Small Dogs for Adoption in Elgin, IL: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Elgin have 38 small dogs up for adoption. Here are the 30 newest, 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, Poodle and Cocker Spaniel.

Not in Elgin? Find dogs near your zip code.

1. Milly

Young (2 years) · Female · Cocker Spaniel / Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Milly, a young female Cocker Spaniel dog up for adoption

I weigh 18 lbs, and I am seeking my forever home!

Adoption Donation $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

2. Nacho

Young (5 years) · Male · Pomeranian (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Nacho, a young male Pomeranian dog up for adoption

I am bonded with my best friend Bella; we have to be adopted together

I am seeking my forever home!

Adoption Donation $500

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

3. Miss Molly

Adult · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Miss Molly, an adult female Poodle dog up for adoption

This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue

Adopt Miss Molly fromREACH Rescue, IncMundelein, IL · listed Nov 1

Call (847) 566-6799 Website Facebook

4. Paulo

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Shih Tzu / Corgi / Mixed (medium coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Paulo, a young male Shih Tzu dog up for adoption

I weigh 16 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

5. Kaffee

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Poodle (unknown type) / Schnauzer / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Kaffee, a young male Poodle dog up for adoption

I weigh 17 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

6. Lupo

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Pug / Corgi / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Lupo, a young male Pug dog up for adoption

I weigh 16 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

7. Seamus

Adult · Male · Spaniel / Dachshund / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Seamus, an adult male Spaniel dog up for adoption

Adopt Seamus fromREACH Rescue, IncMundelein, IL · listed Oct 28

Call (847) 566-6799 Website Facebook

8. Dojo

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Shih Tzu / Corgi / Mixed (medium coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Dojo, a young male Shih Tzu dog up for adoption

AVAILABLE SOON!

I haven’t arrived at the adoption center just yet - I’m getting ready for adoption! Please fill out an adoption application if you’d like to meet me once I’m available.

I weigh 18 lbs, and am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

9. Pugsley

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Shih Tzu / Mixed (medium coat) · 17 mi from Elgin

Pugsley, an adult male Chihuahua dog up for adoption

Pugsley is a 2 year old male Chihuahua Shih Tzu mix who weighs in at 10 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $400. If you are still interested, please read more below.

Here is what Pugsley and Radar would like you to know about them:

Radar and Pugsley are brothers who came to ARF together. Although they are biological brothers, they are not bonded. Both boys are quick to bond with new people and will likely do best split up. (Radar can be a bit bossy with Pugsley).

They are learning to walk on leash and sleep in a crate. They have mastered going outside to pee. They are looking forward to their next chapter with a loving home and family!

10. Radar

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Shih Tzu / Mixed (medium coat) · 17 mi from Elgin

Radar, an adult male Chihuahua dog up for adoption

XXX is a 2 year old male Chihuahua Shih Tzu mix who weighs in at 10 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $400. If you are still interested, please read more below.

Here is what Pugsley and Radar would like you to know about them:

They are learning to walk on leash and sleep in a crate. They have mastered going outside to pee. They are looking forward to their next chapter with a loving home and family!

11. Hana

Adult · Female · Chihuahua · 22 mi from Elgin

Hana, an adult female Chihuahua dog up for adoption

Meet our soon to be brave hearted girl Hana. This little peanut came to us very fearful from an unknown realm. A mighty small stray that survived long enough by her own sheer will. Hana is a timid, shy yet curious pup. She is currently living with a trainer and learning that the world has some magnificent opportunities to offer. Hana is enjoying her new experiences and has a list of new favorite to dos. Hana loves car rides, long walks, play time with doggy pals and her warm cozy blankets. She feels safest curled up in a warm burrito waiting for her meals. Sure we push her to try new things and slowly she is discovering that life isnt so scary.

12. Frito Lay

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Frito Lay, an adult male Chihuahua dog up for adoption

Frito Lay is an adorable 2-year-old Chihuahua mix who weighs just 8 pounds but has a whole lot of love to give! This sweet little guy loves being around people, spending time with other dogs, playing with toys, and enjoying his favorite thing of all… FOOD! Frito is a friendly, well-mannered boy who listens well and responds to gentle correction. He does well on a leash and gets along with both children and other dogs, making him a wonderful little companion.Frito is crate trained and working on his potty training as he continues to learn his manners. When meeting new people, he can be a little cautious and prefers to be approached from behind for pets while he gets comfortable.

13. Ella

Adult · Female · Poodle (Miniature) (medium coat) · 17 mi from Elgin

Ella, an adult female Poodle dog up for adoption

Watch Ella's videos (2)

Ella is a 3 year old female blue poodle who weighs in at 16 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $450. If you are still interested, please read more below.

Meet Ella!

Ella is a sweet, curious girl with a heart full of love and a happy little spirit. She enjoys exploring the world around her and absolutely lights up whenever she sees another dog. Big or small, she loves them all!

14. Scooter

Senior (10 years) · Male · Terrier / Chihuahua / Mixed · 6 mi from Elgin

Scooter, a senior male Terrier dog up for adoption

MEET SCOOTER!

At 10 years young, this sweet Chihuahua/Terrier mix is pint-sized, adorable, and looking for a soft place to land.

Scooter has spent a decade being a good boy, and now he’s looking for a cozy, loving home where he can spend his golden years living in complete comfort. Whether it's curling up on a warm lap, taking gentle sunbaths, or being your faithful little companion, Scooter is ready to give you all his love.

Profile:

Age: 10 years old (Senior Sweetheart!)

Breed: Chihuahua / Terrier mix

Size: Pint-sized perfection

15. Reed

Puppy (1 year 5 months) · Male · Italian Greyhound / Shih Tzu / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Reed, a male Italian Greyhound puppy up for adoption

Born: May 09, 2026

I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $650

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

16. Elvis

Adult · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Elvis, an adult male Poodle dog up for adoption

Meet Elvis! Elvis is a 3-year-old Miniature Poodle mix who is just settling into his foster home and learning that the world might not be such a scary place after all. This gentle, friendly boy can be quite nervous around new people and unfamiliar situations, so he’ll need a little extra patience and understanding as he finds his confidence. While new things can feel overwhelming for Elvis, he has already shown us some wonderful things about himself! He gets along with other dogs, and here's a bonus for the cat lovers out there: Elvis is good with cats, too! His foster family is also working with him on his leash-walking skills, and he’s making nice progress!Elvis will need a kind, patient family who understands that building trust takes time.

17. Scampi

Puppy (7 months) · Male · Wirehaired Fox Terrier / Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Scampi, a male Wirehaired Fox Terrier puppy up for adoption

Born: April 01, 2026

I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $600

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

18. Carolina

Young · Female · Maltese / Terrier / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Carolina, a young female Maltese dog up for adoption

Carolina is a playful, energetic girl who believes life is one big play session! She absolutely loves playing with other dogs and would be happiest in a home with one or more playful pups who can keep up with her puppy energy—and, importantly, have the patience to help teach her some good doggy manners.She gets so excited about playing that she sometimes forgets to notice when her canine friends have had enough. She’s still learning to read their cues and respect their boundaries, so her new family will need to continue working with her on puppy training and appropriate play. When playtime is over, Carolina settles down beautifully in her crate.

19. Magpie

Adult · Female · Chihuahua / Rat Terrier / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Magpie, an adult female Chihuahua dog up for adoption

Adopt Magpie fromREACH Rescue, IncMundelein, IL · listed Oct 4

Call (847) 566-6799 Website Facebook

20. Muffin

Young (4 years 10 months) · Female · Wheaten Terrier / Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed (medium coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Muffin, a young female Wheaten Terrier dog up for adoption

I AM FROM A PUPPY MILL SITUATION AND WILL NEED TIME AND PATIENCE FOR ME TO ACCLIMATE TO MY NEW HOME.

I weigh 19 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

21. Layla

Young (5 years 8 months) · Female · Wheaten Terrier / Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed (medium coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Layla, a young female Wheaten Terrier dog up for adoption

I AM FROM A PUPPY MILL SITUATION AND WILL NEED TIME AND PATIENCE FOR ME TO ACCLIMATE TO MY NEW HOME.

I weigh 22 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

22. Hazel

Adult · Female · Pomeranian / Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 17 mi from Elgin

Hazel, an adult female Pomeranian dog up for adoption

Hazel is a 6 year old female Pomski who weighs in at 25 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $450. If you are still interested, please read more below.

23. Ralphie

Adult · Male · Schnauzer / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Ralphie, an adult male Schnauzer dog up for adoption

Ralphie is a 2-year-old boy with a playful spirit and a love for the great outdoors! This active guy enjoys running around, playing with other dogs, and having fun with his favorite toys and balls. And guess what? He’s even figured out how to entertain himself by playing ball indoors! Ralphie is housebroken and crate trained, and he’s working on improving his leash skills. He gets along well with other dogs and would really enjoy having a canine buddy to run and play with. A fenced-in yard would be a wonderful bonus for Ralphie, giving him the freedom to stretch his legs, burn off some energy, and enjoy all his favorite outdoor adventures! Ralphie can be shy around new people and may need a little time to feel comfortable, so a patient family who lets him settle in at his own pace would be ideal.

24. George

Young (3 years 2 months) · Male · Australian Kelpie / Corgi / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

George, a young male Australian Kelpie dog up for adoption

I weigh 21 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $500

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

25. Farley

Puppy · Male · Cocker Spaniel / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Farley, a male Cocker Spaniel puppy up for adoption

Meet Farley! This cute little Cocker Spaniel/Terrier mix is a playful, affectionate, and curious puppy who is ready to find his forever family!Farley loves playing with toys, romping around the yard, enjoying yummy treats, taking long puppy naps, and snuggling with his favorite people. He is paper-trained and doing great learning to potty outside, is crate-trained, and gets along with other dogs and children!Farley is looking for a loving home with active people who are ready for all the fun (and learning!) that comes with puppyhood. He'll need a family willing to work on basic puppy training, give him plenty of opportunities to play and exercise, and, of course, provide a comfy bed for those all-important puppy snoozes.

26. Iggy

Puppy · Male · Cocker Spaniel / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Iggy, a male Cocker Spaniel puppy up for adoption

Meet Iggy! This silly, sweet little guy has the cutest face and a personality that will keep you smiling! Iggy is a playful, slightly clumsy puppy who loves romping around with his brother Rome, wrestling with his doggy friends, and enjoying all the adventures puppyhood has to offer. But once playtime is over, this boy is all about the cuddles! Iggy is crate-trained and doing well with his potty routine! While he isn't fully potty-trained just yet, he does great when taken outside regularly and uses his designated newspaper spots indoors. These boys have been wonderfully socialized in a busy neighborhood home, where they've experienced kids coming and going, met lots of new people, and learned to roll with the everyday chaos of family life.

27. Pompis

Adult (5 years 1 month) · Male · Shih Tzu (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Pompis, an adult male Shih Tzu dog up for adoption

I weigh 18 lbs, and I'm looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $650

Meet Pompis!

Curly white fur, an adorable face, and a personality that's all his own! Pompis is a fluffy little character with plenty of charm and a few quirks that make him extra special!

Pompis can be skittish around new people, but once you've earned his trust, you'll discover an affectionate, playful, and incredibly loyal companion. He enjoys car rides, loves going for walks, and is quite the gentleman on a leash! He also gets along well with other dogs.

28. Vanity

Puppy (2 months 5 days) · Female · Hound / Chihuahua / Mixed · 6 mi from Elgin

Vanity, a female Hound puppy up for adoption

Meet Vanity! She is a cute and sweet Chihuhua/hound mix puppy. She loves cuddles!

Please Note: We do not run DNA tests on our rescue pups! Breed mixes are our best guess based on their physical features, size, and any available info on their parents.

Vanity won't be ready to go home until October 24th!

If you are interested in adopting Vanity, please apply at projecthopearf.org today!

Good with kids
Good with dogs

Adopt Vanity fromProject Hope AnimalGilberts, IL · listed Sep 23

Call (224) 484-9107 Website Facebook

29. Sweetie Pie

Senior · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 22 mi from Elgin

Sweetie Pie, a senior female Terrier dog up for adoption

Meet Sweetie Pie! Sweetie Pie is a sweet, laid-back girl who loves being with her people but is also perfectly happy relaxing on her blanket nearby. She’s potty trained, travels well in her crate, and does great with dogs and kids. She’s also good with cats as long as they don’t run—because a running cat can quickly turn into a fun game of chase! Sweetie Pie loves going for walks and is always ready to sniff and explore. She enjoys meeting other dogs and has plenty of terrier instinct when it comes to squirrels, chipmunks, and other critters, so she’s still working on her leash manners and “leave it.”When she’s not out exploring, Sweetie Pie enjoys belly rubs, lounging on the couch, and playing with her favorite tennis ball and rope toy.

30. Tucker

Adult (6 years 6 months) · Male · Pug / Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Elgin

Tucker, an adult male Pug dog up for adoption

I'm 15 lbs, and I am looking for my forever home.

Adoption Donation: $400

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

Adopting a small dog in Elgin

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 Elgin

Animal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · 13 small dogs above
REACH Rescue, IncMundelein, IL · 11 small dogs above
Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)Wheaton, IL · 4 small dogs above
Project Hope AnimalGilberts, IL · 2 small dogs above

Questions about adopting small dogs in Elgin

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Elgin?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Elgin, Illinois, have 38 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Elgin?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Elgin right now are Animal House Shelter, Inc. (Huntley, IL), REACH Rescue, Inc (Mundelein, IL) and Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL) (Wheaton, IL). 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.

1. Milly

2. Nacho

3. Miss Molly

4. Paulo

5. Kaffee

6. Lupo

7. Seamus

8. Dojo

9. Pugsley

10. Radar

11. Hana

12. Frito Lay

13. Ella

14. Scooter

15. Reed

16. Elvis

17. Scampi

18. Carolina

19. Magpie

20. Muffin

21. Layla

22. Hazel

23. Ralphie

24. George

25. Farley

26. Iggy

27. Pompis

28. Vanity

29. Sweetie Pie

30. Tucker

Adopting a small dog in Elgin

Rescues with small dogs near Elgin

Questions about adopting small dogs in Elgin

Small Dogs for adoption near Elgin