Maltese Dogs Available for Adoption

PLEASE READ THE INFORMATION IN THE DOG'S PROFILE, AS WELL AS THE INFORMATION ON OUR WEBSITE BEFORE EMAILING US WITH QUESTIONS. Our Volunteers use up valuable time answering questions, when the answers are readily available on our website. Our adoptions come with 30 days of free post-adoption support through Petcademy.org.

We are a foster-based rescue. We do not have a facility. MEET & GREETS FOR DOGS IN ONTARIO WILL ONLY BE ARRANGED ONCE AN ADOPTION APPLICATION IS APPROVED. THANK YOU!!!
Please visit our website for more information: https://www.niagaradogrescue.com/ or fill in our adoption application: https://niagaradogrescue.com/adoption-application.php

OUT-OF-TOWN Dogs with NDR refer to dogs we have saved that have yet to make their journey to Ontario. These dogs are currently in our care with the help of our partners in the area. These dogs will all travel to the Niagara Region once an appropriate adopter or local foster is found.

This dog is currently located in: Texas

Axel Rose (20260227-04)
Weight: 13 lbs
Age: 2 years (Est. DOB: 1/31/2024)
Gender: Male
Spayed/Neutered: Yes

Medical Notes: Axel previously had a scratch on his right eye that has fully healed. It may occasionally appear slightly cloudy but does not affect his vision. In April 2026, Axel unfortunately sustained an injury that required removal of his left eye. He is recovering well and is adapting beautifully. Dogs adjust remarkably well

Breed: Maltese mix
Colour: White

Neck size (for collar):
Chest circumference (for harness):
Height (from top of head):
Length (from nose to base of tail):
Crate size recommended: Small

Good with adults: Yes
Good with kids: Older, respectful children
Good with other dogs: Yes
Good with cats: Yes
House trained: For the most part
Crate trained: Yes
Energy level: Medium; sweet and playful
Can be handled/touched: Yes; will paw at you seeking affection
Barker: No; but will alert
Flight risk: No
Food aggressive: No
Current food: Dry dog kibble (not picky)
Walks on leash: Yes
Leash reactive to people or dogs: No
Rides well in car: Yes
Destructive: No
Needs a home with a yard: No, though he enjoys romping around
Needs a home with another dog: No
Can live in an apartment: No

Foster Insights / Backstory:

Axel Rose’s past tells a story his little body once carried. He was found as a stray in heartbreaking condition, clearly having lived a very rough life before rescue. Despite whatever he endured, his spirit is unbelievably gentle and trusting. That alone says everything about his heart.

When Axel first arrived, he already had an old scratch on his right eye that had healed long ago. It sometimes appears cloudy, but it has never slowed him down or affected his ability to see the world — especially when it comes to spotting someone ready to give him love.

Recently, Axel experienced another very unfortunate setback when he sustained an injury that resulted in the removal of his left eye. While it was a difficult moment for this little guy, Axel has shown incredible resilience. He has recovered beautifully and continues to live life with the same joyful spirit he always has.

Living with one eye hasn’t slowed Axel down one bit — he runs, plays, explores, and soaks up affection just like any other happy little dog.

In his foster home, Axel has blossomed into the sweetest companion. He adores affection and will gently paw at you just to remind you he’s there and ready for cuddles. He happily plays with the resident dachshund, coexists peacefully with the cat, and moves around the house with confidence.

One of Axel’s most endearing habits is gently sucking on his stuffed animals when he relaxes — almost like a little comfort ritual — giving a glimpse into the life he once lived and the safety he now feels.

He’s smart, responsive, and understands everyday routines. Axel has free range of the house, rides beautifully in the car, walks nicely on leash, and settles easily.

Axel isn’t just a good dog — he’s a grateful one. You can see it in the way he looks at you, leaning in for affection and trusting that love is here to stay.

This tiny 13-pound survivor has endured more than most dogs ever should, yet his heart remains wide open. Now Axel deserves a forever family who will see past his scars and recognize the incredibly loving little soul behind them — a dog who will spend the rest of his life returning that love

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.

Niagara Dog Rescue is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to helping homeless and unwanted dogs find a new home. We focus...