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: $650
Meet Imp: The Tiny Love Bug Learning to Be Brave
At 7–8 months old and weighing a whopping five pounds, Imp is a Papillon mix who was surrendered to a shelter alongside his friends (and possibly siblings) Pixie, Puck, and Tinker. Impy, as he's affectionately called, is already winning hearts everywhere he goes. He is quite literally the cutest thing on four legs— a tiny, gentle soul with a soft spirit and a growing sense of confidence. Simply put, he’s a winner.
Daily Routine
Impy starts his day around 6:30 a.m. with a walk outside, where he eagerly sniffs the world and takes in all the new sights and smells. When he returns home, it’s breakfast time— something he’s learning to appreciate more each day, especially when his kibble comes with a tasty topper.
During the day, Imp loves to tag along and be part of whatever you’re doing, approaching new experiences with a cautious but curious attitude. When his foster is at work, he relaxes in a large crate for 6–8 hours and does beautifully, resting quietly and holding his potty even with pads available.
At home, he splits his time between lounging and playtime. Play has been one of the most heartwarming developments in his journey. When he first arrived, he didn’t seem to know what toys were— or even what grass was. Now, his living room is dotted with plush toys, and he’ll happily chase a ball down the hallway or proudly “rearrange” slippers. He even had his very first zoomies recently— a milestone that made everyone smile.
At night, Imp sleeps curled up on his foster’s bed and snoozes peacefully through the night.
Personality
When Impy first arrived, he was shy- he had likely never been on a leash before and seemed startled by everyday sounds. But day by day, his personality has begun to blossom.
Around day six, he bravely moved a slipper. By day eight, he was playing with toys. By day ten, he surprised everyone by jumping onto the sofa for the first time. And shortly after, he completed a full 20-minute walk without needing to be carried. Each small victory shows just how resilient and determined this little guy is.
Impy is deeply affectionate in his own gentle way. He loves being picked up and will happily give sweet kisses to hands and faces. While he may not sprawl dramatically in your lap, he enjoys staying close— lounging nearby and following you from room to room to keep you company. He’s not overly demanding, but he does like to be part of the action.
One of the sweetest moments of the day is in the morning, when Imp slowly crawls up to say good morning with a soft, gentle hello. It perfectly captures his loving nature.
Social Life: Dogs, Cats, and Kids
Impy has done well with other dogs and seems to enjoy their company. Even big dogs don’t intimidate him, though he may politely warn off overly energetic puppies if they get too much in his face.
He has been cat-tested and passed with flying colors.
With children, Imp has been gentle and tolerant when properly introduced. He has happily accepted attention from school-age kids, though he may be unsure at first around very young children simply because he’s still learning about the world. With patience and kind introductions, he should do just fine.
Energy Level
For a young dog, Imp is surprisingly chill and easygoing. He enjoys playful bursts of energy— chasing toys, exploring, and occasionally showing off a zoomie— but he’s just as happy to relax and lounge nearby. He loves being picked up, enjoys belly rubs when he’s feeling comfortable, and naturally settles in for naps throughout the day.
Training & Manners
Impy is crate trained and does very well when left alone during the workday. He sleeps through the night without issue and has made excellent progress with housetraining. While he’s not quite 100% reliable yet, he clearly understands to potty outside and has gone several days without accidents. With continued consistency, he’s well on his way.
Walking on leash was completely new to him at first, but he has made remarkable progress. He now enjoys his walks, stays close, and loves to stop and smell everything along the way. New sounds can still startle him, but his confidence is growing every single day.
He is not much of a barker and is generally quiet, preferring to observe rather than react.
Because he’s so tiny, it’s especially important that his family support his independence and confidence rather than simply carrying him everywhere. With gentle guidance, he will continue to blossom into a brave, happy companion.
Why You’ll Love Imp
This little dog has clearly been through a lot, yet he remains incredibly gentle, loving, and eager to bond. Watching him discover toys, learn to trust, and grow more confident each day is truly special. He has a quiet bravery about him that makes people root for him instantly.
And then there’s his sense of humor. Imp is endlessly fascinated by his own reflection— whether in mirrors, windows, the fireplace, or the elevator doors in his building. He’ll paw and play-bow at the “other dog,” convinced he’s found a new friend. It’s impossible not to laugh.
Impy is the kind of dog who sneaks into your heart— softly, sweetly, and forever.
INSPECTOR GADGET
Tibetan Terrier, Havanese
🇺🇸
Palo Alto, California
male, small, baby
Tibetan Terrier, Havanese
Palo Alto, California
