The Villages, FL

Small Dogs for Adoption in The Villages, FL: 23 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near The Villages, FL

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of The Villages have 23 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 23, 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, Beagle and Terrier.

1. Hazel

Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Hazel fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Nov 1

2. Bram

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Bram fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 27

3. Raven

Adult · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Raven fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 27

4. Casper

Young · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Casper fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 27

5. Rolo and Finny

Young · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Rolo and Finny fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 22

6. Kennedy

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Kennedy fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 12

7. Heddy

Puppy (3 months 11 days) · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Parson Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages

Meet Heddy!Heddy along with her 3 brothers came to PRBJ from a rescue partner in Puerto Rico. They help save pups off the street and then fly them off the island so the pups can find their forever homes.
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities. To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes.

Read more about Heddy

This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Heddy fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Oct 9

8. Freddy

Puppy (3 months 11 days) · Female · Jack Russell Terrier / Parson Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages

Meet Freddy!Freddy and his 3 siblings came to PRBJ from a rescue partner in Puerto Rico. They help save pups off the street and then fly them off the island so the pups can find their forever homes.
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities. To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes.

Read more about Freddy

This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Freddy fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Oct 9

9. Paithsley

Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Paithsley fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 6

10. Struesel

Senior · Male · Schnauzer / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Struesel fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Oct 6

11. Sketch

Young (2 years) · Male · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages

Sketch is really a happy-go-lucky little guy who seems to have a permanent wag in his tail! He loves getting affection from people, enjoys going for walks, and has a lot of fun with toys-- especially the ones with squeakers which he renders squeakerless! Sketch likes other dogs and is playful without being overpowering, and he has done well in a home with cats. House training is coming along great and he learned to use the doggie door very quickly. Things Sketch is still working on are to keep all four paws on the floor when greeting people and he is also still figuring out some household boundaries.

Read more about Sketch

Although he accepts verbal corrections well, his curiosity sometimes just gets the best of him. He’s been known to climb on top of his crate in pursuit of cat food, hop onto the metal storage can on the patio to peek through the kitchen window, and use a side table to keep an eye on the yard guy at work. Clearly, he doesn’t want to miss a thing. He is not frequently vocal, but the few times Sketch has been heard to sing out the famous beagle arroo it is definitely rousing! At night, he’s fantastic in his crate. He may whine a little when the sun starts coming up, but he doesn’t make a big fuss. Sketch is easygoing about handling. He let his foster mom clean his ears and handle his feet without complaint. All in all, he’s a loving, cheerful guy with a curious mind, a playful spirit, and plenty of personality. Sketch is also heartworm negative and ready to go on sleepover.

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Sketch fromSouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc.Dunnellon, FL · listed Oct 6

12. Scribble

Young (2 years) · Male · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages

Scribble was a little timid when he first arrived but the other dogs in his foster home are really helping him to gain confidence. He follows them in and out of the house and they all enjoy hunting for lizards. He is usually pretty quiet but when he gets on a scent he lets out that delightful and musical beagle ARROO! Scribble is doing really well with house training but is still a youngster and with his chewing urge seems to have a liking for flip flops. Foster mom redirects him to appropriate chew toys which he also likes - and plush toys. He is most definitely a happy boy with a wagging tail and although he requests back scratches and petting, Scribble is still a little uncertain with people and will sometimes cower down.

Read more about Scribble

He does not seem to be familiar with dog beds and chooses instead to curl up on a throw rug. The other dogs in the house often inhabit the couch, but he only jumps up when they are announcing something worth watching for out the nearby window. There are several cats in his foster home which he completely ignores. He does not ignore food though - oh no, he is typical beagle there and good thing foster mom is experienced as he has found the kitchen counters and garbage can to be a temptation. We would prefer for Scribble to have a fenced yard and he would do best with another dog. This little 2 year old is learning well and will grow up loved. Scribble is neutered, vaccinated and tested heartworm negative so he is ready to go on a sleepover!

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Scribble fromSouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc.Dunnellon, FL · listed Oct 6

13. Bowie FH

Adult (7 years 10 months) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) · 41 mi from The Villages

Meet Bowie!Bowie came to us when his owner's health was declining, and she was no longer able to care for him. He is used to grooming appts and is a sweet little dog who would love to have a home with a nice warm lap that he can spend endless hours on.
Bowie is house trained, but will also use pee pads if he is alone for extended periods. He does good on a leash but stays close and sometimes behind the person walking.
Foster update: Bowie has been a wonderful addition to our home and is ready to find his forever family!
Bowie is a sweet, loving dog with a medium energy level. He quickly bonded with his foster family and enjoys being close to his people, often following them throughout the house. He gets along well with other dogs, kids, cats and enjoys meeting new people.
Bowie walks nicely on a leash and, once he became comfortable in his foster home, started showing off his playful side with zoomies around the yard.
A few things to know about Bowie:

Read more about Bowie FH

He prefers soft food
He is house-trained and goes outside regularly but may also use puppy pads between potty breaks.
He can become anxious when left alone and may pace or cry initially but settles down.
He will need regular grooming to keep his coat healthy and prevent matting.
He has a good bit of energy and loves to play.

Bowie will thrive in a patient and loving home that can give him a little time to adjust. Once he settles in, his affectionate personality shines through, making him a wonderful companion.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Bowie FH fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Sep 30

14. Reggie

Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Reggie fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Sep 21

15. Cotton Ball

Senior · Male · Bichon Frise · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Cotton Ball fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Sep 17

16. Dutton

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Dutton fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Sep 17

17. Arlo

Adult (5 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 46 mi from The Villages

Meet Arlo, a 5-year-old Chihuahua mix weighing approximately 10 pounds. After his owner unexpectedly passed away, Arlo lost the only person and home he had ever known and was surrendered to rescue. Despite such a difficult change, this sweet little guy is settling into foster care and looking for a loving home where he can feel safe and secure again.
Arlo is a laid-back, easygoing boy who simply needs a little time to become comfortable with new people. Once he warms up, he loves attention and being close to his person. He can be vocal and sometimes growls as a way of expressing himself, but his foster mom reports that he has never attempted to bite.

Read more about Arlo

Because he can be nervous around children, a home without small children would be best.
Arlo currently lives with five other dogs and gets along well with them. He is relaxed and super chill, making him a wonderful companion for someone looking for a little buddy to share their days with.
He is still working on house training and will need a patient family willing to continue helping him learn. Arlo is crate trained, although the crate isn't his favorite place and he may need a few minutes to settle. At night, his favorite place is snuggled up with his person, but he can also sleep comfortably in his crate.
Arlo would thrive in a home where someone is around much of the time and he won't routinely be left alone for long periods. After losing the person and home he loved, he deserves a family who will give him the security, companionship, and affection he needs to feel at home again.
Arlo is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on his vaccines. He's ready to begin his next chapter with a family of his own.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Arlo fromAnimal Advocates FLSanford, FL · listed Sep 16

18. Cardi

Adult (6 years 3 months) · Female · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages

Cardi's purpose in life seems to be loving and being loved by her people. She enjoys meeting new people and is thrilled at the slightest attention shown to her. Being next to you getting pets and scritches is her absolute delight. Cardi plays with the other dogs in her foster home, but she has her limits with them and would also do just fine as an only dog. She does not like to be messed with when she is lying down and she will definitely tell them to go away if they get in her face while she is relaxing. We do not know about Cardi with cats but she does not seem interested in any prey. Her house training has improved immensely in the few weeks she has been in her foster home (arrived 8/21), and she has been crated for up to 6 hours with no accidents.

Read more about Cardi

Unsurprisingly, Cardi is very food motivated and will try to steal others food. She loves her treats, especially the soft little meaty ones. Currently Cardi is not leash walked and she loves to run in her fenced yard. Her energy level is perhaps slightly above moderate. She is heartworm positive but we expect her treatment, which is scheduled for October 1st, to go well and she should be ready for sleepover around October 5th.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Cardi fromSouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc.Dunnellon, FL · listed Aug 19

19. Vashti

Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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.

Adopt Vashti fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Aug 13

20. Moxie

Adult · Female · Schnauzer / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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
Adopt Moxie fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Jul 26

21. Stretch

Young (1 year 1 month) · Male · Rat Terrier / Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 41 mi from The Villages

Meet Stretch!
Stretch, Spot, and Little Man came to PRBJ from an overcrowded shelter after being rescued from a hoarding situation where the home had over 50 dogs. These dogs are all nervous and have no manners, not talking about sit, stay, paw I am talking about they are used to climbing on tables or counters if they can find a way up. But they are SWEET and just need to each find a patient owner who can help them and maybe another dog in the house to show them what a dog is supposed to be like :)
Important Information for New Puppy Parents
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience—but it also comes with important responsibilities.

Read more about Stretch

To help your puppy grow into a happy, confident, and well-adjusted adult dog, dedication to obedience training, socialization, and consistent potty training is essential.
We strongly recommend that the entire family participates in puppy training classes. This not only helps build a strong bond with your new pup but also ensures that everyone is using the same commands and techniques, creating a clear and consistent environment for learning.
**Puppies thrive with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement—and so do their families! Let’s set them up for a lifetime of love and success

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Stretch fromPet Rescue By JudySanford, FL · listed Jul 15

22. Barnett

Senior (12 years 3 months) · Male · Beagle · 25 mi from The Villages

*ADOPTION FEE SPONSORED BY: ACCORDING TO ELLIE *Barnett may be an older gentleman but he has such a young spirit! He is active, seeks out and engages with his humans and loves to explore the backyard in his foster home. He's such a happy boy and his tail is always wagging! Barnett has mastered the doggie door and his house training is going well, although not perfect yet. Foster mom is taking him to weekly obedience classes to socialize and he's quickly learning come and sit. He is doing well walking on a leash too. We are hoping he will also learn stay, wait, and leave it ...we will see! When Barnett meets new people he gets excited but calms quickly, and on walks he has been friendly with all the dogs we've introduced him to, even if they were not as friendly or welcoming to him.

Read more about Barnett

However, we do believe that Barnett will do best as an only dog. He shows occasional curiosity towards the cat, but redirects easily. He has also done well interacting with children. He has spotted squirrels, frogs and lizards in the yard and loves chasing them yet has never gotten close to catching them. He likes bones or bully sticks and will carry them around with him, and he occasionally plays with stuffed toys. He is VERY food motivated!! At night Barnett sleeps in his doggie bed or crate in his foster mom's bedroom or on her bed. When foster mom leaves for work, Barnett does bark and has some anxiety if he sees her leave, so she gives him a frozen dog treat or toy to distract him for a while. If he doesn’t see her leave, he transitions well to being alone. In the beginning, Barnett was not really a lap dog, but the longer he is in his foster home, the more affectionate he is becoming! He loves head scratches and praise and is starting to want snuggle and curl up with foster mom to nap. We would really like to see Barnett in a home that can show patience and kindness and also maybe provide him a fenced yard where he can explore. SPECIAL NOTE: Barnett is heartworm positive and, after doing x-rays, we were advised to do Doxycycline and Proheart and retest him in 9 months, and not to do the injections at this time. We would still love to see him get adopted and would certainly be willing to discuss his treatment plan and possibly making our future financial support for that a provision of the Adoption Agreement.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Barnett fromSouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc.Dunnellon, FL · listed Jun 28

23. Snowee

Senior · Male · Terrier / Mixed · 32 mi from The Villages

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.

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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
Adopt Snowee fromPolka Dogz Pet REscue, INc.oakland, fl · listed Jun 9

Adopting a small dog in The Villages

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 The Villages

Questions about adopting small dogs in The Villages

How many small dogs are up for adoption in The Villages?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of The Villages, Florida, have 23 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in The Villages?

The rescues with the most small dogs near The Villages right now are Polka Dogz Pet REscue, INc. (oakland, fl), Pet Rescue By Judy (Sanford, FL) and SouthEast Beagle Rescue Inc. (Dunnellon, 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.