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German Shepherd Dog puppies and dogs in Santa Cruz, California

Looking for a German Shepherd Dog puppy or dog in Santa Cruz, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable German Shepherd Dog near you.

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Adopt a German Shepherd Dog near you in Santa Cruz, California

These German Shepherd Dogs are available in Santa Cruz, California.
We'll also keep you updated on ALANI's adoption status with email updates.
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ALANI

German Shepherd Dog Border Collie

Female, 6 yrs 11 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Alani, the six year old Border Collie German Shepherd mix. Alani came to the Shelter after her previous guardian was unable to continue caring for her. Alani has been around children ages 2 years to 15 years and has done well. Alani has been around cats previously. She was primarily outdoors while the cats were indoors. Alani and the cats would sniff each other and coexist. Alani was noted by her previous guardians to be very sweet with people and people. Alani has not lived with other dogs previously but has met some at the Shelter. She prefers more of a coexistence while she gets to know the other dog, versus actively playing with them. A home with another dog may be appropriate but any resident dogs should meet at the Shelter prior to adoption. Since Alani has primarily lived entirely outdoors previously, her future adopters should be mindful that Alani may do well in a home with indoor-outdoor access, especially while she is transitioning to her adoptive home. She may need some patience with life skills like potty training, leash walking, and other modern day dog skills. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation is now offering “Pawsitivity Bucks” with every dog adoption. This $200 training voucher is a way for newly adopted canines and their guardians to connect with local positive reinforcement based behavior consultants and get their relationship started off on the right paw!Please note: Our Santa Cruz location’s Shelter hours are 11-6pm, 7 days a week! Although clients can walk through and see any animals in their kennels during open hours, we end “meet and greets” (aka meeting an animal out of the kennel) at 4:30pm every day. If you’d like to meet an animal out of the kennel, please arrive before 4:00pm to allow for time to discuss individual animals and meet them.

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We'll also keep you updated on DANIEL's adoption status with email updates.
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DANIEL

German Shepherd Dog Husky

Male, 8 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
Meet Daniel, the German Shepherd mix dog! Daniel came to the Shelter as an owner surrender after he just ultimately wasn’t the best fit for his previous household. They loved him dearly but simply did not have the same energy level as him. Daniel was reported to be very friendly with people but sometimes forgets his own size. He has lived with two children ages 9 and 12 years old and did well. He also lived with a cat, who was the boss of this big boy. He may do well with a dog-savvy cat in his next home with a slow, thoughtful introduction. He is still perfecting house training but is almost there. He has been around dogs of all sizes in his previous home and enjoyed interacting with him. Daniel has also been around a duck, although he preferred to keep his distance from him. Daniel would thrive in a home with an energetic family who enjoys getting their miles in just as much as he does. Whether it be walking, hiking, or running – Daniel is ready to join you for the adventure. Mental stimulation is also important. Positive reinforcement training will help Daniel learn new skills and bond with his new family.From Friday, May 1st through Sunday May 10th, the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is participating in Empty the Shelters. The adoption fee is reduced to $50 for all cats, dogs and rabbits in our care. Empty the Shelters is the nation’s largest funded adoption event centered around helping homeless pets find families by making adoption affordable for prospective pet owners.Please note: Our Santa Cruz location’s Shelter hours are 11-6pm, 7 days a week! Although clients can walk through and see any animals in their kennels during open hours, we end “meet and greets” (aka meeting an animal out of the kennel) at 4:30pm every day. If you’d like to meet an animal out of the kennel, please arrive before 4:00pm to allow for time to discuss individual animals and meet them.

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We'll also keep you updated on THOR's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of THOR

THOR

Border Collie German Shepherd Dog

Male, 1 yr 5 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Thor a very handsome boy with a happy to be alive spirt. Thor was surrendered to the shelter when his previous owners lost their housing they were devastated, but they wanted the very best for him and couldn`t provide it at this time. Thor loves to play fetch with a ball. He`s a swimmer and loves to jump in water. He know sit and stay and laydown for a treat. He`s mostly potty trained but might have an accident if left too long, he is trained to use a pee pad inside. Thor loves to chew so providing the appropriate harder style chew toys is his preference. Thor loves other dogs and is always up for a good romp he doesn`t know his size and may be a little too much for some smaller breeds. He doesn`t history living with cats but will likely chase like he likes to chase squirrels at the park. Thor is neutered and available for adoption. Come meet your new best friend.The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation is now offering “Pawsitivity Bucks” with every dog adoption. This $200 training voucher is a way for newly adopted canines and their guardians to connect with local positive reinforcement based behavior consultants and get their relationship started off on the right paw!Thor`s adoption fee has been sponsored by a good samaritan!Please note: Our Santa Cruz location’s Shelter hours are 11-6pm, 7 days a week! Although clients can walk through and see any animals in their kennels during open hours, we end “meet and greets” (aka meeting an animal out of the kennel) at 4:30pm every day. If you’d like to meet an animal out of the kennel, please arrive before 4:00pm to allow for time to discuss individual animals and meet them.

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Or, how about these German Shepherd Dogs in cities near Santa Cruz, California

These German Shepherd Dogs are available for adoption close to Santa Cruz, California.
We'll also keep you updated on ALANI's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of ALANI

ALANI

German Shepherd Dog Border Collie

Female, 6 yrs 11 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Alani, the six year old Border Collie German Shepherd mix. Alani came to the Shelter after her previous guardian was unable to continue caring for her. Alani has been around children ages 2 years to 15 years and has done well. Alani has been around cats previously. She was primarily outdoors while the cats were indoors. Alani and the cats would sniff each other and coexist. Alani was noted by her previous guardians to be very sweet with people and people. Alani has not lived with other dogs previously but has met some at the Shelter. She prefers more of a coexistence while she gets to know the other dog, versus actively playing with them. A home with another dog may be appropriate but any resident dogs should meet at the Shelter prior to adoption. Since Alani has primarily lived entirely outdoors previously, her future adopters should be mindful that Alani may do well in a home with indoor-outdoor access, especially while she is transitioning to her adoptive home. She may need some patience with life skills like potty training, leash walking, and other modern day dog skills. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation is now offering “Pawsitivity Bucks” with every dog adoption. This $200 training voucher is a way for newly adopted canines and their guardians to connect with local positive reinforcement based behavior consultants and get their relationship started off on the right paw!Please note: Our Santa Cruz location’s Shelter hours are 11-6pm, 7 days a week! Although clients can walk through and see any animals in their kennels during open hours, we end “meet and greets” (aka meeting an animal out of the kennel) at 4:30pm every day. If you’d like to meet an animal out of the kennel, please arrive before 4:00pm to allow for time to discuss individual animals and meet them.

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We'll also keep you updated on DANIEL's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of DANIEL

DANIEL

German Shepherd Dog Husky

Male, 8 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
Meet Daniel, the German Shepherd mix dog! Daniel came to the Shelter as an owner surrender after he just ultimately wasn’t the best fit for his previous household. They loved him dearly but simply did not have the same energy level as him. Daniel was reported to be very friendly with people but sometimes forgets his own size. He has lived with two children ages 9 and 12 years old and did well. He also lived with a cat, who was the boss of this big boy. He may do well with a dog-savvy cat in his next home with a slow, thoughtful introduction. He is still perfecting house training but is almost there. He has been around dogs of all sizes in his previous home and enjoyed interacting with him. Daniel has also been around a duck, although he preferred to keep his distance from him. Daniel would thrive in a home with an energetic family who enjoys getting their miles in just as much as he does. Whether it be walking, hiking, or running – Daniel is ready to join you for the adventure. Mental stimulation is also important. Positive reinforcement training will help Daniel learn new skills and bond with his new family.From Friday, May 1st through Sunday May 10th, the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is participating in Empty the Shelters. The adoption fee is reduced to $50 for all cats, dogs and rabbits in our care. Empty the Shelters is the nation’s largest funded adoption event centered around helping homeless pets find families by making adoption affordable for prospective pet owners.Please note: Our Santa Cruz location’s Shelter hours are 11-6pm, 7 days a week! Although clients can walk through and see any animals in their kennels during open hours, we end “meet and greets” (aka meeting an animal out of the kennel) at 4:30pm every day. If you’d like to meet an animal out of the kennel, please arrive before 4:00pm to allow for time to discuss individual animals and meet them.

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We'll also keep you updated on Josie C.'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Josie C.

Josie C.

German Shepherd Dog

Female
Cupertino, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi there, my name is  Josie , and I’m searching for my forever family.  I’m a strong two-year-old German Shepherd girl, weighing about 70 pounds, who is mature and wise for my age. My prior living situation was in a large yard with an outdoor shed and very little company. It was a scary, lonely, and uncertain time.  Now, safe in foster care, I’m learning what it means to be part of a family—and I’m blossoming every day. When I first arrived, I wasn’t sure how to live inside a home. I wanted to protect my new place, so I barked at people and dogs passing by the windows. But my foster family has helped me relax, and now I mostly watch with curiosity instead of worry. I love walks and am learning not to pull on the leash. I can still get excited around other dogs, but my wagging tail shows I might just want to play. With a little more training, I know I’ll get even better. I’m housebroken, crate trained, and ride beautifully in the car. At night, I sometimes curl up in my open-door crate, but other times you’ll find me snoozing on the couch. I know my basic commands—sit, down, and come—and I’m eager to learn more since I’m very treat-motivated. I also have great manners: no digging, chewing, or jumping. Playtime is one of my favorite things! I love fetch- I’ll bring the ball back again and again, and when I’m done, I plop my big paw on it to let you know playtime is over. Indoors, I have a toy box, and I always choose my favorite one before I bring it to you. I’ve also visited ranch animals—horses, cattle, geese, and turkeys—and handled myself like a pro. My foster family describes me as affectionate, playful, curious, and eager to please. I love giving kisses and following my people around the house. Since I haven’t lived with other pets, we’re not sure how I’d do sharing a home, but I’m friendly with adults, strangers, and children. At just two years old, I’m ready to grow into the amazing companion I was always meant to be. Could I be the shepherd girl you’ve been looking for? &#226&#156&#168 From outdoor life to family life—Josie is a level 3 dog ready for her happily ever after. &#226&#156&#168March 8, 2026, 12:19 am

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We'll also keep you updated on Akira's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Akira

Akira

German Shepherd Dog

Female
Cupertino, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Akira is a delight through and through: All 80 pounds of her. Her main goal in life is to be a good companion and attached to her people. She is a puppy at heart; she gleefully plays ball games and prances around the yard and even plays nicely with some other pups. Her on- leash work needs some refinement but she listens and verbal corrections are usually enough. She is a calm, easy going dog who greets people gently and appropriately and is not reactive with other dogs unless provoked. Akira has moderate prey drive, as observed with squirrels, birds and rabbits. Given that, any introductions to cats should be staged and supervised. Good house manners are important especially for big dogs, and she is excellent in that regard. She alerts to people coming to the door or entering the house and relaxes once she knows they are familiar. Akira loves a car ride and is calm and quiet. As far as commands go, she responds reliably to: come (or back), sit, down, off, and place (including a towel). We are working on ‘go to bed’, ‘find it’, ‘watch me’ and ‘on by’. We did not find her to be especially food motivated, but praise and ear scratches make her very happy. Akira is: Energy Level 3-Your Basic Shepherd: Needs daily exercise and play time. Some walking/hiking/training, and/or fetch will round out their day and allow them to settle in the evening. Temperament Level 3-Comfortable with most people, may be under-socialized, may have some prey drive, separation anxiety, and/or leash reactivity, and may not be suitable for small children. Takes well to training.May 9, 2026, 12:08 am

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We'll also keep you updated on Scar OS's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Scar OS

Scar OS

German Shepherd Dog

Male
Cupertino, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Scar is a handsome, young, 90+ lb lap dog. He is well-behaved in the house, potty-trained, and can be left alone loose for a few hours (so far). He rides well in the car, barks only occasionally, and only chews on his toys. He has knowledge of the commands: “come”, “sit’, ‘down”, “out”, “leash’, and knows his name. He is enthusiastic and gentle with adults, even strangers. He hasn’t met many children yet. He lives with a 6-year-old foster sister whom he lets push him around in play. We do not know his behavior with cats, but he seems to have a very low prey drive. His foster parents describe him as energetic, affectionate, outgoing, curious, and playful. Scar is: Energy Level 3-Your Basic Shepherd: Needs daily exercise and play time. Some walking/hiking/training, and/or fetch will round out their day and allow them to settle in the evening. Temperament Level 3-Comfortable with most people, may be under-socialized, may have some prey drive, separation anxiety, and/or leash reactivity, and may not be suitable for small children. Takes well to training.May 9, 2026, 12:08 am

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We'll also keep you updated on Athena's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Athena

Athena

German Shepherd Dog Anatolian Shepherd

Female, Young
Cupertino, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Athena, born in March 2025 is a large puppy who is friendly to people and other dogs. Her foster homs includes dogs, cats, and teenagers and she is comfortable with all of them.  Athena is: Energy Level 3-Your Basic Shepherd: Needs daily exercise and play time. Some walking/hiking/training, and/or fetch will round out their day and allow them to settle in the evening. Temperament Level 4-In addition to Level 3 behaviors: Cautious, may not be comfortable with all types of people, has fear or anxiety issues, wary of other dogs. Needs a skilled handler with GSD experience.May 9, 2026, 12:08 am

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German Shepherd Dog shelters & rescues in Santa Cruz, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for German Shepherd Dog puppies in Santa Cruz, California. Browse these German Shepherd Dog rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

2.5 miles

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter

1001 Rodriguez Avenue, Santa Cruz, 580 Airport Blvd, Watsonville, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

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

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Rescue

4.2 miles

German Shepherd Rescue of Northern California

P.O. Box 1930, Cupertino, CA 95010

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

14 miles

Mutt Luv Rescue Los Gatos

LOS GATOS, CA 95030

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

18.9 miles

The Perfect Dog

PO Box 361441, Milpitas, CA 95036

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

20.4 miles

Angels Furry Friends Rescue

San Jose, CA 95124

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

22.6 miles

Silicon Valley Pet Project

P.O. Box 6145, San Jose, CA 95150

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

23.1 miles

All Animal Rescue & Friends

16375 Monterey Rd, Suite I, Morgan Hill, CA 95037

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

23.7 miles

Thulani Senior German Shepherd Rescue

Cupertino, CA 95014

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

24 miles

San Jose Animal Care Center

2750 Monterey Highway, San Jose, CA 95111

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

24.4 miles

WKODIT

P.O. Box 644, La Honda, CA 94020

Pet Types: dogs

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Want to learn more about adopting a German Shepherd Dog puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for a German Shepherd Dog puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about German Shepherd Dog puppies and adults.

German Shepherd Dog basics

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Where do German Shepherd Dogs come from? How many types of German Shepherd Dogs are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the German Shepherd Dog.

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