Australian Shepherd puppies and dogs in Charlottesville, Virginia

Linus is a five month old sweetheart with a joyful spirit, a brilliant mind, and the kind of resilience that makes you fall in love with him instantly. He is both vision and hearing impaired, but it hardly slows him down. He responds beautifully to his name and to whistles, tracks his toys with growing skill, and navigates his world with confidence and curiosity. He is truly a remarkable puppy. Linus is affectionate, goofy, and incredibly easy to train. He already knows sit, down, and his name, and he shines with consistent structure. He is crate trained and sleeps through the night with only a few soft protests before settling. He has only had a couple of accidents and is learning to communicate his needs clearly. When he needs to potty, he gives a little whine, and with attentive listening he stays successful, and is well on his way to being fully reliable. This boy loves to play and loves to snuggle. He does not demand attention but enjoys being near his people and resting close by. Linus is wonderful with children and has played gently and appropriately with his foster’s three year old nephew, even settling during busy family gatherings. He loves other dogs and wants very much to make new dog friends. He has done well with larger dogs and is eager and friendly when meeting new playmates. Linus enjoys tug, chase, fetch, and learning new tricks. He has a great balance of energy and calm and understands when it is time to play and when it is time to relax. He walks politely on a loose lead, rides well in the car, and adapts quickly to new routines. He has mild separation vocalizing but settles with reassurance and practice. Linus is truly a gem. He is sweet, smart, funny, and full of heart. His special needs do not define him. They simply make his successes that much more impressive. Any family lucky enough to adopt him will gain a loving companion who brings joy, resilience, and endless affection to every day. At Green Dogs Unleashed (GDU), we are dedicated to ensuring the successful placement of our dogs in loving, permanent homes. Over the years, we have seen an increasing number of returns due to behavioral issues that could have been prevented with the right support. A significant percentage of these returns involve out-of-area clients or those who have not completed training with GDU. To address this, positive reinforcement training with Green Dogs Unleashed is required as a condition for all adoptions. Preference for this dog will be given to adopters who commit to signing up for and completing our six-week Canine 101 training class in person at our headquarters in Troy, VA. Secondary consideration will be given to a limited number of out-of-area adopters who agree to complete one private lesson with GDU, either in person or virtually, and attend a pre-approved positive reinforcement training class in their area. At the time you are seeing this post, this dog is still available for adoption. But please know that we may be working on multiple applications already, and any one of them could be approved at any time. Please READ THIS ENTIRE DESCRIPTION and complete an adoption application, if you are interested in any of our animals. Application at www.greendogsunleashed.org If you send an inquiry to ask if the dog is still available, or just tell us you are interested, your inquiry will not be answered. FILL OUT AN APPLICATION. We can do NOTHING without that. No, we cannot tell you if he would be a match for your family without seeing an application. PLEASE KEEP READING for info. */*/* PLEASE NOTE: The first communication you will receive after completing an application will be an email response, which will have instructions on how to proceed. Please check your inbox AND spam folders for the next 48 hours, for this email. We will not begin processing an application without the information requested in that email. */*/* We are happy to consider applicants from out of state on most dogs. Please read the description to see if this dog is an exception. If the applicant is approved to adopt, they MUST be willing to come to our location in Troy, VA, for a meet and greet. If all parties agree that the pup and family are a good fit, they would take the pup home at that time. For more information about our mission and for an APPLICATION for adoption, please go to www.greendogsunleashed.com. GDU does ask a minimum adoption fee of $400.00. This does not even come close to covering all expenses created by animals while in rescue. We are funded solely by the angels and volunteers willing to donate time and finances. This minimum fee includes DAPP, rabies if age appropriate,, heartworm test and preventative, if age appropriate, and flea and tick treatment, as well as neutering or spaying, if the animal is medically sound to undergo surgery. In an attempt to avoid tummy upset from a sudden change of food, the foster family may include a small, transitional bag of the food the dog/puppy has been eating. And if the dog/puppy has grown attached to a special item (like a toy or blanket), they may send that along, as well. */*/* Young puppies will receive age-appropriate vaccines, and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption. Adopters may be required to provide additional puppy boosters and at 16 weeks of age, a rabies vaccine. Future annual vaccines, testing and monthly heartworm preventative are REQUIRED, and will be the financial responsibility of the adopter. *****Due to the sheer number of animals and applications in our program, coupled with a limited number of volunteers, applicants MUST have patience as we process applications.   If you do not hear back from us, the animal may have been adopted.   We strive to let people know but sadly cannot offer reasons for denial beyond that.  Any harassment of our volunteers will go unanswered and we will simply block you.   Our volunteers spend their time working hard to ensure the very best for each animal.   Please remember the animal, not the applicant, is our client.*****  ##2593938##

Dalton is a 9–10 month old Australian Shepherd with a heart as big as his fluffy coat. He is affectionate, people-centered, and happiest when he’s part of the action. Whether he’s romping in the yard, playing chase with a dog buddy, or curling up for snuggles, Dalton is always close by, ready to be your shadow. Dalton is house trained and hasn’t had any accidents in his foster home. He crates at night, settling after a short period, but he’ll thrive in a home where he isn’t left alone for long spans. He shines with other animals. Dalton lives with five dogs of all sizes and ages and is buddies with them all. He was a little overwhelmed at first but adjusted beautifully. He’s playful, tolerant, and easygoing, yet confident enough to stand up for himself if needed. He’s also cat-friendly, calmly coexisting with his foster’s elderly cat. On leash, Dalton walks nicely at a relaxed pace with a loose lead and is unfazed by distractions like joggers on the trail. His recall in a fenced yard is impressive, and he will happily leave playtime to come when called. Dalton’s personality is the perfect balance of energy and calm. He has the drive and enthusiasm of a working dog and loves to run and play, yet he also settles quickly indoors and is a gentle, cuddly companion. He’s goofy, sweet, and always wants to be part of whatever his people are doing. Dalton will do best in a home with other dogs or an active family who includes him in daily life. He isn’t the type of dog who wants to be left behind; he thrives on companionship and being part of a family unit. With his affectionate, loyal, and playful nature, Dalton is ready to be someone’s perfect partner. At Green Dogs Unleashed (GDU), we are dedicated to ensuring the successful placement of our dogs in loving, permanent homes. Over the years, we have seen an increasing number of returns due to behavioral issues that could have been prevented with the right support. A significant percentage of these returns involve out-of-area clients or those who have not completed training with GDU. To address this, positive reinforcement training with Green Dogs Unleashed is required as a condition for all adoptions. Preference for this dog will be given to adopters who commit to signing up for and completing our six-week Canine 101 training class in person at our headquarters in Troy, VA. Secondary consideration will be given to a limited number of out-of-area adopters who agree to complete one private lesson with GDU, either in person or virtually, and attend a pre-approved positive reinforcement training class in their area.   At the time you are seeing this post, this dog is still available for adoption. But please know that we may be working on multiple applications already, and any one of them could be approved at any time. Please READ THIS ENTIRE DESCRIPTION and complete an adoption application, if you are interested in any of our animals. Application at www.greendogsunleashed.org If you send an inquiry to ask if the dog is still available, or just tell us you are interested, your inquiry will not be answered. FILL OUT AN APPLICATION. We can do NOTHING without that. No, we cannot tell you if he would be a match for your family without seeing an application. PLEASE KEEP READING for info. */*/* PLEASE NOTE: The first communication you will receive after completing an application will be an email response, which will have instructions on how to proceed. Please check your inbox AND spam folders for the next 48 hours, for this email. We will not begin processing an application without the information requested in that email. */*/* We are happy to consider applicants from out of state on most dogs. Please read the description to see if this dog is an exception. If the applicant is approved to adopt, they MUST be willing to come to our location in Troy, VA, for a meet and greet. If all parties agree that the pup and family are a good fit, they would take the pup home at that time. For more information about our mission and for an APPLICATION for adoption, please go to www.greendogsunleashed.com. GDU does ask a minimum adoption fee of $400.00. This does not even come close to covering all expenses created by animals while in rescue. We are funded solely by the angels and volunteers willing to donate time and finances. This minimum fee includes DAPP, rabies if age appropriate,, heartworm test and preventative, if age appropriate, and flea and tick treatment, as well as neutering or spaying, if the animal is medically sound to undergo surgery. In an attempt to avoid tummy upset from a sudden change of food, the foster family may include a small, transitional bag of the food the dog/puppy has been eating. And if the dog/puppy has grown attached to a special item (like a toy or blanket), they may send that along, as well. */*/* Young puppies will receive age-appropriate vaccines, and will be spayed/neutered prior to adoption. Adopters may be required to provide additional puppy boosters and at 16 weeks of age, a rabies vaccine. Future annual vaccines, testing and monthly heartworm preventative are REQUIRED, and will be the financial responsibility of the adopter. *****Due to the sheer number of animals and applications in our program, coupled with a limited number of volunteers, applicants MUST have patience as we process applications.   If you do not hear back from us, the animal may have been adopted.   We strive to let people know but sadly cannot offer reasons for denial beyond that.  Any harassment of our volunteers will go unanswered and we will simply block you.   Our volunteers spend their time working hard to ensure the very best for each animal.   Please remember the animal, not the applicant, is our client.*****  ##2513895##

🌟 Adoption Spotlight: Jet 🌟 *Needs experienced adopter* Meet Jet, a stunning 1-year-old Miniature Australian Shepherd who weighs just 15 lbs fully grown. Don’t let his size fool you—Jet is full of personality and quirks, and he’s looking for a very special adopter who can give him the patient, experienced home he deserves. Jet came to us from a backyard breeding case but was originally rescued by a Good Samaritan who gave him a safe place when he needed it most. Unfortunately, due to financial struggles, she was unable to keep him long term, but her greatest wish is for him to find a home that will love and understand him for who he is. 🐾 Personality & Behavior Jet is a nervous, cautious boy who was not well socialized as a puppy. Because of this, he can be a bite risk if he feels overwhelmed or cornered. He’s not the type of dog who immediately seeks out cuddles—instead, he prefers to do his own thing, especially when outside. Once he builds trust, he can be incredibly sweet and will show you glimpses of his loving side, even offering his paw for attention. He is: Not suitable for a home with children (he startles easily and is uncomfortable with fast movements). Previously lived in a home with cats, but we have not retested him here—so any introductions should be slow and careful. Indifferent to other dogs—he doesn’t seek them out but also doesn’t go looking for trouble. Very vocal, which makes him unsuitable for apartment living. Jet also has the quirk of being a submissive pee-er, which will need patience and gentle handling. While he was previously in a home and is likely potty trained, adopters should expect some retraining in the first week as he transitions from kennel life. 🏡 Ideal Home for Jet Jet needs a calm, child-free home with adopters who have experience with herding breeds or shy, anxious dogs. His adopter should be someone who: Understands that building trust will take time. Can provide structure, routine, and positive reinforcement. Is open to consulting a vet about anxiety medication, as it may help him thrive. Can give him mental stimulation (training, puzzles, structured play) since Aussies are naturally intelligent and active. Jet is not a dog who will immediately settle into family outings or busy social lives—he is more of a homebody who will flourish in a quieter environment with the right person. 🩺 Medical & Care Jet is: Neutered, microchipped, and fully vaccinated (Rabies, Distemper, Lepto, Bordetella). Heartworm tested negative. On monthly flea/tick and heartworm prevention. Treated for fleas and dewormed. At just 1 year old, Jet has his whole life ahead of him—but he needs someone willing to meet him where he is and help him grow into the wonderful companion we know he can be. ❤️Jet is not just a pretty face—though he is absolutely beautiful, it’s important that adopters look past his looks and see the sensitive soul behind them. With time, patience, and love, Jet could be your most loyal companion. 📍 Located in Louisa County, VA 📧 Email: adoptions@hoovesandpaws.org 📝 Apply: https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/HPAW/Dog

You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website.   Oliver (also known as Ollie) is a handsome Hound/Australian Shepherd mix. He's in the teenaged stage of dog development so is smart, capable, and highly trainable! Ollie has done very well with basic training and structure we've given him here at the shelter. He's been to various events and been a total gentleman. Ollie has a high prey drive which is great for training, but not so good for small furry animals like cats, rabbits, or small dogs. He behaves when around older children who know how to act around dogs. Ollie does well with other dogs but needs a controlled introduction to new dogs. Our friends at Camp Merricks can facilitate a meet and greet at their facility if you have other dogs. He is a regular day camper there so they know him well. Ollie is handsome, smart and ready to learn all the things his new family want him to know. Stop in and meet him today!Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.    December 2, 2025, 5:44 am

AUBREY IS IN HER FOSTER HOME IN MEMPHIS, TN, AND WILL BE TRANSPORTED TO VA ONCE ADOPTED! Meet Aubrey! Aubrey is a beautiful, loving 7-month-old pup with a heart full of sweetness and a playful spirit. Weighing in at 40 lbs, she’s the perfect medium-sized companion with plenty of energy and love to give. This girl loves running around outside, and proudly carrying sticks and leaves wherever she goes. She's curious about cats, great with dogs, and does well with older kids who can keep up with her playful nature. Aubrey is a smart cookie too — she’s kennel trained, house trained, and leash trained! Like many herding breed mixes, she has a natural instinct to stay busy and thrives with activity and engagement. A backyard where she can explore and play would be her dream come true! She absolutely loves attention from her humans and would be the perfect addition to an active home looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. Aubrey is still a young pup with high energy and so much potential. She deserves a forever home where she can grow, play, and be loved unconditionally. If you're ready to welcome a sweet, spunky, and devoted best friend into your life, Aubrey is waiting to meet you! She is fully vetted. Vetting includes spay/neuter, microchip, rabies and all puppy vaccinations. Her adoption fee of $600 includes the transport to VA. We use a licensed and registered USDA transport company that will bring Aubrey up north to her new family. If you have any questions, please email us at: newbeginnings_animalrescue@yahoo.com You can apply to adopt Aubrey here: www.newbeginningsanimalrescue.net THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING ADOPTING A RESCUED PET!Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.October 28, 2025, 2:00 pm

Meet Chip! This handsome boy is being fostered in East TN Athens. Out of state welcome. The adoption fee listed on adopt a pet includes transport to your area. We use Rescue Riders for all our transport needs because they are the best. Chip is such a sweet handsome boy. He is very affectionate and playful. He is a young boy almost a year old and curious as they come. He had the head tilt move to expert level. He wags his super short tail all the time. He’s a happy go lucky kind of boy. He was going to be euthanized due to time and space at our local shelter so we pulled him out to save him. He was adopted and then returned we were told he had some food guarding tendencies. Well we don’t see this at all in fact we accidentally forgotten on a few occasions about that and petted him while eating or moved his bowl while he was eating and he could have cared less. We are not sure if this was directed towards other dogs or not but we do not feed them together here. He has also not been possessive of any toys at all. He plays well with other dogs large and small. He is crate trained and is doing excellent at house training. He is still just a young pup so he would need to be treated like a puppy. Don’t leave things out for him to get into. Take him out to potty in his new home and praise him for going on the new yard etc. he’s a great dog and will make a lucky family very happy. We think he would do best with older kids because he does play pretty hard and would knock the smaller ones around. Apply at petpath.org.

Brenda is a very sweet, affectionate and playful little girl. She appears to be a Border Collie and bully mix. She’s about 8 months old, 35lbs, spayed, vaccinated, dewormed, healthy and playful. She's about the size of a beagle now, with long legs ! She walks well on her leash and will follow you happily. She has three hobbies, eating, napping and playing ! She loves other dogs and all people, she will be a great family pet. She is currently in foster care, living with 2 other dogs. Contact Dee at blueridgedogrescue@gmail.com w/ questions and to meet this sweet little girl. more photos and videos available.