Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids,
Good with dogs,
Good with cats,
House-trained,
Story
Ruger has the kind of personality that sneaks up on you. At first, he's happy to sit back, take everything in, and decide the world isn't quite as scary as it first seemed. Then, almost before you realize it, he's walking beside you on a neighborhood stroll, happily accepting treats, and leaning in for affection like you've known each other forever. Watching his confidence grow is one of the sweetest things about him!
You can watch Ruger at the link here, then come right back to read more!
You'll see him enjoying a walk, politely meeting one of our cat testers, and showing just how gentle and thoughtful he is when introduced to new experiences. It's a wonderful glimpse into the calm, affectionate companion waiting to meet his family.
Estimated to have been born around July 13, 2023, Ruger is just over 3 years old, weighs approximately 9 lbs, and appears to be a Rat Terrier and Chihuahua mix, though as with all rescue dogs, his breed and age are simply our best educated guess. He's scheduled to be neutered on August 8th before heading off to his adoptive home!
Ruger is currently fostered in a lively household with three young children—ages 6, 3, and 1—as well as several other dogs, giving him lots of opportunities to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday family life. He's proven to be a wonderful little housemate and has settled into home life beautifully. He's fully potty trained and has no trouble having his collar or leash put on before heading out for one of his favorite activities, a nice walk.
Once outside, Ruger is in his element. He walks beautifully on leash and genuinely seems to enjoy exploring the world one sniff at a time. He's happy to accept treats along the way, making walks and continued training both enjoyable and rewarding.
Although he may take a few moments to warm up to new people, Ruger doesn't stay reserved for long. Once he realizes you're a friend, his affectionate personality starts to shine. He has a gentle nature that makes spending time with him feel easy, whether you're out exploring together or simply relaxing at home.
Ruger also had the opportunity to meet one of our calm, dog-friendly cat testers. He approached the introduction with curiosity, offered a few polite sniffs, and showed no signs of aggression. Based on that interaction, we think he could do well in a home with a mellow, cat-savvy feline after slow introductions.
One area Ruger is still working on is feeling comfortable in a kennel. Right now, being confined isn't his favorite thing, and he'll let you know he'd rather be out with his people. With consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement, we think he'll continue building confidence as he settles into a routine.
Ruger would love a family that appreciates the quieter moments just as much as the adventurous ones. Someone who understands that not every dog rushes into new situations, but that the friendships built slowly are often the strongest.
He's already shown that he can adapt to a busy household with children, enjoys getting out for walks, and has the gentle, affectionate personality that makes a small dog such a wonderful companion!
If Ruger sounds like he'd fit into your family, we'd love for you to meet him! Please complete an adoption application using the link down below and contact the adoption coordinator with any questions!
Apply here:
https://adopt.animalsfirst.com/animal/62cc8e128b02916730334440/6a553784b111c3b9d80b5df6
Questions? kristin@threelittlepittiesrescue.org
We facilitate adoptions nationwide using our rescue run USDA certified transport system, ensuring every pet travels safely and comfortably with 24/7 care. Our transport includes drop off locations, in WA, UT, OR, ID, VA, PA, OH, NY, CT, VT, TN, KY, WI, MN, IL, WI and Canada (pick up in Bellingham, WA, Buffalo, NY or Brattleboro, VT for for Canadian adopters). You will have the opportunity to track their journey in real time, see photo updates, learn fun facts, connect with fellow adopters and fosters through our private Facebook event page!
Before the adoption is finalized, you will meet your pet through a video call, creating a fun and personalized experience!
The adoption fee is $1,000 and includes all vetting (DAPP with booster, Bordetella, Rabies vaccine, multiple broad spectrum deworming treatments, spay/neuter, flea prevention, a 12 month heartworm preventative injectable, heartworm test and treatment if needed, a microchip with free lifetime registration, a high quality nylon Martingale collar, a health certificate deeming the pup healthy for travel, cost of transport*, and priceless years of love and loyal companionship!
We proudly have over 17,000 successful adoptions and excellent Google Reviews:
https://g.co/kgs/UQ5Pyai We care deeply about creating lasting matches between dog and family for long term success, and take the time to ensure each adoption is a fit through our matchmaking process.
At our 2 acre Texas based property, we assess every animal with trainers on staff, we modify behavior as needed, and create individualized behavior plans to help prepare dogs for their future families including crate training, potty training, leash walking, etc. Our fosters are able to attend group training and socialization play groups helping them stay confident, well rounded, and adoption-ready. Our on-site trainers are dedicated to each dog’s growth and we enjoy seeing their progress!
We go above and beyond to ensure every animal receives exceptional care. Veterinarians consistently praise our medical standards. From routine care to advanced treatments, each dog receives personalized attention. Hard costs for a healthy dog range from $804-$920; heartworm-positive dogs or those needing specialized care can exceed $2,000+. Adoption fees help cover a portion of these expenses, but without government funding, we rely on fundraising to bridge the gap—ranging from $100–$1,000+ per dog.
Our adoption fees reflect the extensive care and resources that go into each animal we save. The adoption fee is a donation to the mission and goes far beyond getting a fully vetted pet.
It doesn’t stop there! Our adopters also receive these SPECIAL PERKS:
-Extensive behavioral testing and information from trainers on our staff to ensure the perfect fit for your family
-Discounts on Embark DNA test kit- $30 off of Breed ID test or $50 off of Breed ID plus Health test
-30 day trial of pet insurance with Trupanion
-A free private online dog training session with GoodPup, plus low pricing for future sessions
-Access to multiple dog trainers in your area, along with $40 off of your first session of in person dog training through Rover Training
-70% off of your first order of Fetch, a delicious PNW based fresh dog meatballs subscription
-Coupons for a fun visit to Petco
-20% off of Dr. Cuddles pet first aid and hygiene solutions
-Discounted heartworm, flea prevention, and monthly dewormer
-Access to our exclusive FB Adopters page, where you can network for play dates, resources, and connect with other adopters that share their passion for their adopted pup!
The Greater Houston area faces one of the highest stray and overpopulation rates in the U.S. We’re a nonprofit on a mission—to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs at risk, while promoting spay/neuter outreach in the community. When you adopt, you save more than one life— the one you adopted, and the space opened up to save another.
Follow our journey and stay connected!
🌐 threelittlepittiesrescue.org
📘 facebook.com/threelittlepittiesrescue
📸 instagram.com/threelittlepittiesrescue
Ready to welcome a new furry friend into your life? APPLY TODAY and become a hero for pets in need!
*Due to rising transportation costs, a $87 surcharge applies.
DISCLAIMER- Breed type is determined based on general appearance and behavioral characteristics, and cannot be guaranteed without DNA testing.
NOTE- Texas adopters must pick up from the Houston area.