Battle Creek, MI

Small Dogs for Adoption in Battle Creek, MI: 15 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Battle Creek, MI

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Battle Creek have 15 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 15, 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, Pit Bull Terrier and Labrador Retriever.

1. Patch

Puppy · Female · Labrador Retriever · 78 mi from Battle Creek

Interested in adopting? Fill out an application here: https://service.sheltermanager.com/asmservice?account=savethedogs&method=online_form_html&formid=3You may find me on our website under "ADOPT

Adopt Patch fromNoah ProjectMuskegon, mi · listed Nov 1

2. Tripp

Senior (7 years 1 month) · Male · Beagle / Mixed (short coat) · 96 mi from Battle Creek

Meet Tripp! Your Future Best Friend!

Hi, I'm Tripp! I'm a sweet Beagle boy with a gentle heart and a playful side just waiting to shine.

I'm still settling into my foster home, and it takes me a little time to feel safe and comfortable with new people. I might be a bit timid at first, but with patience, kindness, and a little understanding, you'll start to see my personality blossom. Give me a few weeks to settle in, and you'll discover the special boy hiding beneath my shy exterior.

A few things you should know about me:

I'm a big fan of chewing on my favorite bones!

I'm a good passenger in the car and ready to ride along on life's adventures.

Read more about Tripp

I have a playful side that comes out as I grow more comfortable.

I'm a sweet boy who just needs a little time to trust and feel at home.

I'm looking for a family who understands that love doesn't always happen overnight. I may need a little extra patience in the beginning, but if you're willing to let me go at my own pace, the bond we build will be something truly special.

Could you be the person who gives me the time, love, and safe home I need to blossom? My forever family is out there, and I can't wait to find you!

Please consider adopting Tripp and showing him that the best things in life are worth waiting for!

Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue microchips all dogs and cats before adoption. Microchips are implanted between the shoulder blades and are another form of identification should the animal get lost. The microchips are registered to Happy Days Dog and Cat Rescue. The microchip is transferred to the adopter once the adoption is complete. The adopter is responsible for a one-time $15 microchip enrollment fee. Microchips are enrolled with AKC Reunite. Dogs and Cats still need to have collar with tags should they get lost.

  • Good with dogs
Adopt Tripp fromHappy Days Dog and Cat RescueLivonia, MI · listed Oct 27

3. Buzz

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed · 72 mi from Battle Creek

Buzz came to us through no fault of his own after a change in his household. This boy may take a little time to warm up to new people, but once he feels comfortable, he becomes a devoted and loving companion.Buzz would thrive in a quiet, peaceful home where he can settle in at his own pace. He is not comfortable with children and prefers to be the only pet in the household, as he is not a fan of other dogs or cats.Buzz enjoys going for walks and snuggling in his cozy bed close to his favorite person. He is looking for someone who will be patient as he adjusts and give him the time he needs to feel safe and loved.If you're looking for a loyal companion who will reward your patience with a lifetime of love, Buzz might just be the perfect friend for you!DOB 7-10-201920.6 poundsI'm waiting for a home to call my own.

Read more about Buzz

email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.

Adopt Buzz fromPet RefugeSouth Bend, IN · listed Oct 12

4. Bijou

Senior · Male · Pomeranian · 72 mi from Battle Creek

Precious as they come, our senior boy Bijou is quite the charmer! This sweet gentleman is friendly, loving, and gets along wonderfully with the small dogs in his foster home. Bijou has a heart condition that requires lifelong medication, but you would never know it from his happy face and bright, cheerful disposition. He will also need regular grooming to keep him looking and feeling his best.Bijou is looking for a loving home where he can enjoy his golden years surrounded by comfort, kindness, and affection. He is available for adoption, or if you are unable to adopt, you can help support his care by sponsoring him through the Special Needs page on our website.This little charmer has so much love to give and is sure to bring joy to the lucky person who opens their heart and home to him!DOB 3-9-201317 PoundsI'm waiting for a home to call my own.

Read more about Bijou

email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.

Adopt Bijou fromPet RefugeSouth Bend, IN · listed Oct 12

5. Slinky

Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed · 78 mi from Battle Creek

This Slinky Dog has had a pretty rough start, but we’re hoping the rest of his story looks a whole lot different.Meet Slinky, a sweet 2-year-old boy who arrived at our shelter alongside his two kiddos, Woody and Bo Peep. All three came to us with fleas, scared, and unsure of the world around them. But of the three, poor Slinky was in the worst shape.The fleas had taken quite a toll on his little body, leaving him with significant hair loss. While those pesky fleas are finally gone, Slinky is still working on growing his fur back. His coat might look a little rough around the edges right now, but we think he’s pretty darn handsome anyway.And just like his kids, Slinky is still learning that people can be trusted.

Read more about Slinky

He’s a timid little guy who needs time to feel comfortable around new faces. He’s not going to be the dog who immediately runs into your arms, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t want love. He’s just not quite sure how to accept it yet.He just needs someone willing to look past his shyness and patchy fur to see the wonderful little dog underneath.We’re hoping to find Slinky a family who understands that healing takes time. His fur will grow back, but building his confidence and trust might take a little longer. He deserves someone who won’t rush him, who will celebrate every little step forward, and who will love him just as much on his scared days as they do on his brave ones.His two kiddos, Woody and Bo Peep, are also searching for their forever homes. All three have a little healing left to do, but we know the right families can make all the difference.Slinky doesn’t need to have a perfect coat or a perfect personality to deserve a perfect ending. He just needs someone willing to give him oneInterested in adopting? Fill out an application here: https://service.sheltermanager.com/asmservice?account=savethedogs&method=online_form_html&formid=3You may find me on our website under "ADOPT

Adopt Slinky fromNoah ProjectMuskegon, mi · listed Oct 9

6. Woody

Young · Male · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed · 78 mi from Battle Creek

Interested in adopting? Fill out an application here: https://service.sheltermanager.com/asmservice?account=savethedogs&method=online_form_html&formid=3You may find me on our website under "ADOPT

Adopt Woody fromNoah ProjectMuskegon, mi · listed Oct 9

7. Lily

Young (7 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 84 mi from Battle Creek

ADOPTION $450.00Lily is a sweet young Chihuahua mix, under a year old, who is looking for a patient family to call her own. She’s working hard on her potty manners and, with a little gentle encouragement, we know she’ll earn that gold star soon!

The world can still feel a little scary to Lily, so a kind voice and patient heart will help her blossom. Once she feels safe and comfortable, she loves to cuddle close.
Lily is fully vetted and ready to find the loving family who will show her just how wonderful forever can be.

Read more about Lily

New foster dogs need time to feel safe. They may be skittish or fearful, so always stay with them outside—even in fenced yards. Ensure collars and leashes fit securely to prevent escapes. Your gentle presence and protection help them feel loved and secure.
The adoption fee helps allow Perfect Paws to provide all animals with current, age appropriate vaccinations which include, DHLPP, Kennel Cough and Rabies (if the pet is at least 13 weeks old), and spay/neuter when necessary. The fee also helps with the cost of deworming; heartworm testing (if the pet is at least 1 year old), heartworm prevention as well as flea and tick prevention for animals cared for through the rescue. He will go home with a collar, leash, and vaccination record. If you would like to adopt this very special K-9 kid, please go DIRECTLY to our website to complete our convenient Online Adoption Form. Our website is www.perfectpawspetrescue.org cut and paste our web address into your browser to get to our site. Email any questions to perfectpawsrescueinc@gmail.comNO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. Fort Wayne Indiana vicinity.

Adopt Lily fromPerfect Paws Pet Rescue, Inc.Fort Wayne, IN · listed Oct 7

8. Frankie

Puppy (2 months 8 days) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 89 mi from Battle Creek

Foster updateFrankie is very curious and brave! She would bond STRONGLY to any new family. She's very food motiated and the first one to come when called for dinner!Hi there! I’m looking for my forever family!
I was born in July 2025, along with my siblings, and I’ve been growing into a sweet, happy, loving pup ever since! ❤️ I love getting attention, spending time with people, and exploring everything around me.
My mama is a very sweet Shepherd mix, and while I have some adorable pitty-like features, I’m a mixed-breed dog and my exact breed mix is unknown.
I’ve grown up with my siblings, and we’ve had lots of fun together along the way.

Read more about Frankie

I have my own unique personality and am ready to find a family who will give me the love, patience, guidance, and attention I deserve.
I’m a sweet pup with lots of love to give, and I’m hoping my forever family is out there looking for me!
Could I be the one you’ve been looking for?Apply at Busterdogs.com!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Frankie fromThe Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and RescueBelleville, MI · listed Sep 22

9. Georgie

Puppy (2 months 8 days) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 89 mi from Battle Creek

foster updateGeorgie is the chillest of the litter. Shes always up for a cuddle and always down for a nap! She is goofy and very sweet. Hi there! I’m looking for my forever family!
I was born in July 2025, along with my siblings, and I’ve been growing into a sweet, happy, loving pup ever since! ❤️ I love getting attention, spending time with people, and exploring everything around me.
My mama is a very sweet Shepherd mix, and while I have some adorable pitty-like features, I’m a mixed-breed dog and my exact breed mix is unknown.
I’ve grown up with my siblings, and we’ve had lots of fun together along the way.

Read more about Georgie

I have my own unique personality and am ready to find a family who will give me the love, patience, guidance, and attention I deserve.
I’m a sweet pup with lots of love to give, and I’m hoping my forever family is out there looking for me!
Could I be the one you’ve been looking for?Apply at Busterdogs.com!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Georgie fromThe Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and RescueBelleville, MI · listed Sep 22

10. Jack

Puppy (2 months 8 days) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 89 mi from Battle Creek

Foster UpdateJack is the mountain goat of the family. He loves jumping around and getting the zoomies. He gets the wiggle butts very easily and is always down for a good time. He loves the outdoors and needs to be scooped up whenever hes outside and brought in becasue he loves outside so much!Hi there! I’m looking for my forever family!
I was born in July 2025, along with my siblings, and I’ve been growing into a sweet, happy, loving pup ever since! ❤️ I love getting attention, spending time with people, and exploring everything around me.
My mama is a very sweet Shepherd mix, and while I have some adorable pitty-like features, I’m a mixed-breed dog and my exact breed mix is unknown.
I’ve grown up with my siblings, and we’ve had lots of fun together along the way.

Read more about Jack

I have my own unique personality and am ready to find a family who will give me the love, patience, guidance, and attention I deserve.
I’m a sweet pup with lots of love to give, and I’m hoping my forever family is out there looking for me!
Could I be the one you’ve been looking for?Apply at Busterdogs.com!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Jack fromThe Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and RescueBelleville, MI · listed Sep 22

11. Pixie

Puppy (2 months 8 days) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 89 mi from Battle Creek

Hi there! I’m looking for my forever family!
I was born in July 2025, along with my siblings, and I’ve been growing into a sweet, happy, loving pup ever since! ❤️ I love getting attention, spending time with people, and exploring everything around me.
My mama is a very sweet Shepherd mix, and while I have some adorable pitty-like features, I’m a mixed-breed dog and my exact breed mix is unknown.
I’ve grown up with my siblings, and we’ve had lots of fun together along the way. I have my own unique personality and am ready to find a family who will give me the love, patience, guidance, and attention I deserve.
I’m a sweet pup with lots of love to give, and I’m hoping my forever family is out there looking for me!
Could I be the one you’ve been looking for?Apply at Busterdogs.com!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Pixie fromThe Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and RescueBelleville, MI · listed Sep 22

12. Pongo

Puppy (2 months 8 days) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 89 mi from Battle Creek

Hi there! I’m looking for my forever family!
I was born in July 2025, along with my siblings, and I’ve been growing into a sweet, happy, loving pup ever since! ❤️ I love getting attention, spending time with people, and exploring everything around me.
My mama is a very sweet Shepherd mix, and while I have some adorable pitty-like features, I’m a mixed-breed dog and my exact breed mix is unknown.
I’ve grown up with my siblings, and we’ve had lots of fun together along the way. I have my own unique personality and am ready to find a family who will give me the love, patience, guidance, and attention I deserve.
I’m a sweet pup with lots of love to give, and I’m hoping my forever family is out there looking for me!
Could I be the one you’ve been looking for?Apply at Busterdogs.com!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Pongo fromThe Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and RescueBelleville, MI · listed Sep 22

13. Peanut

Adult (3 years 1 month) · Male · Chihuahua / Pug / Mixed · 97 mi from Battle Creek

Meet Peanut — Small Package, HUGE Personality!

Everyone, meet Peanut, an absolutely amazing 20-pound little guy who is ready to find his forever family!

Peanut may be small, but he has plenty of love, personality, and charm packed into those 20 pounds! He’s the kind of boy who will quickly become your best buddy and make himself right at home in your heart.

He’s adorable, sweet, and ready for someone to show him just how wonderful life can be. Peanut is looking for a family who will include him in the adventures, spoil him with love, and give him the forever home he deserves. ❤️

Read more about Peanut

At only 20 pounds, Peanut is basically the perfect size for everything—walks, adventures, snuggles, and, of course, taking over the couch.

Small dog. Big heart. Even bigger potential for stealing your spot in bed.

Please share Peanut and help us find the wonderful family he’s been waiting for!

Adopt Peanut fromCanine Companions Rescue CenterClarkston, MI · listed Sep 16

14. Izzy

Senior · Female · Miniature Schnauzer / Mixed (long coat) · 56 mi from Battle Creek

Visit Izzy in person on Saturday November 7 from 10 to 12 at the Holland PetSmart (12635 Felch St). No application needed - just show up and give her some love!

Izzy is a very special 13-year-old, 12 pound Miniature Schnauzer mix who has been through more than any senior dog should have to endure. Now, she’s ready for the part of her story she has always deserved: a quiet, loving home where she can be someone’s beloved companion.

Read more about Izzy

Izzy came to us after being removed from the home by animal control, where she had been living with an elderly owner and spending much of her later life confined to a crate. We can only imagine how confusing and frightening that must have been for her. But despite everything she has experienced, Izzy has shown us that she is a sweet girl who simply wants to feel safe and be close to her person.

She successfully battled a skin infection, and thankfully, she is healing, and her beautiful fur is growing back! As her skin continues to improve, we know she is going to be a very beautiful little dog. Tyson’s Place Animal Rescue will continue to support her veterinary care as she heals, so her adopter can focus on giving her the love and stability she deserves.

Izzy has limited vision due to age-related cataracts, but don’t let that fool you — her ears work wonderfully! She can hear her foster mom’s voice and will often follow the sound of the person she loves most. Izzy likes to be with her people whenever possible and is happiest simply knowing her person is nearby.

She also enjoys having a little canine friend around. Izzy does well with small dogs and cats, and she loves following the other small dog in her foster home out into the fenced yard. She enjoys exploring at her own pace, taking in all the interesting smells. She also walks on a leash, although her walks are less about going for miles and more about stopping to investigate every wonderful scent along the way.

After spending so much of her life confined to a crate, Izzy has made it clear that what she really wants now is freedom, companionship, and a soft place to belong. She would do best with someone who is home much of the time — perhaps someone who is retired or works from home — because being close to her person is where she feels happiest and safest.

And there are some wonderful things about Izzy that make her especially easy to love: she is housebroken, she enjoys a fenced yard, and she would absolutely love to sleep beside you at night.

Izzy doesn't need a busy or complicated life. She doesn't need to run or keep up with anyone. She just needs a person who wants a little shadow by their side, a warm bed to share, and a senior dog to love.

Her past may have been difficult, but Izzy is ready to look forward. Her coat is growing back, her body is healing, and her sweet personality is shining through.

We can't change the first 13 years of Izzy's life. But we can make sure the rest of it is filled with love. If you are interested, please email tysonsplacerescue@gmail.com or fill out an adoption application available here (scroll down on that page for app): https://tysonsplacerescue.org/cat-and-dog-adoptions/#adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Izzy fromTyson's Place Animal RescueHolland, MI · listed Sep 9

15. Carlie-In a Foster Home

Adult · Female · Plott Hound · 72 mi from Battle Creek

Hi! I am Carly, people tell me I am smart and beautiful! I make my foster parents smile because I am so cute in how I talk when I am asking for something. I have taught them all my languages for my needs! I can sit and wait patiently to be petted, I know to lay down and stay on command. I love to give my toys to people when I play. I live with other dogs, and am ok with most dogs, but can't play too hard. I am housebroken and crate trained, however it makes me a bit worried when I am left alone, so my perfect home should have someone who works part time,or has a hybrid schedule. I would be safer in a 6 foot fence but they may consider other options, as I do love to take long walks.

Read more about Carlie-In a Foster Home

Being an investigative hound, I could not be expected to stay in an unfenced yard! Older kids would be best. DOB 10/21/19 60 PoundsI'm waiting for a home to call my own. email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.

  • No cats
Adopt Carlie-In a Foster Home fromPet RefugeSouth Bend, IN · listed Jun 12

Adopting a small dog in Battle Creek

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 Battle Creek

Questions about adopting small dogs in Battle Creek

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Battle Creek?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Battle Creek, Michigan, have 15 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Battle Creek?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Battle Creek right now are The Buster Foundation Pit Bull Education and Rescue (Belleville, MI), Noah Project (Muskegon, mi) and Pet Refuge (South Bend, IN). 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.