Maltese and Poodle Dogs Available for Adoption in Palo Alto, California

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: $800
Meet Pavlova: A Tender-Hearted Little Companion Ready to Bloom in the Right Home

Pavlova is a 1–2 year old Maltipoo with a non-shedding coat who came to us from a hoarding situation alongside five of her doggy friends. Despite her challenging start, this petite girl has shown just how resilient and loving she can be. With patience, kindness, and a predictable routine, Pavlova has blossomed into a loyal, affectionate companion who forms deep bonds with her people and finds joy in the simple comforts of home.

Daily Routine & Household Habits

Pavlova thrives on routine and has settled beautifully into her foster home schedule. She is now crate-trained and sleeps quietly through the night, waking when the household begins to stir—around 7:00 AM on weekdays and 8:00–9:00 AM on weekends.

Her day typically looks like this:

-Morning wake-up followed by a backyard potty break and breakfast
-Alternating playtime and cozy naps throughout the day
Plenty of backyard potty opportunities
-An afternoon walk around 5:00–6:00 PM
-Dinner around 6:00 PM, followed by family time on the couch
-One last potty break before settling into her crate for the night

Pavlova walks wonderfully on leash and enjoys her outings, strolling politely right beside her person. Occasionally she may be hesitant to step outside at first, but once she’s out there, she happily gets moving and does great.

Personality: Loyal, Sensitive, and Deeply Devoted

When Pavlova first arrived, she was understandably shy and unsure of the world around her. Rather than rushing her, her foster family allowed her to explore at her own pace—and within just a few days, her true personality began to shine.

Today, Pavlova is a loyal, affectionate little shadow who loves to be near her favorite person. She enjoys:

-Following her person from room to room
-Chewing on her favorite toys and bones
-Running and playing with other dogs
-Receiving gentle ear scratches and belly rubs
-Curling up nearby to relax after playtime or walks

She has a medium energy level—playful and engaged when it’s time for fun, but equally content to lounge on the couch and soak up companionship.

Pavlova is also a quiet observer by nature. She has excellent hearing and will bark to alert when someone approaches the home, but otherwise she is generally calm and not overly vocal.

Social Skills & Interactions

Pavlova does well with other dogs, particularly those who are respectful and allow her space to settle in. In her foster home, she now happily plays chase and tug-of-war with canine companions after taking a little time to get comfortable.

When meeting new dogs or entering a new environment, she may initially appear cautious or tense. With patient introductions—especially on neutral territory—she quickly learns that she is safe and begins to relax and engage.

She bonds closely with her people and shows a gentle preference for women, though she can warm up to anyone who approaches her calmly and respectfully.

Because she startles easily and needs time to build trust, a home without young children will be the best fit for her comfort and confidence.

Training & Manners

Pavlova has developed lovely household manners and continues to gain confidence every day.

Highlights include:

-Crate-trained and sleeps quietly through the night
-Progressing nicely with housetraining
-Walks beautifully on leash with no pulling
-Does not chase squirrels or bark at other dogs on walks
-Enjoys chew toys and keeps herself appropriately occupied
-Alerts to unfamiliar sounds but settles quickly

She simply needs consistency, reassurance, and time to feel secure in new situations.

Why We Love Pavlova

There is something incredibly special about the way Pavlova greets her person. Each morning—and every time her favorite human returns home—she lights up with pure happiness and affection. Her joy is genuine, heartfelt, and impossible not to feel.

She is a gentle soul who has already come so far, and with the right home, she will continue to grow into an extraordinary companion.

Pavlova isn’t just looking for a home—she’s looking for her person.

The Maltese is a small toy breed known for its glamorous white coat, which is long, silky, and virtually hypoallergenic. They are gentle, affectionate companion dogs that thrive on human companionship and make wonderful family pets. Maltese dogs are playful, intelligent, and alert, with a confident demeanor despite their small size. They require regular grooming to maintain their luxurious coat and are suitable for apartment living due to their size and adaptability.

The Poodle is a highly intelligent and elegant dog breed known for its distinctive curly coat and graceful appearance. Originally bred as water retrievers, Poodles come in three size varieties Standard, Miniature, and Toy each with their unique characteristics but sharing the breed's alert and friendly nature. Renowned for their hypoallergenic qualities and keen sense of humor, Poodles excel in various dog sports and activities, making them versatile companions suitable for different lifestyles and living situations.

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