Stellaluna - Chinese Crested Dog and Yorkshire Terrier Dog for Adoption in Palo Alto, California

* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.* This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, November 7th from 12PM – 3PM (unless adopted prior to the event). 3910 Middlefield Road
All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.

Adoption fee: $750
Stellaluna: A Little Moonbeam Looking for Her Person

Stellaluna is a 2–3 year old, 9 lb Chinese Crested mix rescued from the shelter. This little lady has two favorite destinations: her familiar neighborhood sniffing spots and the couch beside someone she loves. With her very low-shedding coat, affectionate heart, and impressive commitment to lounging, she’s ready to bring a little moonlight into the right home.

A Friendship Worth Waiting For

Stellaluna likes to take a little time getting to know her people. When she first arrived in foster care, she was a bit reserved, but with patience and a predictable routine, she began showing her sweeter, snugglier side.

Once you’re in her circle, you’ll have a devoted little companion who enjoys following you around the house, sitting beside you, and accepting invitations to cuddle. Watching her grow comfortable enough to seek out affection has been one of the most rewarding parts of fostering her.

Professional Lounger, Dedicated Sniff Inspector

Indoors, Stellaluna is a calm companion who doesn’t need a constant entertainment committee. She’s happy to snooze, supervise from the couch, and make room in her busy resting schedule for attention.

Mention a walk, however, and she’s ready to clock in. She loves exploring and has very specific sniffing stops along her usual routes. Yes, she checked that spot yesterday. No, that does not mean today’s inspection can be skipped.

Her Daily Orbit

Stellaluna currently starts her day around 6:30–6:45 a.m. with a walk, followed by breakfast and a morning nap. Afternoon and early evening walks break up her lounging, with dinner around 6 p.m. and a final potty outing around 8 p.m.

She sleeps on the living room couch. A crate proved distressing for her, so her fosters use gates or an x-pen to create a comfortable living room area with couch access when they’re away. She is still working on housetraining and will need regular bathroom breaks and a consistent routine.

Helping Her Confidence Grow

Stellaluna has made progress with settling when left alone. Initially, she cried or barked and waited near the door; she now more often settles on the couch. Her adopters should be prepared to continue building her comfort with gradual, positive practice.

Outside, other dogs can feel overwhelming, and she may show some reactivity. Quieter walking routes, plenty of distance, and patient reward-based training will help her work on this. Off-leash she has done well with other dogs, and even met a cat and was neutral about her.

Her Ideal Landing Spot

Stellaluna would thrive in a calm, predictable household with patient adopters who appreciate a tenderhearted little dog. For someone who enjoys daily walks, cozy evenings, and the quiet joy of earning a shy dog’s trust, Stellaluna has so much to offer. Give her time to find her footing, and this little moonbeam may soon have a favorite place in the universe: right beside you.

The Chinese Crested dog is a unique and charming breed known for its distinctive appearance, with one variation being hairless and the other covered in a soft, silky coat known as the 'powderpuff.' This breed is affectionate, playful, and makes for a great companion due to its loyalty and adaptability to various living environments. Chinese Crested dogs require special care to protect their delicate skin, and their small size makes them a suitable choice for apartment living.

The Yorkshire Terrier, also known as Yorkie, is a small and glamorous toy dog breed known for its long, flowing coat and spirited personality. Originating from England, these affectionate and intelligent dogs make wonderful companions for individuals and families alike. With a weight of around 7 pounds, Yorkies are portable and adaptable, thriving in both city apartments and rural settings. Despite their small size, they possess a bold and confident nature, always ready for fun and adventure.

We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that was incorporated in 2001. We rescue, rehabilitate and rehome dogs, cats and even...