* Interested in adopting? Please read the dog’s full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an application at www.dpsrescue.org.
All DPS Rescue dogs are spayed/neutered, up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations, dewormed, flea/tick treated, and microchipped prior to adoption.Adoption fee: $800
Merriweather: Tiny Princess, Brave little Explorer
Merriweather may only weigh 7.7 pounds, but somehow she looks even smaller in person — like a tiny storybook dog who accidentally wandered into real life. This adorable 5–6 month old Yorkie mix was rescued alongside her sisters, Flora and Fauna, after the trio was found abandoned and brought to a shelter. Thankfully, DPS stepped in and gave these girls the fresh start they deserved.
With her soft non-shedding coat, Merry may also be a good option for families with allergies. But what really makes her special is watching her slowly discover how wonderful life can be.
When Merriweather first arrived in foster care, she was completely shut down. She was quiet, cautious, and unsure of the world around her.
And then, little by little, the real Merri started to appear.
Now? She steals slippers. She climbs onto the couch. She plays fetch like a tiny professional athlete. She zooms after plush toys and proudly brings them back so the game can continue. She showers her foster mom with kisses every morning and curls herself up beside her on the sofa like she’s always belonged there.
Watching her confidence bloom has been pure magic.
Daily Life with Merriweather
Merri starts her mornings around 6:30am with a walk, followed by breakfast. She’s not hugely food motivated yet, though she appreciates a tasty topper and definitely keeps an eye out for people food opportunities whenever possible.
During the day, she loves being involved in whatever her person is doing. She’ll quietly follow along from room to room, observing new experiences with a cautious but curious little face. She isn’t overly clingy, but she genuinely likes being near her people and thrives on companionship.
While her foster is at work, Merriweather stays in a large crate for 6–8 hours and has adjusted impressively well to the routine. The first few days were hard for her, but she’s grown more comfortable and settled with consistency and patience.
At home, her day alternates between cozy naps and playful bursts of energy. She especially loves interactive play and would happily play fetch over and over if given the chance. It’s impossibly cute watching such a tiny dog proudly trot back with a toy in her mouth.
At night, she sleeps curled up on the bed and snoozes peacefully through the night without bathroom issues.
Personality
Merriweather is a sweet, sensitive little soul who is still learning that the world is safe. New people, loud sounds, unfamiliar dogs, and busy environments can still make her nervous, but every single day she grows a little braver.
At home, where she feels secure, her personality truly shines. She’s affectionate, playful, silly, and incredibly loving. She adores snuggling and will absolutely cover your face in kisses if you let her.
She also has a wonderfully balanced personality. She likes being close to her person and will happily follow you around the house, but she’s not demanding constant attention every second of the day. She’s equally happy lounging nearby, entertaining herself with toys for a bit, or curling up next to you for cuddles.
Walking and Training
Leash walking was clearly brand new to Merri when she arrived, but she has already made huge progress. She now walks multiple times a day and has gone from timidly trailing behind to confidently exploring ahead.
She still startles at loud noises and may weave a bit on walks, but she genuinely enjoys being outside and sniffing all the interesting smells along the way. She hasn’t shown much interest in squirrels or birds yet — the smells are far more exciting.
Merriweather is also doing wonderfully with housetraining. While she wasn’t fully trained when she first arrived, she now clearly understands that pottying happens outside and has done very well with routine and consistency. She also holds her bladder throughout the workday while crated, even with potty pads available.
She’s crate trained, uses dog stairs to climb onto the bed, and continues to impress everyone with how quickly she learns new routines.
Social Life
Merri has been politely indifferent toward most dogs she’s met off leash, generally preferring to quietly observe rather than jump into play. On leash, though, she can sometimes bark when she sees dogs from a distance or can’t approach them.
Because she’s still building confidence, her ideal home should understand that she may need time and patience when adjusting to new people and environments. She hasn’t met children yet, but based on her personality, a calmer home with respectful older kids would likely suit her best.
The Little Things That Make Her Special
There’s something incredibly touching about Merriweather’s journey. In less than a week, this timid little shelter puppy transformed into a playful, affectionate companion who now feels safe enough to play fetch, demand cuddles, and confidently steal slippers around the house.
Her foster’s favorite moment? Waking up in the morning to Merri gently licking her face hello.
Tiny, scruffy, sensitive, playful, cuddly — Merriweather is the kind of dog who sneaks into your heart slowly and then stays there forever.
MANSION
Tibetan Spaniel
🇺🇸
Palo Alto, California
male, small, young
Tibetan Spaniel
Palo Alto, California
