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
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.Adoption fee: $750 Meet Crouton Crouton is a 10–12 month old Shih Tzu mix weighing about 10 pounds who has already overcome more than most dogs his age ever should. He was rescued from a local shelter after being dumped in heartbreaking condition— half bald, underweight, and clearly neglected. Thanks to excellent veterinary care, medicated baths, a nutritious diet, and a whole lot of love from his fosters, Crouton has made remarkable progress. He’s now healthy, growing a beautiful (non-shedding) coat, and feeling good both physically and emotionally. This little guy is ready to find a forever home that will continue helping him thrive. Crouton has been fostered in two different homes, giving us a well-rounded picture of who he is and what he needs. Daily Routine & Home Life Crouton is a dog who truly appreciates a routine. He typically wakes up around 7:00 a.m. (sometimes a bit later on cold mornings) and heads outside right away to take care of business. Once back inside, he enjoys a brief snooze on a comfy couch while the household wakes up. Breakfast is usually served before 9:00 a.m., and he loves his meals— especially when wet food is mixed with his kibble. Mornings often include playtime in the yard with his foster dog siblings, where he loves to chase, run, and romp. Walks are a highlight of his day. Crouton adores going out into the neighborhood, taking in all the smells, and exploring the world around him. During the day, Crouton is content relaxing either on the couch or in his pen. He’s happy anywhere warm and comfortable, especially if people or dogs are nearby. Dinner is served before 7:00 p.m., and by around 8:00–9:00 p.m., Crouton willingly heads to his pen, curls up in his bed, and settles in for the night. He sleeps soundly through the night and even enjoys having calming puppy music playing. On colder nights, he loves to burrow under blankets and snuggle in close. Personality Crouton is playful, brave, curious, and full of spunk. He loves following his humans from room to room and adores his dog siblings even more. He is affectionate, enjoys snuggling close, and is known for his adorable little snores when he sleeps. Crouton is highly social with dogs and learns quickly by watching them. He learned to use a doggy door and improved his potty habits by copying his foster siblings. While he was initially anxious about being left alone, he has grown much more confident and can now relax calmly, especially if other dogs are around. Dogs, People & Kids Crouton absolutely loves other dogs and thrives in a home with canine companions. He enjoys engaging them in play, giving kisses, and following their lead. He has also learned important lessons about boundaries, understanding that not every dog wants to play all the time. With new people entering the home, Crouton can be barky and cautious at first. Giving him space and ignoring him initially helps him settle, after which he becomes friendly and curious. Crouton finds younger kids and their energy to be overwhelming and would do best in a home with no young ones. However, he has done well with older children and teenagers (generally ages 11-12 and up) who can respect his space and understand dog body language. Energy Level & Play Style Crouton is playful and energetic, especially when interacting with other dogs. He loves toys— particularly squeaky and rolling ones— and enjoys playing fetch with both dogs and humans. He also loves chewing appropriate items like bones and toys. After a good play session, he’s happy to lounge and relax. On the Leash Crouton loves going on walks and enjoys walking with his dog siblings. He can be somewhat reactive on leash, particularly around larger dogs, where he may feel insecure and bark. With small to medium-sized dogs, he is more confident and comfortable. Housetraining & Manners Crouton is on his way to being potty trained. He understands going outside and often does so, but he may still use pee pads at times and may occasionally have accidents. He chews appropriate items and does not dig. He does bark when the front door opens, new people arrive, or when he’s copying the behavior of other dogs in the home. Why Crouton? Crouton is intelligent, expressive, and full of personality. He’s quick, agile, and famously clever. He does a hilarious little dance to initiate play, makes a unique sound that’s part bird, part fox, part hyena when he wants something, and even balances along the back of the sofa like a tiny acrobat. He is easy to love and loves deeply in return. With patience, guidance, and the right environment, Crouton has all the potential to become an incredible companion. He’s already come so far— now he just needs a forever home willing to walk the rest of the journey with him.January 22, 2026, 7:59 pm
