buttercup

Buttercup is a sassy little chihuahua mix who is approx. 6-7 years young and 14 lbs. This sassy but adorable girl is searching for her perfect person. Background: For several months, Buttercup and her pals were living on the streets and being fed by people in the neighborhood. As a result, she gets nervous around new people and it takes a while for her to trust you. Personality: Buttercup takes a while to warm up to people. Once she selects you as her person, her excitement to see you begins to show through tail and body wags, talking to you, jumping on you, but will shy away when you try to pet her. She is wary of new people, but we are working on her socialization skills and she is making progress. Once you break through and earn her trust, which may take up to 6 months, Buttercup will reluctantly allow you to do short back and butt scratches, will shadow you, and sleep near you. Buttercup is food motivated and enjoys treats (although she doesn't like fruits or vegetables). In her free time, Buttercup enjoys going for walks, sunning herself in the backyard, and hanging out with other household dogs. Health: Buttercup is up to date on all vaccines, spayed, and microchipped. She does have seasonal allergies and is on medicine. Training: Buttercup is house-trained, crate-trained, and leash-trained. She does not use a dog door. She knows the commands: come, crate, and leave it. Ideal Home: Buttercup requires a special home with love, patience, and a family who will continue to work on her confidence-building. Since she tends to snap when she is scared, Buttercup would thrive in a child-free home with a confident female owner who will be patient and help her break out of her comfort zone. She is used to being around other dogs in her foster home, and does best with calm small to medium size dogs. Buttercup likes someone to accompany her when she goes outside. A secure, fenced-in yard is essential to ensure her safety. She learns from other dogs and would benefit in a home with another dog that will allow her to cuddle and share their crate. Adoption Requirements : Buttercup’s adoption fee is $350. If you think Buttercup is the dog for you please review the following adoption requirements.   Must live in the Phoenix metro area Must have a securely fenced yard Ideally have a dog companion for Buttercup to bond with.  If you are interested in Buttercup please complete an adoption application*: helpadogsmile.org/adoption-application .  *Please note that the application is not a commitment to adopt–it is a tool used to help determine if a dog and applicant would make a good match. Applications are forwarded to the foster family for review and follow-up.  August 14, 2026, 5:18 pm