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Maltese puppies and dogs in Dana Point, California

Looking for a Maltese puppy or dog in Dana Point, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Maltese near you.

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Adopt a Maltese near you in Dana Point, California

These Maltese are available in Dana Point, California.
Photo of Odette aka Hair Do

Odette aka Hair Do

Maltese Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Young
Capistrano Beach, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Sweet Odette! Don’t let her scruffy little haircut fool you—Odette is a tiny survivor with the biggest heart. This sweet, playful girl weighs just 7 1/2 pounds and was rescued from a South Los Angeles shelter after enduring heartbreaking neglect. She arrived severely matted, painfully thin, covered in fleas, and suffering from flea dermatitis. Her coat was so tangled that she had to be shaved, and during an earlier attempt to remove the mats, she was accidentally cut and required two staples. Thankfully, she’s now completely healed. Today, Odette is a brand-new girl! She’s gained healthy weight, her soft coat is slowly growing back, and her joyful personality shines brighter every day. She’s fully vetted, spayed, and we believe she’s under one year old . Odette is full of puppy fun! She loves carrying around her toys, zooming around the yard, chewing on her favorite treats, and soaking up all the love she can get. She gets along wonderfully with other dogs and would love a playful canine companion to share adventures with. She’s doing great on leash, sleeps quietly in her crate at night, and is making wonderful progress with her potty training. Every day, her beautiful coat grows in a little more—but she’s already beautiful where it matters most. Odette is affectionate, resilient, and ready to spend the rest of her life knowing only love. If you’re looking for a happy little sidekick who will brighten every day, Odette is your girl. For more information, call 949-842-2517 or email GreendogFoundation@gmail.com Apply to adopt: www.greendogfoundation.com “The best things in life aren’t perfect—they’re perfectly loved.”        September 25, 2026, 10:25 am
Photo of Zsa Zsa Gabor

Zsa Zsa Gabor

Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier Maltese

Female, Young
Capistrano Beach, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
✨ Meet Zsa Zsa ✨   Can you believe this little cutie was once on the shelter red list in the desert region? Thankfully, we couldn’t leave her behind—so now she’s safe, loved, and ready for her forever family!   Zsa Zsa is a tiny bundle of sweetness, weighing under 8 lbs and just a little over a year old. She’s playful, cuddly, and her big, soulful eyes will melt your heart. She loves to snuggle and has settled in beautifully with dogs of all sizes and ages.   Zsa Zsa does have a birth defect called ectopic ureter. She has already had surgery with limited success, which means she may always have a little leakage. She is house trained and may just need to wear a cute little pantie from time to time—something she takes in stride. Because of this, she is considered a special-needs adoption, but she doesn’t let it slow her down one bit. She’s still happy, bouncy, and full of love to give!   Zsa Zsa is spayed, microchipped, and fully vaccinated.   Available in Southern California, especially South Orange County To apply: http://greendogfoundation.com/application-for-adoption/ For more info: 949-842-2517   Adoption Donation   Under 1 year: $600 Over 1 year: $500 (includes all vaccinations, full vetting, deworming, flea/tick treatment, microchip, and spay/neuter)     Zsa Zsa is a true little gem who’s overcome so much—now she just needs her perfect match. Could that be you?     For more info: 949-842-2517September 25, 2026, 10:25 am

Or, how about these Maltese in cities near Dana Point, California

These Maltese are available for adoption close to Dana Point, California.
Photo of Odette aka Hair Do

Odette aka Hair Do

Maltese Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Young
Capistrano Beach, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Sweet Odette! Don’t let her scruffy little haircut fool you—Odette is a tiny survivor with the biggest heart. This sweet, playful girl weighs just 7 1/2 pounds and was rescued from a South Los Angeles shelter after enduring heartbreaking neglect. She arrived severely matted, painfully thin, covered in fleas, and suffering from flea dermatitis. Her coat was so tangled that she had to be shaved, and during an earlier attempt to remove the mats, she was accidentally cut and required two staples. Thankfully, she’s now completely healed. Today, Odette is a brand-new girl! She’s gained healthy weight, her soft coat is slowly growing back, and her joyful personality shines brighter every day. She’s fully vetted, spayed, and we believe she’s under one year old . Odette is full of puppy fun! She loves carrying around her toys, zooming around the yard, chewing on her favorite treats, and soaking up all the love she can get. She gets along wonderfully with other dogs and would love a playful canine companion to share adventures with. She’s doing great on leash, sleeps quietly in her crate at night, and is making wonderful progress with her potty training. Every day, her beautiful coat grows in a little more—but she’s already beautiful where it matters most. Odette is affectionate, resilient, and ready to spend the rest of her life knowing only love. If you’re looking for a happy little sidekick who will brighten every day, Odette is your girl. For more information, call 949-842-2517 or email GreendogFoundation@gmail.com Apply to adopt: www.greendogfoundation.com “The best things in life aren’t perfect—they’re perfectly loved.”        September 25, 2026, 10:25 am
Photo of WHITNEY

WHITNEY

Maltese

Female, Young
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Story
Please visit our website www.promise4paws.org to fill out an adoption application to this amazing pet and to see other available dogs and cats.
No photo available for PARIS

PARIS

Maltese

Female, Young
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Paris - a true princess with a heart full of love! Paris is sweet, playful, and utterly affectionate, the kind of girl who wants nothing more than to be right by your side. She loves playing with her toys and she'll happily keep herself entertained for hours with her favorite playthings. When she's not busy playing, Paris loves nothing more than curling up on her human's lap, cuddling close on the couch, or snuggling into bed at night for a cozy night's sleep. She's independent and confident, and carries herself with a happy, self-assured spirit. Paris is house-trained, knows several basic commands, and is an absolute pleasure in the car and on walks. She's a good eater, very well-mannered, and easy to live with. The best home for Paris would be with a single gal or a family who's looking for a devoted little companion to shower with love - ideally somewhere with a yard to explore and plenty of room to be her happy, playful self. Paris is ready to bring her sweetness, sass, and snuggles to a lucky new home. Could that be you? Please visit our website www.promise4paws.org to fill out an adoption application to this amazing pet and to see other available dogs and cats.
Special Needs
Photo of Penny

Penny

Maltese

Female, 10 yrs 2 mos
Laguna Beach, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs special attention, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
At 10 years old, Penny has already overcome more than any dog ever should. This tiny Maltese was found wandering the streets alone before being brought to a city shelter. She arrived with one eye already missing and the other painfully damaged, likely from untreated glaucoma. To give her relief from years of discomfort, the shelter made the difficult decision to remove her remaining eye. Just three days later, when Penny developed nasal discharge during her recovery, she was placed on the euthanasia list. Thankfully, Penny's story didn't end there. Today, this resilient little girl is discovering what love and safety truly feel like—and she's proving every day that being blind doesn't slow her down. Penny is happiest when she's curled up in your arms or snuggled beside you. She absolutely adores being held and will reward you with the sweetest little kisses during cuddle time. She's a chatty girl who isn't afraid to let you know when she'd like some attention, and despite having no eyesight, she's incredibly curious and confidently explores her surroundings by gently feeling her way through the world. She's not much of a walker and would much rather spend her day relaxing with her favorite people. Penny is mostly potty trained and has the cutest little habit of burying her treats and even her food to save for later. Because she's blind, she eats much more comfortably from a feeding mat than a traditional bowl. Penny is naturally anxious, which is understandable after everything she's been through. She'll thrive in a patient, predictable home where she can settle in at her own pace and build trust. She never growls, startles, or shows any aggression—she simply wants to feel safe and loved. One thing to know about Penny is that she's surprisingly adventurous! She loves trying to climb onto furniture and explore every nook and cranny, so she'll need a safe environment where she can't accidentally fall. Once she learns the layout of a home, she navigates it remarkably well. Bath time? Penny is a superstar. She patiently stands through her medicated baths and doesn't mind the hair dryer one bit. Years of neglect left her with skin issues, but with regular medicated baths, good nutrition, and plenty of TLC, her skin is already improving beautifully. Penny also has a low-grade heart murmur that isn't slowing her down but should continue to be monitored by her veterinarian. Penny may not be able to see the world, but she feels every bit of kindness she's shown. She doesn't need perfect eyesight to find her way—she just needs someone willing to guide her with patience, compassion, and unconditional love. If you're looking for a gentle soul who will happily spend her days snuggled in your lap and remind you that resilience comes in the smallest packages, Penny is waiting to meet you. She may be blind, but she'll help you see what truly matters.
Special Needs
Photo of Portobello

Portobello

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Male, Adult
Mission Viejo, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Needs special attention, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
At just two years old, this adorable Maltipoo may be small, but his personality is anything but! He’s a loyal little guy with a big heart and an even bigger sense of responsibility. Once he bonds with his person, he takes his job as “official protector” very seriously — maybe just a little too seriously. He loves his human deeply and prefers not to share the spotlight. Because of his strong attachment style, he would do best as the only dog in the home. He wants all your love, attention, and lap space to himself — and honestly, he’ll return it tenfold. We’re not sure how he feels about cats yet, so slow introductions would be key. This sweet boy would thrive in a home with respectful kids over 12 who understand that even cute, fluffy dogs need personal space. He’s incredibly loving, affectionate, and happiest when he’s close to his person — but he does need clear, consistent boundaries to help him feel secure and balanced. With structure, patience, and positive reinforcement, this little Maltipoo will blossom into the most devoted companion you could ask for. He just needs someone who can lovingly remind him that he doesn’t have to run the household — he just has to be adored in it. Ready to meet your pint-sized protector?  September 24, 2026, 3:08 pm
Photo of Chewie

Chewie

Maltese Shih Tzu

Male, Senior
Mission Viejo, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Chewie! ❤️ Chewie is an approximately 11-year-old Maltese mix who weighs 14 pounds, and this sweet little boy is ready for a fresh start and a loving home to call his own. He came to us as an owner surrender due to a life-changing family situation. Chewie is a lovable, mellow, and sweet little guy. He is housetrained, happily sleeps in his crate, and is an easygoing companion who would love nothing more than to be part of a family. He enjoys his daily walks and, despite his age, still loves to show off his playful side with some adorable zoomies in the backyard!  Chewie recently underwent extensive dental surgery. Because he had never received previous dental care, he unfortunately lost all of his teeth. But don’t let that worry you—Chewie doesn’t seem to know he’s missing a single tooth! He is happy, comfortable, and enjoys his meals. He will simply need to remain on a soft-food diet. His bloodwork shows that he is in good health for his age, and he has completed his medical intake. Now all Chewie needs is someone to give him the love, comfort, and happily-ever-after he deserves. If you’re looking for a sweet, gentle little companion who will be grateful for every bit of love you give him, Chewie may be your perfect match.  If you are interested in meeting Chewie, please first complete an adoption application on our website: www.greatpets.org. Chewie’s $200 adoption donation includes his veterinary examination, vaccinations, bloodwork, extensive dental surgery, fecal examination, microchip, and flea control.September 24, 2026, 2:47 pm

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Maltese shelters & rescues in Dana Point, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Maltese puppies in Dana Point, California. Browse these Maltese rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

2.2 miles

GreenDog Foundation

PO Box 2473, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

3.3 miles

Promise 4 Paws, Inc.

31878 Del Obispo Street, #118-379, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

6.9 miles

Unconditional

PO Box 483, Laguna Beach, CA 92652

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

9.7 miles

Compassionate Animal Rescue for Medical Aid

27672 Crown Valley Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

9.9 miles

New Beginnings for Animals

P.O. Box 2444, Mission Viejo, CA 92690

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

10.3 miles

Leashes of Love Rescue, Inc.

P.O. Box 1509, Lake Forest, CA 92609

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

11.9 miles

The Pet Adoption Center of Orange County

24331 Muirlands Blvd, Suites E & F, Lake Forest, CA 92630

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

14.2 miles

My Forever Love Rescue

Irvine, CA 92612

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

17.6 miles

A Home 4 Ever

427 17 th st, Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

19.7 miles

Girls of Dog Rescue

13141 Laburnum Dr., tustin, CA 92780

Pet Types: dogs

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Want to learn more about adopting a Maltese puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for a Maltese puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about Maltese puppies and adults.

Maltese basics

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Where do Malteses come from? How many types of Malteses are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the Maltese.

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