Let’s Find Homes for These 4 California Dogs

San Diego’s shelters are packed. In 2023, the San Diego Humane Society was caring for an average of 540 dogs a day. That number shot up to 632 in 2024, and this year isn’t looking much better. Stray intakes are up, surrenders are climbing, and way too many animals are being left with nowhere to go.

That’s where Amazing Strays Rescue steps in. Since 2018, they’ve been working tirelessly alongside shelters to help ease the pressure and pull animals into foster care, especially those at risk of being overlooked. Right now, they’ve got four adoptable small dogs — including an adorable Dachshund mix. These dogs are looking for pet parents who are ready to commit to forever. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, there’s no better time. You’ll be making space for another dog in need and getting a new BFF. Win-win.

Below, meet the small but mighty crew who are ready to bust out of the foster system and into your life.

Hamish

All about Hamish: Meet Hamish, a tiny, tan terrier ready to steal your heart. This sweet boy is one-third of the Brave Litter, named after the mischievous triplets from the movie Brave. And true to his name, Hamish is bold, curious, and packed with puppy charm.

Originally rescued from Mexico along with his mom and siblings, Hamish is now thriving in a foster home where he’s learning the ropes — mastering potty training, working on his puppy manners, and soaking up all the love he can get. He’s great with other dogs, friendly with kids, and could do just fine with cats, too, as long as introductions are slow and thoughtful.

Hamish is still very much a puppy, so he’ll need structure, patience, and someone who’s up for the fun (and chaos) that comes with raising a young pup. But in return? You’ll get a sweet, playful companion who’s eager to love and be loved right back.

Traits: Hamish is a male tan terrier mix, expected to weigh under 25 pounds, with current vaccinations.

How to meet Hamish: Ready to bring home your very own Brave Boy? Apply to adopt Hamish today. If he’s already been scooped up, don’t worry — there are plenty of other pups looking for their perfect match.

Hubert

All about Hubert: Hubert is one-third of the mischievous Brave Litter trio. Just like his namesake, this sweet little guy is curious, playful, and totally irresistible. Hubert is now thriving in foster care, where he’s learning all the important puppy stuff. He’s friendly with other dogs, adores kids, and with a thoughtful intro, could absolutely live peacefully with a cat. He’s still a young pup, so if you’ve been searching for a small, scruffy sweetheart to grow up with, you just found him.

Traits: Hubert is a tan terrier mix, male, and still a puppy. He’s expected to stay under 25 pounds when fully grown. He’s good with kids, good with dogs, and likely good with cats too. Vaccinations are current, and he’s ready to meet his forever fam.

How to meet Hubert: Ready to bring some Brave energy into your life? Fill out an adoption application to meet Hubert. If he’s already found his match, don’t worry — plenty of other lovable pups are waiting in the wings.

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 learning all the puppy basics.

Amazing Strays believes Cricket is a Dachshund–terrier mix and expects her to stay small (under 25 pounds full-grown). She’s playful, friendly, and still figuring out the world. She’ll need help to grow into her best self with positive reinforcement and a solid routine.

Cricket gets along well with other dogs and has even met some cats. She’d thrive in a home that’s ready to take on puppyhood with patience, humor, and plenty of treats.

Traits: Cricket is good with kids, friendly with other dogs, and has been exposed to cats, so with proper introductions, she could do well with feline friends too. She’s up to date on vaccines, spayed, and ready for a family.

How to meet Cricket: Apply now to make this adorable girl part of your family. And if she’s already been scooped up, check out the other amazing pups looking for love.

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 has been making the most of his second chance, soaking up love, sunshine, and snuggles.

He’s the best kind of combo: playful and affectionate, always ready for a walk, hike, or car ride... then just as happy to curl up for a cozy nap. Sampson’s a polite little houseguest and is fully house-trained, crate-trained (he snoozes there at night), and respectful of your space and schedule.

He gets along great with cats, kids, and other dogs, though he feels most confident around smaller pups. Big dogs aren’t his fave, but he’s open to meeting new friends with a slow, gentle intro. If you’re looking for a loyal little shadow, Sampson might just be your guy.

Traits: Sampson is great with kids, cats, and other small dogs. He’s house-trained, crate-trained, neutered, and up to date on vaccines. 

How to meet Sampson: Ready for walks, cuddles, and unconditional love? Apply now to meet Sampson.

Still looking for a dog?

It’s important to find a dog who feels like the right fit with your lifestyle and other preferences. With some perseverance, you’ll find your canine soul mate from one of the many dogs currently looking for homes. The easiest way to meet them is by signing up for Adopt a Pet’s New Pet Alerts, which will help your search by showing you all the available puppies and dogs near you.