Located in the heart of West Los Angeles, this non-profit, no-kill rescue is committed to saving all types of German Shepherds and mixes from high kill shelters, and adopting them to loving, qualified homes. All of the dogs are tested for their compatibility with cats and kids, so you'll be able to find the best pup for your home.
Westside German Shepherd Rescue of Los Angeles, 2721 Wigtown Road (at Troon Avenue); 323-654-3800.
With a reputation for animal advocacy and carefully screening every applicant to match them with the best pet, the Lange Foundation is a wonderful place to not only adopt, but also volunteer. Housed in open enclosures, with room to walk, stretch, jump, and play, every animal at Lange Foundation is given a name, micro-chipped, vaccinated, and sterilized before you adopt.
Lange Foundation, 2106 South Sepulveda Boulevard (at Mississippi Avenue); 310-473-5585.
Modern, spacious, clean, and well staffed, East Valley Animal Services provides a "get acquainted" area for you to play with the available dogs, and find out which pup best suits you.
East Valley Animal Services, 14409 Vanowen Street (at Sylmar Avenue); 888-452-7381.
In this three-acre off-leash dog park, your pup will find all the things they love: grass, dirt, orphaned tennis balls, a water section, a special space for small or timid dogs, and buddies to play with.
Laurel Canyon Dog Park, 8260 Mulholland Drive (at Mulholland Terrace); 818-769-4415.
Leo Carillo State Beach:
Keep you dogs on the leash while they play in the frothy surf at one of California's most beautiful beaches. Walk up to El Matador to explore the tide pools and find a shady spot to admire the view with your best friend.
Leo Carillo State Beach, 35000 Pacific Coast Highway (at Mulholland Highway); 818-880-0363.
Silverlake Dog Park:
A spot for your dog to get some exercise while you sip on a L.A. Mill drip sounds like a lovely Saturday morning to us! This well-sized regional park offers 1.25 acres of off-leash dog park areas, and separate spots for big, active dogs and small, timid pups. Plus, it's well lit at night, perfect for an evening stroll.
Silverlake Dog Park, 1850 West Silver Lake Drive (at Duane Street); 323-644-3946.
This is the ultimate pet store: Some of the best training classes in L.A. for any level of dog, probiotics and doggy vitamins, incredible foods like California Natural and even "raw diet" supplies. For an urban pup, you can't ask for a better pet supply.
The Urban Pet, 4475 Santa Monica Boulevard (at North Virgil Avenue); 323-664-4700.
With a super-friendly and knowledgeable staff, a doggy playground, and loads of free samples, Blue Collar is the perfect spot for first-time dog owners looking for a little guidance on what's best for their pet. Tasty treats and chews like sterilized marrowbones and a wide range of dog food at low prices make this spot a must try.
Blue Collar: For Working Dogs, 1533 Echo Park Avenue (at Grafton Street); 213-977-9042.
My Pet's Place:
A friendly staff that care about animals, a great selection of toys, treats, and animal gear, plus free samples to test what works best for your four legged friend, My Pet's Place is your place to load up on what makes your pooch wag its tail.
My Pet's Place, 5279 West Olympic Boulevard (at South Redondo Boulevard); 323-934-0780.