experiencing liver problems and had a detached retina in her right eye.
I brought Pearl to San Diego right away for further care. Thankfully, with nutritious, healthy cooked food and continued veterinary care, her liver values have improved dramatically. Her eye has never bothered her, and because surgery may not restore her vision and could pose additional risks given her liver condition, her veterinarian and I decided that the safest choice was to leave her eye alone and continue monitoring her.
Today, Pearl is happy, healthy, and as sweet as can be. She is absolutely wonderful with people, other dogs, and even cats. She loves playing with her canine friends, but with her calm and gentle nature, she would also make a wonderful companion.
Pearl doesn’t ask for much. She is truly an angel who enjoys the simple things in life—walks, healthy food, and lots and lots of cuddles.
After everything this precious girl has been through, Pearl deserves a family who will cherish her and show her just how wonderful life can be.
If you would like to meet Pearl, please complete our adoption application at www.tlck9rescue.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Special needs
15. Jax
Jax is a 6-year-old, 11-pound poodle who has been bounced around far too much in his life. Now that he’s with our rescue, we want to show him that life can finally be safe, secure and predictable. Jax is currently in board and train with our amazing behaviorist, and one thing is very clear:Jax WANTS a leader — and he thrives when he has one.He needs a calm, confident adopter who can provide structure, consistency and clear boundaries. Our behaviorist will provide a specific protocol to follow, so his foster won’t be figuring this out alone.Jax doesn’t need someone to feel sorry for him. He needs someone who can make him feel secure enough to finally relax.
Read more about Jax
Someone who can tell him: “You don’t have to be in charge anymore. I’ve got you.” Jax has been passed around enough. Let’s help him find the person who can finally give him the stability he’s been looking for. Adoption fee is $450 and comes with one paid personal training session to get you set up for success with Jax. applications can be found at www.secondleashonlife.orgPlease share.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
16. Monique
Monique is 2-3 years old and weighs 22 lbs. She’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Monique was found near a gas station in Tijuana, along with 3 newborn puppies (approximately 5 days old).
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
17. Bella
Bella is 2 years old and weighs 16 lbs. She’s active and playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Bella was relinquished by her owner, an elderly woman who wasn’t able to care for her.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
18. Pippin
Hi... I'm Pippin! I'm only about 10 months old, and I've already learned that life isn't always fair. Not long ago, I was wandering the streets all alone. I was hungry, dirty, and so matted that people could barely tell what kind of little dog I was. Every day I searched for food and hoped someone would notice me. Then TLC K9 Rescue found me... and everything changed. Now I know what a full tummy feels like. I know what toys are, how fun it is to run and play, and how wonderful it feels when someone scratches behind my ears and tells me I'm a good boy. I'm a playful, happy little Maltipoo with lots of puppy energy! I love people, children, and other friendly dogs.
Read more about Pippin
I even like cats if they'll be my friend. But there's one thing I'm still missing... A family to call my own. I promise to make you laugh, keep you on your toes, and love you with my whole heart for the rest of my life. I've waited long enough... Will you be my forever family? Apply to adopt me at www.tlck9rescue.org. ❤️ Love, Pippin
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
19. Cass
Cass is 1.5 years old and weighs 16 lbs. She’s friendly, active and playful, and social with other dogs. Cass was rescued along with 3 puppies – Nash, Vincent, Owen. They were all in terrible shape, suffering from a severe case of mange.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
20. Rocky
Meet Rocky – Your Loyal Best Friend and Adventure Partner! ❤️
Rocky is a handsome 2-year-old dog with a heart as big as his smile. This sweet boy is incredibly affectionate, friendly, and eager to be part of a loving family. He loves spending time with his people and is happiest when he's included in everyday activities, whether that's going for a car ride, exploring a new trail, taking a walk around the neighborhood, or simply relaxing by your side.
Rocky's story is one that will tug at your heartstrings. Before coming into our rescue, he was left to roam the streets on his own. When we found him, he was desperately approaching strangers and begging for food.
Read more about Rocky
He was hungry, thirsty, and covered in fleas and ticks. Our hearts broke seeing him in such a neglected condition.
The saddest part was that Rocky actually had owners. When we brought him home and attempted to reunite him with them, they simply shrugged and said, "You can take him." While it was heartbreaking to see him so easily discarded, part of me was relieved because I knew this precious boy deserved so much more.
Rocky is an absolute gem.
He is affectionate, obedient, loyal, incredibly friendly and loves kids. He walks beautifully on a leash, has excellent recall, and loves being with his people. Rocky is the kind of dog that quickly becomes your shadow and your best friend. His gentle nature and eagerness to please make him a joy to have as a companion.
Rocky does wonderfully with older, considerate children and enjoys the company of other friendly dogs. In fact, he would love a canine companion in his forever home—another friendly dog to play with, bond with, and share adventures with. However, Rocky would do best in a home without cats or a very dog friendly cat because he's just scared of them.
This amazing boy is looking for a forever family that will cherish him the way he deserves to be cherished. A secure fenced yard would be ideal, along with a family that will include him in their daily lives and never let him wonder where his next meal, kind word, or loving touch will come from.
If you live in Southern California, San Diego County, have a home with a secure fenced yard, and would love to welcome Rocky into your family, please complete an adoption application at www.tlck9rescue.org.
Not ready to adopt? Rocky is also looking for a foster home while he waits for his forever family. If you'd like to help this wonderful boy, please submit a foster application through our website as well.
After everything he's been through, Rocky hasn't lost his faith in people. He still greets every day with a wagging tail, a happy heart, and endless love to give. Now all he needs is a family who will love him forever. ❤️
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Adopting a small dog in Vista
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 Vista
- TLC K9 RescueEscondido, CA · 6 small dogs above
- California Labradors Retrievers and More RescueSan Diego, ca · 6 small dogs above
- Second Leash on LifeSan Diego , Ca · 4 small dogs above
- Baja Animal SanctuarySan Diego, CA · 4 small dogs above
Questions about adopting small dogs in Vista
How many small dogs are up for adoption in Vista?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Vista, California, have 20 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a small dog in Vista?
The rescues with the most small dogs near Vista right now are TLC K9 Rescue (Escondido, CA), California Labradors Retrievers and More Rescue (San Diego, ca) and Second Leash on Life (San Diego , 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.