Racine, WI

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

Small Dogs up for adoption near Racine, WI

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Racine have 70 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) · 50 mi from Racine

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) · 50 mi from Racine

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

14. Charlie

Adult · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (long coat) · 42 mi from Racine

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

15. Pugsly

Young · Male · Pug (medium coat) · 33 mi from Racine

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

16. Otis

Puppy · Male · Border Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 33 mi from Racine

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

17. Gertie

Puppy · Female · Border Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 33 mi from Racine

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

27. Miss Molly

Adult · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed · 34 mi from Racine

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

28. Paulo

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Shih Tzu / Corgi / Mixed (medium coat) · 50 mi from Racine

I weigh 16 lbs, and I am looking for 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 Paulo

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 Paulo fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Oct 30

29. Kaffee

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Poodle (unknown type) / Schnauzer / Mixed (short coat) · 50 mi from Racine

I weigh 17 lbs, and I am looking for 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 Kaffee

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 Kaffee fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Oct 30

30. Lupo

Young (2 years 1 month) · Male · Pug / Corgi / Mixed (short coat) · 50 mi from Racine

I weigh 16 lbs, and I am looking for 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 Lupo

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 Lupo fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Oct 30

Adopting a small dog in Racine

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 Racine

Questions about adopting small dogs in Racine

How many small dogs are up for adoption in Racine?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Racine, Wisconsin, have 70 small dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a small dog in Racine?

The rescues with the most small dogs near Racine right now are Tail Waggers 911 (Grafton, WI), Animal House Shelter, Inc. (Huntley, IL) and Hoovers Hause All Dog Rescue (Genesee, WI). 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.