Dogs for Adoption in Poway, CA: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
556 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 19 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Poway. 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 25 miles of Poway, 203 puppies, 155 young dogs, 166 adults and 23 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Labrador Retriever, Pit Bull Terrier and Chihuahua, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Poway? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Paul
Paul is 5 months old and weighs 23 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Paul and her siblings – Laverne, Maxine, Merri, Allie, Caroline, Missy, Patrick – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
2. Patrick
Patrick is 5 months old and weighs 24 lbs. He’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Patrick and his siblings – Laverne, Maxine, Merri, Allie, Caroline, Missy, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
3. Missy
Missy is 5 months old and weighs 15 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Missy and her siblings – Laverne, Maxine, Merri, Allie, Caroline, Patrick, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
4. Caroline
Caroline is 5 months old and weighs 27 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Caroline and her siblings – Laverne, Maxine, Merri, Allie, Missy, Patrick, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
5. Allie
Allie is 5 months old and weighs 27 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Allie and her siblings – Laverne, Maxine, Merri, Caroline, Missy, Patrick, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
6. Merri
Merri is 5 months old and weighs 22 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Merri and her siblings – Laverne, Maxine, Allie, Caroline, Missy, Patrick, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
7. Maxine
Maxine is 5 months old and weighs 22 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Maxine and her siblings – Laverne, Merri, Allie, Caroline, Missy, Patrick, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
8. Laverne
Laverne is 5 months old and weighs 22 lbs. She’s friendly with people and social with other dogs. Laverne and her siblings – Maxine, Merri, Allie, Caroline, Missy, Patrick, Paul – were born at a church in Tijuana.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
9. Percy
Percy is 8-9 years old and weighs 35 lbs. He’s still active for a senior, very friendly, and does well with other dogs. Percy was rescued from a house in Tijuana, where he spent most of his life chained outside. A neighbor rescued Percy and brought him to BAS. This sweet boy deserves to live his golden years showered with the love he never knew.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with dogs
10. Freddy
Freddy is 5 months old and weighs 24 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Freddy is a stray rescue.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
11. Mercedes
Mercedes is 5 months old and weighs 7 lbs. She’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Mercedes and her brother, Russell, are stray rescues.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Russell
Russell is 5 months old and weighs 12 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Russell and his sister, Mercedes, are stray rescues.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
13. Leanne
Leanne is 5-6 years old and weighs 28 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Leanne was found as a stray along with her puppies – Arlene, Mitchell, Kelsey.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
14. Mitchell
Mitchell is 5 months old and weighs 18 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Mitchell is a stray, found with his mom Leanne and siblings Arlene and Kelsey.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
15. Grace
Grace is 5 months old and weighs 12 lbs. She’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Grace and her siblings – Allen, Harris, Makayla, Buddy, Dante – were strays, found at a local Taco shop.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
16. Makayla
Makayla is 5 months old and weighs 14 lbs. She’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Makayla and her siblings – Allen, Harris, Grace, Buddy, Dante – were strays, found at a local Taco shop.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
17. Harris
Harris is 5 months old and weighs 21 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Harris and his siblings – Allen, Makayla, Grace, Buddy, Dante – were strays, found at a local Taco shop.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
18. Allen
Allen is 5 months old and weighs 21 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Allen and his siblings – Dante, Harris, Makayla, Grace, Buddy – were strays, found at a local Taco shop.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
19. Buddy
Buddy is 5 months old and weighs 17 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Buddy and his siblings – Allen, Harris, Makayla, Grace, Dante – were strays, found at a local Taco shop.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
20. Dante
Dante is 5 months old and weighs 26 lbs. He’s playful, friendly with people, and social with other dogs. Dante and his siblings – Allen, Harris, Makayla, Grace, Buddy – were strays, found at a local Taco shop.
If you would like to meet this dog you can read about our adoption process and submit an application on our website at: http://www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org/dogs.htm
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
Rescues and shelters near Poway
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of Poway.
- California Labradors Retrievers and More RescueSan Diego, ca · 96 dogs · 12 mi from Poway
How to adopt from California Labradors Retrievers and More Rescue
Let's get started by completing our online adoption application. Please read over our online Adoption Process located on our web page just click the tab ADOPT. There you will find our online adoption applications. Once you have completed the form you will get an automated response within a few moments. If you do not receive a notice that means the form did not submit. Check to make sure you answered all required questions A Volunteer Adoption Coach will be in touch with you within 2-4 days post application submission. We are back to in person Adoption Events as well and are full speed ahead! We cannot wait to help you find your new 4-legged forever family member The Volunteers of Labs and More Rescue
- Helen Woodward Animal CenterRancho Santa Fe, CA · 88 dogs · 10 mi from Poway
- The Barking LotSan Diego, CA · 61 dogs · 16 mi from Poway
How to adopt from The Barking Lot
Our goal is to find the right match for each pooch based on lifestyle, energy level, exercise regime, environment and living situation. To ensure we find a great match for each pup, the process includes: 1) Filling out an Adoption Application. 2) a play date with your furry friend, 3) a home check of the potential adopter, 4) an adoption contract, 5) an adoption fee. The adoption fees include spay/neuter, up-to-date shots, rabies vaccination, microchip & microchip registration, de-worming and the benefit of getting a pooch who has been living in a stable and loving environment. Dogs are fostered in our homes to create the same type of environment into which each will be adopted. We strive to meet each pup's needs in terms of exercise, socialization and basic manners, including potty training.
- Baja Animal SanctuarySan Diego, CA · 43 dogs · 9 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Baja Animal Sanctuary
After viewing our adoptable dogs, the next step would be to submit an application www.bajaanimalsanctuary.org on the dog you're interested in adopting. Once the application is received, it will be reviewed and a volunteer will contact you. We will then make arrangements for you to meet the dog at one of our next Adoption Events. Or, you may drive to our shelter located in Rosarito, Mexico (appointment is required). If after meeting the dog, and it is determined the dog is the right fit, you will begin the adoption as a two-week foster. If after the two weeks, you decide you'd like to keep your new furry friend, a volunteer will come out to your home and finalize the adoption. If for whatever reason during the two weeks you realize the dog is not the right fit, you will be able to bring the dog back to the next Adoption Event and our Business Office will mail you a full refund of the adoption fee. Adoption Fee: $275.00 All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, current on their vaccines, and dewormed prior to being put up for adoption. Our dogs are rescues so basic training, including house training, will need to be done by the adopter, unless otherwise stated in the dog's bio. Once you have submitted your application, please be patient for a response. We are currently receiving a high volume of applications, and while we make every effort to respond to all applicants please understand if you don't hear back from us. We are all volunteers and work as quickly as possible to respo
- Labradors and Friends Dog Rescue GroupSan Diego, CA · 38 dogs · 17 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Labradors and Friends Dog Rescue Group
Please visit our website at www.labradorsandfriends.org to complete the Adoption Application and obtain more information!
- Passion for PittiesChula Vista, CA · 33 dogs · 24 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Passion for Pitties
Passion for Pitties is a foster-based pit bull rescue dedicated to finding loving, lifelong homes for dogs in need. Prospective adopters complete an adoption application, provide references, and participate in a screening process to ensure a good match. We conduct a home check (virtual or in-person) and arrange a meet-and-greet when appropriate. Approved adopters sign an adoption contract and pay an adoption fee, which helps offset the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, spay/neuter, and other veterinary care. Current adoption fees are $500 for puppies (newborn to 1 year), $300 for adult dogs (1–8 years), $250 for senior dogs (8+ years), and $500 for purebred dogs of any age. Adoption fees are subject to change and may vary based on an individual dog's age, breed, medical needs, or other factors.
- Second Chance Dog RescueSan Diego, CA · 32 dogs · 18 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Second Chance Dog Rescue
We require an adoption questionnaire to be completed before a scheduled meeting. Then, if the meet & greet is successful, an adoption contract is entered into, with a two week trial period. An adoption fee is required at that time. If, during the two week foster trial period, the adoption is not working out, we will take the dog back and may refund a portion of the adoption fee.
- The Heroic TailSan Diego, CA · 31 dogs · 17 mi from Poway
How to adopt from The Heroic Tail
Application for Adoption, Application review with adopter on the phone, meet with dog, home check, adoption contract with adoption fee paid, 3 training sessions with the dog included in adoption.
- It's The PitsSan Diego, CA · 23 dogs · 20 mi from Poway
- Woofs and Wags Dog RescueSan Diego, Ca · 19 dogs · 17 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Woofs and Wags Dog Rescue
Ask potential adopter to fill out an application. Set up a meet and greet. If all goes well we have adopter proceed with an Adoption Contract and collect adoption fee.
- Recate Fenix aka Rescue FenixSan Diego, CA · 18 dogs · 20 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Recate Fenix aka Rescue Fenix
application, interview, home check video, meet and greet, adoption contract and donation fee
- Baja Dog RescueSan Diego, CA · 16 dogs · 17 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Baja Dog Rescue
How the adoption process works Fill out the adoption questionnaire located below and submit it to us. Once we have reviewed/approved your application, we will contact you to arrange a "Meet & Greet". Many of our dogs are in private volunteer foster homes. We must schedule a one-on-one "Meet & Greet" appointment with each individual dog. It takes time to schedule these appointments, however we do have a standard weekly adoption event at local Petco's, where we show dogs for adoption. We can arrange to have the foster's bring the dog to the Petco. This is the easiest way to set up a "Meet & Greet". These adoptions events are usually Saturday or Sunday. When going to a "Meet & Greet", please make sure you take any family members and other dogs to see how the initial introduction goes. That makes the entry into the new home easier for the dog and for you. How it Works: If your "Meet & Greet" goes well, you will complete an adoption contract at the appointment and can take the dog home then. We ask for a suggested adoption donation* to help us cover spay/neutering, shots, medical treatment, food, and supplies. Then you and your new best friend live happily ever after. It's as simple as that! *Baja Dog Rescue is a 501c(3) non-profit and all donations go directly to the care of our dogs and are 100% tax deductible. The suggested adoption donations only partially cover the cost of the expenses involved in the temporary care and adoption of our dogs. What if the adoption doesn't
- TLC K9 RescueEscondido, CA · 13 dogs · 10 mi from Poway
How to adopt from TLC K9 Rescue
Interview potential adopter, meet & greet, home check, adoption application and contract, min 6ft fence, crated or closed in the home when pet is alone, certain dogs preference for adopter to be home most of the day, basic training, pet insurance
- Animal Rescuers Without BordersSan Diego, CA · 13 dogs · 15 mi from Poway
How to adopt from Animal Rescuers Without Borders
adoption application, meet potential adopters family (all household and pets), home check, adoption contract, adoption fee (fees vary)
- San Diego County Department of Animal Services - South ShelterBonita, CA · 10 dogs · 22 mi from Poway
Adopting a dog in Poway
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 Poway
How many dogs are up for adoption in Poway?
As of November 4, 2026, 556 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of Poway, California, by 19 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Poway?
The rescues with the most dogs near Poway right now are California Labradors Retrievers and More Rescue (San Diego, ca), Helen Woodward Animal Center (Rancho Santa Fe, CA) and The Barking Lot (San Diego, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Poway?
Yes. 203 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of Poway.
How do I adopt a dog in Poway?
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.
