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, April 18th from 12-3 PM 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: $650
Meet the Schoolyard Games Puppies — Recess Is Officially Back in Session
Remember the best part of the school day? The bell ringing, sneakers hitting the blacktop, and a whole crew of friends ready to play? That’s exactly the spirit of the Schoolyard Games puppies, an adorable litter of Dachshund mixes who are turning every day into recess.
These little all-stars were abandoned at a shelter when they were just five weeks old, but thanks to a loving foster home, they’ve been busy learning the basics of puppy life — and perfecting the art of fun. Now at 8–9 weeks old, they’re healthy, happy, and ready to graduate to their forever homes.
A Day in the Life: Recess, Snacks, and Snuggles
The Schoolyard Games crew sleeps together in a cozy puppy pile in their gated-off kitchen — sometimes on a dog bed, sometimes in their crate, always close to one another. They typically wake up by 7:00 AM, as soon as they hear the morning bustle, ready to start the day with wagging tails and wiggly bodies.
After heading outside to potty on the backyard grass (they’re off to a great start with early potty training), the pups enjoy breakfast, a round of foster-parent snuggles, and then a full-on recess session. Think: chasing each other, wrestling matches, toy parades, stick discoveries, and keeping a close eye on the resident cat and dog.
When their people step out, the puppies hang out together in their kitchen “clubhouse,” complete with dog beds, toys, and their all-time favorite chew toy — cardboard boxes. Their foster mom even leaves music playing so the house still feels lively while they nap between play sessions.
Lunch happens around noon, dinner around 5 PM, and evenings are reserved for the best class of the day: Couch Snuggles 101. After a final potty break, they settle in for the night by 10 PM, sleeping soundly until morning.
The Whole Team
All four puppies share some standout traits:
-Good with other dogs and cats
-Very social, gentle, and people-oriented
-Quick to flop over for belly rubs
-Motivated by affection — snuggles are their love language
-Playful, curious, and observant
-Comfortable navigating stairs
-Love stuffy toys and group adventures
-Enthusiastic followers — when one puppy gets excited, everyone joins the fun
They’re a delightful mystery mix — Dachshund is the clear headline act, with long low bodies - but the supporting cast might include poodle, terrier, beagle, or even a sprinkle of Corgi! Whatever the blend, the result is a lively, affectionate group of puppies who thrive on companionship and play.
Hopscotch — “Small but Mighty”
Girl | Yellow Collar | 4.5 lbs
Hopscotch may be the smallest player on the playground, but she brings big energy to every game. She’s adventurous, determined, and often the last one still exploring the yard when recess is over.
She’s got a bold personality packed into a tiny body — the kind of pup who will keep you smiling with her fearless curiosity. The only thing that slows her down? Rain. Wet grass is not her favorite surface, and she would much prefer to wait for sunnier conditions.
If you’re looking for a pint-sized sidekick with a confident spirit, Hop Scotch is ready to lead the charge.
Double Dutch — The Social Butterfly
Girl | Pink Collar | 5.5 lbs
Double Dutch is the ultimate team player — sometimes the leader, sometimes the follower, always part of the fun. She enjoys having a buddy to play with but is also comfortable venturing off on her own when curiosity strikes.
She’s also the classmate most likely to fall asleep first after a busy day of play, curling up wherever she happens to be when the sleepies hit.
With her balanced personality and easygoing nature, Double Dutch would fit beautifully into many different types of homes.
Tetherball — The Confident Observer
Boy | Green Collar | 6 lbs
Tetherball knows exactly what he wants — and most of the time, what he wants is to be picked up first for snuggles. He’s the most assertive of the bunch, but in a charming, confident way.
He especially enjoys hanging out outdoors with his foster dad, quietly supervising gardening projects by sitting nearby and watching. He’s also the puppy most likely to notice what’s happening on TV, observing the action with curiosity.
Independent enough to entertain himself but always ready to join the group, Tetherball brings both confidence and companionship to the team.
4-Square — The Gentle Heart
Boy | Red Collar | 6 lbs
4-Square is the thoughtful one — a sensitive soul who sometimes looks for reassurance before trying something new. He was the last to master the stairs, but once he did, he proudly explored the yard on his own, even when his littermates had already gone inside.
Underneath that cautious start is a true snuggler. He melts into your arms and thrives on affection and reassurance.
If you’re looking for a deeply loving companion who bonds closely with his people, 4-Square is ready to be your most devoted fan.
The Final Bell
The Schoolyard Games puppies are playful, affectionate, and wonderfully social little companions who are ready to bring joy, laughter, and plenty of snuggles into their forever homes. Whether you’re looking for a tiny adventurer, a cuddly companion, or a loyal best friend, there’s a perfect teammate waiting in this lovable lineup.
LUCKY
Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier
🇺🇸
Palo Alto, California
female, small, adult
Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier
Palo Alto, California
