Donna

Madonna (Donna) is a stunning brindle German Shepherd mix who’s ready to find her forever home! This smart, loyal, and affectionate girl was rescued from a shelter’s euthanasia list and has come such a long way since then.

Donna is incredibly intelligent and eager to please — she’s house-trained, crate-trained, and highly food-motivated. She loves learning new things and would thrive with someone who enjoys training and providing enrichment.

When she’s not showing off her smarts, Donna loves to snuggle. She’s gentle and affectionate, often resting her head in your lap for love and comfort. She adores going for runs, hikes, and car rides, and her playful spirit will keep you smiling every day.

Donna is a high-energy girl who needs more than just a walk — she’ll do best with an active person or family who understands the needs of the German Shepherd breed. She has shown great progress in training and, with structure and guidance, has been able to walk calmly alongside another dog without reacting. While she may still prefer to be the only pet in her home, her potential continues to shine with the right leadership and consistency.

Donna has done beautifully with children she’s met (ages 7–12) and loves being part of family life. She can be a little nervous with loud noises or unfamiliar sights but quickly warms up with reassurance.

Donna’s current family is moving soon, and she urgently needs a home to avoid going into a kennel environment. If you’re looking for a loyal, loving, and adventurous companion, Donna could be your perfect match!

Pet's Name: Donna
Dog: Primary Breed: German Shepherd Dog
Birthdate (an estimate is okay): Age 3
Age Category: Young
Where did you get your pet?: Contra Costa Shelter
Adoption Day (when did you adopt your pet? An estimate is okay.): 12/01/2024
Gender: Female
Size (at full-grown): Medium
Weight (in pounds, at full-grown size): 57
Primary Color: Black (Mostly)
What are your pet's favorite toys and activities?: If you love to run, hike, or be active, Donna is your girl. She gets so excited for her daily runs that she practically does backflips! She loves car rides and is always ready for an adventure.
Has your dog received any formal obedience training?: Yes
What commands does your dog know?: Highly intelligent: potty-trained, crate-trained, basic commands
How does your dog react to being left alone for short periods?: Fine
Are there any specific triggers that cause your dog anxiety or stress?: She is dog reactive and should be the only dog. She is possessive of her food.
Is there a daily routine that works well for your dog (feeding, walking, sleep)?: She loves to snuggle and then go on a big walk!
Medical History and Care:
Vaccinations up to date
Spayed or Neutered
House/Litter-Trained
Microchipped
Special Diet
Special Needs
Never Vetted
Unknown
Does your pet have any history of health issues or medical conditions that potential adopters should be aware of?: No
Additional notes about your dog’s health history:: Very healthy!
Has your dog ever shown any challenging behaviors, such as biting a person or another pet? If so, please share some context.: She is reactive to other dogs, but loves people.
How often does your dog require grooming (e.g., bathing, brushing, trimming)? : Very little
Does your dog have a dental care routine (e.g., brushing, chews, professional cleanings)?: No
Personality:
Playful
Constant Companion
High Energy
Medium Energy
Low Energy
Stubborn
Timid
Needs Training
Friendly to Strangers
Good with Other Dogs
Good with Young Children
Good with Cats
Bonded Pair
Requires A Fenced Yard
Crate Trained
Purebred
How is your dog with other dogs?: Selective: Gets along with some dogs but not others.
How is your dog with cats?: Not sure: Haven't had enough interaction to determine.
What's the most endearing thing about your dog?: She gets so excited before her walks! It’s so fun to see her light up.
What criteria are important to you when considering an adoptive family or home for your pet?: Family that enjoys an energetic dog and doesn’t mind keeping her as a solo dog.
Why are you rehoming your pet (primary reason)?: Moving
If applicable, do you have the legal right or necessary permission from the breeder or rescue organization to rehome this pet? :
Not Applicable
Yes
How long will you be able to keep your pet before you may need to consider surrendering him or her to a rescue?: Two months
Do you currently have pet insurance?: No
Would you consider a long-distance adoption?:
Yes
No
Maybe
City, State: Martinez, CA
Zip Code: 94553
How did you hear about us?: Rescue/Shelter
Referring Name (person, page, or organization, if applicable): Desiree
Service Level: Tailored Placement: Full Support for Behavioral or Medical Needs