Instructions
Finding an Adoptable German Shepherd
Search for a German shepherd rescue organization in your area. There are many rescue groups that focus on specific breeds, including German shepherds. They match purebred dogs in need of a home with prospective adopters. If you live within a reasonable distance of a large city, odds are good that you'll be able to find a German shepherd rescue group in your area.
Search for German shepherds at local animal shelters. Even though shelters deal with any type of dog, including mixed breeds, they often have a wide selection of purebred animals. Use a Website like Petfinder or visit your local shelter's Website to see if they have any German shepherds available. If they don't, you may be able to be placed on a wait list. The shelter will then contact you when they have a German shepherd available for adoption.
Be flexible. You may have your heart set on an adorable German shepherd puppy, and you might be looking forward to raising it yourself, but don't rule out an adult dog. Puppies require a lot of work and training, including housebreaking, and they can be very destructive when they go through their chewing phase. Also, you never know exactly how their personality will develop. An adult German shepherd that is up for adoption often has already had basic training. Its personality will be developed, so you'll know whether it's friendly, protective or whatever other trait you might be seeking.
Talk to local German shepherd breeders to see if they have an adoption program. Often breeders will retire their breeding dogs at a certain age and adopt them to good homes for a reasonable fee.
How to Adopt a German Shepherd
German shepherd dogs are known for their beauty, loyalty and intelligence, making them popular pets. If you purchase a purebred German shepherd from a breeder or pet store, you will most likely pay several hundred dollars. Fortunately there are ways to adopt a German shepherd that will allow you to get a quality pet at a much more reasonable cost.