Small Dogs for Adoption in Cincinnati, OH: 29 Little Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Cincinnati have 29 small dogs up for adoption. Here are all 29, 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, Dachshund and Yorkshire Terrier.
- All dogs 125
- Puppies 50
- Adult Dogs 62
- Senior Dogs 10
- Kid-Friendly Dogs 93
- Cat-Friendly Dogs 90
- Large Dogs 34
Not in Cincinnati? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Snowball
Young (1 year) · Male · Poodle (unknown type) / Maltese / Mixed (long coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati



Meet SNOWBALL, a fluffy little poodle mix boy looking for a home. He's an energetic young goofball. Snowball is 1 year old and we're told he was purchased as a Maltipoo. He's fully grown, currently 17 pounds but could stand to add a pound or two. He's energetic, playful and good natured. He needs a little work on his manners, nothing major, mostly he's just a little too enthusiastic. Snowball really needs the companionship of another playful dog. He's not ready for lapdog life, this boy wants to have FUN!! Snowball's scruffy coat will require regular grooming, his adopter should be prepared for that expense. His coat is really short right now, we aren't sure if he was shaved down before he was surrendered to a shelter. If you'd like to meet Snowball, please fill out a dog adoption application at
dreamhouserescue.org.
We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Snowball at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Snowball
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
2. Mimosa
Young (10 months) · Female · Beagle / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati



MIMOSA is a lovely little beagle mix girl looking for a home. This stunning young dog is sister to Aspen and Cedar but looks less beagly than her siblings. She has the trim, high waisted body style of a sight hound (i.e. whippet) and lovely caramel-colored eyes. Mimosa is 10-12 months old and fully grown at just 18 pounds. She loves toys and loves to run and play with her doggie friends. Mimosa needs a home where she'll have a friendly dog playmate. She is uninterested in cats. Mimosa has some scarring on her back from an old wound. Something happened to her as a young puppy (we have no clue what happened). It almost looks like a cowlick now. If you'd like to meet lovely Mimosa, please fill out a dog adoption application at dreamhouserescue.org. We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Mimosa at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Mimosa
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
3. Cedar
Young (10 months) · Male · Beagle / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati



How cute is CEDAR? I mean seriously, how can you resist that sweet face? Beagle mix boy Cedar is 10-12 months old and fully grown at 19 pounds. If he looks a little familiar, he is Aspen's brother. Aspen has already found a home but her sister (Mimosa) and brother are now available! Cedar is a friendly, playful boy. He's a little timid in new situations and when meeting new people but warms up quickly to kindness. Cedar needs a home where he will have another friendly, playful dog. Cedar ignores kitties. If you'd like to meet Cedar, please fill out a dog adoption application at dreamhouserescue.org. We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Cedar at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Cedar
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
4. Lil Scooter
Senior · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie · 25 mi from Cincinnati


Slow to warm up. Missing an eye. If you are interested in meeting and/or adopting this baby, please fill out an application. They currently are fixed, up to date on shots, wormings, preventatives and are microchipped (with lifetime registration). Adoption fee is $215 with approved application, applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic .We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- Special needs
5. Elmo
Adult · Male · Havanese / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati




If you are interested in meeting and/or adopting this baby, please fill out an application. They currently are fixed, up to date on shots, wormings, preventatives and are microchipped (with lifetime registration). Adoption fee is $215 with approved application, applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic .We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
6. Dezi
Senior (14 years) · Male · Shih Tzu · 17 mi from Cincinnati



Senior to Senior Adoption Candidate! (Matching senior dogs with senior people! We pay their vet bills when you use our Northern KY vet. The adopter provides food, home and love! Adoption fee waived)Dezi is a male, 14 year old, 13.8 pound, mostly cream colored bundle of love Shi-Tzhu. For his age, is very spry. Walks nicely with a leash for short walks and loves car rides. Raised in a loving home until his elderly owner could no longer care for him. From his Foster Mom: Dezi is a sweet, loving dog that gets along with other dogs as long as he's not sitting on your lap or near you when another dog comes near.
Read more about Dezi
If that happens, he becomes very protective. He's been used to being the one and only and sharing his owner is not part of his DNA at this time. Will sleep in a crate but preference is to sleep with his owner. Loves being outdoors and playing with his tennis ball. He has started going to the door when he wants out. Dezi is starting to use pee pads like our other dogs. Has a good appetite....not much of a kibble eater. Has a little trouble navigating steps .....eyesight a little dim...but goes down and up on his own with coaxing or when following other dogs. Loves belly rubs. Up to date on all shots, neutered and microchipped. Would make someone a sweet companion.Do you have room in your heart and home for this sweet senior? Adoption fee: $100
- Good with dogs
7. Daisy
Senior (12 years) · Female · Chinese Crested-Hairless / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Cincinnati




Daisy is a real sweetheart!!She is a 12 year old 21 pound Chinese Crested mix who will LOVE her person.From Daisy's Foster Mom: She loves to sun bathe, loves all people and has been friendly to other animals. She's independent but loves her person and prefers to be in the same room as them. Sleeps in a bed on the floor of our bedroom. She's a lively old girl and gets excited easily. She's just a happy tail-waggin dog.Does Miss Daisy sound like the perfect girl for you? Fill out an application to adopt Daisy today! Adoption fee $150Daisy is eligible for our Senior to Senior adoption program. We match senior dogs to senior people. Our rescue will cover Daisy's vet care (if you use our local vet) and waive her adoption fee.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
8. Donut
Young (2 years 11 months) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati



DONUT is long and low and absolutely delicious! He appears to be a chiweenie (dachshund/chihuahua) type mixed breed boy, around 3 years old and fully grown at just 17 pounds. Donut is a little timid in new situations and when meeting new people but he warms up quickly to kindness. This little guy would thrive in a quiet home. If you'd like to meet little Donut, please fill out a dog adoption application at dreamhouserescue.org. We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Annie at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Donut
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
9. Licorice
Young (1 year) · Male · Rat Terrier / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati


LICORICE is one tiny little cow! Actually he's a lively little mixed breed boy looking for a home. He's a terrier mix-type, about 1 year old and fully grown at 12 pounds. What breeds? Really it's anyone's guess -- could be part rat terrier? Jack Russell terrier? chihuahua? Whatever the mix, Licorice is fun, energetic, friendly, good with other dogs, but one thing he's not is a lap dog. Licorice likes to GO. He'll cuddle when playtime is over, but this little guy needs to run and play and burn up some energy. He's best suited to a home where he will have another doggie playmate. Licorice is housebroken and crate trained and fine with cats and other dogs. If you'd like to meet this adorable little spotty boy, please fill out a dog adoption application at
dreamhouserescue.org.
We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Licorice at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Licorice
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
10. Malloy
Senior (8 years 11 months) · Male · Dachshund / Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati



Adorable MALLOY is a lively little gentleman looking for a home. He's a sweet 17 pound chiweenie (dachshund/chihuahua)-type mixed breed boy who was estimated to be 9 years but you might be tempted to question that estimate if you see this guy chase toys. Malloy has a unique looking coat with a dapple/merle type pattern. That plus that blue eye makes us suspect there is some dapple/red merle dachshund in his family tree. Malloy is sweet and friendly, fine with other dogs and uninterested in cats. He's not ready to be considered an old man yet, he definitely acts like a middle-aged guy. In addition to standard vetting, Malloy just had a dental cleaning to make sure his oral health is A-OK. Malloy was found as a stray and was taken in by someone whose resident dogs were attacking him so he ended up on a chain outdoors, no life for a sweet little guy. Malloy's manners suggest he probably had a loving home at some point in his life. His coat was in rough shape thanks to fleas but that issue has been addressed and his hair is growing back nicely. Now all he needs is a place to call home. If you'd like to meet Malloy, please fill out a dog adoption application at
dreamhouserescue.org.
We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Malloy at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Malloy
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
11. Lil Lulu
Puppy · Female · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati




The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
12. Ocean
Adult · Male · Cocker Spaniel / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 5 mi from Cincinnati



Looking for a little best friend with a BIG heart? Meet this precious male Mini Cockapoo, a tiny 5-pound bundle of sweetness who is ready to steal your heart!
This little guy is a certified snuggle specialist! He loves being held, cuddling up close, and soaking up all the belly rubs he can get. If you’re looking for a pint-sized companion who wants to be your little shadow, he might just be your perfect match!
A little about me:
Tiny but mighty: Just 5 pounds of pure cuteness!
Professional cuddler: Loves being held, snuggled, and pampered.
Furry-friend approved: Gets along well with other dogs and cats.
Read more about Ocean
Kid-friendly with a gentle touch: Does well with children, but fast movements can startle him, so calm, gentle interactions are important.
Looking for: A loving home where he can feel safe, cherished, and spoiled with affection.
Because I’m such a little guy, I need people who will handle me carefully and understand that even the tiniest pups need a little extra protection. Gentle hands and a calm environment help me feel secure and confident.
Could you be my forever cuddle buddy?
If your idea of happiness is a tiny dog curled up in your arms, giving belly rubs, and filling your home with unconditional love, this sweet little Cockapoo may be the missing piece of your heart!
Small paws. Big love. One very special little boy.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
13. Billy Beau
Adult · Male · Dachshund / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati



Meet Billy Beau! At just about a year old, Billy Beau is one handsome little guy with a gorgeous chocolate-colored coat and an adorable look all his own! He’s a smaller-sized dog with some surprisingly long legs, and we’re guessing he may have a little Dachshund mixed in there somewhere.Billy Beau is still getting settled into rescue life, but so far he’s making a great impression. He’s been around several dogs with different personalities and has done well with both the laid-back pups and the more playful ones. He’s also been around cats and has shown some curiosity, but we haven’t seen any concerning behavior.He’s currently enjoying the good life, catching a nap on the couch, and looking pretty darn comfortable doing it!We’re still getting to know this sweet boy, but so far Billy Beau is proving to be a pretty easygoing little addition.
Read more about Billy Beau
We can’t wait to see what else we learn about him as he settles in!Billy Beau is ready to find his forever home! If you are interested in meeting and/or adopting this baby, please fill out an application. They currently are fixed, up to date on shots, wormings, preventatives and are microchipped (with lifetime registration). Adoption fee is $215 with approved application, applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic .We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
14. Dixie
Young (2 years) · Female · Beagle (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati



DIXIE is a fun and silly young beagle looking for a home. Why does she look so serious in her photos? She was seriously trying to figure out how to get the treat bag held next to the camera. Dixie is a typical happy-go-lucky beagle girl who loves everyone she meets. She's good with other dogs and seems indifferent to kitties. She's around 2 years old and fully grown at 22 pounds. Standard beagle rules apply -- Dixie needs a physically-fenced yard to keep her from following her beagle nose into trouble. If you'd like to meet Dixie please fill out a dog adoption application at
dreamhouserescue.org.
We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Dixie at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Dixie
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
15. Lucky Six
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati




The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
16. Lucky Six
Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati



The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
17. Lucky Six
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati




The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
18. Lucky Six
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati




The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
19. Lucky Six
Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati



The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
20. Lucky Six
Puppy · Female · Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed · 25 mi from Cincinnati



The adoption fee for puppies under 6 months of age is $265. If the puppy is too young or small to be fixed there will be a $75 spay/neuter rebate form provided. They currently have at least 1 puppy shot,, flea preventative, heartworm preventative and are microchipped with lifetime registration ($13). If you have serious interest in this puppy, please fill out an application (don't call, email or text before filling out an app or you will have a greater chance of missing out on this puppy). Applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic . We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
21. Paxton
Adult (4 years 1 month) · Male · Maltese / Poodle (Miniature) · 17 mi from Cincinnati


Hello!My name is Paxton. I'm a four year-old multi poo. I'm neutered and up-to-date on my shots. I get along with other dogs and cats. I'm good with people and kids as well. I love to go for walks and car rides. I'm very smart and a quick learner. (And if you haven't noticed, I'm cute as can be!!!)I am potty trained on puppy pads. My foster Mom is teaching me to go outside. Practice will make perfect!!If you think I would be a good fit for you or your family please submit an application on Frankies Furry Friends website. My adoption is $350 to help offset my vet care.Thank you and have a pawriffic day!!Love,Paxton
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
22. Lily Gayle
Senior · Female · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed · 5 mi from Cincinnati






Hi! My name is Lily Gayle Weenie.
My foster fam calls me Good Girl Gayle because I am the bestest girl ever! I am a 13 pound, 12 years young chiweenie who loves to play with my toys. Especially Halloweenie ones!! My hearing is not the best, but i am learning hand signals. I am friendly and love to meet new people. My previous family said I did great with kids. Not sure how I do around cats, but seem to do well with other dogs. I am very independent and like to sleep on my own, meaning I may not sleep in bed with you.
Read more about Lily Gayle
When it comes to being potty trained, I use puppy pads and sometimes will let you know i need to go outside (if you have the good treats!). I do love to go for walks and do well on the leash, though i am slow because I love to sniff everything! Apartment living would be fine because I dont bark. One last thing, a girl can never have too many outfits!! I am working on building up my wardrobe!
23. Kismet
Adult (5 years 1 month) · Male · Dachshund / Bulldog / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati






KISMET is a little dog with a big personality. He is a tiny play machine! He loves to play fetch in the yard, run and romp with his foster siblings, play with his toys (Lambchop is his fave) and beg for treats and pets! Who would have expected all this from a 10 pound 5 year old chiweenie (chihuahua/dachshund)??? Kismet is also a lover boy. He enjoys cuddle time with his people, enjoys being carried around and going for rides in the car. He does an adorable little "pick me up!" dance to get your attention. Kismet needs a furever home with another playful friendly dog. He's housebroken, crate trained, walks well on a leash and is fine with cats, too. If you'd like to meet Kismet please fill out a dog adoption application at
dreamhouserescue.org.
We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Kismet at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Kismet
Our fully vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
24. Miss Frizzle
Adult (4 years) · Female · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Cincinnati




This little cutie pie is Miss Frizzle! She is an~4 year old yorkie mix. Her foster Mom describes her as timid but friendly. She is a very sweet and gentle girl.Miss Frizzle uses a doggy door and can navigate outdoor steps with no problem. She does well with older kids. We will have more info on Miss Frizzle when she has her vet check. We will make sure she is spayed/UTD and has clean teeth before she heads to her forever home.Are you a gentle soul who could be Miss Frizzle's BFF? If so, fill out an application and make plans to meet Miss Frizzle!!More pics to come.Adoption Fee $300
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
25. Shorty
Young (2 years 2 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Dachshund / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati




ADOPTION FEE SPONSORED! Do you have the patience for a scared little wabbit? Maybe you could be the one for little Shorty. She longs to be with you and will follow you anywhere, but she's afraid to come to you. Her favorite things?... sitting next to you on a sofa, curling up next to you in bed and feeding time! Shorty likes to have other dogs to hang around with. She enjoys running along with her foster siblings in the yard and needs a home with a friendly dog companion. Shorty is a 2-year-old 16-pound mixed breed girl, we were told she’s a dachshund/feist mix, but we think she looks more like a chiweenie (chihuahua/dachshund mix). She is housebroken and crate trained. Shorty needs a quiet home with an experienced adopter willing to take the time needed to earn her trust. If you need a dog who is going to immediately hop into your lap for a snuggle, Shorty is not the dog for you. But if you’re willing to follow our guidance to build a bond with sweet Shorty, let’s talk! If you'd like to meet Shorty, please fill out a dog adoption application at dreamhouserescue.org. We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter.
Read more about Shorty
Our fully-vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
26. Bugsy
Adult (8 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati










A little bit about Bugsy
5 years old.
Good with dogs, cats, kids.
Super friendly.
Likes to play.
Great personality.
Just had a complex perineal hernia repair. Neutered UTD.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
27. Texx
Young (2 years 2 months) · Male · Dachshund / Jack Russell Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 13 mi from Cincinnati




TEXX is a fun, young, long and low mixed breed guy. He's a lively little dog who loves to play. We've been struggling to figure out his breed mix -- we see dachshund in his long-and-low body type, but the rest is anybody's guess. We're inclined to think some type of terrier, maybe Jack Russell terrier? Please ignore the gray on his face, that's just his coloring. He's around 2 years old and fully grown at 14 pounds. Texx loves to play with his dog siblings in his foster home and needs a furever home with another friendly, playful dog. When playtime is over, Texx loves a good cuddle Texx is good with everyone -- cats, dogs, people -- he's an all-around friendly guy. Texx is housebroken and crate trained. If you'd like to meet Texx, please fill out a dog adoption application at
dreamhouserescue.org.
We are happy to arrange a private meet with an approved adopter. You can meet Texx at our weekly adoption event, Saturday 11:30am-1:30pm at PetSmart Eastgate.
Read more about Texx
Our fully-vetted adoptable dogs go to prospective homes for a one-week trial period to make sure the dog and home are the right fit before an adoption is finalized. We only adopt dogs into homes where all current pets are spayed/neutered and current on vaccines and heartworm and flea and tick prevention. We do check veterinary references to make sure adopters are compliant with standard veterinary care. Our adoptable dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, heartworm tested, dewormed and current on flea and tick and heartworm prevention.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
28. Abby
Young (1 year 3 months) · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed · 17 mi from Cincinnati








Meet Abby!!This adorable 1-year-old Chihuahua mix is a bundle of energy, personality, and love. She’s always ready for playtime, whether that means zooming around the yard, going for a walk, or wrestling with her canine friends. One of her best qualities is how well she gets along with other dogs—she happily plays with pups of all sizes and enjoys having canine companions around.
She is both house-trained and crate-trained, making the transition into her new home even easier. She thrives on routine and is eager to continue building her confidence with a family that will support her.
Read more about Abby
Having come from a hoarding situation, she can be a little shy when meeting new people and may need some time to feel safe and comfortable. She’s looking for a patient adopter who will let her build trust at her own pace. The good news? Once you’ve earned her confidence, she transforms into an incredibly affectionate, snuggly companion who loves being close to her people.Does Abby sound like the BEST girl for you? Fill out an application and schedule your meet and greet with Abby!Adoption Fee to help defray her vet expenses: $250
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
29. Lil Duke
Adult · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie · 25 mi from Cincinnati




Lil Duke is an eight-pound Yorkie with a gray coat. While we were told he is three years old, his physical condition and walking style suggest he is likely between five and seven years old. He has low vision and may be partially blind. Due to his limited sight, Lil Duke is easily confused and scared in new environments. His natural defense mechanism when frightened is to growl or snarl, particularly in confined spaces like bathrooms or when someone reaches for him unexpectedly. Because of this, he requires a patient owner and a calm, quiet home. He is not recommended for households with children or high levels of chaos.
Read more about Lil Duke
Lil Duke has a low energy level and is generally a tiny, quiet companion once he feels secure. He is already neutered, up to date on all vaccines, and is potty trained. He will need a little extra time and a gentle touch to warm up to his new family, but he is a sweet boy looking for a stable place to land. If you are interested in meeting and/or adopting this baby, please fill out an application. They currently are fixed, up to date on shots, wormings, preventatives and are microchipped (with lifetime registration). Adoption fee is $215 with approved application, applications can be filled out at this link. https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/10167/generic .We cannot guarantee breed or size when full grown.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Adopting a small dog in Cincinnati
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 Cincinnati
- Stray Haven IncAurora, IN · 11 small dogs above
- Sweet Dream House RescueBatavia, OH · 10 small dogs above
- Frankies Furry Friends Rescue, IncAlexandria, KY · 5 small dogs above
- Lucky Tales RescueFt. Thomas, KY · 2 small dogs above
- Spoil Em Rotten FoundationCincinnati, OH · 1 small dog above
Questions about adopting small dogs in Cincinnati
How many small dogs are up for adoption in Cincinnati?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Cincinnati, Ohio, have 29 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a small dog in Cincinnati?
The rescues with the most small dogs near Cincinnati right now are Stray Haven Inc (Aurora, IN), Sweet Dream House Rescue (Batavia, OH) and Frankies Furry Friends Rescue, Inc (Alexandria, KY). 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.