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Puppies and dogs in Santa Barbara, California

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Santa Barbara, California

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Santa Barbara, 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 Poppy

Poppy

Papillon Chihuahua

Female, 1 yr 5 mos
Santa Barbara, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Poppy is a sweet 1 year old with a heart of gold! She is clam, affectionate, and fun! She is the type of dog that enjoys being your co-pilot downtown SB or will enjoy to cuddle up on the couch for a movie! She is looking for her forever family!
Photo of Roo

Roo

Poodle (Miniature) Cairn Terrier

Male, 7 yrs
Santa Barbara, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Roo. 💙 Roo is a 7-year-old little survivor who endured years of severe abuse. A wire was tied around his muzzle so tightly that he needed emergency surgery. We saved him from his abuser, and now we’re showing him the kindness and love he should have known his entire life. Roo may be scared when meeting someone new, but with treats, patience, and a gentle touch, he warms up quickly. Once he trusts you, he gives you his whole heart. He loves toys, treats, relaxing in his bed, snuggling, and staying close to his person. Although Roo can be around other dogs, he would prefer to be the only pet because, for the first time in his life, he wants a family’s love all to himself—and who could blame him? Roo has spent seven years waiting to feel safe and loved. Will you be the person who finally gives him the forever home he deserves? 🐾
Photo of Franklin

Franklin

Miniature Pinscher

Male, 4 yrs
Santa Barbara, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Franklin is an adorable 4-year-old Miniature Pinscher mix weighing about 11 pounds. 🐾❤️ He can be a little shy when first meeting someone, but give him some time and his sweet, adventurous personality starts to shine! Franklin loves following his people around, exploring, and spending time with his dog friends. He has done great with the dogs he’s met and is a quiet, gentle little guy who just needs someone willing to give him the time and love to feel comfortable. Once Franklin knows he’s safe, you get to see what a special little dog he truly is.
Photo of Bruce

Bruce

Coonhound Beagle

Male, 4 yrs
Santa Barbara, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
🐾 MEET BRUCE! 🐾 Bruce is a handsome 4½-year-old Coonhound mix weighing about 45 lbs. — the perfect size, not too big and not too small! ❤️ He’s only been with us for a few days, but so far he has shown us what a sweet, calm, quiet, and affectionate boy he is. 🎓 Bruce has already been through training and has a great foundation! He knows sit, down, heel, and his basic commands, and we’ll continue building on what he already knows. He is also extremely potty trained and will actually whine to let you know when he needs to go outside! 🏡 Bruce is definitely an indoor dog. He loves relaxing in his bed with some enrichment, hanging out with his people, giving kisses and little hand licks, and being a couch potato. He also does well being left home alone, so someone who works full-time could still be a great fit for him. But if you’re looking for an adventure buddy, Bruce would also be happy joining you for walks and hikes! 🥾🌲 🐕 We are continuing to assess him with other animals, but so far things have been encouraging! Bruce previously lived with a cat and a small dog, and since arriving here he has done well during introductions with a large German Shepherd and some smaller dogs. Bruce truly has so much potential, and we think he is going to make someone an amazing companion. ❤️ Even after adoption, Night Sky Rescue will continue to be there for support, and if Bruce needs additional training, we will help make sure he and his adopter have what they need to succeed. We’ll continue sharing updates as we learn more about him, but so far, Bruce is one really great dog! 🥹🐾 Interested in Bruce? 📧 nightskyrescueinc@yahoo.com 📞 805-875-7387 🌐 nightskyrescue.org & 💌 send us a message!
Photo of MAC

MAC

Black Mouth Cur

Male, 5 yrs 10 mos
Goleta, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Mac’s Dating Profile:Name: MacAge: 6ishhRelationship Status: Emotionally unavailable… until you earn my trust.About Me • Looking for a single man to make me his whole world. • I don’t really do cuddles… but I do expect your attention. Think “best friend with boundaries.” • I need an experienced dog owner. If I’m your first dog, we’re probably not a match. • Introverts are my type. If you’d rather spend your weekends with your dog than at a crowded party, we’re already off to a great start. • My ideal human listens, respects boundaries, understands dog behavior, and is always willing to learn more. • Confidence is attractive. Ego is not.My Dream Date:Hop in the car? I’m already waiting by the door. Whether we’re going on a road trip or just running errands, I want to come.Active lifestyle required! I’m not a couch potato. The second you stand up, I’m ready for our next adventure. Runs? Awesome. A couple of long walks every day? Even better. If you’re always on the go, I’ll happily be your sidekick.Got a cat? That’s fine. I honestly couldn’t care less.Have another dog? Maybe! They just need to understand that my play style is… let’s call it socially awkward. Not every dog appreciates my unique personality.I’m muzzle trained, so I need someone who understands that a muzzle is a tool—not a punishment—and knows when it’s appropriate for me to wear one.Love Language:Quality time… with a little personal space.I’ll happily lay next to you while we watch TV, work, or relax. Just don’t mistake that for an invitation to pet me nonstop. I like being close to my people—I just don’t need to be touched all the time.Looking For:A firm, patient, active, knowledgeable man or childless couple who understands that trust is earned, boundaries should be respected, and every dog deserves to be loved for who they are—not who people expect them to be.I already have a great trainer contact who is committed to continuing my training, along with my current fosters who are more than happy to help guide/support my future family whenever needed.I’ve been waiting a really long time for my forever person, and I hope I don’t grow too old before they find me.
Photo of JONAH

JONAH

Husky

Male, 4 yrs 10 mos
Goleta, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Jonah is a sweet Siberian husky/malamute with a big personality and is afavorite among shelter staff and volunteers - exceptionally goofy, playful,sweet, and a total cuddle bug who loves his people. Jonah has spent several months in foster, where he immediately thrived. Athome, Jonah is chill, independent, and adaptable. He is house trained,non-destructive, sleeps 10+ hours overnight, and can be left at home for 6-8+ hours (after proper exercise). He loves to nap almost as much as heloves being with his people. He can be vocal but is not a husky howler, andhe has never shown escape tendencies. His favorite activities are walking,visiting the beach, and receiving belly rubs.Jonah responds best to clear behavior and predictability/consistency (inboth routine and body language). While new people or confusing behaviorscan excite him initially, it doesn’t take too long for him to observe, figure outhow this new part of his world works, and go back to his sleepy self. At times, Jonah has spurts of energy and excitement which can bemanaged since he is very smart, and food motivated. He has already comea long way when it comes to leash-pulling, recall, prey-drive (squirrels,mouse, rabbits) and impulse control, and he’s still making progress.Jonah is truly a one-of-a-kind dog who will brighten anyone’s life. He woulddo best with patient, husky, or malamute-familiar adopters with an activelifestyle, who can help keep him physically and mentally stimulated as partof the foundation for his training progress as well managing a large, strongdog, and advocating for Jonah’s communication style with new people. Jonah has so much potential and love to give. He is ready for his foreverhome!

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Santa Barbara, California

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Tiffy's Rescue

Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Night Sky Rescue Inc

Santa Barbara, CA 93103

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Southland Collie Rescue - Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara, CA 93109

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Hope and Dignity Animal Rescue

Santa Barbara, CA 93130

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Rover’s Retreat - Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Santa Barbara County Animal Services - Santa Barbara Shelter

5473 Overpass Road, Goleta, CA 93111

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, horses, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Shelter

Santa Barbara Humane, Santa Barbara Campus

5399 Overpass Rd, SANTA BARBARA, CA 93111

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

K-9 PALS - K-9 Placement & Assistance League, Inc.

P.O. Box 60755, Santa Barbara, CA 93160

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Spark Rescue Santa Barbara

PO Box 8445, Santa Barbara, CA 93118

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Cold Noses, Warm Hearts

5758 Hollister Ave, Goleta, CA 93117

Pet Types: dogs

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Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

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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Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Santa Barbara, 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