Worcester, MA

Small Dogs for Adoption in Worcester, MA: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Worcester, MA

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Worcester have 30 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 30, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Every dog on this page is listed by their rescue as small, with breeds like Chihuahua, Terrier and Dachshund.

1. Baron SHAR in MS

Puppy (4 months 1 day) · Male · Shih Tzu / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 41 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Baron SHAR in MS fromAnchor Paws RescueCoventry, RI · listed Nov 3

2. Pablo in TX

Young (1 year) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Pablo in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 30

3. Lenny in TX

Young (2 years) · Male · Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Lenny in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 30

4. Moxie

Senior (9 years 3 months) · Male · Bichon Frise / Terrier / Mixed (long coat) · 34 mi from Worcester

Meet Moxie!

A sweet nine-year-old Bichon Frise/Terrier mix currently in Granite Bay, CA, whose fluffy white coat, playful spirit, and affectionate personality make him a delightful little companion.

Weighing around 13 pounds, Moxie is a charming senior gentleman who knows how to appreciate life's simple pleasures. His favorite activities include leisurely walks, delicious meals, and soaking up all the pets and affection his favorite people can offer. When someone he loves walks through the door, his excitement is absolutely contagious! This little guy has a wonderful way of making everyday reunions feel like special occasions.

Read more about Moxie

Moxie enjoys a comfortable routine with morning and evening walks, regular meals, and plenty of opportunities for companionship. He's also perfectly content relaxing alone for short periods. While he takes his doorbell duties seriously and may announce visitors with a bark, he settles once he recognizes who's arrived.

This clever boy knows sit, stay, and lie down. Moxie has previously shared his space with a feline friend and is comfortable around cats. He's selective about canine companions, and his compatibility with children is unknown.

Moxie is neutered, microchipped, house-trained, and current on vaccinations. He has undergone knee and back surgeries and has a history of joint discomfort, but currently has no mobility concerns. He's carrying some extra weight and follows a prescription weight management diet. Regular grooming, dental chews, and gentle exercise help support his well-being.

Moxie can be protective around food and has occasionally nipped when uncomfortable with a visitor, so a family who respects his boundaries and practices positive reinforcement would be appreciated.

Above all, Moxie needs a loving family who will enjoy walks, playtime, and sharing affection with this endearing little fellow. He has so much personality packed into his small frame! Please note that we are currently accepting adoption applications from families located on the West Coast only. Could this lovable, fluffy gentleman be the walking buddy and affectionate companion you've been hoping to welcome into your life? To learn more about adopting Moxie, contact adopt@joyfulpets.com.

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Moxie fromJoyful Pets Animal RescueAmherst, MA · listed Oct 30Courtesy listing: Moxie's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

5. Soley in LA

Puppy (5 months 1 day) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Soley in LA fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 29

6. Benny in TX

Senior (9 years 11 months) · Male · Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Benny in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 28

7. Princess

Adult (4 years 2 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Worcester

Meet Princess!

A spirited four-year-old Chihuahua mix currently in San Diego, CA, whose big personality shines through her adorable white coat with golden patches. Weighing just eight pounds, this tiny sweetheart has the confidence of a much larger dog and a heart overflowing with love for her favorite people!

Read more about Princess

Princess takes her royal title seriously! As the self-appointed leader of her canine pack, she enjoys keeping everyone informed about visitors, especially delivery people. She is quick to sound the alarm when someone approaches the door, making her a pint-sized neighborhood watch captain. Although vocal, Princess has no history of biting or snapping. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistent routines, she can learn to feel more comfortable when visitors arrive.

When she isn't supervising her surroundings, Princess enjoys running, jumping, chasing balls, and playing with soft toys. After an exciting play session, she's equally happy curling up for a relaxing nap. Her favorite place is wherever her special person happens to be!

Princess is house-trained, crate-trained, and knows commands including sit and come. She appreciates predictable feeding and sleeping schedules. Being alone can make her nervous, so a comfortable crate helps keep her settled and away from tempting trash cans.

This affectionate girl gets along with cats and enjoys the company of adults and respectful children, particularly older kids. While she can coexist with other dogs, Princess is selective about her canine companions. She would likely thrive initially as the only dog, with carefully managed introductions if another pup joins her family.

Princess has no known medical conditions, although she experiences some anxiety, and her spay surgery is upcoming. Monthly grooming helps keep her beautiful coat looking lovely. Because she can jump fences, secure outdoor spaces and attentive supervision are important.

Above all, Princess needs a patient, loving family who appreciates her protective spirit, playful energy, and affectionate nature. She'll bring laughter, companionship, and plenty of Chihuahua charm to everyday adventures! Could this tiny queen with a mighty heart be the loving companion you've been waiting to welcome into your family? To learn more about adopting Princess, contact adopt@joyfulpets.com.

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Princess fromJoyful Pets Animal RescueAmherst, MA · listed Oct 28Courtesy listing: Princess's family is rehoming her through this rescue.

8. Toby

Young · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie · 19 mi from Worcester

Toby is a fun loving young male dog looking for a loving fun. He would love a playmate to run around with. He loves to snuggle, hang outside and play with his toys. He is fully vetted and ready to find his furever home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained

9. Charli in TX

Young (2 years) · Female · Unknown breed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Charli in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 21

10. Camilla in RI

Adult (3 years) · Female · Maltese / Mixed (medium coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Camilla in RI fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 21

11. Noodles in TX

Young (1 year) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Noodles in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 20

12. Obi

Adult (6 years 8 months) · Male · Chinese Crested-Hairless (short coat) · 34 mi from Worcester

Meet Obi!

A spunky six-and-a-half-year-old Chinese Crested currently in San Diego, CA, whose playful spirit, brilliant mind, and beautiful blue coat with white accents make him an unforgettable little companion. Weighing just 17 pounds, this charming boy has an enormous heart and enough personality to fill any room!

Read more about Obi

Obi's name means "heart," and he certainly lives up to it. Exceptionally loving, intuitive, and delightfully silly, he has a special way of making people smile. Whether he's rolling over, jumping for treats, offering a high-five, or sharing kisses when the mood strikes, Obi knows how to spread joy! His treasured squirrel toy has been his favorite since puppyhood, although Mickey Mouse, squeaky toys, and a lively game of fetch are close contenders.

This clever boy loves learning and already knows commands like stay, come, leave it, and paw. Food rewards and enthusiastic praise make training especially exciting for him! He's house-trained, crate-trained, enjoys car rides, and appreciates companionship.

Obi needs a loving family with two pet parents, including someone with a flexible schedule who can provide regular exercise, meaningful interaction, and plenty of opportunities to explore. Although friendly toward people, he sometimes becomes overly excited on walks and pulls toward other dogs and passersby. Patient, positive reinforcement training will help him practice calmer greetings.

Because introductions with other dogs have been challenging, Obi would benefit from initially being the only dog while his comfort around canine companions is thoughtfully assessed. His compatibility with children and cats remains unknown.

Obi is vaccinated and microchipped. He will be required to be neutered prior to placement in his new home. He manages skin allergies with periodic injections, which have shown improvement, alongside weekly baths, moisturizing, attentive skin care, and regular nail trimming. He also has a history of ear infections.

Above all, Obi is a resilient, affectionate little character who brings laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love to everyday moments! He's ready to share his remarkable heart with a family who appreciates his unique needs and joyful spirit. Could this extraordinary little sweetheart be the missing piece of your heart? To learn more about adopting Obi, contact adopt@joyfulpets.com!

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

  • House-trained
Adopt Obi fromJoyful Pets Animal RescueAmherst, MA · listed Oct 19Courtesy listing: Obi's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

13. Hamlet SHAR in RI

Young (3 years 1 month) · Male · French Bulldog (short coat) · 41 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Hamlet SHAR in RI fromAnchor Paws RescueCoventry, RI · listed Oct 15

14. Toshi

Young (2 years 3 months) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Worcester

Meet Toshi!

A spirited two-year-old Dachshund/Chihuahua mix currently in Brimfield, MA, whose adorable tricolor coat, playful personality, and loyal heart make this 14-pound sweetheart a delightful companion.

Toshi may be small, but his personality is anything but! This energetic little guy loves going for walks, chewing on his favorite antlers, and spending quality time with his favorite people. Whether he's accompanying you on an adventure or curling up for some well-earned cuddles, Toshi enjoys being part of the family. He even likes car rides, making him a wonderful little travel buddy!

Read more about Toshi

One of Toshi's most endearing qualities is his deep loyalty. He takes time to build trust, but once he feels comfortable, his affectionate side truly shines. He loves kisses, snuggles, and being close to the people who make him feel safe. His early experiences left him cautious, so patience and gentle encouragement are important as he adjusts to unfamiliar surroundings.

Toshi is great with both cats and dogs! He peacefully shares his space with feline friends and enjoys canine companionship. He's also suitable for families with respectful children ages nine and older. Because younger children can make him uncomfortable, a home without little ones will help him feel secure.

This clever boy is house-trained, knows "sit" and "come," and handles short periods alone well. He can be vocal and occasionally cautious around strangers, but positive reinforcement and consistency can help build his confidence. A securely fenced yard or safe outdoor space with supervised, leashed walks is important for this adventurous little explorer.

Toshi is neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and healthy. He enjoys a simple routine, including meals twice daily. His new loving home should offer patience, companionship, affection, and plenty of opportunities to play. An active person or couple who understands that trust grows with time could share a beautiful bond with this devoted boy!

Ready to welcome Toshi into your heart and discover just how much love this little companion has to give? Contact adopt@joyfulpets.com to learn more about adopting him!

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Toshi fromJoyful Pets Animal RescueAmherst, MA · listed Oct 14Courtesy listing: Toshi's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

15. Chip Potato

Puppy · Male · Unknown breed / mixed · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Chip Potato fromLast Hope K9 RescueBoston, MA · listed Oct 12

16. Bitsy in RI

Young (1 year 6 months) · Female · Japanese Chin / Mixed (medium coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Bitsy in RI fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 11

17. Richie in RI

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Richie in RI fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 3

18. Pickles in CT

Young (5 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Pickles in CT fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 3

19. Hilda in TX

Young (1 year) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Hilda in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Oct 2

20. Pico in RI

Adult (7 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Pico in RI fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Sep 30

21. Dozer in TX

Puppy (5 months 15 days) · Male · Unknown breed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Dozer in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Sep 15

22. Paco in RI

3 Years 7 Months · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Paco in RI fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Sep 9

23. Cooper in TX

Adult (5 years 11 months) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Cooper in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Sep 6

24. Darren in TX

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Unknown breed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

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
Adopt Darren in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Aug 27

25. Lucy

Adult (7 years) · Female · Chihuahua (short coat) · 34 mi from Worcester

Meet Lucy!

A tenderhearted almost seven-year-old Chihuahua currently in Long Beach, CA, whose gentle spirit comes wrapped in a golden coat with sweet white accents.

Read more about Lucy

At 18 pounds, Lucy may be small, but earning her trust is a meaningful journey! She is naturally timid and skittish around unfamiliar people, and she needs several weeks to feel comfortable with someone new. Lucy appreciates people who understand canine body language and will give her plenty of space to make the first move. Once she decides you are part of her trusted circle, her affectionate side shines through! She is a devoted lapdog who would happily spend the day hanging out beside her favorite person.

Lucy knows “sit” and “shake,” is house-trained and crate-trained, and has received formal obedience training. She has a low-energy personality, although she may occasionally enjoy digging. Loud noises, fireworks, and storms can make her anxious, so a peaceful routine and reassuring environment will help her feel secure.

Because Lucy can guard resources and personal space, she may growl and nip if approached too quickly or if her warnings are missed. She has nipped people on rare occasions and needs a patient, experienced pet parent who will respect her boundaries and use positive reinforcement and thoughtful behavior support. A calm, adult-only family where Lucy can be the only pet would suit her needs. She should not live with dogs, cats, or young children, and she requires a fenced yard.

Lucy is spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, and receives a daily Dentastix as part of her dental routine. She has experienced seizures since she was young. Previously occurring about every six months, they have recently increased to approximately every one to two months. Her veterinarian is monitoring the condition and has not started daily seizure medication, although her care plan may change. Her seizure history also affects medication choices, including the use of topical rather than oral flea prevention.

For an adopter nearby, her pet parent has offered to sponsor a transition period of weekly sessions with the trainer who knows her well, so that she and her new family can settle in together with support from someone she already trusts.

Lucy needs someone who sees trust as something built gently, one quiet interaction at a time. Could Lucy be the loyal little lap companion you have been waiting to welcome into your next chapter? For adoption information, contact adopt@joyfulpets.com!

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Lucy fromJoyful Pets Animal RescueAmherst, MA · listed Aug 21Courtesy listing: Lucy's family is rehoming her through this rescue.

26. Marco

Adult (5 years 11 months) · Male · Maltese / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (long coat) · 34 mi from Worcester

Meet Marco!

A spirited five-year-old Maltipoo currently in Framingham, MA, whose sweet personality and golden-brown coat come with playful energy, cozy companionship, and some important behavioral needs.

At 14 pounds, Marco may be tiny, but he brings plenty of personality to his days! He loves chasing his ball, playing fetch with a frisbee, chewing on his toy bone, and heading outdoors to simply sit quietly in the grass. When playtime winds down, this affectionate boy enjoys curling up beside his favorite person for a peaceful nap.

Read more about Marco

Marco is house-trained, crate-trained, neutered, microchipped, and up to date on vaccinations. He has received formal obedience training and knows sit, stay, down, walk, and come. He is calm when left alone for short periods, although he can greet his family with an enthusiastic burst of energy when they return. Monthly grooming and trimming help keep him looking handsome!

Marco has significant behavioral needs requiring an experienced, attentive pet parent. He has a documented history of biting people, including serious incidents involving visitors and family members. His reactive episodes can sometimes occur without an obvious warning or trigger, although guests, activity around the home, food, personal space, and close interactions with his primary caregiver have been associated with concerns. Because of this history, Marco needs an adult-only, low-traffic home without children and with limited visitors and deliveries.

Encouragingly, Marco has successfully stayed several times with a single adult caregiver who had other dogs, showing no concerning behavior toward her or the dogs. He is generally friendly with dogs, while his compatibility with cats is unknown. Marco needs a patient, experienced adult who understands anxious or reactive dogs and can provide structure, careful management, positive reinforcement, and continued behavior support.

For the right person, Marco offers fetch games, quiet afternoons in the grass, cuddly naps, and the opportunity to build trust through thoughtful care. Could Marco be the companion you are ready to understand, support, and welcome into your loving home? To learn more about adopting Marco, contact adopt@joyfulpets.com!

Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.

  • No young kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Marco fromJoyful Pets Animal RescueAmherst, MA · listed Aug 14Courtesy listing: Marco's family is rehoming him through this rescue.

27. Bonbon in RI

Adult (5 years 3 months) · Male · Maltese / Mixed (medium coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

Age: approx 5 years old
Weight: 18 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 499 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.

Bonbon needs a home without another dog.

If you serious about adopting, the first step is to fill out an adoption application on our website: https://www.smalldogrescuene.org/

  • Only dog
Adopt Bonbon in RI fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Jul 20

28. Trixie in TX

Young (2 years 3 months) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

Age: approx 2 years old
Weight: 22 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 525 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
Adopt Trixie in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Jul 4

29. Flora Mae in TX

Adult (8 years 1 month) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 39 mi from Worcester

Age: approx 8 years old
Weight: 16 lbs
My adoption fee is $ 399 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast.

Meet Flora Your Built-In Best Friend

Flora is an 8-year-old, 16-pound terrier mix who forms deep bonds and becomes a loyal little companion. After being rescued from the euthanasia list, she has truly blossomed in foster care — and now she’s ready for a calm, loving home to call her own.

Read more about Flora Mae in TX

Flora would thrive in a quiet household, with a retiree or someone who works from home. She bonds deeply with her people and feels happiest when she’s close by — curled up next to you on the couch, resting at your feet while you work, or following you gently from room to room. She isn’t meant to be a “busy, on-the-go” dog — she’s meant to be someone’s steady companion. Best in a quiet home with no young children.

She is fully house trained with a consistent routine and patience. While she mostly loves lounging and cozy time, she still has a playful, youthful spark that shines through in the sweetest ways.

Flora can be vocal if separated from her people — she just likes reassurance that you’re coming back. Because of this, she would do best in a home where she isn’t left alone for long stretches. With stability and love, she truly relaxes and flourishes.

She would do best in a home with no other dogs as she likes to be the one getting all the attention and can get jealous of other dogs and act out.

If you’re looking for a loyal, affectionate, low-key companion who will adore you endlessly and make your home feel warmer just by being in it, Flora is ready to be your girl.

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
Adopt Flora Mae in TX fromSmall Dog Rescue of New England, IncCranston, RI · listed Jun 10

Adopting a small dog in Worcester

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 Worcester

Questions about adopting small dogs in Worcester

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Worcester?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Worcester, Massachusetts, have 30 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Worcester?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Worcester right now are Small Dog Rescue of New England, Inc (Cranston, RI), Joyful Pets Animal Rescue (Amherst, MA) and Anchor Paws Rescue (Coventry, 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.