Australian Shepherd puppies and dogs in Minnetonka, Minnesota

Hi! My name is Paxie, and I am from Arkansas! Don’t let my pretty pictures fool you. I’m a total goof! I hop when I run, and my big tongue is always hanging out. I love sprawling out in the kitchen, watching the action and keeping everyone giggling. I leave a trail of happy wherever I go. I came to Minnesota from Arkansas. I know the best AC vents and cool tile. I love walks (Squirrel! Rabbit!) and am building my stamina, so walks are important. I say hello to everyone we pass because I’ve never met a stranger! I get along wonderfully with my dog siblings and adore the kids in my kid-packed neighborhood. I enjoy the action, but I’m great at entertaining myself with toys. I’m fully house-trained and doing well on my prescription diet for urinary health. I’m sweet, silly, social, and pretty darn special. My forever family will be lucky to have me!

Hi! My name is Paxie, and I am from Arkansas! Don’t let my pretty pictures fool you. I’m a total goof! I hop when I run, and my big tongue is always hanging out. I love sprawling out in the kitchen, watching the action and keeping everyone giggling. I leave a trail of happy wherever I go. I came to Minnesota from Arkansas. I know the best AC vents and cool tile. I love walks (Squirrel! Rabbit!) and am building my stamina, so walks are important. I say hello to everyone we pass because I’ve never met a stranger! I get along wonderfully with my dog siblings and adore the kids in my kid-packed neighborhood. I enjoy the action, but I’m great at entertaining myself with toys. I’m fully house-trained and doing well on my prescription diet for urinary health. I’m sweet, silly, social, and pretty darn special. My forever family will be lucky to have me!

You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Thank you for stopping by to see me!  Please fill out an application to set up  a private meeting.      Hello, my name is Benji! I am a very handsome young adult male Mini Aussiedoodle who doesn’t like a lot of commotion, but I love to cuddle, and I prefer women. Truth is, I am highly sensitive and reactive to ‘stranger danger’! That’s right, I react to people approaching the front door, coming into the house, and even people approaching my kennel. I know…it’s not something I’m proud of but I’m working on it…really, I am!! In fact, foster mom is trying to help me associate new people (strangers) with positive outcomes and I am confident that I will be successful in time but for now it is still a work in progress. In the meantime, mom sometimes puts a muzzle on me and although it doesn’t bother me at all I prefer, of course, not to wear it so my new family will need to commit to working with me on training. Muzzle training may make me look scary, but it allows me to safely meet and work on my training so I can be happy!  After all, consistency, patience, loving encouragement, and LOTS of mental and physical stimulation are the keys to my success!!! I am good with older kids, cats, and other dogs; and my favorite activities include going on my daily leashed walks or car rides; hiking; exploring; eating treats like plain Greek yogurt or pumpkin; playing with small squeaky toys and other dogs; chewing on Benebones; and running zoomies in the yard so the yard at my new home will need to be fenced! Hee, hee!! I also hope to have a small, confident doggie companion who might help me overcome some of my anxiety about strangers!!! By the way, I almost forgot to mention that I am a prodigy…no, really! I know everything from how to do my business outside to a deluge of commands like “sit”, “down”, “come”, “kennel/crate”, “wait”, “leave it”, “outside”, and “go potty”!! Thankfully, I enjoy learning, especially when I have a strong, confident, respectful leader, and I really love pleasing my people!! Anyway, foster mom says that I am the “most affectionate” dog she’s ever met and as hard as I try, I simply cannot disagree with her! Hee, hee!! All I need in my life now is YOU…a patient, unconditionally loving forever family who will not only NEVER give up on me but will commit to helping me overcome my fears!! I promise that not only am I totally worth it, but I will enrich your life in ways you could never imagine!!! Love, Benji Some of our dogs are obtained from commercial breeders where they spent their lives getting comfort from their canine friends. Others have come from various situations where they are lacking confidence in humans. In turn, most require another companion dog in their forever home in order for them to feel safe. If you are interested in a particular dog, and do not currently have a dog residing with you, please understand that your home might not be the right fit for many of our dogs.   This dog has received grooming with us at Underdog Rescue, but was likely neglected of grooming attention until he came into our care.  It can sometimes take months to get their coat healthy as Doodle mixes require daily brushing.  Grooming appointments occur every 3 months and cost on average of $150 per appointment.  Adopters should be prepared for such expenses.  Underdog Rescue cannot guarantee the non-shedding or hypoallergenic qualities of this dog.    ***Be sure to check your spam/junk folder as sometimes our emails end up there***Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.If you have other questions about me you can email Underdog Rescue at <inquiries@underdogrescuemn.com> ADOPTION EVENTS:      Adoption events are updated at the top of each dogs animals' as their foster home signs up. Check back for updates on which events they will be attending. If an event is not listed within their bio above, the animal is not planning to attend.  Please understand that all of our pets are in volunteer foster homes and sometimes "life" happens and the foster family cannot make it to their scheduled adoption event. If you are traveling from a far distance to meet a specific animal, please understand we cannot guarantee event attendance. We recommend filling out an application and we will set up a private appointment. Private appointments are only scheduled after an application is submitted and approved. ADOPTION PROCEDURE: The first step in our process is to complete an online adoption application on our website: http://www.underdogrescuemn.com/adoptionprocess/   Note: In most circumstances Underdog Rescue will only adopt within 60 miles of Minneapolis, MN.  All of our foster animals can be seen by appointment with an approved adoption application. Contact us at http://www.underdogrescuemn.com/contact-us/ if you have further questions. FOSTER CARE: All of our animals are fostered in individual homes or doggie daycare facilities. While they are in our care, they are part of our families and given lots of love. We work on training, crate-training and socialization prior to adoption, but each bio is written by the foster as they see them, in their home. Each animal's behavior is evaluated and we have a sense of its temperament and personality, but it cannot be guaranteed. We look for adopters who will give each animal the wonderful life and permanent home that he or she deserves in time and with patience.  If you have an interest and ability to be a foster home, please visit our website  www.underdogrescuemn.com/foster-applications  and fill out a foster application. NUTRITION: Nutrition is vital to the rehabilitation and life-long health of our pets.  All of our foster animals are fed a premium diet such as NutriSource, Canidae, Orijen, Nature's Variety, Fromm, Pure Vita, Stella and Chewy's, Primal, or balanced raw diet.  All adopters are required to continue providing premium diets for the life of the animal. YOU CAN HELP: Not able to foster or adopt right now? Please consider sponsoring an Underdog. Your donation will help us buy dog food and pay for medical costs. Visit this link  www.underdogrescuemn.com/donate   to donate.  (Please note: A Paypal account is not necessary to use Paypal. When you get to the Paypal page, just use the link to the left of their login to make your donation via Paypal without an account.) September 7, 2026, 12:51 pm

You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Thank you for stopping by to see me!  Please fill out an application to set up  a private meeting.    Dove is an adorable, intelligent, and deeply observant 4-year-old Mini Australian Shepherd who truly embodies so many of the traits people love about Aussies. She takes her role as household “supervisor” very seriously—always watching, learning, and keeping an eye on both her people and her dog friends.   Dove came from a small backyard breeder, and because of her past, the world can still feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. She is a more sensitive, fearful dog who will need a very patient and understanding home—but despite her challenges, Dove is genuinely a  happy  girl. Her little tail is almost always wagging, and she clearly finds joy in being part of a home and a routine. While she may not show affection in traditional ways, Dove bonds deeply in her own quiet way. She likes to stay within eyesight of her person, wags when spoken to, and settles nearby just to be close. Her love is subtle, gentle, and incredibly special.   Dove absolutely adores small dogs and will require another small, confident dog in her home. She looks to them for comfort and companionship and truly lights up around them, often adjusting her energy to match theirs in a very sweet, intuitive way.   Because of her sensitive nature, Dove can feel overwhelmed in loud or busy environments and will thrive in a calm, structured home that understands and respects her boundaries.   She is still learning that she is safe, and her adopter will need to meet her where she is without rushing the process. Human touch is still very scary for her, and she is not currently able to be handled, though she has made small, meaningful progress. Because of this, she is a high flight risk and will need extremely secure handling and containment. A secure, fenced yard is strongly preferred, as leash work is currently very challenging for her.   Due to her handling sensitivities and current setup, she is not yet potty trained and will need continued patience and support in this area. She also shows signs of kennel trauma and cannot be crated or confined, but she does very well when left loose in the home and typically settles quickly to rest.   Despite everything, Dove is incredibly smart, curious, and playful. Her little brain is always working, and she loves toys, puzzles, and especially “collecting” treasures around the house—anything from socks to towels to boxes. Her adopter should be prepared for a bit of dog-proofing to keep her safe and set up for success.   Medically, Dove has a fat sensitivity and will need to remain on a prescription low-fat diet long-term, along with using a slow feeder bowl.   Dove will be a great companion for someone who understands and is willing to give her the time and space she needs, she is truly something special. Watching her slowly build trust, feel safe, and begin to experience life with confidence is an incredibly rewarding journey.   If you have the patience, heart, and environment Dove needs, she will absolutely be worth it!   Please note that some of our dogs are obtained from shelters, surrendered to our care, or released from breeders. Each animal's bio is based on our experience of the animal within our care, an educated guess based on physical characteristics, temperament and information shared. Each dog receives basic grooming when coming into rescue, but for some dogs they have not received grooming attention until recently and grooming may be required shortly after adoption. This will be at the adopter’s expense, so we encourage you to research the breed and be prepared for grooming expenses. Underdog cannot guarantee hypoallergenic or non-shedding qualities of any dogs in our rescue. Some of the animals come from situations where they are lacking experience in a home and confidence in humans. In turn, they require another companion dog and/or a fenced in yard in their forever home in order for them to feel safe. If you are interested in a particular dog whose bio states those needs and do not currently have them, please understand that your home might not be the right fit. Please use the filter on our Adoptable Dogs page to find the perfect match for your home.   ***Be sure to check your spam/junk folder as sometimes our emails end up there*** Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.If you have other questions about me you can email Underdog Rescue at <inquiries@underdogrescuemn.com> ADOPTION EVENTS:      Adoption events are updated at the top of each dogs animals' as their foster home signs up. Check back for updates on which events they will be attending. If an event is not listed within their bio above, the animal is not planning to attend.  Please understand that all of our pets are in volunteer foster homes and sometimes "life" happens and the foster family cannot make it to their scheduled adoption event. If you are traveling from a far distance to meet a specific animal, please understand we cannot guarantee event attendance. We recommend filling out an application and we will set up a private appointment. Private appointments are only scheduled after an application is submitted and approved. ADOPTION PROCEDURE: The first step in our process is to complete an online adoption application on our website: http://www.underdogrescuemn.com/adoptionprocess/   Note: In most circumstances Underdog Rescue will only adopt within 60 miles of Minneapolis, MN.  All of our foster animals can be seen by appointment with an approved adoption application. Contact us at http://www.underdogrescuemn.com/contact-us/ if you have further questions. FOSTER CARE: All of our animals are fostered in individual homes or doggie daycare facilities. While they are in our care, they are part of our families and given lots of love. We work on training, crate-training and socialization prior to adoption, but each bio is written by the foster as they see them, in their home. Each animal's behavior is evaluated and we have a sense of its temperament and personality, but it cannot be guaranteed. We look for adopters who will give each animal the wonderful life and permanent home that he or she deserves in time and with patience.  If you have an interest and ability to be a foster home, please visit our website  www.underdogrescuemn.com/foster-applications  and fill out a foster application. NUTRITION: Nutrition is vital to the rehabilitation and life-long health of our pets.  All of our foster animals are fed a premium diet such as NutriSource, Canidae, Orijen, Nature's Variety, Fromm, Pure Vita, Stella and Chewy's, Primal, or balanced raw diet.  All adopters are required to continue providing premium diets for the life of the animal. YOU CAN HELP: Not able to foster or adopt right now? Please consider sponsoring an Underdog. Your donation will help us buy dog food and pay for medical costs. Visit this link  www.underdogrescuemn.com/donate   to donate.  (Please note: A Paypal account is not necessary to use Paypal. When you get to the Paypal page, just use the link to the left of their login to make your donation via Paypal without an account.) September 7, 2026, 12:51 pm

Hi, I’m Charly! I’m a super friendly, gentle, and easygoing guy who loves being around my people. I’m a relaxed sort of fellow who would much rather lounge in a comfy dog bed than spend all day running around. I’m happiest when I’m included in whatever my family is doing, whether that means hanging out nearby or snoozing in my favorite spot. I already know some basic commands and I’m a great walker on a leash. I’m also mostly potty trained, although I may have an occasional accident while I’m learning a new routine. I’m not a fan of being in a crate, so I’d much rather be trusted to relax comfortably in the home. I can be a little vocal when my people first leave the house. I previously lived with my elderly dad, who was home much of the time, so being alone for long periods is something I’m still getting used to. Because of that, I’d do best with a family who is home more often than not. I’m gentle and sweet with everyone I meet, and I think I’d do well with older, respectful kids. I haven’t met cats yet, but my foster family suspects I may do well with them. I’m an older gentleman, so I need a little help with stairs, but that doesn’t stop me from being a happy boy who loves life and loves being part of a family. I’m sweet, easy, affectionate, and ready to find my new family! --- *This animal is a part of our “Seniors for Seniors” program where we offer senior adopters an opportunity to adopt an eligible pet at a discounted fee.* --- Adopting a senior dog is like getting a vintage car – it comes with character, a few extra quirks, and might need a bit more maintenance. Expect occasional tune ups at the vet for oil changes (aka meds), and embrace the fact that those 'normal lumps and bumps' are just part of the well-earned charm package! Ruff Start will share all known health information with adopters and recommendations Charly is from Texas.

Cayden is a 5 yr old, 43 lb Australian Shepherd who was never supposed to make it this far, and now he’s ready to discover what he’s been missing. Born with a dangerously narrow heart valve, Cayden’s early years were spent living a very sheltered life. No rough play. No excitement. No adventures with other dogs. His family did everything they could to protect him, never knowing if a moment of exertion might be too much for his heart. But Cayden proved them wrong. Five years later, his heart was stronger, and he became a candidate for surgery. He underwent a pulmonic balloon valvuloplasty, and it was a success! His heart is now strong enough for him to experience the world he was once protected from. The challenge: the world is very new to him. Cayden is now learning some of the lessons other dogs learned as puppies. Bikes, strollers, lawnmowers, unfamiliar people and dogs can leave him wondering, “What am I supposed to do with that?” He’s making wonderful progress, learning to look to his person for guidance when something is unfamiliar. His confidence is growing right along with trust in his people. He has discovered some pretty wonderful things along the way. Cayden loves car rides, puzzle toys and lick mats, and he has a special weakness for people who get down on the floor. Get low, and there’s a good chance Cayden will come over to become your new best friend. And get this: thunderstorms and fireworks don’t seem to bother him much at all! Because Cayden missed those early experiences with other dogs, he needs to be the only dog in his home. He likes dogs, but he doesn’t yet understand how to share his home and live cooperatively with them. Cayden is housebroken, has lovely house manners, and is ready for a person who will continue showing him that the world is a safe and wonderful place. After five years of being protected from life, Cayden finally has the chance to live it. Cayden is being fostered in Minneapolis, MN. His adoption fee is $250 + MN sales tax. He is neutered, microchipped and up to date on age-appropriate vaccines. Upon adoption, all of our dogs go to their new homes with a collar and harness, leash, starter food, blanket, favorite toys & treats. They are current on flea/tick and heartworm prevention. As a foster-based rescue, we do not have a central facility to visit. Meet and greets with specific dogs are arranged once your adoption application (not an inquiry through Petfinder) has been received, processed, and approved. We are located in Minnesota and adopt to an area 400 miles from Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Hello there! I'm Trinket, a 9-year-old Australian Shepherd with a heart as big as my smile. My theme song is "Take a Chance on Me" by ABBA. All I need is one chance to show you what a wonderful companion I am. Friendly, loyal, eager to please, and always ready to learn something new are great words to describe me. My foster family says I'm a happy, kind soul, which works too. Every person and dog I meet is my new best friend (and that includes folks at the vet's office)! At 62 pounds, there's a lot of me to love right now. I already feel better having lost some weight and am determined to keep going. Like everything in life, I'm approaching my fitness journey with optimistic determination. I'm looking for a family that will help me achieve my healthy weight with lots of fun together along the way. When I'm not busy winning hearts, you'll find me chasing my beloved herding balls, squeaking a favorite toy, or hoping my family might break out the watermelon - yum! My ideal home is on the quieter side with an active spin. I like to spend my days doing things with my favorite people, going for walks, and enjoying plenty of snuggle time. I am great on leash, and love to chase critters if given the opportunity (part of my workout routine). A fenced yard would be fantastic, or consistent leash management works for me too. I can happily live as an only dog or share my home with other canine friends. I've also lived with cats in the past. Calm, respectful children who want to play with me would be great! They tell me I have early kidney disease, which means my food and medications cost about $55/mo. The payback is HUGE: all the love, loyalty, and joy of a world-class wonderful companion. So, what do you say? Take a chance on me! Promise I'm worth it. Trinket is being fostered in East Bethel, MN. His adoption fee is fully sponsored for his lucky forever family. Trinket is also available for Foster-To-Adopt (FTA). FTA provides an opportunity for families to get to know a dog before moving forward with formal adoption. During the foster period, HOABCR supplies everything Trinket needs from food and medication to other supplies (crate, leashes, etc.) and covers all vetting. Upon adoption, all of our dogs go to their new homes with a collar and harness, leash, starter food, blanket, favorite toys & treats. They are current on flea/tick and heartworm prevention. As a foster-based rescue, we do not have a central facility to visit. Meet and greets with specific dogs are arranged once your adoption application (not an inquiry through Petfinder) has been received, processed, and approved. We are located in Minnesota and adopt to an area 400 miles from Minneapolis/St. Paul.

Hi, my name is Feather and I am from Alabama! Feather is a very sweet dog! She is great with new people and gives the best hugs! Like typical Border Collie fashion, Feather needs a LOT of mental and physical exercise! A fenced in yard, and/or an avid runner looking for a partner would be best suited for her. She is working on being crate-trained and housetrained. She has done great with her foster family’s kids (ages ranging from 4-13) but does need occasional reminders to “settle”. She has also been around a large and small dog; she is still learning how to play with them without getting too excited- Caution is needed around smaller dogs for this reason. Pros: 🐾Good with kids 🐾Loves walks and does well on leash 🐾Great snuggler 🐾Fast learner Skills still in progress: ⚠️Impulse control ⚠️Playing gently with smaller dogs ⚠️Staying calm in a crate while alone ⚠️Resource guarding (around dogs, not people) ⚠️ Signaling to go to the bathroom outside

Hi, my name is Tina and I am from Alabama! Tina is a very loving dog. She is always up for snuggles. She is not good with cats, but loves other dogs. She has a lot of energy and would do well running around and having fun but doesn’t mind laying down after a fun time of play. She is crate train very well and house trained. She loves doing tricks and learning. She is super fast and smart at training. She aims to please but is also timid with BIG loud sounds and noises. She’d do well with older kids. She is hoping to find her furever home!

Hello my name is Tucker, I'm from Minnesota! Tucker is a sweet old man with lots of spark left in him! He knows the commands sit, lay down, paw, and wait; he is highly trainable and eager to please. He does really well on leash and rarely pulls when walking (only sometimes when he gets excited by a passing squirrel).