Small Dogs for Adoption in Lakeland, FL: 20 Little Dogs Looking for a Home
Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Lakeland 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, Terrier and Schnauzer.
Not in Lakeland? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Hazel
At just 6 months old and weighing a petite 10 pounds, Hazel is a little bundle of sweetness, fun, and puppy love! This adorable Chihuahua mix has a heart as big as her personality. She is super sweet, playful, and full of energy, always ready for a little fun, adventure, or a chance to soak up some love and attention.Hazel has a wonderful, loving nature and will happily fill your days with puppy kisses, tail wags, and endless smiles. She's at that perfect age to learn, grow, and make wonderful memories with her forever family.If you're looking for a sweet, playful little companion to bring happiness and love into your life, Hazel might just be your perfect match! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Hazel
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
2. Bram
Get ready to fall in love with Bram! This adorable 16-pound, one-and-a-half-year-old Chihuahua mix is full of love, fun, and personality! Bram is a super sweet boy who absolutely loves being around people. He’s energetic, playful, affectionate, and has a loving personality that will steal your heart in no time. And did we mention he’s kissable? This little guy is ready to share plenty of love and smooches with his special someone! Bram is at that perfect age where he’s ready for adventures, playtime, and making wonderful memories with his forever family. Whether you’re enjoying some fun together or simply spending time side by side, Bram will be happiest just being part of your world.
Read more about Bram
If you’re looking for a sweet, loving companion who will fill your days with kisses, laughter, and endless affection, Bram is your guy! He’s ready to find his forever home and give his whole heart to the family lucky enough to call him theirs. Could it be you? PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
3. Raven
At just 8 pounds, Raven is a tiny bundle of sweetness with a heart full of love! This adorable Chihuahua mix is a laid-back little girl who loves nothing more than cuddling up in your lap and soaking up all the love you have to give. If you’re looking for a sweet, snuggly companion to share quiet moments and cozy days with, Raven might just be your perfect match!Raven has been treated for mange, and while she may not have her hair right now, it could grow back with time. The wonderful news is that she is 100% healthy and ready to start her next chapter! Her beauty shines from the inside out, and she has so much love to give to the special person who sees just how precious she is.Raven deserves a forever home where she can feel safe, loved, and cherished for the wonderful little girl she is.
Read more about Raven
Could you be the one to give this sweet, cuddly girl her happily ever after? PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
4. Casper
Looking for a fun-loving companion who will fill your days with happiness, laughter, and lots of love? Meet Casper, a 21-pound Chihuahua mix with a heart as big as his personality!Casper is a super-friendly, playful little guy who absolutely loves attention and being loved on. He’s a happy boy who enjoys making friends, having fun, and soaking up all the affection you’re willing to give. With his sweet personality and joyful spirit, Casper is sure to bring plenty of smiles to his forever family!Now all this adorable boy needs is a family to call his own. Someone to love him, cuddle him, play with him, and remind him every day just how special he is.
Read more about Casper
Could Casper be the missing piece to your family? Adopt Casper and let a little more happiness into your life! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
5. Rolo and Finny
Rolo and Finny are a pair of adorable one year old 15-pound Chihuahua mixes looking for a forever home together! These bonded boys share a special connection and are ready to find a family who will open their hearts to both of them.These two handsome little guys are energetic, full of personality, and may be a bit shy when you first meet them. But give them a little time, patience, and a chance to get comfortable, and you’ll discover the super-sweet boys hiding beneath those initially timid exteriors. Once they learn to trust you, their loving personalities begin to shine, and they’ll show you just how special they are!Rolo and Finny need a family willing to let them settle in at their own pace and understand that the best friendships sometimes take a little time to grow.
Read more about Rolo and Finny
In return, you’ll get two wonderful companions, a double dose of Chihuahua charm, and the joy of watching their confidence blossom together. Two best friends, one forever home, and a lifetime of love to share! Could Rolo and Finny be the missing pieces of your family? They would love to find their special someone who will give them the safe, loving home they deserve—together, forever! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $500 and you can adopt us at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with dogs
- Adopt together
6. Kennedy
Kennedy is a unique and resilient pup who’s still figuring out how to trust. He’s had a rough start, but underneath his uncertainty is a dog who truly wants love—he just needs patience and the right approach. This guy is house-trained (no accidents here!) and crate-trained, settling in without complaint at night. He also does well in a playpen when left alone for short periods. He loves his toys, especially Nylabones and balls, but can be a little possessive with them. Kennedy enjoys being near his people - he follows them from room to room, wags his tail to show his feelings, and even gives kisses.
Read more about Kennedy
He may ask for affection by bumping against you or jumping in your lap but then growl or nip when actually petted. Kennedy knows "come" and "sit", but treats (especially chicken!) help him stay engaged. He’s leash-reactive when it comes to putting it on or taking it off, especially around his neck, but once he’s walking, he does well - though 15 minutes is his max before he’s exhausted. He clearly has a history of being fed from the table and will wait at mealtime for a better offer- but don’t fall for it! Kennedy needs an experienced, patient adopter who understands that trust takes time. His ideal home is one where: He can continue learning boundaries in a structured environment, touch and handling are approached with patience and care, he has a predictable routine and a safe space to retreat when needed, and he’s allowed to bond at his own pace - on his termsPLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $150 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Paithsley
At just 8 months old and 10 pounds, Paithsley is a tiny bundle of sweetness with a personality that is impossible to resist! This adorable Chihuahua mix is super sweet, loving, and playful, and she has the cutest little underbite that makes her even more irresistible.Paithsley loves being around her people and is always ready for some fun, affection, and playtime. She may be small, but she has plenty of love to give and a whole lot of personality packed into her petite frame!If you’re looking for a loving, playful little companion with an adorable face and an even more adorable heart, Paithsley may be your perfect match.
Read more about Paithsley
She’s ready to find her forever family and fill their home with love, laughter, and lots of puppy fun!PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
8. Struesel
At 15 years old and 18 pounds, Struesel is a sweet little Schnauzer mix who has mastered the art of being absolutely lovable! This gentle senior boy is loving, curious, and happiest when he can curl up with his people.Struesel may be a senior, but he still has plenty of curiosity about the world around him. He enjoys taking things in at his own pace and being part of whatever his people are doing. Most of all, he simply wants to feel loved, safe, and cherished.This adorable little guy has so much love left to give and would make a wonderful companion for someone looking for a sweet, affectionate and loyal little friend.
Read more about Struesel
Struesel is ready to spend his golden years surrounded by love—and he deserves nothing less. PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $150 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with dogs
9. Bonded Pair
We take the dogs that are adopted down...so if a dog is on the website they are available.
Obedience training and fully fenced in yard is required for all our pups. Completion certificate for training needs to be emailed once complete. When applying pictures/videos of your fully enclosed yard is needed.
Please only send inquiries to the email in this bio all others will not be answered. Please read the bio before sending questions - we answer all we know about the dog here. If the question is not answered in the bio please send emails to info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
MEET VIOLET & FIONA — A BONDED PAIR WITH DOUBLE THE LOVE!
Read more about Bonded Pair
Some things are simply better together… and Violet & Fiona are definitely a package deal. These adorable Shih Tzu girls are best friends, playmates, cuddle buddies, and each other’s little security blankets.
Violet is the social butterfly of the duo — cheerful, playful, and always ready for some fun. She loves squeaky toys, wrestling with Fiona, and getting attention from her people. She can be a little opinionated when meeting unfamiliar dogs on leash (apparently she has standards ), but with patience and proper introductions, she settles in nicely.
Fiona is the smaller, softer soul. She’s a little more cautious at first and looks to Violet for confidence and reassurance. Give her a little time to feel safe, though, and out comes an incredibly sweet, affectionate little cuddlebug. She loves her people, loves her routines, and REALLY loves her Violet.
These two spend their days playing, wrestling, snuggling, and simply enjoying life together. They’re well-mannered girls who thrive with consistency and routine.
♀️ One funny little quirk: these ladies prefer to handle their potty business while out on walks rather than simply heading into the yard. They clearly believe a bathroom break should include a proper outing. Fiona may also have occasional urinary accidents, so she’ll need a family willing to give her frequent potty opportunities and a little patience while she adjusts.
What they’re looking for most is a home where they can stay together and be loved for exactly who they are.
With Violet bringing the confidence and fun and Fiona bringing the gentle sweetness, these two complement each other beautifully. ❤️
Two little dogs. Two very different personalities. One very special bond.
Violet & Fiona are ready to find their forever family — together.
Violet & Fiona's adoption fee is $800 - fully enclosed fenced yard required
To apply to foster or adopt please fill out application at
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
Thank you for completing the application. We are all volunteers and short on time, we will contact you back only if we have more questions or your application is approved and you will be invited to meet the dog. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
For more information contact info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
DOGS are in Foster Homes. There is NO shelter.
Our companions MUST live in your home as part of your family.We do not transport.
**See our website for more information. www.HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
All communication is thru email only so please be patient with us. We are all volunteers and work full time jobs and have families of our own.
The more complete the application the easier it is for us to process it. Please notify your vet that we will be contacting them and to release information to us. If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
ADOPTION PROCESS:
1. Complete this application
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
***Everyone must submit an application - we only keep them on file for 30 days
2. Application background check, vet check, etc
3. Invitation thru email only to meet the dog(s).
If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs
4. Adoption Cont
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
10. Reggie
Reggie is an 8-year-old terrier mix with a big personality packed into one adorable pup. Don’t let his age fool you—this handsome little guy is super spunky, playful, and full of energy! He’s always ready for a game, an adventure, or some fun with his favorite people.When he’s done showing off his playful side, Reggie is happiest curled up in a cozy lap, soaking up all the love and attention he can get. With his cute face, lively spirit, and affectionate nature, he’s sure to bring laughter, companionship, and plenty of tail wags to his new home.If you’re looking for a sweet, energetic best friend who also happens to be an expert cuddler, Reggie may be your perfect match!PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Reggie
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $350 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
11. Cotton Ball
Meet Cotton Ball, a 17-year-old Bichon with a heart full of love and a zest for life! This sweet, spunky senior boy may be a little older, but he certainly hasn’t lost his playful spirit. Cotton Ball enjoys having fun, loves a good nap, and is happiest when he’s getting attention and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.He’s proof that age is just a number, and he’s ready to spend his golden years surrounded by love, comfort, and a family who will cherish his sweet personality. If you’re looking for a special senior who still has plenty of personality and love to give, Cotton Ball may be your perfect little companion! PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Cotton Ball
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $150 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Dutton
Meet Dutton, an adorable 8-year-old Chihuahua mix who is looking for a quiet place to call home. Dutton is a gentle, shy little guy who takes a little time to feel comfortable. He prefers to get to know you at his own pace and can be nervous if someone comes on too strong. With patience, gentle interactions, and a little time, he will begin to trust you and show you his sweet personality.If you’re looking for a sweet companion who enjoys the simple things in life, Dutton could be your perfect little match. He’s ready for a loving home where he can relax, feel safe, and be cherished. PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Dutton
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $250 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with dogs
13. Toosie
We take the dogs that are adopted down...so if a dog is on the website they are available.
Obedience training and fully fenced in yard is required for all our pups. Completion certificate for training needs to be emailed once complete. When applying pictures/videos of your fully enclosed yard is needed.
Please only send inquiries to the email in this bio all others will not be answered. Please read the bio before sending questions - we answer all we know about the dog here. If the question is not answered in the bio please send emails to info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
Read more about Toosie
Meet Toosie ❤️
At 17 years young, Toosie is a Chihuahua with a whole lot of love left to give. This sweet senior may
enjoy his beauty sleep, but don’t let his age fool you — he still gets the occasional case of the
zoomies and has plenty of spunk! Toosie has spent much of his life surrounded by his beloved
siblings, who sadly crossed the rainbow bridge recently. Now, he’s looking for a special person to help
him feel safe, loved, and comforted as he enters his retirement years.
Toosie is a harmless, happy little guy who enjoys the simple things in life. He loves going for walks
and taking his time to sniff every blade of grass along the way. When he’s not out exploring, he’s
perfectly content to curl up and enjoy a cozy nap.
What Toosie wants most is someone who will spend quality time with him, give him plenty of affection,
and let him enjoy his golden years at his own pace. He doesn’t need a lot — just a loving home, a
gentle heart, and someone who will appreciate the wonderful senior companion he is.
If you have room in your heart for a sweet little Chihuahua who still has plenty of love (and a few
zoomies!) to share, Toosie would love to meet you.
Toosie's Adoption fee is $300
To apply to foster or adopt please fill out application at
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
Thank you for completing the application. We are all volunteers and short on time, we will contact you back only if we have more questions or your application is approved and you will be invited to meet the dog. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
For more information contact info@HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
DOGS are in Foster Homes. There is NO shelter.
Our companions MUST live in your home as part of your family.We do not transport.
**See our website for more information. www.HeidisLegacyDogRescue.com
All communication is thru email only so please be patient with us. We are all volunteers and work full time jobs and have families of our own.
The more complete the application the easier it is for us to process it. Please notify your vet that we will be contacting them and to release information to us. If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs. We apologize for not being able to answer everyone back.
ADOPTION PROCESS:
1. Complete this application
www.heidislegacydogrescue.com/apply-to-foster-or-adopt
***Everyone must submit an application - we only keep them on file for 30 days
2. Application background check, vet check, etc
3. Invitation thru email only to meet the dog(s).
If you don't hear from us we have
chosen a home better matched for the dog's needs
4. Adoption Contract
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
14. Jack
Meet
Jack
!
If you're looking for a loyal little shadow who will shower you with affection, entertain you with his antics, and happily accept belly rubs as a full-time job, Jack might just be your perfect match!
Jack is an approximately 5-year-old, 10-pound Rat Terrier with a BIG personality and an even BIGGER heart! This handsome little guy has perfected the art of being absolutely adorable, and he knows exactly how to use it to his advantage.
❤️ Professional Snuggler, Reporting for Duty!
Read more about Jack
Jack is a lover through and through! Personal space? Never heard of it. Jack believes that if you have two hands, at least one should be petting him at all times. He absolutely adores affection, kisses, and cuddles, and his favorite position is flat on his back, belly exposed, patiently waiting for you to get to work!
Because Jack loves his humans so much, his dream home would be with someone who works from home, is retired, or simply spends plenty of time at home. He's not looking for a roommate. He's looking for a best friend!
Toys, Toys & MORE Toys!
Jack takes his toys VERY seriously! He's a fetch enthusiast and a self-appointed squeaker removal specialist. Give him a stuffed toy, and he'll happily demonstrate his impressive ability to locate the squeaker and remove every last bit of fluff. The good news? Jack knows the difference between his toys and your belongings. He's not interested in chewing your shoes or furniture. He's got much more important work to do!
A Smart Little Guy with a Few Opinions!
Jack is crate trained, walks nicely on a leash, and knows how to sit and stay. Although, if we're being fair, he thinks standing on his hind legs is a much more impressive trick than sitting!
He's also a pretty good communicator. Jack will let you know when he'd like to go outside, when he thinks a treat is overdue, or when someone unfamiliar might be approaching. He's got a little watchdog in him, and he's not afraid to use his voice!
And speaking of treats, CHEESE IS LIFE! If you want the key to Jack's heart, you might want to stock up!
Jack's Perfect Forever Home
Jack is doing well with his potty training when kept on a consistent routine, especially being taken outside immediately after meals. He also prefers having his human accompany him outside. After all, why should he go on an adventure alone when you could come along?
Jack gets along with other dog, however, he does believe that all food should rightfully belong to him! He should be fed separate from other pets and may give a quiet warning growl if another dog approaches while he's eating. Giving him his own dining space keeps everyone happy.
While Jack can live with another dog, he would be equally thrilled to be your one and only! In fact, having all the toys, belly rubs, and affection to himself sounds like a pretty fabulous arrangement to him.
The Bottom Line?
Jack is a sweet, affectionate, playful little character who wants nothing more than to be someone's constant companion. He'll make you laugh with his toy-destroying talents, charm you with his hind-leg performances, and melt your heart with his endless requests for love.
He's not asking for much. Just a cozy home, a steady supply of toys, a little cheese, and someone who doesn't mind having a 10-pound shadow following them everywhere.
His adoption donation is $250 & will include age-appropriate vaccines, microchip, and neuter. Please follow the link to submit an application:
https://bit.ly/3GDeyyo
- Good with dogs
- No cats
15. Walker
❤️ MEET WALKER! 9 POUNDS OF PURE FUN! ❤️
If you're looking for a playful, happy-go-lucky little buddy to join your pack, Walker is your guy! At just 1 year old and approximately 9 pounds, this Rat Terrier mix is full of energy, personality, and a whole lot of fun!
A little about Walker:
Walker is SUPER dog-friendly and absolutely thrives with other dogs. He needs a canine sibling in his forever home to run, wrestle, and play with. Having a doggy friend isn't just a bonus for Walker—it's a must!
Read more about Walker
Dog Friendly: He loves other dogs! He's especially comfortable with small dogs and can do great with big dogs, too, although he may need a little time to warm up to the larger ones.
Play Over Snuggles: Walker is more of a PLAY than cuddle kind of guy. He'd much rather be wrestling with his foster siblings, running zoomies, and getting into all sorts of fun than sitting in someone's lap.
Crazy in the BEST Way: This little guy is a happy, energetic, silly bundle of fun! He's got a big personality and is always ready for his next adventure.
What About Cats? Walker is mostly friendly with cats, but they definitely make him nervous. He's more terrified of them than anything!
Good House Skills: Walker is crate trained and mostly potty trained. He's also learning to walk politely on a leash and making great progress!
Walker is one of 14 terrier mixes Hunter's Village Rescue welcomed after rescuing 85 dogs from a heartbreaking hoarding situation in Lake County. Thirteen of these little terriers are still waiting for their forever homes!
This sweet boy deserves a home where he can run, play, wrestle, and enjoy life with a four-legged best friend by his side. If you've already got a playful pup looking for a partner in crime, Walker might be the perfect addition to your family!❤️
Adoption Donation: $250
His adoption includes:
- Vaccines
- Microchip
- Neuter
Ready to make Walker part of your pack? Submit an adoption application here: https://bit.ly/3GDeyyo
Please help us find this little firecracker the forever home he's been waiting for! ❤️
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
16. Vashti
At just one year old, Vashti is a gentle Terrier mix with a heart as sweet as can be. This quiet little girl has a calm, loving nature that makes everyone she meets fall in love with her.Vashti is friendly, affectionate, and happiest when she's spending time with her people. She doesn't need to be the center of attention—she's content simply being by your side, offering quiet companionship and unconditional love. Her personality makes her a wonderful addition to a family looking for a loyal best friend. She is a young girl full of puppy energy to burn, So she would do well with a fenced yard where she can run off the zoomies.If you've been searching for a sweet, easygoing companion with a kind heart, Vashti may be the perfect match.
Read more about Vashti
She's ready to leave her past behind and begin her next chapter with a family who will cherish her forever.Could Vashti be the missing piece of your family? Come meet this precious girl and see just how quickly she'll steal your heart!PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
17. Moxie
True to her name, Moxie is a 1½-year-old Schnauzer mix with a big personality and an even bigger zest for life! This sweet, spirited girl is always ready for her next adventure, whether it's chasing a tennis ball, playing fetch in the yard, or exploring the world by your side.Moxie is full of energy and loves to stay active, making her the perfect companion for someone who enjoys an interactive, playful pup. After she's had her fun, she's just as happy soaking up love and attention from her favorite people.If you're looking for a loyal best friend who will keep you smiling, encourage you to get outside, and fill your days with fun, Moxie is ready to bring her playful spirit and loving heart to her forever home.PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz.
Read more about Moxie
We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $400 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with kids
18. Charlie
Hi, I'm Charlie — I've come out of my shell since arriving at DARE. I've got a great appetite, and I wake up every morning happy and bouncy, ready to run with the pack, chase squirrels, water the field, and investigate every tortoise hole I can find. Not bad for a 13-year-old, if I do say so myself.
My Ideal Home
Good with kids, cats, small dogs, and everyone in the house — but I do best as an only dog or with small dog/cat companions only, since I'm not great with big dogs. I love sleeping in bed with my people (or in my crate, if that's the house rule), and I'm house-trained, crate-trained, and up for leashed walks with plenty of sniffing.
Read more about Charlie
A Few Important Things to Know
- Not a fan of big dogs: I do best as the only dog, or alongside small dogs and cats. Big dogs aren't my thing.
- Thunderstorm anxiety: Storms make me nervous — a calm, comforting space during bad weather goes a long way with me.
What I Bring to the Table
I've got morning energy, a zest for squirrel-chasing, and a curiosity about the world that most pups half my age would envy. I'm sweet, I listen well, and I'd be forever grateful to the person who gives me a soft (and adventurous) place to land for my golden years.
If you know I'm your forever pup, fill out an adoption application at daretorescue.org/adoption-application — and don't forget to put Charlie on your application!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
19. Snowee
At 12 years young, Snowee is proof that the best companions only get sweeter with age. This handsome Terrier mix is a gentle, loving soul who forms a special bond with his person and will happily follow you from room to room, just content to be by your side.Snowee is the perfect blend of calm and playful. He enjoys leisurely walks and has wonderful leash manners, making him an excellent walking companion. When playtime is over, he's more than happy to curl up next to you for cuddles and quiet companionship. He's not a big barker and has a peaceful nature that makes him a joy to have around the house.Though Snowee is hard of hearing, it doesn't slow him down one bit.
Read more about Snowee
He's adapted beautifully and is also pee pad trained, making him an easy and comfortable addition to many different types of homes. All Snowee wants is a cozy bed, a loving family, and someone to share his golden years with.If you're looking for a loyal best friend with a heart full of love, Snowee is ready to make your house a home.PLEASE NOTE: All your current pets must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated and on heartworm prevention to adopt from Polka Dogz. We only adopt in Florida. All adoption fees go to help all the dogs in the rescue, some of which require extensive medical care. Thank you for caring for the greater good. Adoption fee is $300 and you can adopt me at www.polkadogz.org.
- Good with dogs
20. Mara & Emily
Meet Mara (red) & Emily (black & tan); aka Ginger & MaryAnn, lol. These bonded sisters are 12 years old & the sweetest pair ever! They are on the smaller size, weighing in at about 11 pounds each, are up-to-date on their shots & are spayed.
Both are potty trained as long as taken out regularly. They are crate trained & sleep the night thru together. They get along with other small dogs, not sure about cats or large dogs. Both are a little shy at first, but warm up to new people very quickly. Mara & Emily do well on a leash and enjoy lizard hunting in the backyard or sitting in the sun like most doxies.
Mara is a bit more special needs and has IVDD, so she gets a monthly Librella injection at the vet which keeps her mobile.
Read more about Mara & Emily
She gets around on her own & does not need any help pottying. Mara doesn’t do stairs but has learned to use a dog ramp to get to her favorite spot on the couch.
They both had horrible dental disease, so DARE recently had dentals done; Emily lost all her teeth & Mara still has about 4 remaining. Therefore, they are on soft foods.
They love snuggling together when they are not snuggling on the coach with their person. These two gals are very low key & easy going girls who would do best in a quiet home.
Mara & Emily MUST stay together & are being fostered in Orlando but travel very well in a car. If you think these two would make a good addition to your family, please fill out an adoption application & put their names on it. ♥
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Special needs
- Adopt together
Adopting a small dog in Lakeland
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 Lakeland
- Polka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · 14 small dogs above
- Heidi's Legacy Dog RescueTampa, FL · 2 small dogs above
- Hunter's Village RescueOrlando, Fl · 2 small dogs above
- Dachshund Adoption Rescue & Education (DARE)Tampa, FL · 2 small dogs above
Questions about adopting small dogs in Lakeland
How many small dogs are up for adoption in Lakeland?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Lakeland, Florida, have 20 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a small dog in Lakeland?
The rescues with the most small dogs near Lakeland right now are Polka Dogz Pet REscue, INc. (oakland, fl), Heidi's Legacy Dog Rescue (Tampa, FL) and Hunter's Village Rescue (Orlando, Fl). 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.