Dogs for Adoption in Rancho Santa Fe, CA: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
513 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 17 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Rancho Santa Fe. 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 Rancho Santa Fe, 199 puppies, 140 young dogs, 149 adults and 19 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Labrador Retriever, Chihuahua and Shepherd, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Rancho Santa Fe? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Bixby
Meet Bixby — The Little Protector With the Biggest Heart! Bixby’s story is one that will absolutely break your heart and then put it back together again. This precious little boy was dumped in a huge park with his two friends, Rupert and Mallow. For days, the three stayed huddled together, scared and waiting for someone to come back for them.When rescuers finally arrived, they were able to safely trap his two friends. But Bixby wasn’t having it!He watched his friends go into the trap and refused to go in himself. Instead, he lay right beside them, refusing to leave their side. The rescuers weren’t about to leave him behind, either!They drove their van into the park, placed his two friends safely inside in a crate, and left the van door open.And they waited.About ten minutes later, BIXBY JUMPED RIGHT INTO THE VAN! All three were finally safe!This loyal little boy had spent days sticking by his friends, and now it’s his turn to have someone who will always stick by him.Bixby is good with other dogs and cats and is ready for his happily ever after! About Bixby:Good with dogs and catsNeuteredMicrochippedCurrent on vaccinesBixby has already shown what a loyal little soul he is.
Read more about Bixby
Now he just needs a family who will show him that same loyalty and love for the rest of his life. Adoption fee: $450Applications at http://www.secondleashonlife.org/2 years oldhttps://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02AxhrdRMsAh5BXEQvicerHYsK5SSTPukpqpoLjZJPGgG3NCZxwDw8WdAp6npmFCbFl&id=100006429525698&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Mallow
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02AxhrdRMsAh5BXEQvicerHYsK5SSTPukpqpoLjZJPGgG3NCZxwDw8WdAp6npmFCbFl&id=100006429525698&mibextid=wwXIfr Meet Mallow — A Little Survivor Looking for Forever! Sweet Mallow is one of three little dogs whose rescue story touched so many hearts. Mallow and his two friends, Rupert and Bixby, were heartlessly abandoned in a huge park and left completely alone.For days, these three little souls stayed together in the exact spot where someone had dumped them. They huddled together for comfort, waiting and hoping someone would come back. Thankfully, their story didn’t end there! Dedicated rescuers worked tirelessly to make sure NOT ONE of them was left behind! Today, Mallow is safe and has been given a second chance at life.
Read more about Mallow
All he needs now is a forever family to call his own.Mallow is good with other dogs and cats, making him a wonderful candidate for a home with other furry companions. About Mallow:Good with dogs and catsNeuteredMicrochippedCurrent on vaccinesMallow has already experienced what it’s like to be left behind. Now we’re looking for someone who will make sure he never experiences that feeling again.Three little lives saved. Three second chances. Now three forever homes needed! Adoption fee: $450Applications at http://www.secondleashonlife.org/://www.secondleashonlife.org/
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
3. Rupert
Meet Rupert — From Abandoned to Adored! Rupert is one of three precious little dogs who were cruelly dumped in a huge park and left to fend for themselves. For days, Rupert and his two little friends, Bixby and Mallow, stayed huddled together in the exact spot where they had been abandoned. Scared, confused, and waiting for someone who wasn’t coming back, all they had was each other.Thankfully, some wonderful rescuers refused to give up until all three were safe!Now Rupert has a second chance at the wonderful life he deserves!Rupert is good with other dogs AND cats and is ready to find a family who will love him forever.
Read more about Rupert
About Rupert:Good with dogs and catsNeuteredMicrochippedCurrent on vaccinesAfter everything Rupert has been through, he deserves a home where he will never have to wonder if someone is coming back for him. Adoption fee: $450Applications at http://www.secondleashonlife.org/1-2 years oldhttps://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02AxhrdRMsAh5BXEQvicerHYsK5SSTPukpqpoLjZJPGgG3NCZxwDw8WdAp6npmFCbFl&id=100006429525698&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Jax
Jax is a 6-year-old, 11-pound poodle who has been bounced around far too much in his life. Now that he’s with our rescue, we want to show him that life can finally be safe, secure and predictable. Jax is currently in board and train with our amazing behaviorist, and one thing is very clear:Jax WANTS a leader — and he thrives when he has one.He needs a calm, confident adopter who can provide structure, consistency and clear boundaries. Our behaviorist will provide a specific protocol to follow, so his foster won’t be figuring this out alone.Jax doesn’t need someone to feel sorry for him. He needs someone who can make him feel secure enough to finally relax.
Read more about Jax
Someone who can tell him: “You don’t have to be in charge anymore. I’ve got you.” Jax has been passed around enough. Let’s help him find the person who can finally give him the stability he’s been looking for. Adoption fee is $450 and comes with one paid personal training session to get you set up for success with Jax. applications can be found at www.secondleashonlife.orgPlease share.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
5. 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
6. 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
7. 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
8. 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
9. 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
10. 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
11. 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
12. 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
13. 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
14. 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
15. 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
16. 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
17. 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
18. 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
19. 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
20. 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
Rescues and shelters near Rancho Santa Fe
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of Rancho Santa Fe.
- California Labradors Retrievers and More RescueSan Diego, ca · 96 dogs · 9 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 1 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
- The Barking LotSan Diego, CA · 61 dogs · 14 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 18 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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!
- Second Chance Dog RescueSan Diego, CA · 32 dogs · 16 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 19 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 21 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
- Woofs and Wags Dog RescueSan Diego, Ca · 19 dogs · 19 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 21 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 19 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 · 15 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
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 Rancho Santa Fe
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)
- Second Leash on LifeSan Diego , Ca · 8 dogs · 5 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
How to adopt from Second Leash on Life
I have an adoption application and if it looks good, I meet with the applicant and make sure they are the right fit for the dog.
- Coastal K9 German Shepherd RescueSan Diego, CA · 7 dogs · 21 mi from Rancho Santa Fe
How to adopt from Coastal K9 German Shepherd Rescue
All prospective adoptive families must complete an on line application followed by a telephone interview and then receive a home visit before a German Shepherd is placed in their forever home. The minimum adoption donation ranges from $300 to $400. This amount only partially covers the cost of veterinary care, boarding fees, and other miscellaneous expenses involved in the temporary care and adoption of our dogs and is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Prior to placement, all dogs will be spayed or neutered, receive current vaccinations, and are usually microchipped. If not, arrangements will be made on an individual basis. Special consideration may be given to those willing to adopt older dogs or dogs with physical problems. Each dog has an initial exam, including Rabies, DHLPP-C, & Bordetella. All dogs are spayed and neutered prior to adoption. Our adoption process begins with completing an application on-line. A phone screening will soon follow, and lastly a home visit will be conducted by our volunteers.
Adopting a dog in Rancho Santa Fe
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 Santa Fe
How many dogs are up for adoption in Rancho Santa Fe?
As of November 4, 2026, 513 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of Rancho Santa Fe, California, by 17 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Rancho Santa Fe?
The rescues with the most dogs near Rancho Santa Fe 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 Rancho Santa Fe?
Yes. 199 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of Rancho Santa Fe.
How do I adopt a dog in Rancho Santa Fe?
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.
