Updated recently
Drakeo
Drakeo has lived with young kids, teenagers, and adults in the past! Our volunteers love his handsome looks and curious nature. He knows sit and has p…
Ventura County Animal Regulation • Camarillo, CA
German Shepherd Dogs for Adoption
3,703 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 1,381–1,410 of 3,703 below.
About adopting a German Shepherd
A German Shepherd in a shelter kennel is often a smart, watchful dog who has not yet been given enough to think about. This is a working breed by design, bred to move livestock and later to serve in police and military roles, and that heritage shows up at home as a strong bond with one family and a need for structure.
Puppies and adolescents of this breed learn fast, which cuts both ways: they pick up good habits as quickly as bad ones. Daily training, scent games, and steady exposure to new people and places help a young shepherd grow into a confident adult rather than a nervous one. Many are naturally reserved with strangers, so early socialization matters.
Adult German Shepherds in rescue range from easygoing family dogs to intense working types, and the difference is not visible from a photo. Ask about reactivity toward other dogs, comfort with children, and whether the dog has lived in a home before. Hip and joint concerns are worth asking the shelter and your veterinarian about. The shelter or rescue can walk you through the individual dog's history and how far training has come.
3,703 German Shepherd dogs available — page 47 of 124
Updated recently
Stewie
Riverside County Animal Control - Coachella Shelter • Thousand Palms, CA
Updated recently
Raiden
Riverside County Animal Control - Coachella Shelter • Thousand Palms, CA
Updated recently
Updated recently
Updated recently
Updated recently
Sailor
Maricopa County Animal Care & Control - West Valley Animal Care Center • Phoenix, AZ
Updated recently
Remi
Remi is a sweet little boy that loves toys and kids. He is still working on his puppy manners and learning to use his slow feeder bowl. Remi would lov…
Operation Pets Alive • The Woodlands, TX
Updated recently
Peanut
Peanut is a sweet little boy that loves toys and kids. He is still working on his puppy manners and learning to use his slow feeder bowl. Peanut would…
Operation Pets Alive • The Woodlands, TX
Updated recently
Bud
Bud is a sweet little boy that loves toys and kids. He is still working on his puppy manners and learning to use his slow feeder bowl. Bud would love …
Operation Pets Alive • The Woodlands, TX
Updated recently
Petal
Petal is a sweet little boy that loves toys and kids. He is still working on his puppy manners and learning to use his slow feeder bowl. Petal would l…
Operation Pets Alive • The Woodlands, TX
Updated recently
Petunia
Meet Petunia, the ultimate sweet soul! This mild-mannered, ball-loving lady is officially looking for her forever couch. Petunia’s journey hasn't been…
Operation Pets Alive • The Woodlands, TX
Updated recently
Axle
Meet Axle – your loving and affectionate new best friend! This 1-year-old, 55-pound boy is sure to steal your heart and get plenty of second looks wit…
Freedom German Shepherd Rescue • La Grange, NC
Updated recently
Ventura
Ventura is a beautiful 2.5-year-old, 78 pound girl looking for a patient family to show her what it truly means to be loved. If you’re looking for a m…
Freedom German Shepherd Rescue • La Grange, NC
Updated recently
Boba
Meet Boba, a sweet and social pup who seems to enjoy the company of other dogs in a calm and gentle way. From our observations, she greets other dogs …
Dallas Animal Services • Dallas, TX
Updated recently
Updated recently
Updated recently
Updated recently
Pringle
Riverside County Animal Control - Riverside Shelter • Riverside, CA
Updated recently
Major
Meet Major — The Treat Inspector General Major is a young German Shepherd mix with two main goals in life: make friends and locate snacks immediately.…
Albuquerque Animal Services - Eastside • Albuquerque, NM
Updated recently
Updated recently
Woody
To adopt please fill out an adoption Application Woody is a 1 yo male German shepherd mix dog who was rescued as a stray in Memphis. Friendly, sweet t…
Happy Dog Rescue • Germanton, TN
Updated recently
Updated recently
Keanu #3
Animal Rescue of the Rockies believes every pet should find a wonderful and caring home. To ensure each pet finds the best possible home, we ask you f…
Animal Rescue of the Rockies • Aurora, CO
Updated recently
Serena
Serena and her sister Venus were dumped at a vet hospital in Redlands at 8 weeks old. Tested positive for parvo. The hospital was awesome and treated …
Compassionate Animal Rescue for Medical Aid • Mission Viejo, CA
Updated recently
Venus
Venus and her sister Serena were dumped at a vet hospital in Redlands at 8 weeks old. Tested positive for parvo. The hospital was awesome and treated …
Compassionate Animal Rescue for Medical Aid • Mission Viejo, CA
Updated recently
Sirius
Sirius is a big, sweet boy with an even bigger heart! At just 2 years old, this German Shepherd mix is already showing what a wonderful companion he c…
Albuquerque Animal Services - Eastside • Albuquerque, NM
Updated recently
Updated recently
Updated recently
German Shepherd dogs by state
Other breeds
Adopting a German Shepherd — FAQ
Are German Shepherds good with kids?
Many German Shepherds are gentle and protective with children in their own family, though they may be aloof with visiting kids. An adult with a known history around children is the safest bet. Supervise play, teach children to respect the dog's space, and ask the rescue what they have seen.
How much training does a German Shepherd need?
A German Shepherd needs ongoing training and mental work, not just a puppy class. These dogs thrive on having a job, whether that is obedience, scent games, or structured walks. Without direction they tend to invent their own, which can include guarding doorways or herding the kids.
Do German Shepherds shed heavily?
German Shepherds shed year-round and blow their undercoat heavily twice a year. Weekly brushing, more during coat changes, keeps it under control but never eliminates it. A good vacuum becomes part of life with this breed, and grooming time doubles as bonding time.
How do I adopt a German Shepherd?
Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.
Are German Shepherd dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?
Many German Shepherd dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.
How much does it cost to adopt a German Shepherd?
Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.
Are German Shepherd dogs good with children or other pets?
It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.
Can I foster a German Shepherd instead of adopting?
Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a German Shepherd gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.
What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a German Shepherd?
Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.
