Adopt

American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and dogs in Santa Cruz, California

Looking for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog in Santa Cruz, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable American Pit Bull Terrier near you.

Picture of American Pit Bull Terrier

Adopt an American Pit Bull Terrier near you in Santa Cruz, California

These American Pit Bull Terriers are available in Santa Cruz, California.
We'll also keep you updated on MEERA's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of MEERA

MEERA

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 5 yrs 3 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
HI - I'M MEERA! I am a beautiful & petite 5-year-old blue & white Pit Bull Terrier/Staffie in need of a foster or forever home. I've been waiting quite awhile for my adopter to find me! I weigh only about 45 lbs. I am a loving and cuddly girl and would do great with a single person, a couple, or a family with older kids. I love car rides, and love to go out and about and enjoy the sunshine. I'm not a big fan of other dogs, so will be best as the princess of my own castle, though I have not been leash reactive at my current location. Can you foster or adopt me? Please email for an application.
We'll also keep you updated on MARCY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of MARCY

MARCY

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 9 yrs
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON! I'M MARCY! I'm a sweet and lovable 8-year-old female red & white Pit Bull Terrier in need of a new home. There are a few things you should know about me. First, I truly do prefer to be an only dog, though would likely do well with a male pal, as I had one before. But I love people and am very loyal. I also love being petted, rubbed and given lots of affection. Secondly, I was attacked by another dog about a year ago and lost part of my nose, but this does not impact me one bit. I only look a little funny but it doesn't change my lovable personality. I have been waiting a long time for a home because apparently, nobody wants a funny looking dog who would love to be the only dog in the home. So if you can look past my imperfections, I would love to be your companion. I'm still very active and would be happy to go for walks and hikes. Can you foster or adopt me? I am currently looking for a foster or forever home. I weigh 64 lbs. Please email for an application.
We'll also keep you updated on SANDY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of SANDY

SANDY

Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 6 yrs 9 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
HI - I'M SANDY! I'm a 6-1/2-year-old sweet snuggler girl who needs a foster or forever home! I've been waiting for TWO YEARS for someone to choose me. I love to cuddle, hang out and watch TV, and go for walks, hikes, and other adventures. I do well with some dogs (I used to live in a home with a female dog), but prefer people to other dogs so I can get all of the attention. If you're looking for a snuggler, someone to share your bed and hug, I'm it! I truly am a lap dog, and I crave human attention and affection. I'm also super happy, and am just waiting for my person or people to come along. I weigh about 56 lbs. I would love a home for the holidays!
We'll also keep you updated on TOMMY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of TOMMY

TOMMY

Pit Bull Terrier

Male, 7 yrs 3 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM TOMMY, a handsome 7-year-old blue Pit Bull Terrier who has waited much too long for a home. Tommy was rescued from a shelter awhile back and was skin and bones - now he's filled out and is about 75 pounds! While he's tested OK with some dogs, he would do best as the only dog in a home. He's very loyal to his person or people, and once he warms up to you, you will be bonded. He loves to play fetch, go for walks and just hang out and watch TV. We'd love Tommy to find a new home in the new year. Please email for an application.
We'll also keep you updated on BRUCE's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of BRUCE

BRUCE

Pit Bull Terrier

Male, 5 yrs 3 mos
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
BEST HOLIDAY WISHES FROM BRUCE, a 5-year-old large Pit Bull Terrier with a heart full of love and loyalty. Bruce was rescued from a California shelter awhile back, and he is still waiting for a foster or forever home. He is a sweet soul, always eager to please his person or people. He's been good with kids in the past and non-destructive, making him a wonderful addition to families with older children (due to his size). He gets along well with some dogs, but is a big boy so needs a strong and experienced owner. Born in a shelter and later dumped by his people, Bruce knows the value of a loving home. His sweet nature and gentle disposition make him a perfect companion. He weighs about 80 lbs. Please email for an application.
We'll also keep you updated on GABE's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of GABE

GABE

Pit Bull Terrier

Male, 6 yrs 1 mo
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
MEET GABE! Gabe is a 6-year-old sweet and stocky Pit Bull Terrier in need of a foster or forever home. He was originally rescued from a crowded California shelter. He has waited awhile and keeps getting overlooked. His nose is shaped like a heart and he's ready to love you! Gabe loves humans and loves to go on road trips, walks, and other outings. He makes a great passenger. He also loves to play fetch and can self-entertain. Gabe is good with some dogs but not others - same with cats! So Gabe would probably thrive as the only pet in the home. He weighs about 60 lbs. We're hoping Gabe can find a home in the new year because he deserves it. Please email for an application.

Or, how about these American Pit Bull Terriers in cities near Santa Cruz, California

These American Pit Bull Terriers are available for adoption close to Santa Cruz, California.
We'll also keep you updated on FANNY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of FANNY

FANNY

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 3 yrs 3 mos
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
09/20/22 16:09Reason animal needs rescue: Canine infectious respiratory disease complexType: MedicalImpound type: StrayOff stray holdSButler
We'll also keep you updated on MISTER's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of MISTER

MISTER

American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, 2 yrs 10 mos
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
12/16/24 01:48Doggy Day Out Report:Today I: went to Almaden Lake Park with my friend. I saw a lot of people, other doggy friends in the park! I sniffed a loooooooot of scents! After a long walk, I got a pupcup! It was so much fun!Three Words to Describe Me are: Affectionate, Happy, EnergeticNotes from My Walker: Mister is such a charming young pup here at SJACS! I took him out for a SVPP Shelter Dog Day Out last Wednesday, and we had an absolute blast!I leashed and harnessed him in the side yard at the end of my volunteer shift, just like I usually do. He was super excited and a bit wiggly, but I distracted him with some tasty treats, and he went along with it without any fuss.He was a bit unsure about getting into my car and needed a little boost, but he was happy to accept it. At the park, we saw lots of people walking, jogging, and biking, and he was friendly with everyone we met! He did get a little excited when he saw other dogs, but it was easy to manage—just keeping a bit of distance did the trick. Since he regularly participated in playgroup, I knew he got along well with other dogs; I just wanted to keep him calm during our walk. Although he pulled a bit, he often stopped to sniff around and generally walked well on the leash. He was super eager for treats and had a solid sit! He wasn`t reactive to the geese and ducks in the park. In fact, he got a bit startled when some geese took flight as we walked by!What touched me the most was his affectionate nature. He absolutely loved people! Whenever I stopped and called his name, he`d come running, lean against me, and let me pet him all over. You could really tell he enjoyed the attention!Come meet Mister! I bet you`ll fall in love with this loving and goofy boy right away!
We'll also keep you updated on RORI's adoption status with email updates.
long timer badge
Photo of RORI

RORI

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 2 yrs 7 mos
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
03/05/25 09:27Here is RORI Tails and Trails Report Card for 2/20What did we do on today’s adventure: Today, I went to Almaden Lake Park with my friend! We went for a nice, long hike. It was so nice to get out of the shelter and enjoy the beautiful sunshine. I was a little cautious at first about meeting a new friend. Even though I was super excited and a little nervous, I was patient and friendly while she put on my collar and harness. I wasn’t quite sure how to get into the big SUV, but I let my new friend pick me up and put me in the car. I was very excited to find out that we were going to go on a walk to Almaden Lake Park. I had to smell everything at first, but after about 10 minutes, I realized how fun our walk was going to be and settled down into a nice walking rhythm with my new friend. I saw lots of people and dogs. I got a little nervous when bikers came up behind me and passed me, but I got a lot of reassurance from my walker. After I got to know my walked a little bit better (about 20 minutes in), I loved her and was constantly looking back to her for feedback and to get pets. I LOVED the walk. We went for about 2.5 hours and I enjoyed every minute of it. We went down by the creek and I got so excited to see the water. I kinda wished my walker would have let me go in the water, but I get it…it was muddy and cold. I was a bit sad to go back to the shelter, but what a fun outing.What should potential adopters know about me:I loved my walk with Rori. She is an awesome pup and will make a great companion to an active family.-She was a little nervous at first. She didn’t really want treats, but did very much enjoy pets and affection, especially after she warmed up a bit.-She did well in the car. She jumped in right away and was fairly calm on the way to the hike. -Rori has a lot of energy. She was a little bit all over the place when we first got to Almaden Lake trail, but after about 10 minutes, she calmed down and walked nicely by my side. No real pulling. We passed a lot of people and dogs. She did great. Interested, but no pulling. She did get a little nervous around bikers and trail maintenance (with loud chainsaws), but she took direction from me well.-She was very attentive to me and constantly looking at me for feedback. She LOVED pets and reassurance.-She was a little jumpy, but will learn manners with a little practice and correction on appropriate no jumping behav
We'll also keep you updated on NOVA's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of NOVA

NOVA

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 2 yrs 6 mos
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
1/31/25 12:23Here is NOVA`s Tails and Trails report!What did we do on today’s adventure:Today, we went to a park with a lot of amazing scents! We saw birds,squirrels, runners, walkers, bikers, and cars, but I was more interested insaying hi to each doggo friend we ran into. My friend reminded me to greet them from a distance. Besides enjoying yummy treats, I took my time sniffing and showed off myloose-leash walking skills to my friend. I got jumpy with sudden noises, somy friend took me to a quiet neighborhood with less traffic. I had such agreat time, and I didn’t want to go back! What should potential adopters know about me: Nova is a noise-sensitive girl. She gets nervous in new environments, butwith patience and treats to motivate her, she will do great.She moved around and got a little jumpy when I put her collar and harnesson. When I led her to my car, she was unsure and nervous. We took itslow—I motivated her with treats and gave her a little boost onto the backseat. She rode beautifully to Jeffrey Fontana Park and even took a napon our way back. Once we arrived, she needed a little coaxing to get out.Nova has great loose-leash walking skills, knows ‘sit,’ and frequently checksin with her handler. She deserves a family that can provide the love andsupport she needs to be her best self! Come and meet Nova!Three words to describe me: Gentle-natured, friendly, sweet09/05/24 16:08Warms up very quickly, very treat motivated. able to complete full invasive handling, Nova is very playful once she knows you and does need training for playful mouthiness. When a stranger walks by Nova sometimes will bark and growl.
We'll also keep you updated on BRUTUS's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of BRUTUS

BRUTUS

American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, 3 yrs 6 mos
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
03/10/25 19:18Here are some notes on Brutus from one of his fosters:Brutus is a silly, excitable boy who would make a great adventure buddy! He seeks out back rubs and only wants to be loved by his people. He is a snuggly boy once he settles down and gets familiar with his surroundings.My family took Brutus on a 4-day getaway. He panted anxiously during his first car ride. But by the end of the second day, he had already mastered jumping in, and eagerly awaited each new destination without worry. Some of his favorites were as follows:At the park there was a group playing soccer. When Brutus saw people playing ball games, his face lit up. In a silly, non-aggressive way, he got ready to play. In the hills, Brutus went on a few hikes wearing an Easy Walk harness. He was careful and did not chase after any of the other dogs hiking with their owners nearby. His pull is often medium to strong. He would benefit from additional leash training. He is cautious when stepping over bushes or logs. At the beach, Brutus fearlessly chased his ball into the incoming waves.There were off leash dogs nearby who approached Brutus. He was excited but not reactive. At a cafe, there was a patio where we were able to eat with Brutus on a leash alongside us. As time passed he realxed, sat down, and did not react to the other dogs nearby or the crowded vibe. A ten year old child who Brutus had never met came up and gently pet Brutus on his face and neck. He remained relaxed and happy.At home, we set up two sleeping options for Brutus, a crate and a soft fluffy mat. After having his dinner and turning down the lights, he chose the crate on his own and rested for the night. Several times during the night he came out from the crate to sleep on the mat for a while. He is crate trained, potty trained, and knows basic commands like sit and down. Just during the short period we cared for him, he made progress on the stay command, too. He is a master at fetch and returns the ball at your feet. He was OK being alone in his crate at home for several hours. He did not bark, not even once during his time with us. He likes his toys and plays with them, but does not chew.12/16/24 01:44Doggy Day Out Report:Today I: Met 2 new friends and I rode in a car and I went for a long walk by a lake. I was pretty nervous at first, but my friends went slow for me, which helped a lot. Most of it was very fun, but I also sniffed and saw a big, scar
We'll also keep you updated on LORELEI's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of LORELEI

LORELEI

American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 2 yrs 6 mos
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
-

These pups are in Santa Cruz, California too!

Below are our newest added American Pit Bull Terriers available for adoption in Santa Cruz, California. To see more adoptable American Pit Bull Terriers in Santa Cruz, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
We'll also keep you updated on RILEY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of RILEY

RILEY

Boxer Shepherd (Unknown Type)

Male, 3 yrs
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
WOOF! I'M RILEY! I'm a 3-year-old cute Boxer-Shepherd mix in need of a foster or forever home. I have dark eyes and it looks like I wear shades! I was recently rescued from a California shelter where I was pretty terrified - I sat in the back and looked at people as they walked by. But now I'm coming out of my shell. I have done great with other dogs so far and am quickly adjusting to be a happy boy. I weigh about 50-55 lbs. Can you foster or adopt me? Please email for an application.
We'll also keep you updated on SPIKE's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of SPIKE

SPIKE

Boxer

Male, 7 yrs
Santa Cruz, CA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Spike, the senior brindle boxer boy! Staff have observed that has been social and easy going since his arrival – even giving kisses, if you’re so lucky! His previous guardians reported he enjoyed his walks out on the town and meeting dog friends out in the world. At the Shelter, Spike has made quite a few girlfriends – standing still with his tail wagging and then a sudden big playbow! From March 10th to March 17th, this dog’s adoption fee is reduced to $50 during the Get Lucky Adoption Special.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.

Search for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and adults American Pit Bull Terrier in Santa Cruz, California.

American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Related breeds in Santa Cruz, California

American Pit Bull Terrier shelters & rescues in Santa Cruz, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for American Pit Bull Terrier puppies in Santa Cruz, California. Browse these American Pit Bull Terrier 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

More an arrow icon

Rescue

2.5 miles

Freedom Ride Rescue Inc. - Santa Cruz (CA)

Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

4 miles

Santa Cruz SPCA

2601 Chanticleer Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

24 miles

San Jose Animal Care Center

2750 Monterey Highway, San Jose, CA 95111

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

More an arrow icon

Rescue

25.7 miles

Peace of Mind Dog Rescue

PO Box 51554, Pacific Grove, CA 93950

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

26 miles

The SPCA for Monterey County

1002 Highway 68, Monterey, CA 93942

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

More an arrow icon

Rescue

27.3 miles

Copper's Dream

Sunnyvale, CA 94085

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

31.4 miles

Doggie Protective Services (DPS Rescue)

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

More an arrow icon

Shelter

33.4 miles

Monterey County Animal Services

160 Hitchcock Road, Salinas, CA 93908

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

33.6 miles

Pets In Need, Palo Alto (For the City of Palo Alto)

3281 E. Bayshore Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94303

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

More an arrow icon

Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

If you're not seeing what you're looking for, try our shelter and rescue search. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

magnifying glass with cat and dog

Want to learn more about adopting an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for an American Pit Bull Terrier puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about American Pit Bull Terrier puppies and adults.

American Pit Bull Terrier basics

clipboard with list

Where do American Pit Bull Terriers come from? How many types of American Pit Bull Terriers are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Learn More an arrow icon