You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.
Nico is pure love wrapped up in a sweet little package. He truly just wants to be your friend and be part of whatever you’re doing. Friendly with everyone he meets — kids, adults, dogs (big and small), and even cats — Nico is an easygoing companion who fits in just about anywhere.
He has a nice balance of energy, enjoying bursts of playtime followed by plenty of downtime for cuddles and lap time. Nico loves toys, is affectionate, and is happiest when he’s close to his people. He’s crate trained and does well settling when it’s time to relax, making him an easy dog to have around the home.
Nico came into rescue from an overcrowding situation through an owner surrender. Like many small dogs, he may need continued consistency with potty training, but he’s eager to please and responds well to routine and patience. He’s mostly quiet and easygoing, making him a great match for families or individuals looking for a loving, social dog.
While Nico would likely enjoy having another dog friend, he doesn’t require one and would be just as happy soaking up attention as a solo pup. He’s adaptable, affectionate, and full of heart — the kind of dog who just wants to belong.
If you’re looking for a friendly, cuddly companion who wants nothing more than to love and be loved, Nico could be your perfect match.
Nico is from Texas. They arrive in Minnesota on 02/07/2026 and will need to be picked up from the Ruff Start Rescue office in Princeton, MN between the hours of 8:30 and noon. Please plan for their arrival accordingly as we cannot accommodate pickups outside of this time frame. Since they haven’t arrived yet, they are available exclusively through Ruff Start’s Foster to Adopt (FTA) Program. Click here to learn more about the FTA program. Once they get to Minnesota, they might require further veterinary care. Ruff Start’s veterinary suite is located in Princeton, MN, and, as the foster, you will be required to transport your dog to and from these vetting appointments.
If you are interested in getting to know this animal better, please fill out an adoption application. An adoption application is the best way to show your interest in an animal and is not a binding contract.
To learn more about Ruff Start’s adoption process and the care our foster animals receive, please visit our How to Adopt page.
*Rescue puppies are notorious for losing their birth certificates before entering our rescue. We cannot guarantee the breed or size they will be full grown.*
If you are unable to adopt but want to help this animal and others in our care, you can donate to support the medical and veterinary needs of all Ruff Start Rescue animals.
ABOUT: POODLE DOG BREED
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.
The schnauzer is a versatile and intelligent dog breed known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows. They come in three sizes - miniature, standard, and giant - each with their own unique personalities and characteristics. Schnauzers are loyal, playful, and make excellent family pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their wiry coat and love to be included in activities with their human companions. With proper training and socialization, schnauzers can thrive in various roles, from loving companion to skilled working dog.
