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Puppies and dogs in Portola Valley, California

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

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Adopt a dog in Portola Valley, California

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Portola Valley, California. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
We'll also keep you updated on Lillie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lillie

Lillie

Labrador Retriever Whippet

Female, Puppy
menlo park, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
we are only able to answer emails that include zip code, phone number, previous dog experience and expectation/wish list of new dog. sweet, social, 40lb, 1 y old spayed girl, all shots, looking for loving home. https://www.facebook.com/baihertpe/videos All dogs are fostered in private homes, there is no facility open to public. Home visit would be arranged for matched application. We encourage everyone to visit public shelters, and save another dog's life
We'll also keep you updated on uma's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of uma

uma

Whippet Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Female, Puppy
menlo park, 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 are only able to answer emails that include zip code, phone number, previous dog experience and expectation/wish list of new dog. sweet, playful, 1 y old, 20 lb, spayed girl, all shots, looking for loving home. https://www.facebook.com/umatpeca All dogs are fostered in private homes, there is no facility open to public. Home visit would be arranged for matched application. We encourage everyone to visit public shelters, and save another dog's life
We'll also keep you updated on Sammy's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Sammy

Sammy

Golden Retriever

Male, 3 yrs 3 mos
Menlo Park, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Sammy is an amazing and resilient 3-year-old Golden Retriever. He is a very loving Golden to those who know and love him. Sammy is currently enrolled in an extended board-and-train program designed to help de-escalate reactivity with dogs, address home barriers, and manage interactions with strangers. He has really done well after 6 months, building confidence and reducing his reactivity to men and dogs. Sammy now has a pack of five doggie friends he plays with regularly. We have weaned him off the Reconcile, and his Golden personality is really beginning to shine through. Sammy's extensive training is really showing what Sammy's potential can be when loved and cared for daily. He will need an experienced owner who can provide consistent reinforcement and meet his needs. If you are interested, we can coordinate a call with his trainer to learn more. Sammy is being fostered in San Jose.
We'll also keep you updated on Kitten's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Kitten

Kitten

Maltese Shih Tzu

Female, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, December 13th from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, pls submit an application in advance.   Adoption Fee: $550 **Kitten is available for Foster-to-Adopt!** Breed: Maltese–Shih Tzu mix Age: 5-6 years old Weight: 11.6 lbs Coat: Non-shedding KITTEN - Small Dog, Big Opinions   Let's be real: Kitten isn't for everyone, and she wouldn't have it any other way.  This  Maltese mix knows what she likes (morning fetch, her cozy crate, predictable routines) and what she doesn't (surprise guests, loud neighborhood noise, anyone touching her food bowl). She's making excellent progress in foster care, but she's going to need someone who gets that progress isn't perfection. Kitten's Non-Negotiables:  A quiet house with a yard - apartments and city life? Hard pass. Space during meals - she's protective of her bowl and needs you to respect that boundary Time to warm up - she'll bark when you arrive, then decide if you're cool. Don't rush her. A peaceful neighborhood - she's got opinions about squirrels, birds, and pretty much everything else, and she's LOUD about it (but less so when her leash is on, interestingly) Where Kitten Shines: When her world is calm and predictable, this girl is a gem. She's fantastic on leash walks (no lunging, no drama with other dogs). She loves fetch in the morning. She's totally fine being left alone - no separation anxiety, no destruction. She adores her crate and uses it as her safe space. And with a little CBD to take the edge off her anxiety, she's shown she can really settle in. The Right Human for Kitten:  Experienced with small dogs who come with attitude and anxiety Patient and consistent - she's improved SO much in 10 weeks, but she needs someone who won't give up when she has a bad day Home most of the time to keep her routine solid No young kids - adults or older teens who won't overwhelm her Committed to management - feeding protocols, CBD routine, ongoing structure Willing to work with a dog behaviorist - continued professional support for resource guarding and barking will help her keep progressing Why She's Available: Kitten was adopted to a home in San Francisco and returned after 2 months. City living was all wrong for her - too loud, too chaotic, too much. She needs space, quiet, and someone who understands that challenging dogs aren't broken dogs.  The Bottom Line: If you're looking for an easy dog who's instantly social and goes-with-the-flow, keep scrolling. But if you want a loyal, quirky companion who will reward your patience with fetch sessions and couch snuggles (on her terms), Kitten might just be your perfect match.   She's a work in progress. Are you up for it?        January 19, 2026, 1:44 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Indigo's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Indigo

Indigo

Papillon

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, January 24th from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, pls submit an application in advance.   Adoption fee: $700 Meet Indigo   Indigo is a 2 year old, 14 lb Papillon mix who came to the rescue from the shelter and has been busy discovering what it means to be safe, loved, and part of a family. He is a bright, energetic little dog with a huge heart and a zest for life that becomes more obvious every day.   Daily Routine Indigo is an early riser and starts his day with a quick 10-minute walk around the park near his foster home. Afterward, he enjoys breakfast— a mix of kibble and wet food— before settling into his pen. Around 8:00 a.m., he heads out for a longer walk, usually 40–50 minutes, where he can burn off his abundant energy. After that, he relaxes in his pen until his foster family returns home in the afternoon.   When his people get home around 3:00–4:00 p.m., Indigo is thrilled to see them and goes out for another short walk. Dinner is around 5:00 p.m., followed by playtime in the living room. Before bedtime, he enjoys one last 10-minute walk around 8:00 p.m. He sleeps in his pen overnight without issue— he may whine briefly, then settles himself and sleeps through until morning.   Personality & Growth When Indigo first arrived, he was very shy and anxious, reluctant to leave his crate and unsure of his new surroundings. He was underweight and dealing with skin issues, and it was clear he needed time to decompress. In just a short period, he has made an impressive transformation. Indigo is now affectionate and cuddly, loves to wag his tail, and eagerly engages in play with toys and his people.   He has a playful, puppy-like spirit and is still learning good manners. Indigo can get mouthy during play and may grab at things when excited, but his foster family is actively working on redirecting this behavior and teaching him appropriate outlets. He is curious, smart, and clearly eager to learn.   One of the sweetest things about Indigo is how he greets his foster family when they come home. As soon as he’s let out of his pen, he walks right up and gently presses his forehead against them— a quiet, heartfelt way of saying he’s happy and feels safe.   Energy Level & Activity Indigo is energetic and always on the move when he’s out of his pen. He loves running and exploring and seems like he could go forever. He is not a couch potato— this is a dog who will thrive with daily walks, enrichment, and an active lifestyle.   Leash Skills & Outside World Indigo has been on many walks and is enthusiastic on leash. He does pull a bit but frequently checks back in with his person. He is very alert and vocal when he sees dogs, people, strollers, cats, or other activity, using his voice to let everyone know he’s there. With continued training, structure, and confidence-building, he should continue to improve in busy environments.   Training & Manners Indigo is crate-trained and comfortable resting in his pen. Potty training is still a work in progress, and he will need a home committed to consistency and positive reinforcement as he continues learning where to go.   Social Life Indigo is currently the only dog in his foster home and has not yet lived with other pets or children. He previously lived with several other dogs while at the shelter.   Why Indigo Indigo is smart, kind, affectionate, and full of personality. In just 10 days, he has already bonded deeply with his foster family and clearly wants to be part of a pack. He is strong, healthy, and endlessly fun, with a playful spirit and a loving heart. For the right home— one that embraces his energy and commits to guiding him as he grows— Indigo will be a devoted, joyful companion who brings laughter and adventure into everyday life.January 21, 2026, 1:55 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Bronze's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bronze

Bronze

Maltese Poodle (Miniature)

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at the Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, January 24th from 12-3pm unless adopted prior to the event. To be considered for adoption, pls submit an application in advance.   Adoption fee: $750 Bronze is a 3 year old, 17 lb Maltipoo who came to our rescue after being found as a stray alongside his buddies, Silver and Platinum. When he arrived at the shelter, Bronze was in rough shape— his coat was badly matted and neglected— but thanks to our amazing volunteer groomers, he’s now cleaned up, comfortable, and looking as handsome as he feels.   Bronze starts his day around 7:30am full of energy and enthusiasm, ready to see what the day has in store. He eats breakfast at 7:30am and dinner at 6pm, and in between meals he can usually be found lounging on the couch. That said, he’s always on alert for opportunities to go outside or head out for a walk, and when it’s time, he springs up with surprising pep. At night, Bronze settles down sleeping on the floor in the bedroom, happy just to be near his people.   Over the course of a couple of weeks, his foster family has watched Bronze blossom into a confident, assertive little dog who can never get enough attention. He loves being petted, leaning into his people, or simply lying right next to them. He forms strong bonds and truly hates being left alone, preferring to always be close to his humans.   Bronze had no idea what to do with toys or balls at first, but he’s slowly figuring it out and has even started to play a little fetch. With the resident Lab, he initially kept his distance, but now he actively tries to play, occasionally licking her or cuddling up beside her. He is quite jealous of any attention she receives and definitely wants to be front and center. He’s very curious about cats and will chase them but is not aggressive, and he absolutely adores the two children in the home.   Personality-wise, Bronze is the perfect mix of couch potato and eager adventure buddy. He’s content to relax most of the day, but the moment it’s time to go outside or for a walk, he’s up and ready to go. On leash, he generally does well, though he likes to chew on the leash a bit. He doesn’t bark at other dogs or chase squirrels— he just wants to meet everyone.   Bronze is mostly house trained, with only a couple of accidents when left inside too long. He doesn’t dig or chew inappropriate items, though he will pick up random objects if he’s trying to get attention. He does bark when left alone, which reflects how much he values companionship.   One especially charming quirk: Bronze loves rubbing himself against the cat’s scratching post and makes an adorable purring noise while doing it—just one more reason he’s impossible not to love.   Bronze would thrive in a loving home, ideally with someone who works from home or is around often, as he truly craves companionship. He is an absolute sweetheart with endless love and devotion to give, a very friendly personality, and a deep affection for people. Bronze is ready to be someone’s loyal little shadow and cherished family member.January 21, 2026, 1:55 pm

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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in Portola Valley, California.

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Dog shelters and rescues in Portola Valley, California

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Giant Steps Foundation

Menlo Park, CA 94025

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Tiramisu Dog Rescue - S.F. Chapter

menlo park, CA 94025

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Birdhouse/Doghouse Rescue Foundation

Menlo Park, CA 94025

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Norcal Golden Retriever Rescue

405 El Camino Real, Suite 420, Menlo Park, CA 94025

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Stanford Pet Clinic

4111 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Palo Alto Humane Society

PO Box 60715, Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

MO4PAWS

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

ShepHeroes

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Doggie Protective Services (DPS Rescue)

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

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Rescue

Northern California Bulldog Rescue

na, Woodside, CA 94062

Pet Types: 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 Portola Valley, 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