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Maltese puppies and dogs in Lake Forest, California

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

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Adopt a Maltese near you in Lake Forest, California

These Maltese are available in Lake Forest, California.
Photo of Sugar and Spice - (Bonded Courtesy Post)

Sugar and Spice - (Bonded Courtesy Post)

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Female, Adult
Lake Forest, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained,
Story
Meet Sister Team...... Sugar and Spice. The 'sisters' are 7 years young and have been together since birth. This is no time to part ways so we are looking for a home for them together. Due to a cross-continental permanent move the owner has to regretfully re-home the pair. This is not easy for human nor dog. The sisters are bonded but not in a way that will keep them from interacting with the person who loves and provides for them. They are content in many ways and do not require undivided attention just the love you would normally give your pet. They are house trained and walk well on leashes for short jaunts. We think they would thrive in a quiet adult household as they are use to being with their 'lady'. They are both spayed and up to date on shots. Both are extremely healthy with no issues for their age. They are 'poos' so they will require maintenance grooming to look their stylish selves. If you are interested in this duo please contact us as soon as you can.June 9, 2026, 2:22 am
Special Needs
Photo of Cream

Cream

Poodle (Standard) Maltese

Female, 3 yrs 6 mos
Lake Forest, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Needs special attention, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet 3 year old, 14 lb Poodle mix, Cream. Cream came to us after being abandoned with other dogs. Cream is shy and sweet. She loves other dogs, and people once she meets them. We discovered that Cream has a birth defect that caused an extra opening on her hind end. After visits to a reproductive specialist and two surgeons, the vets determined that Cream is doing fine, but could eventually need a surgery. We are looking for a home for Cream where she will get lots of love and attention. Her family will need to have the abilitymean/s to care for her future needs, which may include a MRI and soft tissue surgery. Apply to meet Cream at adoptocpets.org/adopt
Photo of Millie

Millie

Poodle (Miniature) Maltese

Female, 4 yrs 1 mo
Lake Forest, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Millie is a good girl, she is extremely active and playful and once she trusts you she is your friend for life (she is fearful at first so you need to give her time to get comfortable in a new home-patience is key). She's very energetic so we are looking for an active family home for her with someone who works from home preferably (she is not suitable for a senior/quiet home-she is too active). She gets along with most dogs but would prefer to have the attention of an only dog. She requires a person with strong leadership skills, she can be bossy if not given firm direction, If you would like to meet Millie please complete the adoption application on our website. www.muttlycrew.org

Or, how about these Maltese in cities near Lake Forest, California

These Maltese are available for adoption close to Lake Forest, California.
Photo of Sugar and Spice - (Bonded Courtesy Post)

Sugar and Spice - (Bonded Courtesy Post)

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Female, Adult
Lake Forest, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained,
Story
Meet Sister Team...... Sugar and Spice. The 'sisters' are 7 years young and have been together since birth. This is no time to part ways so we are looking for a home for them together. Due to a cross-continental permanent move the owner has to regretfully re-home the pair. This is not easy for human nor dog. The sisters are bonded but not in a way that will keep them from interacting with the person who loves and provides for them. They are content in many ways and do not require undivided attention just the love you would normally give your pet. They are house trained and walk well on leashes for short jaunts. We think they would thrive in a quiet adult household as they are use to being with their 'lady'. They are both spayed and up to date on shots. Both are extremely healthy with no issues for their age. They are 'poos' so they will require maintenance grooming to look their stylish selves. If you are interested in this duo please contact us as soon as you can.June 9, 2026, 2:22 am
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, 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?  March 17, 2026, 7:02 pm
Photo of Betty

Betty

Maltese

Female, Senior
Corona, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Betty! She is a sweet 9-year-old Maltese mix and a truly wonderful companion for anyone seeking affection and warmth. Petite in size and easy to care for, Betty sleeps soundly through the night so her humans can enjoy a full night of rest right along with her. Betty is fully potty trained and always takes care of her business outside. She is a quiet little lady who rarely barks, but when she wants your attention, she makes the softest, most endearing sound that is guaranteed to melt your heart. She enjoys short walks and is very well behaved on leash, happily taking in the sights and fresh air. Betty gets along well with other small dogs and does not show any aggression. While she does have some age related changes to her eyes and ears, they do not slow her down one bit. She continues to embrace life with enthusiasm and love, and she is ready to share her sweet, devoted heart with a forever family. If you are interested in adopting, please visit the I.C.A.R.E. Dog Rescue website and complete an adoption application: www.icaredogrescue.org/ready-to-adopt Adoption fee includes: spay/neuter • shots up to date • micro-chip • fecal and vet check Breeds and age are not guaranteed. Click here to watch a video of Betty.June 8, 2026, 3:34 pm
Photo of RIGBY

RIGBY

Maltese Chihuahua

Male, 7 yrs
Inland Empire, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Attention! RIGBY Here! PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE BIO BEFORE INQUIRING ABOUT MY ADOPTION PLEASE :) I am a very cute, little, Maltese/Chihuahua (Malchi) boy, I was born February 7, 2019. I am timid but sweet once I get to know you, I am very shy. I live with other dogs at the rescue, so I am ok with dogs, again it takes me some time to trust. I have been with rescue a long time because I suffer from some type of doggie vertigo and get car sick really easy, I always have since I was a puppy, so its hard for most families who enjoy taking their pup traveling. Its better now than it was when I was little but I still am nervous in the car. I need a loving patient family to open their hearts and home to allow me time to get to know you... Could that be you?? I was rescued from Lancaster, our humans didn't want us babies and gave us away and kept my Mama (Chihuahua) and Daddy (Maltese). I had siblings but they gave them away to other people instead of the rescue... Here is some information on my Mix Breed https://dogappy.com/information-about-maltese-chihuahua-mix-malchi Yours with a happy tailwag! Rigby
Photo of Cooper

Cooper

Maltese Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier

Male, 8 mos
Irvine, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
PLEASE COMPLETE OUR ADOPTION APPLICATION AT WWW.LOVEBUGSRESCUE.ORG IF YOU'D LIKE TO BE CONSIDERED FOR ADOPTION: Cooper is an adorable 8-month-old, 6 lb Morkie (Maltese/Yorkshire Terrier mix) with a sweet personality and a playful spirit. This handsome little pup may be a bit timid when meeting new people, but once he feels comfortable, his affectionate and loving nature shines through. He absolutely adores his humans and enjoys being close to his people. Cooper gets along wonderfully with other dogs and would love to have a canine companion in his forever home to help him continue building confidence and share in playtime adventures. He loves racing around the yard doing joyful zoomies and has a fun-loving side that emerges when he’s in familiar surroundings. This smart little guy is earning an A+ in potty training and is making great progress in his foster home. While Cooper is thriving indoors and in his yard, he is still gaining confidence with the outside world and will benefit from continued positive exposure to new sights, sounds, and experiences at a pace that feels comfortable for him. As a Morkie, Cooper is considered hypoallergenic and has a soft, beautiful coat that will require regular grooming and upkeep to keep him looking and feeling his best. Cooper is looking for a patient, loving family who will help him continue to blossom into the confident companion he’s meant to be. In return, he’ll provide endless love, loyalty, and plenty of adorable zoomies. Adoption fee is $500 and includes neuter, microchip, vaccine, deworming, flea treatment. Apply at www.lovebugsrescue.org
Photo of Ruby

Ruby

Maltese Cockapoo

Female, 5 yrs
Irvine, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
PLEASE COMPLETE OUR ADOPTION APPLICATION AT WWW.LOVEBUGSRESCUE.ORG IF YOU'D LIKE TO MEET RUBY - PLEASE READ HER FULL LISTING BEFORE APPLYING TO ADOPT: Meet Ruby, a resilient little soul with a heart full of love and a spirit that refuses to quit. Ruby is a 5-year-old, 18 lb Maltese mix who came from an unimaginably neglectful situation. She had been living outside in a filthy crate covered by a tarp, with a severely matted coat. She had such advanced dental disease that her jaw fractured as a result. Despite everything she has endured, Ruby has continued to amaze us every step of the way with her strength, sweetness, and determination. Ruby has recovered from her dental and her jaw fracture is healed. You can tell how much happier she is as a result! Ruby's back left leg has a partial amputation, which we don't know the history of. It doesn't seem to bother her and she gets around just fine on 3 legs. We are working to get her fitted for a prosthetic that she can wear long term. Ruby was also diagnosed with a heart murmur, but she is on medication for this and hasn't been symptomatic. This should be monitored with follow up echocardiograms as needed. Since coming into rescue, she has grown stronger and healthier, blossoming into a happy little companion who is ready to begin her next chapter with a loving family of her own. Ruby is friendly, affectionate, and enjoys the company of other dogs and even cats too. She loves car rides, adventures, and being close to her people. Ruby is also extremely well-mannered in the home and has a calm, gentle presence that makes her such a joy to be around. After all she’s been through, Ruby deserves a family who will cherish her, spoil her, and show her the love and safety she’s always deserved. Ruby's adoption fee is $400 and that includes her spay, microchip, vaccines current, deworming, flea treatment, recent dental and grooming. Apply to adopt at www.lovebugsrescue.org

These pups are in Lake Forest, California too!

Below are our newest added Maltese available for adoption in Lake Forest, California. To see more adoptable Maltese in Lake Forest, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
Photo of Biscuit

Biscuit

Bichon Frise Poodle (Standard)

Male, Young
Lake Forest, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter,
Story
Biscuit is an angel. He is a Bichonpoo. Ithat is under 2 years old. I don’t want to re-home him, but I have no choice. My other dog, that I’ve had longer, keeps attacking Biscuit. Biscuit is passive and gets along with most dogs, but he has been picked on. Biscuit is NOT potty trained, although I have tried. He will need a love and experienced owner that can train him, walk him a lot and give him lots of love. Biscuit is not used to people as he’s usually only only around me. People scare him until he gets to know them. Whoever adopts him will need to be very patient with him. Once he does feel safe, he’s a total love dog. He is not fixed because only one testicle dropped and surgery would be required to get him fixed. Shot info can be further discussed.
Photo of Bo - Special Needs-Foster or Adopt Me!

Bo - Special Needs-Foster or Adopt Me!

Bichon Frise Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Male, Adult
Lake Forest, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
This special boy is looking for someone to open their heart and home. Bo is blind and can be very fearful, and right now he’s in boarding in Palmdale CA — we’d love nothing more than to get him into a loving home.Bo needs a patient, calm home with no kids or other animals, someone experienced with reactivity who is willing to go slow and not give up on him. Structure and routine help him feel safe and build confidence, and a quiet environment is best since loud noises can startle him.With love and stability, Bo will blossom into a wonderful, devoted companion. Please consider fostering or adopting Bo today.June 9, 2026, 2:22 am

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Maltese puppies and dogs in nearby cities

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Related breeds in Lake Forest, California

Maltese shelters & rescues in Lake Forest, California

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

4.6 miles

Compassionate Animal Rescue for Medical Aid

27672 Crown Valley Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

4.6 miles

The Little Red Dog, Inc

Lake Forest, CA 92630

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

9.9 miles

I.C.A.R.E. Dog Rescue

2279 Eagle Glen Parkway, Suite #112-439, Corona, CA 92883

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

9.9 miles

Recycled LoVe DoG Rescue, Inc.

Inland Empire, CA 92883

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

11.8 miles

Lovebugs Rescue

Irvine, CA 92603

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

13.2 miles

OC Animal Care

1630 Victory Road, Tustin, CA 92782

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

16.1 miles

Mutts in Need

Newport Beach, CA 92660

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

18.8 miles

A Home 4 Ever

427 17 th st, Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

19.5 miles

Animal Friends of the Valleys

33751 Mission Trail, Wildomar, CA 92595

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

22.9 miles

Bichon Rescue of Orange County

Placentia, CA 92871

Pet Types: dogs

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If you're not seeing what you're looking for, try our shelter and rescue search. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

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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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