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Maltese puppies and dogs in Santa Cruz, California

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

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Adopt a Maltese near you in Santa Cruz, California

We don't see any Maltese available for adoption right now, but new adoptable pets are added every day. Try a different search below!

Or, how about these Maltese in cities near Santa Cruz, California

These Maltese are available for adoption close to Santa Cruz, California.
We'll also keep you updated on Bumper Car's adoption status with email updates.
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Bumper Car

Maltese Schnoodle

Female, 11 yrs 2 mos
Pacific Grove, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Looks like: Shih Tzu, Maltese mix Female, 10 years old (estimated), 20 pounds Bumper Car is just the perfect blend of sweet and spunky! Bumper Car may be blind, but she sees the world with her heart- and what a big, beautiful heart it is. Whether she's following the sound of your voice or curling up beside you for snuggles, Bumper Car is all about connection. Despite her vision loss, she's a confident little navigator who quickly learns her surroundings. Her sense of smell and hearing are top-notch, and she uses them like a pro to explore, adapt, and find her favorite cozy spots. She gets along beautifully with other dogs and cats, and her gentle energy makes her a joy to be around. If you're looking for a lovable sidekick who will warm your heart, make you laugh, and remind you daily that joy has no limits -Bumper Car is your girl. Bumper Car came to us from the Sacramento Animal Shelter after being found as a stray, but you'd never guess her past by her joyful spirit. She's already left the shelter life in her past and is ready to settle into a forever home where she'll be cherished for the sweet little treasure she is.
We'll also keep you updated on Sunshine Sophie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Sunshine Sophie

Sunshine Sophie

Maltese Schnoodle

Female, 14 yrs 3 mos
Pacific Grove, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Looks like: Maltipoo Female, 14 years old (estimated), 16 pounds True to her name, this gentle lady radiates warmth wherever she goes. Sunshine Sophie is a lovely senior gal with a heart as golden as her curls and a calm, peaceful presence that makes everyone around her take a deep, happy sigh. She is a total sweetheart with people- affectionate, patient, and endlessly loving. Sophie adores spending quiet time with her humans, soaking up gentle pets, or curling up beside you for a cozy nap. She is also a social butterfly with other dogs and would love a friendly canine companion to share her golden years with. Her one tiny request? A cat free home, please. Felines just aren't her cup of tea (she politely says "no thank you" to whiskers and meows). If you are looking for a serene, loving soul to bring calm joy and sunshine into your days, Sunshine Sophie is ready to brighten your world. Sunshine Sophie joins us after her loving family decided she deserved a mellow life where she can be with her people all the time.
We'll also keep you updated on Hot Sauce's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Hot Sauce

Hot Sauce

Maltese Shih Tzu

Male, 7 yrs 7 mos
Pacific Grove, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Looks like: Shih Tzu Male, 7 years old (estimated), 17 pounds Ready to add some zing to your life? Meet Hot Sauce! This spunky little guy is just as much fun as his name. With his fabulous jagged grin and flowing locks, he struts around like he owns the block, and honestly, he probably does. Hot Sauce is the perfect mix of couch potato and nosy neighbor, always up for a reality TV binge, but equally committed to keeping tabs on every squirrel and delivery driver from his window post. A true foodie and belly rub connoisseur, he is also known for dramatic sighs if he thinks you are hogging the snacks. Hot Sauce had some issues with bladder stones upon intake but is doing so much better! He will need to stay on a special urinary diet for life to prevent future bladder stones. Hot Sauce came to us from a Sacramento shelter needing medical care, and now he is ready to live his best, most pampered life. Guess what? A secret admirer has already paid Hot Sauce's adoption fee! Now all he needs is a special someone to give him the loving home he deserves -- free of charge.
We'll also keep you updated on Abby's adoption status with email updates.
No photo available for Abby

Abby

Maltese Bichon Frise

Female, Senior
San Jose, 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
Abby is a 11 year old female Maltese Bichon-Frise mix. Abby is super sweet, friendly, intelligent, and loves scratches. She does well with kids, other dogs and cats. We are looking to rehome our beloved Abby because her owners (my parent in laws) are getting older and it is becoming too difficult to properly care for her.
We'll also keep you updated on Silver's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Silver

Silver

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 21st from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, please submit an application in advance at https://www.dpsrescue.com/adopt/dog-application/. Adoption fee: $750 Meet Silver: The Non-Shedding Love Story You've been searching for Silver is a 3 year old, 17-pound Maltipoo with a soft, non-shedding coat, a sweet little face, and the kind of personality that makes people say, “Wait… how is this dog still available?” Because honestly… he should’ve been adopted already. Silver is an easy, affectionate, low-maintenance companion who is happiest being near his person—whether that means lounging on the couch, supervising your every move, or quietly judging your snack choices. If you’re looking for a calm little best friend who will follow you around like you’re the main character… congratulations. Silver has applied for the position. Work-From-Home Approved (He Takes His Job Seriously) Silver is fantastic at settling into his doggy bed while you work during the day. He’s basically a tiny coworker—quiet, polite, and emotionally supportive. One small note: if the door is open, Silver’s inner treasure hunter comes out and his snack-seeking foraging instincts may activate. He may explore the area like a fuzzy little food detective looking for contraband crumbs. So yes… he’s an angel. But he’s also a smart angel with a search-and-rescue background in locating snacks. Smart Boy Energy Silver is super intelligent and has been eating meals through enrichment puzzles… which he completes so fast it’s honestly rude. Like, you’ll be proud for two seconds and then realize: you are living with a tiny genius who could probably hack your Wi-Fi. A Leash-Walking Dreamboat Silver enjoys a 20–30 minute walk and is an absolute gentleman on leash. He stays close, doesn’t pull, and walks like he’s out for a casual little stroll to clear his thoughts. Basically: he walks better than most humans. Manners Included (Some Assembly Still Required) Silver is working on sit and wait, and he’s already catching on quickly. He knows to sit when he’s about to go outside while you get his leash on, and when you return inside, he’ll sit patiently to have his paws wiped like a tiny, well-trained prince. He’s not out here causing chaos—he’s out here trying to be promoted. Bedtime Routine: Progressing Like a Champ Silver has been sleeping in a crate in the bedroom. He’s not thrilled about it yet and may whine a little (he has opinions), but he’s improving every night. Calming music + a bedtime biscuit helps, and he’s clearly trying his best. His foster will continue working on daytime crate comfort too, but overall he’s making great progress and settling in more each day. Dog-Friendly… But People Are His Favorite Breed Silver is friendly with other dogs and coexists peacefully, but he’s not the “party dog” type. He’s more like: “Hi, dog. Nice to meet you. Anyway, where are the humans?” He’s truly a Velcro dog—his favorite place is wherever you are. The Perfect Home for Silver Silver would thrive in a home that wants an affectionate, mellow companion who enjoys routine, closeness, and cozy couch time. He doesn’t need a ton of exercise—he just wants to be loved and included. He’s still working on housetraining, so his new family should continue consistent potty breaks and positive reinforcement. He’s generally quiet and not a big barker, but if he’s feeling anxious or separated, he may whine or bark a bit. When nervous, he sometimes grabs harmless things like paper napkins or dish towels to carry around (emotional support laundry is a thing). Why Silver? Because he’s: Non-shedding Affectionate and loyal Easy to live with Great for calmer homes A couch champion A smart little lovebug The kind of dog that makes you wonder why you ever lived without him Silver is truly one of those rare dogs who just fits into your life like he was always meant to be there. If you’re ready for a sweet, snuggly, low-key best friend who will love you with his whole tiny heart (and possibly investigate your kitchen for snacks)… Silver is ready to meet you.February 15, 2026, 12:38 am
We'll also keep you updated on Kitten's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Kitten

Kitten

Maltese Shih Tzu

Female, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 21st from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, please submit an application in advance at https://www.dpsrescue.com/adopt/dog-application/.   Adoption Fee: $550 **Kitten is available for Foster-to-Adopt!**     Weight: 11.6 lbs Coat: Non-shedding KITTEN - Small Dog, Big Opinions   Let's be real: Kitten isn't for everyone, and she wouldn't have it any other way.  This 5 year old Maltese mix knows what she likes (morning fetch, her cozy crate, predictable routines) and what she doesn't (surprise guests, loud neighborhood noise, anyone touching her food bowl). She's making excellent progress in foster care, but she's going to need someone who gets that progress isn't perfection. Kitten's Non-Negotiables:  A quiet house with a yard - apartments and city life? Hard pass. Space during meals - she's protective of her bowl and needs you to respect that boundary Time to warm up - she'll bark when you arrive, then decide if you're cool. Don't rush her. A peaceful neighborhood - she's got opinions about squirrels, birds, and pretty much everything else, and she's LOUD about it (but less so when her leash is on, interestingly) Where Kitten Shines: When her world is calm and predictable, this girl is a gem. She's fantastic on leash walks (no lunging, no drama with other dogs). She loves fetch in the morning. She's totally fine being left alone - no separation anxiety, no destruction. She adores her crate and uses it as her safe space. And with a little CBD to take the edge off her anxiety, she's shown she can really settle in. The Right Human for Kitten:  Experienced with small dogs who come with attitude and anxiety Patient and consistent - she's improved SO much in 10 weeks, but she needs someone who won't give up when she has a bad day Home most of the time to keep her routine solid No young kids - adults or older teens who won't overwhelm her Committed to management - feeding protocols, CBD routine, ongoing structure Willing to work with a dog behaviorist - continued professional support for resource guarding and barking will help her keep progressing Why She's Available: Kitten was adopted to a home in San Francisco and returned after 2 months. City living was all wrong for her - too loud, too chaotic, too much. She needs space, quiet, and someone who understands that challenging dogs aren't broken dogs.  The Bottom Line: If you're looking for an easy dog who's instantly social and goes-with-the-flow, keep scrolling. But if you want a loyal, quirky companion who will reward your patience with fetch sessions and couch snuggles (on her terms), Kitten might just be your perfect match.   She's a work in progress. Are you up for it? February 12, 2026, 1:22 am

These pups are in Santa Cruz, California too!

Below are our newest added Maltese available for adoption in Santa Cruz, California. To see more adoptable Maltese in Santa Cruz, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
We'll also keep you updated on Miss Lola's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Miss Lola

Miss Lola

Bichon Frise

Female, 1 yr 10 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Weight: ~15lbsMeet Miss Lola! This Bichon Frise mix is almost 2 years old and weighs about 15 pounds. She’s a small, adorable girl with a lot of potential, but she does have some behavior challenges and will need special counseling to help her thrive in her new home. With patience, structure, and the right support, she can continue to make great progress.If you’d like to learn more about her and see if you might be a good match, please fill out an adopter`s profile on our website or give our adoptions desk a call. We`re open Tues-Sun 11am-5pm.

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Related breeds in Santa Cruz, California

Maltese shelters & rescues in Santa Cruz, California

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

25.7 miles

Peace of Mind Dog Rescue

PO Box 51554, Pacific Grove, CA 93950

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

31.4 miles

Doggie Protective Services (DPS Rescue)

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

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Shelter

33.4 miles

Monterey County Animal Services

160 Hitchcock Road, Salinas, CA 93908

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

40.4 miles

Furry Friends Rescue

P.O. Box 7270, Fremont, CA 94537

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

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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