Small Dogs for Adoption in New Bedford, MA: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of New Bedford have 40 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, Shih Tzu and Terrier.
- All dogs 162
- Puppies 41
- Adult Dogs 98
- Senior Dogs 15
- Kid-Friendly Dogs 56
- Cat-Friendly Dogs 32
- Large Dogs 22
Not in New Bedford? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Baron SHAR in MS
Puppy (4 months 1 day) · Male · Shih Tzu / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 35 mi from New Bedford


Adoption Donation : $799
Location: MS (Transportation to the Northeast included in adoption donation.)
Age: Approx 4 mos. old as of 11/2/26
Weight: Approx 8 lbs.
Baron, a Shih-Poo, is a breeder surrender from Arkansas. Until recently he has spent his whole life living in a breeding facility so he will need a patient adopter while he learns how to be a dog living in a loving home. His foster mom describes him as sweet and states his personality is still developing. He does well with other dogs.
Read more about Baron SHAR in MS
If you are interested in adopting me, please fill out an application on our website - http://AnchorPawsRescue.org/aa. Email my foster parent for more information -
cedarling@comcast.net
Please verify location and availability of this dog. Because we rescue animals from various states, some dogs may not be in the Northeast yet, or may not yet be ready for adoption.
- Good with dogs
2. Pablo in TX
Young (1 year) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Age: approx 1 years old
Weight: 17 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 575 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
3. Lenny in TX
Young (2 years) · Male · Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Age: approx 2 years old
Weight: 13 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 575 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
4. Soley in LA
Puppy (5 months 1 day) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford




Age: approx 5 months old
Weight: 7 lbs
My adoption fee is $750 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
5. Benny in TX
Senior (9 years 11 months) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford




Age: approx 10 years old
Weight: 20 lbs
My adoption fee is $399 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
6. Chantilly
Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed · 24 mi from New Bedford




Chantilly came into care with her puppies, Dust Bunny and Couch Crumb, but while her babies were able to move forward, Chantilly had to stay behind and focus on getting healthy.She tested positive for heartworm and needed treatment before she could safely move on to the next chapter. She also had complications with anesthesia, which meant her spay had to be postponed until she was strong enough to safely undergo surgery.Now, Chantilly has completed her heartworm treatment and is microfilaria negative, and she is finally ready to start looking for the home she has been waiting for. Chantilly is dog friendly and absolutely loves attention.
Read more about Chantilly
She is the kind of girl who happily accepts affection from just about anyone willing to stop and say hello. She is affectionate, social, and very content being close to her people.She is a great in-between size, small enough to happily curl up in your lap, but sturdy enough to enjoy walks and everyday adventures with her family.After everything she has been through, Chantilly is ready for the easy part: a home of her own, plenty of attention, and someone who will make her feel like the center of the world. This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.) To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. PLEASE READ: • If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this. • All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date. • Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments. Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well. Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation. For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Charli in TX
Young (2 years) · Female · Unknown breed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford



Age: approx 2 years old
Weight: 29 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 575 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
8. Camilla in RI
Adult (3 years) · Female · Maltese / Mixed (medium coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Age: approx 3 years old
Weight: 10 lbs
My adoption fee is $650 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
9. Theodore
Young · Male · Poodle (Miniature) · 24 mi from New Bedford




This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.) To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. PLEASE READ: If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this. All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date.
Read more about Theodore
Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments. Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well. Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation. For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
10. Noodles in TX
Young (1 year) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Age: approx 1 years old
Weight: 10 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 575 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
11. Hamlet SHAR in RI
Young (3 years 1 month) · Male · French Bulldog (short coat) · 35 mi from New Bedford


Adoption Donation: $750
Location: RI (Transportation to the Northeast included in adoption donation.)
Age: Approx 3 years old
Weight: Approx 12 lbs.
Hamlet, a Mini French Bulldog, was surrendered by a breeder in Arkansas. His foster mom describes him as sweet, social, curious and easy going. Hamlet needs a kind heart to help him learn life as a dog living inside a home.
If you are interested in adopting me, please fill out an application on our website - http://AnchorPawsRescue.org/aa. Email my foster parent for more information -
info@anchorpawsrescue.org
Read more about Hamlet SHAR in RI
Please verify location and availability of this dog. Because we rescue animals from various states, some dogs may not be in the Northeast yet, or may not yet be ready for adoption.
- Good with dogs
12. Chip Potato
Puppy · Male · Unknown breed / mixed · 49 mi from New Bedford




MEET ME AT OUR 11/7 ADOPTION EVENT IN NEEDHAM!Adoptable in: MA, RI, NH, CT, and VTGood with dogs: YesGood with cats: Unknown, likely yesGood with kids: Unknown, likely yesCrate trained: YesHouse Trained: MostlySay hello to Chip Potato, your future partner in fun and snuggles! This happy-go-lucky guy is full of charm and always ready to make a new friend. He loves meeting people and other dogs, exploring the backyard, playing with toys, and even trying to make friends with the chickens! But Chip isn’t all about playtime—he’s also a fan of couch cuddles, TV time, and enjoying a tasty bully stick from time to time.
Read more about Chip Potato
But despite his name, he’s really more of a Couch Potato than a Chip Potato, with just the occasional burst of puppy silliness sprinkled in!Chip Potato has a friendly, social nature and is eager to make friends wherever he goes. He can sometimes get a little overexcited, so he’ll appreciate a family ready to help him practice his manners and learn when it’s time to settle down. Like any puppy, he has some normal puppy mouthiness and will benefit from gentle guidance as he grows. He enjoys exploring, playing, and spending time with his people, but he’s also happy entertaining himself with toys or relaxing nearby. With continued guidance and positive introductions, Chip will be ready to keep learning how to be the best furry family member he can be!This clever little spud is already making great progress with his training! He’s doing well with house training, is crate trained, and knows his “sit” and “crate” commands. He loves learning new things, especially when tasty treats are involved! He’s still working on his leash-walking skills and may pull occasionally, but with practice, patience, and more walks under his belt, he’ll continue to improve. Chip is a bright boy with a great attitude and a whole lot of love to give.If you’re looking for a fun-loving pup who’s equal parts adventure buddy and couch companion, Chip Potato might just be your bag!Please Note: All dogs are posted on our website until they are officially adopted. This dog may have other interested adopters in line. If you are interested in adopting, please fill out an application on our website at www.lasthopek9.org. Last Hope K9 Rescue is licensed with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (#0151).
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Bitsy in RI
Young (1 year 6 months) · Female · Japanese Chin / Mixed (medium coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Age: approx 1 1/2 years old
Weight: 7 lbs
My adoption fee is $725 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
14. Charlie PAC Landy
Young (1 year) · Male · Shih Tzu / Mixed (long coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford



Adoption Donation
$
599
Located: RI
Age: approx 1 years old
Weight: 16 lbs
Charlie came to us as an unclaimed stray from a local shelter, and we can't believe that no one was looking for this wonderful dog! He's a young poodle mix, energetic, and adorable, and he makes friends easily. Charlie would definitely benefit from some training to harness his energy and enthusiasm! He's great with other dogs.
If you are interested in adopting me, please fill out an application on our website www.fohari.org and email my foster parent for more information:
landyl@cox.net
Read more about Charlie PAC Landy
Please verify the location and readiness of this dog with us. Because we save lives from various locations through out the United States, some dogs may not be in New England yet, nor ready for immediate adoption.
- Good with dogs
15. Coco Hogan
Adult (5 years 1 month) · Female · Chihuahua / Rat Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford







Adoption Donation
$
499
Located: RI
Age: approx 5 years old
Weight: 11 lbs
Introducing Coco, a sweet 5
year old
small female rescued dog (we are thinking Chihuahua/Rat Terrier) who is currently available for adoption. Coco is a somewhat shy little girl at first with a
short
Read more about Coco Hogan
soft brown coat and white paws that will make you want to cuddle her all day long. She has beautiful brown eyes that radiate kindness and warmth, despite her initial shyness. Coco is a bit hesitant around new people but it only takes a treat or a few minutes, and then she warms up quickly and becomes a playful and affectionate companion who loves attention. She enjoys the company of other dogs and loves to explore her surroundings. Coco was taken from a hoarding situation in KY but it hasn't dimmed her sweet demeanor. She is pregnant and due near the end of October, so would be available for adoption after her puppies are weaned - just after Christmas.
If you're looking for a loyal and endearing companion who will bring joy to your life, Coco is the one for you!
If you are interested in adopting her, please fill out an application on our website www.fohari.org and email my foster parent Karen Hogan for more information:
booklover884@gmail.com
- Good with dogs
16. Richie in RI
Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford




Age: approx 2 years old
Weight: 12 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 625 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
Richie has one eye. His eye needed to be removed due to a birth defect
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
- Special needs
17. Pickles in CT
Young (5 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford



Age: approx 5 years old
Weight: 12 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 499 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
18. Hilda in TX
Young (1 year) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford



Age: approx 1 years old
Weight: 11 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 575 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
19. Pico in RI
Adult (7 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford




Age: approx 7 years old
Weight: 19 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 350 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
This boy is 7 years old and weighs 19 pounds. He is initially shy but warms up soon. He enjoys going for walks and playing with toys. He knows basic commands and is doing great on his housetraining.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
20. Dozer in TX
Puppy (5 months 15 days) · Male · Unknown breed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford



Age: approx 4 months old
Weight: 10 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 599 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
21. Paco in RI
3 Years 7 Months · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford




Age: approx 3 1/2 years old
Weight: 14 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 550 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
22. Frieda
Young · Female · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed · 24 mi from New Bedford




Meet Frieda!Frieda is a little girl with a big personality and plenty of love to share. Funny, playful, and a little mischievous, she loves squeaky toys, cozy blankets, and wrapping her paws around her people for hugs and kisses.Frieda is doing very well with house training and sleeps through the night in her crate. She also settles there when her foster family goes out for a few hours. She did well traveling with another small dog and is comfortable with her larger foster sibling.This busy girl needs daily exercise, continued training, and patient introductions to new experiences. Unfamiliar sounds and surroundings can overwhelm her, and she is building confidence on walks.Frieda is looking for an attentive family who enjoys an energetic, affectionate companion and will give her time to settle in.
Read more about Frieda
She brings plenty of snuggles, silliness, and personality to everyday life!This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.) To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. PLEASE READ: If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this. All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date. Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments. Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well. Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation. For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
23. Pretzel
Puppy · Male · Pug / Chihuahua / Mixed · 24 mi from New Bedford



Meet Pretzel! Pretzel is a young pup who is bursting with happiness, playful energy, and affection. This cheerful boy has not stopped smiling since arriving in his foster home and is always eager to be part of whatever his people are doing.Pretzel does wonderfully with dogs of all sizes and happily follows their lead. He has also been gentle and curious with cats and is doing great with his foster family’s two-year-old daughter. He can jump up when excited, so his family should be prepared to continue working on polite greetings.He loves long walks and walks nicely on leash without reacting to other dogs.
Read more about Pretzel
After getting his exercise, he settles down for cuddles and is perfectly content curling up on a lap or beside his person. He also enjoys car rides, plush squeaky toys, back rubs, and following his people from room to room.Pretzel sleeps through the night in his crate and is working on potty training.This affectionate, adaptable boy would enjoy an active home that will include him in walks and adventures while leaving plenty of time for snuggling on the couch. He would likely enjoy having a playful canine companion, but his greatest priority is being close to his people and receiving plenty of love and attention.With his adorable underbite, constantly happy expression, and loving personality, Pretzel is the complete package for a family ready to welcome an enthusiastic little shadow into their lives. This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.) To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. PLEASE READ: • If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this. • All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date. • Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments. Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well. Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation. For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
24. Gordita
Adult · Female · Shih Tzu · 24 mi from New Bedford




Meet Gordita! Our little burrito is a sweet 5-year-old Shih Tzu whose world changed suddenly when her devoted owner passed away unexpectedly while at work. Gordita and her housemates came into rescue together, and now she is adjusting to a brand-new life while looking for a family to call her own. One of the most special relationships in Gordita’s life is with her sister, Lucia. These two girls absolutely love being together, and their companionship has been a source of comfort as they navigate so many changes. Gordita genuinely enjoys being close to her sister, and their sweet bond is a lovely part of who she is.
Read more about Gordita
Gordita is a gentle, submissive girl who wants nothing more than to be close to the people and dogs she trusts. Her foster says she will follow you everywhere, sit nearby, and keep a close eye on where you are. She isn’t an independent girl, and companionship is very important to her.She is house trained and has had no accidents in her foster home. She also does well in her crate, although she may occasionally bark while crated. Gordita walks nicely on leash and stays right alongside her person. She can be a little hesitant in new situations, but with encouragement, she does well and is gradually gaining confidence.Gordita currently lives with an elderly small dog and has done well with him. She has also enjoyed playing in the yard with other small dogs. Her foster feels that another supportive dog in her new home will be important for Gordita, helping her feel safe and confident as she continues to adjust.And when it comes to wildlife, Gordita and Lucia are not chasers! Squirrels, rabbits, and even chickens are simply ignored by both girls. They show no interest in pursuing them and happily go about their business. While they haven’t been specifically tested with cats, we suspect dog-savvy cats would likely be compatible with either girl, provided introductions are handled appropriately.Gordita has a lower energy level but enjoys regular walks and exploring new environments at her own pace. She rides well in the car and has shown no aggression or concerning behavioral issues in her foster home.Gordita is also officially on a weight-loss journey! After working with our veterinary team, we discovered that she has hypothyroidism, a thyroid condition that was contributing to her weight and overall health. She will need daily thyroid medication for the rest of her life, along with routine veterinary monitoring. Thankfully, hypothyroidism is very manageable with proper treatment, and Gordita is already showing improvements in her overall health and well-being.She’ll also need her new family to continue her consistent diet, regular walks, and healthy routine as she works toward a healthier weight.An apartment or house could work well for Gordita as long as she receives regular walks, plenty of companionship, and another supportive dog in the home. After having her entire world turned upside down, this affectionate little shadow is ready for the security of a family who will love her through the next chapter.If you’re looking for a gentle, devoted little companion who wants to be by your side and has so much love to give, Gordita may be your girl. This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.) To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. PLEASE READ: • If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this. • All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date. • Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by sh
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Special needs
25. Lucia
Adult · Female · Shih Tzu · 24 mi from New Bedford




Meet Lucia! Lucia is a sweet 7-year-old Shih Tzu whose world changed suddenly when her devoted owner passed away unexpectedly. Lucia and her housemates came into rescue together, and now this gentle girl is starting the next chapter of her life with us. One very special part of Lucia’s life is her sister, Gordita, whom she absolutely loves spending time with. The two girls share a sweet bond, and Lucia genuinely enjoys being alongside her sister. Her foster affectionately calls her “Dora the Explorer” because Lucia absolutely loves her walks, sniffing everything along the way and happily helping choose the route.
Read more about Lucia
She has a lower energy level overall, but getting outside to explore is one of her favorite things.Lucia is house trained and does well in her crate. She willingly goes into it on her own and is comfortable resting there for a few hours during the day as well as overnight. She also rides well in the car.She is currently living with an elderly small dog and does well with her both in the home and in the car. Lucia is described as submissive and has shown no aggression or concerning behavioral issues in her foster home.Lucia and Gordita are also wonderfully uninterested in chasing wildlife! Squirrels, rabbits, and even chickens don’t seem to faze either of them. They simply ignore them and go about their business. While neither has been specifically tested with cats, based on this behavior, we suspect dog-savvy cats would likely be just fine with them, given appropriate introductions.More than anything, Lucia loves being close to her people. She follows her foster family around the house, enjoys cuddling and snuggling, and would thrive in a home where she can have plenty of companionship. She can be a little vocal when someone first comes into the house or occasionally from her crate, but she settles once she knows everything is okay.Lucia isn’t particularly interested in toys. Her favorite enrichment is getting out into the world, taking leisurely walks, meeting people and dogs, and having plenty of time to sniff and explore.Lucia is healthy and currently on a weight-loss journey. She’ll simply need her new family to continue providing a consistent diet, regular walks, and a healthy routine to help her reach and maintain a healthier weight.An apartment or house could both work well for Lucia as long as she gets regular walks and plenty of time with her people. After having her life turned upside down, Lucia is ready for the comfort and stability of a family to call her own.If you’re looking for a gentle companion who will explore by your side and curl up with you afterward, Lucia may be your girl. This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.) To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com. PLEASE READ: • If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this. • All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date. • Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments. Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well. Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated i
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
26. Cooper in TX
Adult (5 years 11 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Age: approx 6 years old
Weight: 10 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 499 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
27. Darren in TX
Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Unknown breed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford




Age: approx 2 years old
Weight: 22 lbs
My adoption fee is $575 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.
He was treated for heartworm
If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/
- Good with dogs
28. Knight Medeiros
Senior (11 years 1 month) · Male · Pekingese / Boston Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford







Adoption Donation
$
299
Located: RI
Age: approx 11 years old
Weight: 11
Read more about Knight Medeiros
Meet Knight. This senior boy has had the benefit of lots of love for his entire life but unfortunately, the family he was raised with had some changes and one of the resident dogs became highly aggressive to him. His former owner made the heartbreaking decision to surrender him to rescue for his own safety, and we've brought him into foster care. He is a Boston/Pekingese mix, and an absolute, sweetheart! Knight is very well socialized and meets people well, he's great with other dogs, he is loving, affectionate and a really nice dog. We've gotten him to the vet to get him up-to-date on shots and have scheduled his neuter, and he's looking for a safe and loving retirement home.
If you are interested in adopting me, please fill out an application on our website www.fohari.org and email my foster parent for more information: diliam2004@yahoo.com
Please verify the location and readiness of this dog with us. Because we save lives from various locations through out the United States, some dogs may not be in New England yet, nor ready for immediate adoption.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
29. Madison Wood
Young (2 years 1 month) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford



Adoption Donation
$
599
Located in RI
Age: approx 2 years old
Weight: 7 lbs.
Are you up for a challenge?? Madison was part of a hoarding situation down south. She is unused to being with people and is very scared. We are working with her, but it's a slow process to instill trust. The good news is she is great with other dogs, and will very nicely take treats from your hand. She is a good girl that needs a chance and a lot of patience.
If you are interested in adopting her, please fill out an application on our website www.fohari.org and email my foster parent for more information:
booklover884@gmail.com
- Good with dogs
30. Darnell Wood
Young · Male · Terrier / Mixed (long coat) · 29 mi from New Bedford


Adoption Donation
$
599
Located: RI
(Transportation costs included to the Northeast , plz ask for more details )
Age: est. 3-4 yrs old
Darnell is a high energy guy that is used to playing in a fenced yard. He loves other dogs and people. Cats unknown.
If you are interested in adopting me, please fill out an application on our website
www.fohari.org
and email my foster parent for more information:
memboo123@gmail.com
Please verify the location and readiness of this dog with us. Because we save lives from various locations through out the United States, some dogs may not be in New England yet, nor ready for immediate adoption.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Adopting a small dog in New Bedford
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 New Bedford
- Small Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · 16 small dogs above
- Sandy Paws Rescue inc.Oak Bluffs, MA · 6 small dogs above
- Friends of Homeless Animals, Inc.Saunderstown, RI · 5 small dogs above
- Anchor Paws RescueCoventry, RI · 2 small dogs above
- Last Hope K9 RescueBoston, MA · 1 small dog above
Questions about adopting small dogs in New Bedford
How many small dogs are up for adoption in New Bedford?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of New Bedford, Massachusetts, have 40 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a small dog in New Bedford?
The rescues with the most small dogs near New Bedford right now are Small Dog Rescue of New England, Inc (Cranston, RI), Sandy Paws Rescue inc. (Oak Bluffs, MA) and Friends of Homeless Animals, Inc. (Saunderstown, RI). 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.