07/24/2026
UPDATE - 10/10/26 - ADOPTED!
Meet Ricci – A Tiny Girl with a Big Heart 💗
Ricci is an adorable little sweetheart who is just beginning to discover how wonderful life can be. At around 4 years old, this precious girl has come a long way in foster care, and every day her confidence continues to blossom.
One of the first things you’ll notice about Ricci is her irresistible face. She has a charming underbite that gives her what her foster family lovingly calls her little “upside-down walrus tusks.” Combined with her beautiful expressive eyes and incredibly soft, silky coat that develops the sweetest curls as it grows, she is impossible not to fall in love with. 🥰
Ricci’s favorite part of every day is greeting the people she loves. Each morning she dances excitedly, waving her tiny paws for attention before heading outside. She happily asks for scratches, belly rubs, cuddles, and face kisses, and she has recently discovered that snuggling on the couch is one of life’s greatest pleasures. While she prefers to approach you on her own terms rather than being chased or reached for, once she trusts you, her affectionate nature shines through.
Like many puppy mill survivors, Ricci can still be a little nervous, especially when being picked up. She does best with patient, gentle people who let her come to them. Her foster family has found that kindness, consistency, and lots of love have helped her make wonderful progress, and she continues to gain confidence every week.
Ricci absolutely loves going for walks and walks beautifully on a leash. In fact, regular walks are important because they are her favorite way to do her business. She will happily trot along beside you, taking in the sights and greeting friendly neighbors when her canine companions do. Rain, however, is another story! This little lady thinks wet grass and soggy paws are simply beneath her, so don’t be surprised if she gives you a look that says, “Really?”
Ricci enjoys the company of other dogs and looks to them for comfort, confidence, and guidance. Because having a canine companion will help her continue to feel secure and thrive, Ricci will need another friendly dog already living in her adoptive home. She enjoys playing with other dogs, although because she is such a tiny girl, she appreciates companions who are not overly rough or energetic.
She has done well with calm children and enjoys meeting gentle people. Her ideal home will be one where everyone understands that quiet voices and patient handling help her feel safe and secure.
Ricci is crate trained and happily trots into her crate at bedtime or when her family is away for a few hours. She enjoys cozy dog beds, chew toys, and will gladly curl up beside you for an evening of relaxation. Just remember to keep books and paper picked up—she sometimes mistakes them for chew toys!
Ricci is looking for an adopter who will continue helping her build confidence through gentle encouragement, a dependable routine, regular walks, and the reassuring companionship of another friendly dog. In return, you will receive endless love, joyful greetings, sweet cuddles, and the privilege of watching a once-shy little girl continue to blossom into the happy companion she was always meant to be.
If you are looking for a tiny dog with a huge heart, a quirky smile, and an endless supply of love to give, Ricci may be the perfect addition to your family. 💕
Ricci's adoption will take place in her foster home in Essex, Maryland. Her adoption fee is $500. She is up-to-date on all her medical and has been micro chipped. For more information - please go to rescuedhavanese.org/adoption
