Dogs for Adoption in Avalon, CA: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated



947 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 26 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Avalon. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of Avalon, 79 puppies, 260 young dogs, 508 adults and 94 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, German Shepherd and Siberian Husky, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Avalon? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Dove
Young · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (medium coat) · 27 mi from Avalon



Read her biography below to learn what she needs in a home placement and how to apply.
Name: DoveAge: DOB 10/18/24Sex: female, spayed Breed: Mix breedWeight: 10 lbs, full grownHousebroken: unsure, trying to get her into foster careKids: 6 and older will be fineOther dogs: good with all other dogsCats: cat safeHousing: A home with patio or backyard access is always easiest to housebreak if she needs it.Personality: She is a really nice dog. Friendly with everyone. She is sweet and very loving with a happy-go-lucky personality. She will settle in and bond well with her new owner with ease.What we know: She came from the streets.
Read more about Dove
She smiles when she is happy to see you. Her whole body wiggles as she wags her tail. Good on leash. •Medical: healthy, vaccinated, dewormed, spayed & microchipped.•How to apply: Dove can be seen by appointment only, with an approved application. If you are interested, visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Dove, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram page
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
2. Elmer
Senior · Male · Chihuahua (short coat) · 27 mi from Avalon




Name: ElmerAge: 10-12 yrs Sex: male, neuteredBreed: ChihuahuaWeight: 10 lbsHousebroken: yes, in a house with backyard space Kids: 9 and older should be just fine.Other dogs: friendly with all other small dogs. Is fostered with another senior male & seems to enjoy the companyCats: cat safe, currently fostered with catsHousing: We are looking to put him in a house with yard or patio spacePersonality: Elmer is a darling dog. He has a very happy-go- lucky personality. He loves going on walks but due to his grade 4/6 heart murmor its 2 houses max to pee, then in the dog stroller or carry sack for the rest of the walk.
Read more about Elmer
He loves to snuggle with you on the couch. He will bond quickly with his new owner. He's a lover boy for sure.What we know: found as a stray in terrible condition. We had a dental w/extractions done. He'sbeen neutered and completely vaccinated & microchipped. His bloodwork is good. He is on Vetmedin for his 4/6 heart murmur and we have 6 months of meds to go with him. Elmer is good on leash & loves walks, but unfortunately he can not walk far due to the heart murmor. He wants to go, but you will need to carry him or put him in a doggie stroller for his own good. He loves to go out with you around town also, he's very social and an attention grabber. Medical: healthy, good bloodwork, has had a dental w/extractions, completely vaccinated, dewormed, neutered and microchipped.How to apply: No out of state. Visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Elmer, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages
Elmer is in foster care & can be seen by appointment only, with an approved application. If you are interested visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
3. Hendrix
Young · Male · Shih Tzu / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 27 mi from Avalon






Read his biography below to learn what he needs in a home placement and how to apply.
Name: HendrixAge: 1- 2 yrsSex: male, neuteredBreed: Shih Tzu, Poodle mix mutt. See DNA pictureWeight: 14 lbsHousebroken: we believe so. He doesn’t potty in his kennelKids: Teens, 16 and older will be best for Hendrix as he settles in.Other dogs: friendly with other small dogs. Afraid of large dogsCats: no catsPersonality: nice, sweet boy. Shy at first, he takes about 48 hrs to warm up to you. He is new to the rescue so he is still settling in. As we learn more about him, we will update his bio.What we know: his prior owner moved and left him/abandoned him at the rental home.Medical: healthy, vaccinated, neutered and microchipped.
Read more about Hendrix
Housing: Best placed in a house with backyard space. Not appropriate for apartment, townhome, or condo living.
How to apply: No out of state. Hendrix can be seen by appointment with an approved application. If you are interested, please visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Hendrix, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages @animalsrulerescue
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
4. Jimmy
Young · Male · Shih Tzu / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 27 mi from Avalon




Read his biography below to learn what he needs in a home placement and how to apply.
Name: JimmyAge: 2 yrsSex: male, neuteredBreed: ShihTzu, Poodle mix breed. Look at DNA pictureWeight: 15 lbsHousebroken: we believe so. He doesn’t potty in his kennelKids: Teens, 16 and older will be best for Hendrix as he settles in.Other dogs: friendly with other small dogs. Afraid of large dogsCats: no catsPersonality: nice, sweet boy. Shy at first, he takes about 48 hrs to warm up to you. He is new to the rescue so he is still settling in. As we learn more about him, we will update his bio.What we know: his prior owner moved and left him/abandoned him at the rental home.Medical: healthy, vaccinated, neutered and microchipped.
Read more about Jimmy
Housing: Best placed in a house with backyard space. Not appropriate for apartment, townhome, or condo living.
How to apply: No out of state. Jimmy can be seen by appointment with an approved application. If you are interested, please visit OUR website at www.animalsrule.org and fill out our online application of interest.
To see more pictures and video of Jimmy, please check out and follow our Facebook and Instagram pages
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
5. Betsy
Senior · Female · Boston Terrier (short coat) · 29 mi from Avalon





Sweet Betsy came into rescue back in December after landing at West LA Animal Services with several medical concerns. We immediately got this precious girl to the vet so her routine care could be completed and all of her medical needs could be addressed.
Betsy is now spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines, and both her heartworm and fecal tests were negative. Sadly, she was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease, but the good news is that it is manageable with daily medication. Her medication costs approximately $80–$100 per month and will be needed for the rest of her life.
Read more about Betsy
Despite her diagnosis, Betsy is an absolute joy! She lives with multiple dogs and gets along well with everyone — except at mealtime. Betsy is very food motivated, so she does need to be fed separately because she will happily try to sample everyone else’s dinner too!
Other than that little quirk, Betsy truly is the BEST. She uses the doggie door like a pro, rides wonderfully in the car, and absolutely loves to cuddle. Estimated to be around 12 years old and weighing 19 pounds, she is the perfect mix of couch companion and walking buddy. Whether you’re settling in for a TV marathon or taking a leisurely stroll around the block, Betsy will be right by your side.
This sweet Senior Señorita is simply looking for someone to open their heart and home so she can enjoy her golden years surrounded by love. Could that be you?
If you’d like to give Betsy the forever home she deserves, please complete an adoption application at
Boston Buddies
Adoption donation: $150 - My adoption fee has been generously sponsored!
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
6. Mack
Puppy (12 days) · Male · Staffordshire Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 32 mi from Avalon



Mack and his brother were dumped at a park, at 8 weeks old, left to fend for themselves. Luckily someone came and scooped them up to keep them safe! They made their way to our shelter and have been sweet, playful and just oh so adorable!
They are around 11 weeks old now, and ready to find loving homes that will treat them like family. We do not know what their breed mix is made up of, but we have them as Staffordshire Terrier mixes. Based on their current size, we are expecting them to be medium to large sized dogs when grown up, but cannot guarantee a specific weight range.
Read more about Mack
Mack is energetic and sporty. He LOVES toys and he loves to use his mouth, as they are in the puppy teething stage. We think he will grow up to be a great hiking partner, and would do well in an active household.
Are you ready for the puppy energy and training! Mack is ready to meet you!
The puppies will be shown by APPOINTMENT ONLY to ensure their safety as they are not fully vaccinated yet. To make an appointment, please fill out our FULL ADOPTION APPLICATION below and wait for a phone call. Please be patient, as we usually have a high number of interested adopters when we have puppies.
7. Skye
Young (9 months) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 32 mi from Avalon


Skye is one of the scruffiest girls you’ll meet – we swear there is a dog under all that hair! She is some sort of Terrier mix, around 10 months old. We took her in from a rescue that we work with from time to time, who needed help placing some pups. Skye is a very friendly, active and playful girl that is sure to liven up your home!
She does well walking on leash, loves other dogs, and is just super fun! Now, getting her to hold still long enough for photos can be tricky, we promise she is much cuter in person.
This scruff-ball has so much love to give!
- Good with dogs
8. Zion
Adult (5 years 2 months) · Male · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 32 mi from Avalon



Zion is an absolute stunner of a dog, he is a 5 year old German Shepherd who turns heads everywhere he goes. He is a great dog that just needs a strong handler, familiar with the GSD breed. After about 3 years living in New Mexico, after being adopted from us in 2023, Zion had to return to the shelter through no fault of his own. Here at the shelter, he has made a lot of friends with our volunteers. They love to play fetch with him up in the yard! Zion is also a big lover of squeaky toys, the bigger the better!! He is so sweet with the people within his circle of friends here. Always rolling over for belly rubs, or leaning into them for booty scratches. This big guy also LOVES car rides!
Read more about Zion
A little bit about Zion from his previous owner:
He is a stunning German Shepard and a big boy weighing in around 100lbs and very strong.
At home with people he trusts he is very chill, playful, friendly, and always happy for attention.
His greatest joy in life is fetch and loves to carry his ball around with him.
Zion has been formally trained with basic commands and behavior and responds to them excellently. He is always eager for learning, activity and engagement.
He is kennel and muzzle trained. He can be slow to trust but once he does there is not a more loyal dog.
Zion can be insecure, so he needs an owner he can look to for reassurance! When he trusts you, he will follow your lead, and follow you anywhere!
Zion does need to be the only pet, in an adult only home.
- No young kids
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
9. Moo Chi
Young · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 33 mi from Avalon


Meet Moo Chi!
9-11 months old • 6 pounds of ears, love, and potential.
Moo Chi is a tiny black-and-white Chihuahua mix with oversized ears that seem to hear every little sound in the world — which makes sense, because the world still feels pretty big and scary to him right now. Through no fault of his own, this sweet boy ended up at the Long Beach shelter.
Underneath his shy exterior is a gentle little soul just waiting for someone patient enough to show him that life can be safe, cozy, and full of love. Moo Chi may not be the dog who runs up to strangers on day one, but once he trusts you? You’ll have a tiny best friend for life.
Read more about Moo Chi
He’s looking for a calm, caring home that will let him move at his own pace, celebrate the small wins, and remind him every day that he never has to be scared again.
To meet Moo Chi, please fill out an adoption application HERE: https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
10. Nico
Young · Male · Border Terrier / Mixed · 33 mi from Avalon



Meet Nico!
Roughly 1 year old and 26 pounds, Nico is a scruffy little Border Terrier mix with the cutest quirky ears — one sticks straight up while the other flops down whenever he gets excited (which is often).
Nico ended up in the shelter alongside his brother through absolutely no fault of his own, and he’s been winning hearts ever since. He’s a sweet, gentle boy who walks great on leash and loves being near his people. Equal parts adorable and soulful, Nico has that kind of personality that sneaks up on you fast.
To meet Nico, please fill out an adoption application HERE: https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
11. Scooter
Young · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 33 mi from Avalon


Meet Scooter — a roughly 1 year old, 10 pound Chihuahua mix with the biggest ears and an even bigger personality
This confident little guy ended up at the shelter through absolutely no fault of his own, and now he’s ready to find the forever home he deserves. Scooter is the perfect mix of playful and smart — he LOVES showing off his tricks for treats and is always eager to learn more. He’s great on leash, enjoys adventures, and carries himself like a much bigger dog in a tiny body.
If you’re looking for a loyal sidekick with charm, confidence, and some seriously iconic ears… Scooter might just be your guy
To meet Scooter, please fill out an adoption application HERE: https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
12. Lucy
Puppy · Female · Border Collie / Australian Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 33 mi from Avalon



New puppy incoming on the site
At just less than 3 mos old, Lucy is living proof that a little bit of "extra" makes a puppy extra special. She was born February 27 meaning she’s a Pisces and anyone who knows a Pisces will know that she too is also intuitive and creative. She has a fiery personality and the days are never dull with her around. Lucy was risking life at the shelter due to her quirks that makes a breeder view dogs as disposable. Lucy is majority border collie with Aussie mixed in there and while it’s too early to tell, she is likely nearsighted in one eye and slight of hearing. Despite this, she tracks movement beautifully and gets around just like any other puppy.
Read more about Lucy
What she lacks in senses, she makes up for in her sense of smell, making her a sensory superstar!
Because Lucy is such a social butterfly, she would thrive in a home with another dog friend to show her the ropes and play "zoomies" in the yard. She is looking for a family who sees her unique traits as "features, not flaws" and is excited to guide her through her puppyhood.
To meet Lucy, apply here-
https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
13. Ozzy
Adult · Male · Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 33 mi from Avalon




Ozzy is a gentle soul who was found lost and alone in the desert, but his luck is about to change. This 7-year-old, 65-pound boy has a heart as big as the open desert sky and is ready to share it with a loving family. Ozzy is good with people and just wants to be part of the pack. He's house-trained and vetted, so you know he's a well-mannered boy who's ready to settle into his new forever home. Ozzy's story is a bit of a mystery, but one thing is certain: he's a resilient, loving dog who deserves all the comfort and happiness a family can offer.
Could you be the one to show Ozzy what it means to be loved and cherished? To meet Ozzy, apply at-
https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
14. Birdie
Senior · Female · Miniature Pinscher / Mixed (short coat) · 33 mi from Avalon


Meet Birdie
This sweet senior min pin mix has been through more than her fair share, but despite it all, she still has so much love left to give. She is roughly 10 pounds
Birdie found herself at the shelter through no fault of her own after what appears to have been a very hard life. Now, she’s looking for something simple: a soft place to land, gentle care, and someone who will finally show her the kindness she’s always deserved.
Read more about Birdie
She may be an older gal, but Birdie quiet spirit and soulful eyes have a way of sneaking right into your heart. She’s the kind of dog who doesn’t ask for much — just patience, comfort, and love. In return, you’ll get the kind of gratitude and companionship only a senior dog can give.
To meet or adopt this adorable girl, please fill out an adoption application here: https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
15. Dreyfus
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 33 mi from Avalon


Meet Dreyfus — a 13 lb scruffy ray of sunshine with the world’s cutest little white mohawk
This happy-go-lucky terrier mix is around 3 years old and fully committed to spreading good vibes wherever he goes. Whether he’s trotting proudly on a walk, making new dog friends, or flashing his adorable smile, Dreyfus is just happy to be included. He’s great on leash, loves other dogs, and has the kind of easygoing personality that makes everyone instantly fall for him.
Read more about Dreyfus
Dreyfus ended up at the shelter through no fault of his own, but he hasn’t let that dim his sweet spirit one bit. He’s affectionate, playful, and always looks like he’s having the best day of his life.
If you’ve been searching for a small sidekick with a big personality, scruffy charm, and a tiny mohawk worthy of its own fan club — Dreyfus is your guy.
To meet Dreyfus, please fill out an adoption application here: https://muttsinneed.org/apply/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
16. Trixie
Puppy · Female · Shepherd / Mixed · 36 mi from Avalon



MEET TRIXIE! One look into those big brown eyes, and you’re in trouble! Trixie is a gorgeous 3½-month-old Shepherd mix with a warm caramel-colored coat, an adorable black muzzle, and the most expressive little face!This beautiful girl is at that wonderful puppy stage where the whole world is waiting to be discovered. She’s looking for a forever family who will help her learn, grow, and become the best dog she can be.Trixie has so many adventures ahead of her, and all she needs is someone special to share them with.Could this sweet little face be your new best friend? Apply to adopt Trixie today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
17. Cooper
Puppy · Male · Catahoula Leopard Dog / Shepherd / Mixed · 36 mi from Avalon




MEET COOPER — HIS SECOND CHANCE STARTS HERE! Cooper was running out of time at the shelter, facing euthanasia before he even had the chance to experience a real life with a family. Thankfully, this handsome boy was saved, and now he’s ready for his happily ever after! Cooper is a gorgeous 6-month-old Catahoula/Shepherd mix with stunning markings, the most incredible ears, and a personality to match!He’s a sweet, playful boy who loves having fun but is surprisingly quiet and well-mannered for such a young pup! Even better, Cooper is already crate trained and gets along great with other dogs. At just 6 months old, Cooper has his whole life ahead of him.
Read more about Cooper
He’s ready for a family who will give him the love, adventures, and security he deserves.Cooper came so close to never getting this opportunity. Now all he needs is someone to show him that his life matters and that he’s finally home. Could you be Cooper’s forever family? Apply to adopt this special boy today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
18. Duke
Puppy · Male · Shepherd / Mixed · 36 mi from Avalon


MEET DUKE! Those puppy-dog eyes are impossible to resist! Duke is an adorable 3½-month-old Shepherd mix with a beautiful tan coat, a handsome little black muzzle, and a face that will absolutely melt your heart!This precious boy is just beginning his journey in life and is looking for a loving family to grow up with. He’s at the perfect age to start learning, exploring, and making wonderful memories with his forever people.Duke has a whole lifetime of love to give. Could you be the one to give him his happily ever after? Apply to adopt Duke today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
19. Duncan
Puppy · Male · Chihuahua / Catahoula Leopard Dog / Mixed · 36 mi from Avalon


MEET DUNCAN! Just look at that adorable little face! Duncan is a precious 3-month-old Catahoula/Long-Haired Chihuahua mix with the cutest fluffy ears, a handsome little black muzzle, and big brown eyes that will melt your heart!This super sweet little boy is an absolute heart-stealer! With his soft, fluffy coat and irresistible puppy charm, Duncan is ready to find a loving family to call his very own.He’s still just a baby, with a whole lifetime of love, cuddles, and adventures ahead of him. All he needs now is someone to share them with!Could Duncan be the missing piece of your family? Apply to adopt Duncan today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
20. Peanut
Puppy · Female · Shepherd / Mixed · 36 mi from Avalon



MEET PEANUT! Little name, BIG heart-melting eyes! Peanut is a darling 3½-month-old Shepherd mix with the sweetest little face, beautiful brown-and-white markings, and ears that make her even more adorable!This precious girl is ready to find a family to call her very own. She’s still just a baby, with so much growing, learning, and discovering ahead of her.Peanut is looking for someone who will give her the love, patience, and guidance every puppy deserves. In return, you’ll get to experience all the joy of watching this little sweetheart grow into a wonderful companion.Who has room in their heart for this little Peanut? Apply to adopt Peanut today!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Rescues and shelters near Avalon
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of Avalon.
- South Los Angeles Animal Care and Control CenterLos Angeles, CA · 162 dogs · 47 mi from Avalon
- Orange County Animal Care CenterOrange, CA · 100 dogs · 40 mi from Avalon
- Harbor Animal Care and Control CenterSan Pedro, CA · 94 dogs · 27 mi from Avalon
- Long Beach Animal Care ServicesLong Beach, CA · 80 dogs · 34 mi from Avalon
- Los Angeles County Animal Control - CarsonGardena, CA · 78 dogs · 37 mi from Avalon
- Ozzie and Friends Rescue IncInglewood, Ca · 73 dogs · 41 mi from Avalon
How to adopt from Ozzie and Friends Rescue Inc
Adoption Application and Contract, home check, interview, fees vary from $150-675 depending on age and breed of dog.
- Los Angeles County Animal Control - DowneyDowney, CA · 72 dogs · 41 mi from Avalon
- West Los Angeles Animal Care and Control CenterLos Angeles, CA · 66 dogs · 49 mi from Avalon
- Love All AnimalsDana Point, CA · 54 dogs · 36 mi from Avalon
- Friends of Orange County's Homeless PetsMenifee, CA · 32 dogs · 43 mi from Avalon
- Starpaws RescueMarina Del Rey, CA · 29 dogs · 45 mi from Avalon
How to adopt from Starpaws Rescue
Application, Home Check, $250 fee, Contract
- Coastal Animal Services AuthoritySan Clemente, CA · 21 dogs · 46 mi from Avalon
- The Little Red Dog, IncLake Forest, CA · 20 dogs · 42 mi from Avalon
How to adopt from The Little Red Dog, Inc
Adoption application, home eval, adoption contract, $300 donation, all pets are spayed/neutered, chipped and current on shots
- Doggie Bonez IncSan Juan Capistrano, CA · 13 dogs · 40 mi from Avalon
How to adopt from Doggie Bonez Inc
We have an application process and afterwards we review, home check, do a meet and greet with other dogs. We have a period of time for any reason they can return or we can decide it is not right. We are donation based.
- Irvine Animal Care CenterIrvine, CA · 12 dogs · 41 mi from Avalon
Adopting a dog in Avalon
Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your dog in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.
Senior dogs are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate dog, ask the rescues about their older residents.
Puppies go quickly, so if you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon. Ask how big they're expected to grow, and plan for plenty of house-training and training in the first few months.
Questions about adopting a dog in Avalon
How many dogs are up for adoption in Avalon?
As of November 4, 2026, 947 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Avalon, California, by 26 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Avalon?
The rescues with the most dogs near Avalon right now are South Los Angeles Animal Care and Control Center (Los Angeles, CA), Orange County Animal Care Center (Orange, CA) and Harbor Animal Care and Control Center (San Pedro, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Avalon?
Yes. 79 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of Avalon.
How do I adopt a dog in Avalon?
Pick a dog and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.
