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: $800
Meet Zinnia: The Velcro Cuddlebug with a Heart Full of Love
Zinnia is a 5 month old Maltipoo weighing about 10 pounds, with a soft, non-shedding coat and an even softer personality. She came to the rescue alongside Dahlia, who may have been her mom, though their exact relationship is a mystery. What’s no mystery is how quickly Zinnia wins people over— she is sweet, affectionate, and absolutely devoted to her humans. With her gentle nature and joyful greetings, she has an “old soul” vibe wrapped up in a playful puppy package.
Daily Routine
Zinnia starts her day bright and early at 6:00 a.m. with the rest of the household. She heads out for a short morning walk, followed by breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. During the week, she enjoys a second walk before her foster family heads out to work or school, and then she relaxes comfortably in her x-pen.
Around noon, a family member returns home to take her out again, and she happily spends the afternoon keeping them company until her foster mom comes home— one of her very favorite moments of the day! Zinnia greets her people with pure excitement, bouncing up on her hind legs, prancing, and gently placing her paws on them as if to say, “You’re back! I missed you!”
After dinner around 6:00 p.m., she enjoys one last evening walk at about 8:00 p.m. before curling up in bed with her foster mom for a cozy night’s sleep. Throughout the day, she’s given plenty of potty breaks, which has helped her settle nicely into a routine.
Personality
Zinnia is the definition of a Velcro dog. From the moment she arrived, she made it clear that her favorite place is right next to her people. She loves to follow her humans from room to room, keeping them in sight and staying connected to the action. She has never shown any shyness—just pure enthusiasm for being part of the family.
She is an enthusiastic greeter and a champion cuddler. Whether it’s curling up on the couch for TV time or simply lounging nearby, Zinnia thrives on companionship.
There’s a sweetness and calmness about her that makes her feel wise beyond her months— an “old soul” who just wants to love and be loved.
Social Life: Dogs, Cats, and Kids
Zinnia has shown that she enjoys the company of other dogs, especially playful ones. She has formed a lovely friendship with a neighbor’s puppy, and the two enjoy frolicking together whenever they meet.
She has also met young children in her neighborhood—including kids under five—a nd absolutely adores them. She is patient, gentle, and eager to say hello, even with children who are new to dogs. One neighbor’s three-year-old had never interacted with a dog before, and Zinnia handled the introduction beautifully.
With cats, she is still figuring things out. She was initially unsure and a bit nervous, and more recently has barked when she senses them nearby. However, she can remain calm when properly introduced and supported. With time, guidance, and continued positive experiences, she has the potential to coexist peacefully.
Energy Level
Zinnia strikes a wonderful balance between playful and relaxed. She has bursts of puppy energy— especially after walks or when her people come home— but she is equally happy to lounge on the couch or relax in her bed. She enjoys both short strolls and longer outings, making her adaptable to many lifestyles.
Her favorite sprint of the day is the final stretch toward home on walks—once she recognizes the route, she’s ready to pick up the pace with excitement!
Training & Manners
Zinnia loves going on walks and is learning good leash manners. She may pull a bit at times, but she responds well to gentle corrections and follows her handler’s lead. She occasionally barks at other dogs from a distance, usually out of excitement or uncertainty, but settles quickly with reassurance.
She has made nice progress with housetraining once placed on a consistent schedule, and accidents have become less frequent. She is comfortable relaxing in her x-pen during the day and settles nicely when her family is busy.
She is generally quiet in the home, though she may bark when someone approaches the porch or occasionally at unfamiliar sounds.
Why You’ll Love Zinnia
Zinnia has a rare gift for making people feel special. She greets her humans with joyful enthusiasm, offers endless snuggles, and stays close as if she never wants to miss a moment together. She’s gentle, affectionate, and wonderfully people-oriented— yet still playful and fun in that delightful puppy way.
One of the most charming things about Zinnia is her signature greeting: she pops up onto her hind legs, prances with excitement, and gently places her paws on you, as if giving the sweetest little hug. It’s impossible not to smile.
If you’re looking for a loving companion who will be your shadow, your snuggle buddy, and your daily dose of joy, Zinnia just might be your perfect match.
POPCORN: CARAMEL
Havanese
🇺🇸
Palo Alto, California
male, small, baby
Havanese
Palo Alto, California
