Dogs for Adoption in California

7,201 adoptable dogs listed by shelters and rescues in California. Showing 841–870 of 7,201 below.

Every dog in California deserves a forever home — from puppies taking their first steps to adult dogs who are calm, house-trained, and ready to bond right away. All listings shown here are real dogs currently available for adoption from shelters and rescues in California. Availability changes daily, so confirm directly with the organization before making plans.

218 shelters and rescues in California currently list dogs on Every Dog's Chance.

How adoption works in California

California's listings are numerous and come from a broad mix of municipal shelters, humane societies and rescue groups, with a large share from around San Bernardino, Bakersfield and Riverside. A municipal or county shelter usually lets you walk in during open hours, while rescue groups tend to place dogs from foster homes and begin with an application.

When you find a dog you like, open the profile and reach the organization listed there. You can expect an application or a conversation, a meet and greet, and an adoption fee that the organization sets, often covering spay or neuter and vaccinations. Because listings cluster in a few cities, many groups help arrange transport within the state. The organization on the dog's profile keeps that dog's history, requirements and availability.

7,201 dogs in California — page 29 of 241

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Photo of Wendy, adoptable Chihuahua in Santa Clara, California

Wendy

Chihuahua • Female • Small • 4 years

Wendy is the cuddliest little love bug! She’s super sweet, smart, playful, and happiest when she can curl up in someone’s lap. She loves playing with …

Every Pet's Dream • Santa Clara, CA

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Photo of Cita, adoptable Pit Bull Terrier in Martinez, California

Cita

Pit Bull Terrier • Female • Large • 3 years

This playful girl loves getting outside to sniff and explore, and she’s always happy to enjoy some treats, toys, and attention from her people. She’s …

Contra Costa Animal Services • Martinez, CA

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Photo of Sly, adoptable Pit Bull Terrier in Moreno Valley, California

Sly

Pit Bull Terrier • Male • Large • 3 years

Sly knows sit and shake* Sly appears to be potty trained* Sly loves to be petted* Sly is a gentle big boy* Sly did well on his temperament test with a…

Moreno Valley Animal Shelter • Moreno Valley, CA

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Photo of Beau, adoptable Labrador Retriever in Irvine, California

Beau

Labrador Retriever • Male • Large • 6 years

Hi, I’m Beau! I’m a handsome, loyal guy who may be a little unsure when meeting new people, but I’m hoping to find someone who will give me the time a…

Irvine Animal Care Center • Irvine, CA

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Photo of Cha Cha, adoptable German Shepherd Dog in Placerville, California

Cha Cha

German Shepherd Dog • Female • Small • 0 years

Meet your new best friend! At just 13 weeks old, I’m the perfect combination of cute, curious, playful, and just a little bit goofy. I’m a mixed breed…

El Dorado County Animal Services - Placerville • Placerville, CA

Low-cost spay, neuter and vet care in California

Programs that help California adopters keep a dog healthy on a budget. Each page was checked on 2026-09-10; confirm current hours and eligibility with the organization.

Adopting a dog in California — FAQ

How do I adopt a dog in California?

Open any dog's profile to see which shelter or rescue is caring for them in California, then follow the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find — the adoption itself happens through the local shelter or rescue.

Are the dog listings in California up to date?

Listings are refreshed regularly from participating shelters and rescues. Because dogs are adopted and new ones are added constantly, availability can change between updates — always confirm a specific dog is still available with the shelter or rescue before making plans.

How much does it cost to adopt a dog in California?

Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue. Many organizations include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health exam in their fee. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.

Can I adopt a dog from another city in California?

Yes. Most shelters and rescues in California welcome adopters from anywhere in the state, and some can arrange transport for the right match. Open a dog's profile to see the organization's contact details and ask them how their process works.

Can I foster a dog in California instead of adopting?

Many shelters and rescues in California offer foster programs, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering gets a dog out of a kennel and into a calm home while they wait for their forever family. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is available.

Are the dogs in California good with children or other pets?

It depends on the individual dog more than anything else. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them 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.