Dogs for Adoption in Rancho Calaveras, CA: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
501 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 17 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Rancho Calaveras. 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 Rancho Calaveras, 31 puppies, 172 young dogs, 245 adults and 37 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 Rancho Calaveras? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. 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
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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
5. 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
6. 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
7. 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
8. 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
9. 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
10. 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
11. 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
12. 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
13. 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
14. Smithers
Meet Smithers, a devoted 3-month-old male Dachshund mix who is eager to be your most loyal and loving companion! With his sweet nature and gentle charm, this adorable pup is ready to cater to your every snuggle and bring pure joy into your life.
15. Sully
Meet Sully! Looking for a giant lap dog, BFF, and big drooly shadow who wants to go everywhere with you? Sully might be your guy.Sully is a 6 ish year old Mastiff, 135lbs ish, easy going and sweet as pie. He has one good eye, the “good eye” had cherry eye repair on it but it may pop out again, otherwise he is doing great. Personality: Sully is a gem! He’s the definition of a social butterfly- incredibly friendly and affectionate, just loves being right by his person’s side.Things he loves: Car rides, little adventures, walks, just being part of your everyday life. He is very much a “where are we going?” kind of dog.Potty trainedCrate trainedSully will go into a crate, but it definitely isn’t his favorite place to be.
Read more about Sully
He would much rather be hanging out with you.Other dogs: Sully is very social and friendly w/ other friendly dogs. He would likely do well with another chill, friendly dog who matches his easygoing energy.Cats: Sully currently lives well w/ a confident cat. With a proper intro he should do ok living with cats.Kids: Sully is a big guy! He can absolutely knock over small kids. Ideally best w/ older kids comfortable around giants.Quirks: Despite his size, Sully is pretty convinced he is lap-dog sized. He would happily spend his whole day following you around, leaning on you, and being your oversized drooly shadow.Ideal home: Sully would thrive with someone comfortable with giant breeds who understands the importance of keeping a big guy’s joints safe and their maintenance and costs. He’s already ramp trained for getting in and out of the car and would love someone who wants to bring him along rather than leave him behind. Someone looking for a big goofy bff to tag along for coffee runs, walks, little adventures, and then come home and hang out on the couch. Sully really just wants to be included in life, and honestly, with that big drooly face, it’s pretty hard not to include him. All K9ppr dogs are fixed, microchipped, vaccinated etc prior to adoption. #bayareadogrescue #mastiffrescue #corsoPlease note-detailed adoption app required! We’re looking for the right forever fit www.K9ppr.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
16. Pierre Jacques
🤍 Meet Pierre! 🤍🐶 Pierre Jacques is an adorable 1½-year-old Poodle-ish Schnauzer terrier mix weighing about 13 pounds. He’s the perfect combination of sweet, smart, playful, and affectionate.🐾 Adoption Requirements (Please Read)Pierre is looking for a home that can meet his specific needs. His ideal home includes:* Another friendly, playful dog (preferred)* Children 12 years or older* An experienced adopter comfortable managing fear-based behavior during veterinary and grooming visits* Commitment to continued training, exercise, and mental enrichment* Professional grooming every 4â"6 weeks* A home (not an apartment) where his vocal, talkative personality won’t be an issue🎾 Personality & LifestylePierre is a happy, energetic little guy who loves:* Going for walks* Riding in the car* Playing with toys* Exploring and joining in on adventuresHe is very intelligent and a quick learner.
Read more about Pierre Jacques
In his foster home, he is:* Doing great with potty training (always expect a learning curve when adjusting to new environments)* Fully mastering “Sit”* Progressing nicely with crate trainingPierre enjoys the company of other animals and gets along well with both dogs and cats. If a cat runs, he may try to join the chase, but it’s all in playful fun.Pierre is also a vocal little guy and can be barky and talkative, especially when he’s excited or alerting you to something. Because of this, apartment living or homes with close neighbors probably aren’t the best fit.🧠 Behavior & Training NeedsLike many rescue dogs, Pierre can become fearful in unfamiliar or stressful situations, especially at the veterinarian and during grooming. When scared, he may become defensive and nippy.He will need:* An adopter who understands canine body language and recognizes his fear signals* Continued positive reinforcement training and confidence building* A calm, patient home that can safely manage veterinary and grooming visits* Ongoing structure, exercise, and mental enrichmentDespite these challenges, Pierre is incredibly sweet in his everyday environment and thrives when he feels safe, understood, and included in the family.✂️ Grooming NeedsPierre will require professional grooming every 4â"6 weeks. Regular grooming is essential, as his coat will become painfully matted if neglected.💙 Our CommitmentAt K9 Paw Print Rescue, we require a detailed adoption application because we are committed to finding the right homeâ"not just the next home. Our goal is to ensure our dogs never have to experience the heartbreak of losing their family again.🐶 Ready to Apply?If you think Pierre might be your perfect match, we’d love to hear from you!🐾 Apply to adopt at www.K9PPR.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
17. Button
Meet Button 🐾Button is a handsome young wire-haired terrier/Schnauzer mix, 26lbs, around 2â"3 years old, with gorgeous golden-hazel eyes, a soft white chest and an adorable little white mohawk that fits his goofy personality perfectly. Please read Button’s full bio before applying, as he has some specific needs and we’re looking for a home that will truly be the right fit for him.One really important thing to know about Button: he probably isn’t going to “show” well at a first meet.Button can be insecure with new people, and it often takes meeting someone a time or two before you really get to see who he is.
Read more about Button
We don’t want someone to meet him once, see a nervous or unsure dog and assume that’s his personality.Once Button decides you’re safe and lets his guard down, he’s a completely different dog. He’s goofy, affectionate, loyal, talkative and has SO much personality.Button’s home requirements:• A securely fenced yard• Another playful dog in the home• An active adopter committed to regular walks, hikes and exercise• No apartments• No young children• Experienced, patient and dog-savvy adopters• Someone willing to give him time to build trust instead of expecting an instant connectionThese things are important for Button and aren’t just preferences. We’ve gotten to know him well and know what kind of environment he needs to be happy and successful.Button loves being part of the action. Walks around the neighborhood, trail hikes, adventures with his people… he needs that in his life. Regular exercise is really important for him. If he doesn’t get enough walks, hikes and opportunities to get out and use his brain, he can become anxious and restless.At home, he’s actually a pretty chill guy when those needs are being met. He loves lounging on his back with all four legs in the air, hanging out with his people and soaking up attention.And Button “talks.” 😂 He makes all kinds of funny little sounds and chatter when he’s excited or wants your attention. He definitely has opinions and isn’t shy about sharing them.He’s also VERY smart. He figured out the dog door almost immediately and settled into his foster home’s routine quickly. He is potty trained, although any dog can have a learning curve in a new home, and he is pretty well crate trained.Button does have some insecurities that his future family needs to understand. He can become uncomfortable or overstimulated in certain situations and has previously nipped toward joggers who unexpectedly ran toward him on walks. He is muzzle trained for situations where some extra management is appropriate. His muzzle is simply a safety tool that allows him to still get out and enjoy life while setting him up for success.Because of his sensitivities, Button is not appropriate for a home with young children. He needs a more predictable environment with people who can understand his body language, respect his boundaries and advocate for him.The biggest thing we want people to understand is that the Button you meet on day one probably isn’t the Button you’ll know once he feels safe with you.He may not immediately crawl into your lap or convince you that you’re his new best friend at a meet and greet. Give him a little time. Once you’re one of his people, you get the funny, affectionate, quirky little guy his foster family knows and loves.Button isn’t going to be the right dog for every home, and that’s okay. We’re looking for the home that understands what he needs and will appreciate the incredibly smart, fun and loyal dog underneath those initial insecurities.To be considered for Button, please submit a detailed adoption application so we can help make sure it’s the right match for everyone.Apply at: www.K9ppr.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
18. Jack formerly Gomez
Hi, everybody! Guess what?! I've left my shelter name, Gomez, behind and am now going by Jack. I’m just 12 weeks old, and last week I left the shelter with my littermates to start a brand-new adventure with ShepHeroes! I have a lot to learn about this big, exciting world, so I’m going to need a little time to get my paws on the ground before I can tell you all about myself.After leaving the shelter, I spent a night at a foster home in Sacramento with Pumkin and Larry Munster, got a bath and nail trims, and then headed off to my next adventure in San Jose. Then I lived as the solo puppy good life with a whole tribe of friendly German Shepherds who welcomed me in! I even got to go on a pack walk, all safe and cozy in my foster mom's doggie backpack.
Read more about Jack formerly Gomez
My first foster home in SJ was for a few days, while I waited for my intended, and current, foster family to be ready to take me to their house. So I'm now living with a retriever and a ShepHeroes alum and a baby. I absolutely love snuggles and exploring everything around me! My meds helped me recover from kennel cough, which I caught at the shelter. I’ve got lots of growing, playing, and exploring ahead, and I’ll be back soon with more puppy news! Love,Your newest little ShepHeroes recruit
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
19. Larry Munster
Hi, everybody! I’m just 12 weeks old, and I arrived at ShepHeroes with my littermates Pumkin and Jack, aka Gomez! We’re starting a brand-new adventure, and I’m pretty sure lots of exciting things are ahead.My foster family decided to call me Larry Munster, adding Larry to my shelter name. I’ve settled in, and I've even gone to my foster mom's office with her, so I’ll have more to share once I’ve had a chance to explore, play, and show everyone what makes me special. I love cuddles, have the softest coat per my foster, and love to follow her around the house. I'm working on potty training, crate training, and sleeping through the night.
Read more about Larry Munster
We spent our first night out of the shelter with a foster family, getting baths and desperately needed nail trims. After a good night's sleep with lots of playtime with each other and the resident shepherds, plus another foster dog, four-year-old Daisy, who watched over us like all good female shepherds. I adored my bath whereas my littermates weren't so sure it was a good thing. We met Daisy's forever family the morning we were getting back on the road to head to our next foster homes, as she was getting adopted.I'm the only puppy in my current foster home, and I love all the attention and snuggles. To grow, I'm taking lots of naps, as puppies need 16-18 hours of sleep. But I'll be seeing Pumkin et al. frequently for playdates. Stay tuned! My story is just beginning!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
20. Pumkin
Guess who just arrived at ShepHeroes?! Hi, everyone! I’m a 12-week-old German Shepherd puppy, and I busted out of the shelter with my littermates, Jack (aka Gomez) and Larry Munster, to land in rescue! We’ve spent the last week settling in, so there’s lots more to share about our little puppy adventures. The three of us spent a night in a Sacramento foster home, waiting for our ride to San Jose the next day. Baths, nail trims - snuggles made those weird experiences better. Larry Munster enjoyed his bath, though. Oh, and about those names you might see floating around? Those were shelter-given names, and honestly, we hadn't bothered learning them! We hear one of the perks of landing in a foster home is that our foster families get to pick our rescue names.
Read more about Pumkin
How fun is that?! And in the spirit of Halloween, I kept my name Pumkin because I'm just a sweet little pumkin. I am brave, independent, and a steady explorer. I easily incorporate into new households with their shepherds and other dogs, steady for sure. I love attention and snuggles like all pups, but I will also take my toy and happily hang out in my pen area during the day or in my crate all night.My foster family has two resident shepherds, and extended family has a couple of corgis; we have regular playdates. I also got to take a stroller ride with my own personal driver during the Fall Festival; my driver said I was such a well-behaved pup. I didn't need to jump out or explore because people kept coming to say sweet things to me and pet me throughout our time there. Stay tuned, friends! I'll keep giving you updates as I get to go on more adventures.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
Rescues and shelters near Rancho Calaveras
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of Rancho Calaveras.
- Animal Protection League/SASFStockton, CA · 111 dogs · 33 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Stanislaus County Animal ServicesModesto, CA · 105 dogs · 35 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- City of Sacramento Animal Care ServicesSacramento, CA · 67 dogs · 45 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Sacramento County Animal Care and RegulationSacramento, CA · 51 dogs · 38 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- City of Tracy Animal ServicesTracy, CA · 28 dogs · 42 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- City of Oakdale Animal ShelterOakdale, CA · 24 dogs · 24 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Calaveras County Animal ServicesSan Andreas, CA · 19 dogs · 14 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- El Dorado County Animal Services - PlacervillePlacerville, CA · 17 dogs · 41 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Kate's Furreka RescueTurlock, CA · 15 dogs · 46 mi from Rancho Calaveras
How to adopt from Kate's Furreka Rescue
Individuals complete an adoption application. When approved an adoption contract is also completed. Adoption fees range from $250-$300 depending on the animal. All adoptions include the animal’s spay/neuter, microchip, and shots up to the date of adoption.
- Lodi Animal ServicesLodi, CA · 11 dogs · 28 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Amador County Animal ControlJackson, CA · 10 dogs · 15 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Lathrop Animal ServicesLathrop, CA · 10 dogs · 34 mi from Rancho Calaveras
- Greater California German Shepherd RescueModesto, CA · 8 dogs · 32 mi from Rancho Calaveras
How to adopt from Greater California German Shepherd Rescue
$100 Senior / Special Needs $300 Young / Adult $350 Puppy
- K9 Paw Print RescueOakley, Ca · 7 dogs · 46 mi from Rancho Calaveras
How to adopt from K9 Paw Print Rescue
Must be 21+ Copy of lease allowing pets (Renters only) All family members must meet dog All current pets must meet dog All current pets (dogs, cats, rabbits) must be spayed/neutered Must pass a home inspection Animal Size Standard Fee Pure Breed Fee* Senior Animal Fee* Small (20lbs & under) $200 $300 $150 Medium (21-50lbs) $250 $350 $200 Large (51lbs & up) $300 $400 $250
- NorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroesWest Sacramento, CA · 7 dogs · 48 mi from Rancho Calaveras
How to adopt from NorCal German Shepherd Rescue dba ShepHeroes
$400 puppies 12 months and under, $350 for 1-6 year olds, $200 for 7 and older. We have a comprehensive adoption application and do home visits approving adopters for levels of dogs and puppies. We have adoption agreements requiring return of dog to us for any reason.
Adopting a dog in Rancho Calaveras
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 Rancho Calaveras
How many dogs are up for adoption in Rancho Calaveras?
As of November 4, 2026, 501 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Rancho Calaveras, California, by 17 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Rancho Calaveras?
The rescues with the most dogs near Rancho Calaveras right now are Animal Protection League/SASF (Stockton, CA), Stanislaus County Animal Services (Modesto, CA) and City of Sacramento Animal Care Services (Sacramento, CA). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Rancho Calaveras?
Yes. 31 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of Rancho Calaveras.
How do I adopt a dog in Rancho Calaveras?
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.