Madison, WI

Small Dogs for Adoption in Madison, WI: 30 Little Dogs Looking for a Home

Small Dogs up for adoption near Madison, WI

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Madison have 80 small dogs up for adoption. Here are the 30 newest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Every dog on this page is listed by their rescue as small, with breeds like Schnauzer, Australian Shepherd and Shih Tzu.

1. Milly

Young (2 years) · Female · Cocker Spaniel / Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed (short coat) · 81 mi from Madison

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

Adoption Donation $550

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

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

Read more about Milly

Appointments are recommended. All applications are considered general. Specific animals are NOT put on hold for adoption. When you visit, our adoption counselors will be able to make suggestions based on the type of pet you are looking for and help you find the best fit for your family.

Animal House Shelter cannot guarantee the breeds of the adoptable animals. The animals are posted on the website as the breed or breed mix based on their physical characteristics they most resemble. We also cannot guarantee the ages of our adoptable animals or how large puppies will be when fully grown.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Link to the Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Animal House Shelter
13005 Ernesti Road
Huntley IL, 60142

847-961-5541 phone
847-961-5537 fax

Open:

Sunday-Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM
Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM

Connect With Us:

Like Us On Facebook !
Watch Us On YouTube !
Follow Us On Twitter !

Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Adopt a Pet: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/

Directions to Shelter: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/visit/

Adoptable Dogs: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/dogs/

Adoptable Cats: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/cats

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Milly fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Nov 4

2. Nacho

Young (5 years) · Male · Pomeranian (short coat) · 81 mi from Madison

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

I am seeking my forever home!

Adoption Donation $500

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

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

Read more about Nacho

Appointments are recommended. All applications are considered general. Specific animals are NOT put on hold for adoption. When you visit, our adoption counselors will be able to make suggestions based on the type of pet you are looking for and help you find the best fit for your family.

Animal House Shelter cannot guarantee the breeds of the adoptable animals. The animals are posted on the website as the breed or breed mix based on their physical characteristics they most resemble. We also cannot guarantee the ages of our adoptable animals or how large puppies will be when fully grown.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Link to the Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Animal House Shelter
13005 Ernesti Road
Huntley IL, 60142

847-961-5541 phone
847-961-5537 fax

Open:

Sunday-Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM
Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM

Connect With Us:

Like Us On Facebook !
Watch Us On YouTube !
Follow Us On Twitter !

Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Adopt a Pet: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/

Directions to Shelter: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/visit/

Adoptable Dogs: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/dogs/

Adoptable Cats: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/cats

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Nacho fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Nov 4

3. Loco

Adult · Male · Dachshund / Mixed · 92 mi from Madison

This is Loco! He really doesn't even need a bio because his name says it all. He is full of energy and has so much love to give. He loves to be up on your lap and in your space. Loco doesn't mind the dogs here at the shelter but seems a little too interested in the cats. He would be an excellent family dog. We believe he is a long-haired dachshund! Loco is a clingy guy, so he would love a family that could give him a lot of attention! If you are interested in adopting Loco, please fill out an application at www.hspcwi.org/adopt. Loco is up to date on his vaccines, neutered, heartworm negative, and microchipped. His adoption fee is $300+ tax. If you are a resident of Portage County a dog license will be issued at the time of adoption!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats

4. Laverne

Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 97 mi from Madison

Name: LAVERNE

Age: 4years

Breed: Terrier mix

Gender: Female

Weight: 7lbs

Good with kids: Yes Respectful Ones

Good with dogs: Yes

Good with cats: Not fostered with

Current on vaccinations: Yes

Fixed: Yes

Adoption also includes Certified Vet Inspection, and Prior vetting paperwork.

Foster location: Appleton

Application & Website: https://www.ourpackanimalrescue.com/adoption.html

Bio:

Meet Laverne

This sweet girl came to us from MADACC in Milwaukee. We don't know much about her past but her future is going to be great!!

Read more about Laverne

Her first day in foster she was already comfortable with the other dogs. She is all about walks and being outside if the weather is nice. Where does see sleep? Well, we tried the kennel but she wasn't a fan. Instead Laverne used the doggie steps and found her way to foster mom's bed. She is so sweet and snuggly we don't mind at all.

We never have to ask where is Laverne because she is always right by your side or near your feet. She's doing great with potty training and she's a good little eater.

Let's talk about her cutest feature those ears. Man she tells stories with them. One time there both up. Sometimes one is high and one is low. So adorable!!!

Apply for Laverne today. You will be glad you did!!! She's the total package!!

Our Pack Animal Rescue, Inc. Is an all foster based 501c3 rescue. License #487823.

Meet and greets are arranged after an application has been approved. An approved application does not mean you must adopt the dog of interest, if it isn't a good fit.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Laverne fromOur Pack Animal Rescue, Inc.New London, WI · listed Nov 3

16. Charlie

Adult · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (long coat) · 77 mi from Madison

Updated: 11/1/26
Dog Name: Charlie
Sex: Male
Estimated Breed: Yorkie Mix
Approximate Age: 3 years
Approximate Weight: 9lbs
Spay/Neuter Status: Not yet
Adoption Fee: $650
Description:
This handsome little guy is ready to find a family who will give him all the love and attention he deserves! Charlie is a 3-year-old Yorkie Terrier mix who is as sweet as they come. He’s up to date on all his vaccines and is potty trained. He gets along with kids, dogs, and cats, making him a wonderful addition to a variety of families!
Charlie is a pretty laid-back guy. He loves car rides and is happy just hanging out with his people.

Read more about Charlie

When meeting new dogs, he appreciates a slow introduction to warm up, but once he’s comfortable, he does just fine! His previous family had young children, another dog, and a cat, but unfortunately, life got too busy for them to give Charlie the time and attention he deserves. Now, this sweet boy is looking for a fresh start with a family who can make him a priority.
If you're looking for a loving, low-key little companion to add to your family, Charlie might just be your guy!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Charlie fromTail Waggers 911Grafton, WI · listed Nov 2

17. Pugsly

Young · Male · Pug (medium coat) · 53 mi from Madison

Please go to our website,
http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application.
MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!!
Once your application is approved, the WI manager will call you to discuss adoption, answer questions and set up a private meet and greet if you are interested.
This process can take up to 7 days.
WE DO WEEKLY APPOINTMENTS FOR ADOPTIONS AFTER APPLICATION APPROVAL!
OUR LOCATION: S47 W30760 HWY 59, NORTH PRAIRIE, WI (corner of 59 and 83)
CALL 262-968-3858 FOR INFORMATION
EVERY DOG IS UP TO DATE ON VACCINES FOR THEIR AGE. RABIES VACCINE IF OLD ENOUGH.
SPAYED OR NEUTERED (regardless of age)
HEARTWORM and FLEA/TICK PREVENTATIVE
MICROCHIPPED
CERTIFIED VETERINARIAN INSPECTION CERTIFICATE
WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ADOPTIONS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

Read more about Pugsly

Name: Pugsly
Age: 1yr old
Breed: Pug
Gender: male
Weight: 21 lbs

Meet Mr Personality! Pugsly came to us from Oklahoma where he was picked up lost. No one ever stepped forward to claim him, which is surprising as he is the friendliest dog you will meet.

House trained: Doing good
Crate trained: Yes
Social Skills: Great with all ages
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Unknown

Personality
Pugsly is ready to manage your social calendar. There isn't a person or dog he wants to be best friends with. His happy go lucky demeanor puts a smile on everyone's face. He adores kids, is a rock star in doggy play groups and wins the gold star for cuteness. According to Pugsly, every day is a ray of sunshine. He enjoys going for walks, chasing grasshoppers and exploring new scents. He will make a great addition to any style family. Did we mention he likes car rides as well?

Ideal Home:
Pugsly is a great size for those looking for a smaller breed dog. He does love to romp and play but does not require a lot of exercise. This boy is ready to be your partner in crime and cuddle bug all in the same day.

We are located at S47 W30760 State Road 59, North Prairie, WI

As always, we never guarantee the breed OR the size they'll be as an adult.
MY ADOPTION FEE is $500.00
We thank you for ADOPTING A HOOVERS HAUSE RESCUE DOG..... every dog adopted allows us to open our homes to save another!
WI DATCP license number 468162

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Pugsly fromHoovers Hause All Dog RescueGenesee, WI · listed Nov 2

18. Otis

Puppy · Male · Border Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 53 mi from Madison

Please go to our website,
http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application.
MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!!
Once your application is approved, the WI manager will call you to discuss adoption, answer questions and set up a private meet and greet if you are interested.
This process can take up to 7 days.
WE DO WEEKLY APPOINTMENTS FOR ADOPTIONS AFTER APPLICATION APPROVAL!
OUR LOCATION: S47 W30760 HWY 59, NORTH PRAIRIE, WI (corner of 59 and 83)
CALL 262-968-3858 FOR INFORMATION
EVERY DOG IS UP TO DATE ON VACCINES FOR THEIR AGE. RABIES VACCINE IF OLD ENOUGH.
SPAYED OR NEUTERED (regardless of age)
HEARTWORM and FLEA/TICK PREVENTATIVE
MICROCHIPPED
CERTIFIED VETERINARIAN INSPECTION CERTIFICATE
WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ADOPTIONS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

Read more about Otis

Name: Otis
Age: 13 weeks
Breed: Border Terrier mix
Gender: male
Weight: 8 lbs

Otis is an owner surrender with his sister. These two adorable puppies are great for those looking for low shedding and smaller in size.

Training and Manners
House trained: Is doing great
Crate trained: Yes
Social Skills: Great with all ages
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Could easily acclimate to a cat at this age

Personality
Meet Otis! He is a pint sized package of puppy perfection with a big personality and a social calendar that's busier than yours. He makes friends wherever he goes. He has the cute factor turned all the way up. Otis is outgoing without being obnoxious or bothersome. He is great with children and other dogs. He is starting his leash manners, sleeps in a crate at night and will follow you from room to room. His size is great for those looking for a smaller dog and would do well in a condo or apartment lifestyle.

Ideal Home:
Otis is looking for a family that will continue to guide and teach him the things he needs to know to be a cherished member of the family. He enjoys being outside as much as he loves cuddling on the couch next to you.

We are located at S47 W30760 State Road 59, North Prairie, WI

As always, we never guarantee the breed OR the size they'll be as an adult.
MY ADOPTION FEE is $500.00
We thank you for ADOPTING A HOOVERS HAUSE RESCUE DOG..... every dog adopted allows us to open our homes to save another!
WI DATCP license number 468162

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Otis fromHoovers Hause All Dog RescueGenesee, WI · listed Nov 1

19. Gertie

Puppy · Female · Border Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 53 mi from Madison

Please go to our website,
http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application.
MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!!
Once your application is approved, the WI manager will call you to discuss adoption, answer questions and set up a private meet and greet if you are interested.
This process can take up to 7 days.
WE DO WEEKLY APPOINTMENTS FOR ADOPTIONS AFTER APPLICATION APPROVAL!
OUR LOCATION: S47 W30760 HWY 59, NORTH PRAIRIE, WI (corner of 59 and 83)
CALL 262-968-3858 FOR INFORMATION
EVERY DOG IS UP TO DATE ON VACCINES FOR THEIR AGE. RABIES VACCINE IF OLD ENOUGH.
SPAYED OR NEUTERED (regardless of age)
HEARTWORM and FLEA/TICK PREVENTATIVE
MICROCHIPPED
CERTIFIED VETERINARIAN INSPECTION CERTIFICATE
WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ADOPTIONS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

Read more about Gertie

Name: Gertie
Age: 13 weeks
Breed: Border Terrier mix
Gender: Female
Weight: 7 lbs

Gertie is an owner surrender with her brother. These two adorable puppies are great for those looking for low shedding and smaller in size.

Training and Manners
House trained: Is doing great
Crate trained: Yes
Social Skills: Great with all ages
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Could easily acclimate to a cat at this age

Personality
Gertie is gentle, kind, a tad bashful when confronted with new things. She is a true cuddle bug and ready to give her new family unconditional love. She gets along well with calmer dogs that won't try to intimidate her. She also loves calmer children that know how to handle a smaller breed dog. Gertie has been a little gem for her foster family where she had positive reinforcement for all her new accomplishments. Her whole goal in life is to create a bond with her special person or family where she can grow and reward them with years of devoted love.

Ideal Home:
Since Gertie is not the life of the party, she would be a perfect companion dog for her owner. Every day that she builds confidence will be her victories. She would make a great companion for another (similar in size) dog in the home as she is not pesty and just the right balance of playfulness.

We are located at S47 W30760 State Road 59, North Prairie, WI

As always, we never guarantee the breed OR the size they'll be as an adult.
MY ADOPTION FEE is $500.00
We thank you for ADOPTING A HOOVERS HAUSE RESCUE DOG..... every dog adopted allows us to open our homes to save another!
WI DATCP license number 468162

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Gertie fromHoovers Hause All Dog RescueGenesee, WI · listed Nov 1

29. Miss Molly

Adult · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 90 mi from Madison

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

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

30. Pepper

Young (6 months) · Male · Maltese / Shih Tzu (medium coat) · 48 mi from Madison

Pepper is a sweet little boy looking for his forever home. This little guy loves to play and snuggle. He has not had stability in his young life until now. Pepper is working on house training and doing well. He gets along with other dogs, we have not had him around cats. Pepper is eager to meet everyone and loves to run in the yard! If you are looking for a small little buddy this might be your boy. Apply at Littleorphans.org

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Pepper fromLittle Orphan's Animal Rescue, Inc.Montello, WI · listed Oct 30

Adopting a small dog in Madison

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 Madison

Questions about adopting small dogs in Madison

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Madison?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Madison, Wisconsin, have 80 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Madison?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Madison right now are Tail Waggers 911 (Grafton, WI), Hoovers Hause All Dog Rescue (Genesee, WI) and Animal House Shelter, Inc. (Huntley, IL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are small dogs good for apartments?

Often, yes. Many small dogs are happy with a smaller space and short walks, but energy matters more than size: ask the rescue how active the dog is and whether they bark when left alone.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.