This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 21st from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, please submit an application in advance at https://www.dpsrescue.com/adopt/dog-application. Adoption fee: $750 Meet Gnome! Gnome is a 5-6 year old Maltese mix with …
This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 21st from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, please submit an application in advance at
https://www.dpsrescue.com/adopt/dog-application.<br>Adoption fee: $750
Meet Gnome!
Gnome is a 5-6 year old Maltese mix with a non-shedding coat who weighs a dainty 6 pounds- and somehow manages to pack a truly wonderful personality into that tiny frame. He was rescued as a stray from a shelter and charmed everyone immediately with his calm, affectionate nature. When he arrived at DPS, his teeth were in rough shape, so he received a much-needed dental and is now feeling great and thriving. He's healthy, comfortable, and very ready to enjoy the good life.
Daily Life & Routine
Gnome starts his mornings around 7 a.m. with a potty break, then takes a thoughtful approach to breakfast-sometimes he's eager to eat, and other days he decides a little more sleep is the better option. He's an elite-level napper and a fantastic companion during the day, quietly hanging out in the same room as his person or curled up beside them soaking up pets and belly rubs.
Midday is his favorite time, because that's when the leash comes out. Gnome lights up for walks and happily keeps pace on slow, scenic routes, even managing an impressive one-hour walk alongside a much larger dog. Dinner is usually around 5 p.m. (kibble with a little sprinkle of "dinner dust"), followed by a relaxed evening of cuddling. At bedtime, he goes into his crate around 10 p.m. without complaint and sleeps soundly through the night- though he would gladly trade the crate for a dog bed, cozy chair, or a spot on the human bed if given the chance.
Personality at Home
Gnome is an affectionate, people-focused little dog who truly enjoys being near his person. He'll follow you from room to room, quietly supervising and occasionally checking in for pets or a belly rub. He's not interested in toys and prefers human connection over dog playtime, though he's fine coexisting with other dogs. Once he bonds, he shows his love through sweet little kisses that make it very clear he's chosen you as his person.
He has excellent house manners- no chewing, no destructive behaviors, and a peaceful presence in the home. True to his name, Gnome has a signature move: he loves being gently scooped up and perched on a shoulder, his "mountain," where he settles instantly and surveys the world from his favorite vantage point. Watching his happy little scamper across the yard or down the sidewalk is guaranteed to make you smile.
On Walks
Gnome is clearly familiar with leash walking and enjoys taking the lead, pulling lightly as he moves from one fascinating scent to the next. A front-attach harness works well for him. He's not reactive to people, dogs, or critters and greets other dogs politely, regardless of their size. Walks are a highlight of his day, and he approaches them with enthusiasm and confidence.
House Training
Gnome is mostly housetrained and does his marking outside, both in the yard and on walks. As with many tiny dogs, his bladder is small, so it's important to be mindful of his size and give him regular potty opportunities.
Things to Know
When new visitors arrive and his trusted human isn't present, Gnome takes his role as a tiny watchdog seriously and will bark until reassured. Once a familiar person picks him up and shows him everything is okay- often with a quick trip to his shoulder perch- he settles beautifully and relaxes. This simple routine works consistently and helps him feel secure.
He's very food-motivated and enjoys his meals with a little topper. He is also an expert at quietly begging for human food, and once he's had a taste of something especially good (cheddar cheese, for example), he may briefly protest his kibble in hopes of an upgrade. He's no dummy!
Ideal Home
Gnome would do best with someone who enjoys close companionship and appreciates a dog who likes to stay connected with their person. He thrives on reassurance, gentle routines, and understanding introductions to new situations. With his calm energy at home, love of leisurely walks, and affectionate nature, he could be a wonderful fit for many different households- as long as there's a cozy place to lounge and a human who values a devoted, gentle companion.
Gnome is a sweet, easygoing little dog with a big heart. He's a peaceful housemate, a loyal sidekick, and a surprisingly enthusiastic walking buddy. At the end of the day, he's happiest curled up beside his person, content just to be near- and if you're lucky, you'll earn a few tiny kisses from his favorite mountain perch.
