Dogs for Adoption in Calaveras County, CA: 13 Dogs Looking for a Home
377 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 12 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of the middle of Calaveras County. Here are 13 of the newest arrivals, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Calaveras County, 17 puppies, 146 young dogs, 186 adults and 27 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are German Shepherd, Pit Bull Terrier and Siberian Husky, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Calaveras County? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Shaeffer
Meet ShaefferAdoption fee on this dog is $300.Shaeffer is a 3 yo Black and Tan male with an impressive stature. He is currently underweight at 75 lbs, but he is making good progress on rebuilding strength and stamina. Although the story of his youth is unknown, he has puppy-curiosity and is responding remarkably well to human partnership.While he was in the loud shelter environment, Shaeffer displayed constant high-energy with rough play behaviors. Once he adapted to the comforts of a quiet indoor life, however, he is showing quite the opposite. He enjoys being with his human in the home where lounging on his extra-large dog bed has become his favorite pass time.
Read more about Shaeffer
Add a belly-rub and he is your best friend! Daily walks with short intervals of play (monitored for assertiveness) with his foster-mate appear to satisfy his exercise needs. This may expand, of course, as he builds more muscle and strength.Given his puppy-nature, he uses his height to his advantage by occasionally searching the counters for any unattended goodies, or to greet his humans face-to-face (in case you didn't notice him) to give you kisses. This is diminishing with consistent corrections and discovering that food and affection are no longer scarcities in his world. Even at ground-level, there are no shortages of kisses from this boy.Shaeffer walks well on a leash and is becoming more eager for his car rides. He sleeps in a crate at night and is housebroken with a dog door. If you are searching for a new family member, this guy has the characteristics that make him a wonderful loving companion.Cats and small critters unknown.This dog is a Level 2.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
2. Phoebe
Meet Phoebe
Phoebe is a sweet, loving girl who is house-trained and crate-trained. She is due to have her puppies in about a week and will be ready for her forever home in approximately 7-9 weeks, around December 14th. Phoebe was surrendered when her owner deployed to Iraq, and she will make a wonderful, fun addition to a loving family!
Also, Her puppies will be ready for adoption just before Christmas and can also be reserved now!
If interested in Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771
- House-trained
3. Rex
Meet Rex
Rex is a handsome Standard Poodle who is crate-trained, house-trained, good on a leash, and loves other dogs. After his owner passed away, Rex was returned to his breeder and later surrendered again through no fault of his own. He is neutered, fully vaccinated, and pending a wellness exam with the vet. Rex is a social, loving boy who would make a wonderful addition to a family willing to help him with his mild separation anxiety.
If interested in Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771
4. Poodle Pup
Meet the Standard Poodle Puppies!
These Standard Poodle puppies were born September 23rd and will be ready for their forever homes November 18th! We have 3 sweet girls, all playful, loving, and ready to bring joy to their new families. They were surrendered due to their owner’s military deployment.
The adoption fee helps us work toward getting the parents spayed/neutered to prevent future unwanted litters. Reserve your puppy today!
If interested in Reserving a Pup, Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771
5. Poodle Pup
Meet the Standard Poodle Puppies!
These Standard Poodle puppies were born September 23rd and will be ready for their forever homes November 18th! We have 3 sweet girls, all playful, loving, and ready to bring joy to their new families. They were surrendered due to their owner’s military deployment.
The adoption fee helps us work toward getting the parents spayed/neutered to prevent future unwanted litters. Reserve your puppy today!
If interested in Reserving a Pup, Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771
6. Mali
Meet Mali
A sweet, fully vaccinated, and spayed 5-month-old pup who is already house-trained and crate-trained. At just 10 lbs, this unique, short-legged girl is playful, great with people and other dogs, and ready to bring tons of fun to a loving family.
If interested in Reserving a Pup, Adoption, Fostering, or Donating contact Barbara Rescue coordinator for NorCal Freedom for Paws at (916) 582-2771
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
7. Nova
Meet Nova, a darling senior dog ready for retirement! She's mellow, gets along with dogs, and loves ambling walks with her favorite humans. She's an overall easygoing girl with a lot of love left to give! Come in and meet with her today!
Interested in adopting? Visit our shelter during open hours and ask about Nova A066911
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
8. Cinnabum
Fresh from the oven and a with fluffy, toasted to perfection coat- meet Cinnabum! This handsome lad has a boisterous, energetic personality and would do well with someone ready to play and guide his bouncy energy. With a rough and tumble play style, he may do well with a respectful, equally playful dog to match his high energy vibes.
Interested in adopting? Visit our shelter during open hours and ask about Cinnabum A067051
- Good with dogs
9. Barnabas
Meet Barnabas, a super fun dog who is here to brighten your day! He loves prancing around, playing fetch, and getting all the pets while he's playing with his favorite stuffies. He can be a little nervous around other dogs, but with a proper introduction, he may do well with a dog who is respectful of his space. Come in and meet with him today!
Interested in adopting? Visit our shelter during open hours and ask about Barnabas A066824
10. Saben
ntroducing Saben, a young male German Shepherd who came from a local shelter. He is estimated to be about a year old, bursting with energy and a playful spirit! He’s always ready for an adventure, whether it’s chasing toys in the yard or exploring new sights and sounds. This lively guy is nicely balanced – while he is engaging and fun, he also has an OFF switch and is often found napping under his foster mom’s feet while she works. Thanks to his clever use of the dog door, he comes and goes as he pleases, and at the end of the day, he settles comfortably in his crate for a good night’s sleep (although he does not appreciate being confined during the daytime hours).
Read more about Saben
He rides nicely in the car, and his leash manners improve daily. He would love a home with another dog that appreciates his exuberance, and a home with a swimming pool/jacuzzi would thrill him to no end! This guy LOVES the water! While he’s already a friendly companion, he’ll benefit from ongoing socialization and training to help him shine even brighter. With the right guidance, this energetic pup is sure to become a wonderful addition to any loving home.No cats or small critters Level 2
- No cats
11. Mint Julep
Meet Mint Julep! She's 4 years old and may be a little shy but with some ear scratches and baby talk she'll be laying in your lap in no time! This calm sweet girl has a love for people even though at times they can be a little scary. She walks well on a leash and likes crunchy dog treats! She would do best in a single-dog household, or with a very neutral and respectful dog. Come meet with her today!
Interested in adopting? Visit our shelter during open hours and ask about Mint Julep A065639
12. Zeus
Meet Zeus! A 4 year old Belgian Malinois mix, Zeus is an active guy who loves his people. He knows lots of tricks and loves to play ball. He's food motivated and gets along with other dogs. He's a great guy, but the shelter stresses him out so he's currently in foster off campus. His fosters report that overall, Zeus is doing very well. He is potty trained, crate trained, and does great with our 5-year-old daughter. He loves attention, enjoys cuddling, and is happiest when he’s getting lots of pets and affection.
Interested in adopting? Visit our shelter during open hours and ask about Zeus A064535
- No young kids
- Good with dogs
13. Nia
Nia is a 6 month old all black female. Affectionate, playful, and bit timid with new encounters. She’s slowly learning the world with the help of her big foster brother, Seamus. Nia is looking for a home that will include her in their daily routines. Another male confident dog will help her thrive. She is very cute and currently. under 50 lbs, so we don't expect her to be very large as an adult dog. Nia is a 6 month old all black female. Affectionate, playful, and bit timid with new encounters. She’s slowly learning the world with the help of her big foster brother, Seamus. Nia is looking for a home that will include her in their daily routines.
Read more about Nia
Another male confident dog will help her thrive. She is very cute and currently. under 50 lbs, so we don't expect her to be very large as an adult dog. Nia is a 6 month old all black female. Affectionate, playful, and bit timid with new encounters. She’s slowly learning the world with the help of her big foster brother, Seamus. Nia is looking for a home that will include her in their daily routines. Another male confident dog will help her thrive. She is very cute and currently. under 50 lbs, so we don't expect her to be very large as an adult dog. She does require strong leadership skills to make her into the best dog she can be.Cats and small critters unknown.Level 3
Rescues and shelters near Calaveras County
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of the middle of Calaveras County.
- Animal Protection League/SASFStockton, CA · 111 dogs
- Stanislaus County Animal ServicesModesto, CA · 105 dogs
- Sacramento County Animal Care and RegulationSacramento, CA · 51 dogs
- City of Oakdale Animal ShelterOakdale, CA · 24 dogs
- Calaveras County Animal ServicesSan Andreas, CA · 19 dogs
- El Dorado County Animal Services - PlacervillePlacerville, CA · 17 dogs
- Lodi Animal ServicesLodi, CA · 11 dogs
- Amador County Animal ControlJackson, CA · 10 dogs
- Lathrop Animal ServicesLathrop, CA · 10 dogs
- Greater California German Shepherd RescueModesto, CA · 8 dogs
How to adopt from Greater California German Shepherd Rescue
$100 Senior / Special Needs $300 Young / Adult $350 Puppy
- City of Elk Grove Animal ServicesElk Grove, CA · 6 dogs
How to adopt from City of Elk Grove Animal Services
All adoptions are first come first serve. After meeting with an adoptable animal with a staff member will approve (or deny) your adoption. Once approved, paperwork will be completed with out Customer Service Specialist. An adoption contract will be completed, all medical paperwork will be provided, microchip will be registered to the adopter and licensing will be completed if the adopter lives in the city of Elk Grove. Adoption fees are as follows: Puppy Under 1 year old $150 Adult Dog 1+ year old, 1 – 20 lbs $150 Adult Dog 1+ year old, 21+ lbs $100 Kitten 2 – 6 months of age $75 Adult Cat 6+ months of age $40 Senior Special* *Applies to senior pets or adopters over 65 $25 Rabbit $25 Other Small Mammal $10
- NorCal Freedom for PawsRancho Cordova, CA · 5 dogs
How to adopt from NorCal Freedom for Paws
We have a Puppy/Dog and Kitten/Cat Reservation Form to reserve your animal includes the adoption agreement.
Cities and towns in Calaveras County
Adopting a dog in Calaveras County
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 Calaveras County
How many dogs are up for adoption in Calaveras County?
As of November 4, 2026, 377 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Calaveras County, California, by 12 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Calaveras County?
The rescues with the most dogs near Calaveras County right now are Animal Protection League/SASF (Stockton, CA), Stanislaus County Animal Services (Modesto, CA) and Sacramento County Animal Care and Regulation (Sacramento, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Calaveras County?
Yes. 17 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Calaveras County.
How do I adopt a dog in Calaveras County?
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.