Let’s Find Homes for These 4 California Dogs
Now is the perfect time to adopt a small dog — meet four adoptable pups in San Diego.
The Urgent Need in San Diego
San Diego’s shelters are packed. In 2023, FurPetVo’s partner shelters were caring for an average of 540 dogs a day. That number rose to 632 in 2024 — and this year isn’t looking much better. Stray intakes are up, surrenders are climbing, and far too many animals are arriving with nowhere to go.
How FurPetVo Steps In
That’s where FurPetVo steps in. Since 2018, FurPetVo has worked tirelessly alongside local shelters to ease the pressure — pulling at-risk dogs into loving foster homes, especially those most likely to be overlooked.
Right now, FurPetVo has four adoptable small dogs — including an adorable Dachshund mix — all ready for their forever families. These dogs are looking for pet parents who are ready to commit to love, patience, and lifelong companionship. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, there’s no better time: you’ll free up vital shelter space and welcome a loyal, joyful BFF into your life. Win-win.
Below, meet the small but mighty crew who are ready to step out of foster care and into your home.
Hamish
All about Hamish: Meet Hamish, a tiny, tan terrier mix ready to steal your heart. This sweet boy is one-third of the Brave Litter — named after the mischievous triplets from the movie Brave. True to his name, Hamish is bold, curious, and overflowing with puppy charm.
Originally rescued from Mexico along with his mom and siblings, Hamish is now thriving in a FurPetVo foster home. He’s mastering potty training, learning gentle puppy manners, and soaking up all the love he can get. He’s great with other dogs, friendly with kids, and could live peacefully with cats — as long as introductions are slow and thoughtful.
Hamish is still very much a puppy, so he’ll need structure, patience, and someone ready for the fun (and occasional chaos) of raising a young pup. In return? You’ll gain a sweet, playful companion who’s eager to love — and be loved — right back.
- Traits: Male terrier mix, tan coat, expected adult weight under 25 pounds, current vaccinations
Hubert
All about Hubert: Hubert is another member of the Brave Litter trio — curious, playful, and utterly irresistible. Like his littermates, he’s thriving in a FurPetVo foster home, learning all the essentials of puppy life.
He’s friendly with other dogs, adores children, and — with thoughtful, gradual introductions — could live harmoniously with cats. Still a young pup, Hubert is ideal for someone seeking a small, scruffy sweetheart to grow and learn alongside.
- Traits: Male terrier mix, tan coat, expected adult weight under 25 pounds; good with kids, dogs, and cats; current vaccinations
Cricket
All about Cricket: Cricket might be tiny, but she’s got a big personality just waiting to bloom. Rescued from a high-intake shelter in Bakersfield, this four-month-old sweetheart is settling into safety and mastering puppy basics.
FurPetVo believes Cricket is a Dachshund–terrier mix and expects her to stay small — under 25 pounds when fully grown. She’s playful, friendly, and still exploring the world. To help her grow into her best self, she’ll thrive with positive reinforcement, consistency, and plenty of treats.
Cricket gets along well with other dogs and has even met cats calmly. She’d flourish in a home that embraces puppyhood with patience, humor, and lots of snuggles.
- Traits: Good with kids and dogs; has been gently introduced to cats and could adapt well with proper guidance; spayed, up to date on vaccines
Sampson
All about Sampson: Sampson might be small — just 11 pounds — but he’s got a heart as big as his zoomies. This 2.5-year-old Chihuahua mix was rescued from a high-intake shelter in Bakersfield and is making the most of his second chance: soaking up love, sunshine, and snuggles.
He’s the perfect blend: playful and affectionate, always ready for a walk, hike, or car ride — then just as happy to curl up for a cozy nap. Sampson is a polite little houseguest: fully house-trained, crate-trained (he snoozes there at night), and respectful of your space and schedule.
He gets along beautifully with cats, kids, and other dogs — though he feels most confident around smaller pups. While big dogs aren’t his favorite, he’s open to meeting new friends with calm, gentle introductions. If you’re looking for a loyal little shadow, Sampson might just be your guy.
- Traits: Great with kids, cats, and small dogs; house-trained, crate-trained, neutered, and up to date on vaccines
Still Looking for the Right Dog?
Finding the right dog is about more than just falling in love at first sight — it’s about matching energy, lifestyle, and long-term commitment. With patience and openness, you’ll find your canine soul mate among the many wonderful dogs currently waiting for homes.
The easiest way to start your search? Sign up for FurPetVo’s New Pet Alerts at furpetvo.com. These personalized alerts show you all available puppies and dogs near you — helping you connect faster with your perfect match.
FurPetVo connects hopeful pet parents with shelters, rescues, and rehomers — so more adoptable pets can find their people. Ready to begin your adoption journey? Start your search today at furpetvo.com.
