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Puppies and dogs in Del Mar, California

Looking for a puppy or dog in Del Mar, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Del Mar, California

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Del Mar, California. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
Photo of Nico

Nico

Chihuahua Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Male, Young
Del Mar, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
We’ve had Nico since he was 6 months old, and he’s been a huge part of our family ever since. He loves playing fetch, cuddling, taking naps with his humans, and running around outside with our 10 year old twin boys, who absolutely adore him! Nico is protective of his family and will bark at strangers, but he has never bitten anyone. He has so much love to give and deserves a family who will give him plenty of time, attention, play, and affection. This is an incredibly heartbreaking decision for us. We love Nico so much, but our busy schedule doesn’t allow us to give him the active, fun life he deserves. We’re looking for a loving family who will treat Nico as family, spend quality time with him, play with him, cuddle him, and make him feel cherished every single day. We want to make sure he goes to the right home! Only inquire if you are ready to treat Nico as part of the family and not just another pet! He has never been crated and we will not give him to a family who intends to!
Special Needs
Photo of Krypto

Krypto

Westie, West Highland White Terrier Jack Russell Terrier

Male, 10 yrs 1 mo
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Krypto – 9-Year-Old Terrier Mix, 14 lbs of Pure Sweetness! Krypto is a mellow, affectionate little guy looking for his forever home. At 9 years old and 14 pounds, he’s the perfect lap-sized companion with a heart full of love. Great with everyone – people, kids, and other pets Super sweet and gentle Neutered, microchipped, and current on all vaccines Recently had a dental cleaning – fresh smile included! Low maintenance, easygoing personality Krypto does have some arthritis, which is managed with daily medication. Aside from that, he's in good health and ready to bring calm, cozy companionship to your life. If you're looking for a chill best friend who just wants to be near you and share your couch (and your heart), Krypto might be your perfect match!  Applications can be found at www.secondleashonlife.org           ##2528788##
Photo of Nicki

Nicki

German Shepherd Dog

Female, Young
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Nicki IS AVAILABLE (updated 10-17-2026). To meet any of our dogs, complete our online adoption application on our website: http://www.coastalgsr.org/dogs/nicki Introducing 18 month old Nicki, the embodiment of irresistible charm and unyielding spirit! Nicki is a gorgeous girl who was born with cerebellar hypoplasia, a brain condition that has slightly impacted her motor development. It is not degenerative or contagious. She also has some limited vision impairment along with wobbly legs but she can navigate perfectly after being in a home for a short time. Don't let her wobble stop you from considering Nicki as a member of your family. Nicki is near perfection in a pooch! She's a quick learner, mastering potty-training and the doggie door, and she gets along splendidly with both dogs and cats. This social butterfly thrives in the company of other pets and would make a fantastic addition to an active household that can match her high-spirited energy. While Nicki may not be the next agility champion or dog sports superstar, her zest for life is boundless. She's not really limited, just somewhat clumsy. In Nicki, you won't just be adopting a dog; you'll be gaining your most steadfast and loving best friend. Let Nicki's resilience inspire you every day, and embrace the wonderful wobbles that make her the extraordinary, adoptable treasure she is. FYI, Nicki's sister Nadia has the same condition and was adopted by an active family who takes her hiking and camping. Nothing slows Nadia down and she plays and keeps up with the other German Shepherds in the home. The minimum adoption donation is $375 for adults and $500 for puppies. This helps cover vet care, boarding fees, and other expenses. All dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.October 17, 2026, 5:54 am
Photo of Princess

Princess

Mastiff

Female, 10 yrs 9 mos
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Princess Princess is a 10-year-old, 103-pound Pitbull whose life story will break your heart — and then completely inspire you. She was living on the streets, used for multiple litters, and found covered in massive tumors with a severe skin infection. Despite everything she endured, her spirit never broke. Since coming into rescue, her tumors have been surgically removed, she has been spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, placed on flea control, and her skin has beautifully healed. And through it all… she has remained the sweetest soul on the planet. Princess is incredibly gentle and loving. She is wonderful with puppies, cats, big dogs, and little dogs. For a 103-pound girl, she has the softest heart and the calmest presence. She simply wants comfort, safety, and someone to love her the way she has always deserved. After a lifetime of hardship, Princess is finally ready for her happily ever after. If you would like to meet this extraordinary girl, please fill out an application at: www.secondleashonlife.org Princess has survived everything. Now she just needs someone to choose her.   ##2665693##
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Photo of Lacey

Lacey

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 4 yrs
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
***Currently located in Guerrero, Mexico*** Hi, I’m Lacey! I’m a proud mama to my sweet pups April and Reese — we’re part of what the humans call the "Easter Litter"! My journey hasn’t been easy, but I’ve always led with love. A kind tourist first noticed me wandering around, very obviously pregnant. When she saw me again, she could tell I’d had my babies, and soon after, we were found near a construction site. We were lucky — several tourists and kind-hearted construction workers looked out for us, bringing scraps and checking in regularly. Surfers for Strays didn’t have space at the time, but the community really came through for us. I’m actually pretty proud of how I kept my little family going even without a stable home. It’s amazing what a mama’s love can do! ‍‍ Some of my pups found homes locally, and later, April and Reese were adopted too. Now it’s just me, waiting patiently for my own happy ending. I quickly learned I LOVE when the humans rub my belly, pat my head, and tell me what a good girl I am. In my off time, I enjoy being the resident treat sampler! The volunteers at the shelter say I am a very good girl. I’m crate and leash trained, which makes walks a joy for both me and my humans. ‍ I know all the basic commands like Sit, Paw, Down, and Wait — and I’m always ready to show off my good manners. I’m calm and well-behaved on a leash. Whether it’s a training session or just everyday life, I’m always eager to please and show that I can be trusted. When it comes to humans, I’m all about love and cuddles — once I’ve had a chance to sniff you, of course! I like to take a couple of seconds to warm up before I’m ready to give you all my affection. But once I do, I want to be as close to you as possible. I’ll lean in with my head near your face and stare at you in the gentlest way, just asking for some love and attention. I’m a big cuddle bug, and I love curling up with my humans, whether we’re snuggling on the couch, in bed, or just hanging out. I’m sweet, gentle, and always ready to show you how much I care. When it comes to other dogs, I like to take things slow, same as with humans. I need a bit of time to get to know them, but once I do, I’m quick to make friends. I’m a great dog momma and love looking out for the pups — not only my own! ‍‍ I’ve been told I have a lot of patience and that I’m teaching the little ones good manners, showing them how to be calm and kind to each other and to humans too. While I might be a role model, I’m also always up for a good play session or just chilling with other dogs. I’m a friendly, gentle spirit who gets along with just about everyone — both human and dog! We’re so well cared for at the shelter, but lately I’ve felt a little pang of longing for a human of my own — someone I can devote all my love and attention to. I’d thrive in a calmer, more predictable home, ideally without young kids running around — I prefer a peaceful space where I can fully relax and build a deep bond with my people. With the help of Surfers for Strays, I’ve budded into a happy and healthy girl and now it’s time for me to bloom even more in a furever home! I can’t wait to hear from you! Love always,Your Lacey     If you are interested in FOSTERING, click on the Foster Button and fill out the online Foster Application If you are interested in ADOPTING, click on the Adopt Button and fill out the online Adoption Application Check out our VOLUNTEER Opportunities here https://www.surfersforstrays.org/get-involved  If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us. Email is where you will receive the quickest response. Please check out our Website, Facebook Page (remember to like us) and our Instagram page listed below. Please share with you friends, especially those considering adopting their next family member. Surfers For Strays, Inc. Contact Information:                            Phone #: 619  719  1182               Email: adopt@surfersforstrays.org           Website:  www.surfersforstrays.org   Instagram: @surfersforstrays        Facebook: Surfers For Strays                   TikTok: surfersforstrays  THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING ADOPTING A NEW FAMILY MEMBER AND HELPING SURFERS FOR STRAYS SAVE LIVES ONE PAW AT A TIME! Mucho Aloha ##2046526##
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Photo of Osa (CP)

Osa (CP)

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs 11 mos
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
***Currently located in Guerrero, Mexico*** Hi everyone! My name is Osa, which means bear in Spanish. I am a black lab looking girl and definitely have some bear traits to show off, like silky soft fur, warm eyes and a lot of cup, I mean, pup-energy! I was found on the streets in bad shape and very hungry. On top of the suffering you face when you haven't eaten in days, I also had a bad limp in one of my front legs. Everything was a blur, I cannot remember how that happend, maybe another dog, maybe a car... A kind Mexican woman had mercy on me and brought me to the shelter, where I am still today. For the first time in my life, I experienced what safety means- I had food, water, a warm, dry place to sleep and, the best part, friends! Since then there hasn't been a single day when I went hungry again. My two besties and I play a lot together! We romp around like crazy and may sometimes run over one of the smaller puppers in our excitement (oopsies!). As I grow up, I will try to be more careful (or will I? ). To run and chase my friends is a lot of work and I recently noticed that I have zero pain in my leg- it has healed completely! Thankfully, because I wouldn't wanna miss all the fun!  I also like to get all the attention from the humans. Soft pets and chin rubs are the best! When the volunteers sit down to pet us, I will hang around for quite some time before I get myself a toy to play with. I am very friendly, but sometimes I don't quite know the social etiquette and I would love to have my personal human that can teach me how to properly dog and to be fully compatiable with their family! Learning new things is fun!  Another dog in the home would be cool, but it is not a must for me if I can get a lot of exercise and if we can go on play dates or to the dog park. I love toys, especially ropes and .. actually everything   I cannot wait to meet my future family and go on all the adventures with them! Lots of facelicks, your Osa   If you are interested in FOSTERING, click on the Foster Button and fill out the online Foster Application If you are interested in ADOPTING, click on the Adopt Button and fill out the online Adoption Application Check out our VOLUNTEER Opportunities here https://www.surfersforstrays.org/get-involved  If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us. Email is where you will receive the quickest response. Please check out our Website, Facebook Page (remember to like us) and our Instagram page listed below. Please share with you friends, especially those considering adopting their next family member. Surfers For Strays, Inc. Contact Information:                            Phone #: 619  719  1182               Email: adopt@surfersforstrays.org           Website:  www.surfersforstrays.org   Instagram: @surfersforstrays        Facebook: Surfers For Strays                   TikTok: surfersforstrays  THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING ADOPTING A NEW FAMILY MEMBER AND HELPING SURFERS FOR STRAYS SAVE LIVES ONE PAW AT A TIME! Mucho Aloha ##2228692##

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Dog shelters and rescues in Del Mar, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for dogs in Del Mar, California. Browse these rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Feral Heroes Rescue - SD, CA TRANSPORT

San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Surfers For Strays - SD Fosters and Friends

local fosters & transport stop, San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

The Pitty Committee - San Diego

San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Coastal German Shepherd Rescue SD

P.O. Box 50726, San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Thrive Animal Rescue, Inc.

San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Second Leash on Life

San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

The Liberty Dog Network

Solana Beach, CA 92075

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Scratch My Belly

POBox 3879, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Helen Woodward Animal Center

6461 El Apajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Wet Noses Rescue

San Diego, CA 92067

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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For a comprehensive list of all shelters and rescues, try our search page. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

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Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Del Mar, California and nearby cities.

Popular dog breeds

Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Cocker Spaniel American Eskimo Dog American Hairless Terrier American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Aussiedoodle Australian Cattle Dog Australian Kelpie Australian Shepherd Australian Terrier Basenji Basset Hound Beagle Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Laekenois Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Belgian Tervuren Bernedoodle Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black and Tan Coonhound Bloodhound Blue Lacy/Texas Lacy Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier des Flandres Boxer Boykin Spaniel Briard Brittany Brussels Griffon Bull Terrier Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Cardigan Welsh Corgi Carolina Dog Catahoula Leopard Dog Caucasian Shepherd Dog Cavachon Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavapoo Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua Chinese Crested Chinook Chiweenie Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cockapoo Cocker Spaniel Collie Coonhound Corgi Coton de Tulear Curly-Coated Retriever Dachshund Dalmatian Dandie Dinmont Terrier Doberman Pinscher Dogo Argentino Dogue de Bordeaux Dutch Shepherd English (Redtick) Coonhound English Bulldog English Cocker Spaniel English Setter English Shepherd English Springer Spaniel English Toy Spaniel Entlebucher Feist Field Spaniel Fila Brasileiro Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat-Coated Retriever Fox Terrier (Smooth) Fox Terrier (Toy) Fox Terrier (Wirehaired) Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz German Wirehaired Pointer Glen of Imaal Terrier Goberian Golden Retriever Goldendoodle Gordon Setter Great Dane Great Pyrenees Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Greyhound Halden Hound (Haldenstrover) Harrier Havanese Horgi Hovawart Husky Ibizan Hound Icelandic Sheepdog Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Japanese Chin Jindo Kai Dog Karelian Bear Dog Keeshond Kerry Blue Terrier Kishu Komondor Kuvasz Kyi Leo Labradoodle Labrador Retriever Lakeland Terrier Lancashire Heeler Leonberger Lhasa Apso Löwchen Maltese Maltipoo Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mastiff Miniature Bull Terrier Miniature Dachshund Miniature Pinscher Morkie Mountain Cur Munsterlander Mutt Neapolitan Mastiff Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwegian Lundehund Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Olde English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier (Fell Terrier) Pekingese Pembroke Welsh Corgi Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Pitsky Plott Hound Podengo Portugueso Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Pomsky Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodle (Toy or Tea Cup) Portuguese Water Dog Presa Canario Pug Puggle Puli Pumi Rat Terrier Redbone Coonhound Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Saluki Samoyed Schiller Hound Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Schnoodle Scottie, Scottish Terrier Scottish Deerhound Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Sheepadoodle Sheltie, Shetland Sheepdog Sheppit Shepsky Shiba Inu Shih Poo Shih Tzu Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi St. Bernard Staffordshire Bull Terrier Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Texas Heeler Thai Ridgeback Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Tosa Inu Treeing Walker Coonhound Vizsla Weimaraner Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier Westie, West Highland White Terrier Wheaten Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintle/Mexican Hairless Yorkie Poo Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier