Chihuahua and Rat Terrier Dogs Available for Adoption in Friendswood, Texas

The name alone some how captures his essence perfectly … Spike Bentley. Doesn’t it give a sophisticated adventurer vibe? We think so! He is a pint-sized guy but the confidence is impressive. He is confident in new places, meets new people and dogs with the same polite and welcoming approach. He is alert, curious, and has such a bright, bubbly presence. At an estimated 3 years old and 17 lbs, we suspect Spike is a Chihuahua mix but of course, rescue rules apply, so breed and age are our best guess.

Go watch Spike Bentley on YouTube, then come right back to read more about this ears-up sidekick!
https://youtu.be/pdeYKKOemFc

Let’s get this part out of the way because Chihuauas are a house divided on the topic of being carried. Some welcome it (almost expect it) while others would like to pass entirely, very do-it-myself, and Spike is in Camp B. He is not your accessory type of small dog. Spike prefers freedom of movement and likes to stay busy. Being restrained or held still is not his favorite thing and he will absolutely let you know with his full-body protest wiggle that he would prefer to be back on the ground handling his own business. That said, outside of that boundary, he is wonderfully tolerant and easygoing with people.

Spike handled a wide variety of situations like a dog who has seen the world before and knows he likes it just fine. New people? Great. Men? No problem. Kids? Polite and respectful without becoming overexcited or pushy.. New dogs? All are welcome. He moved through every situation with a confident, social ease and recovered immediately from anything unfamiliar. Loud noises, busy environments, obstacles, handling exercises... none of it rattled him much. He spent most of his time trotting around with his head up, chest out, ears perked, and curiosity fully activated.

With other dogs, Spike was social, respectful, and confident without being clingy or overly playful. He greeted appropriately, shared affection and toys well, respected boundaries around treats, and generally seemed happiest giving a quick “hello” before moving on with his own agenda. He does not appear to need another dog in the home and may actually prefer a companion relationship over a full-time wrestling buddy situation. He could likely live happily as a solo dog or alongside another calm, socially appropriate dog who respects personal space.

Spike’s energy level is refreshing and he will thrive with someone who enjoys walks, outings, little adventures, and giving a smart dog things to do. We all loved just how suited his energy was for how solid-tempered and adaptable he is. Apartment life could suit him just fine thanks to his confidence and ability to handle environmental stressors well, as long as his physical and mental energy needs are met.

What really stands out about Spike is how capable he feels. He carries himself like a dog who fully expects to be included in life rather than managed through it. He feels like the perfect match for someone wanting an active little companion to take along for errands, walks, patio hangs, road trips, and daily routines. Think tiny dog with a fully booked social calendar.

Spike is ready and waiting to start living life by your side! Apply today to welcome him home!

https://adopt.animalsfirst.com/animal/62cc8e128b02916730334440/6a0229bae6abb47b04073856

Questions? Email 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 $1200 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.

The Chihuahua is a small breed famous for its confidence, loyalty, and big personality, despite its tiny size. Originating from Mexico, these dogs are known for their large, expressive eyes and alert, curious nature. Chihuahuas make excellent companions, forming strong bonds with their owners and displaying a protective nature. They come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, with both long and short coats, making them a diverse and adorable addition to any family.

The Rat Terrier is a lively and intelligent breed known for its versatility and agility. With a compact and muscular build, these dogs are energetic and make excellent companions for active individuals and families. Rat Terriers are adept at a variety of activities, from hunting to obedience training, thanks to their keen intelligence and eager to please nature. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them low maintenance pets. Overall, the Rat Terrier is a spirited and loyal breed, well suited to various lifestyles.

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