Mixed Breed Dogs Available for Adoption

Lathyra is a bright, affectionate young dog who came to us as a stray at about 7 months old, and she has grown into a spirited, eager-to-learn companion who thrives with structure, patience, and positive reinforcement. She didn’t receive the socialization she needed early in life, so she can become mouthy when excited or overwhelmed and is best suited for an adult-only home without children 12 or under. Lathyra can be timid in new or noisy environments but settles well with reassurance, and she has made wonderful progress with crate training, potty training, and building confidence. She’s energetic, playful, and deeply bonds with her people, though she’ll need continued guidance with leash manners and supervision to redirect youthful chewing. While she has interacted with cats before, a cat-free home is recommended unless her adopter has experience with thoughtful, gradual introductions. Lathyra will flourish with someone who enjoys training, enrichment, and helping a smart young dog grow—if you’re ready to invest time, love, and consistency, she has endless potential to become a devoted and joyful companion.

This pet is eligible for an Adoption Audition! What is an Adoption Audition? It’s a 5 day, no-strings-attached, trial adoption period. You can take this pet home to try it out! Interested? Come to the shelter any time during open hours and talk to one of our Customer Care staff.

Be sure to check the "shelter information" box on the listing to see if the pet is located at our Fairfax Campus (4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Road, Lorton). Then, come in during our open hours! Both of our locations are open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 12-5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 12-7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on our adoption process, including requirements and fees, visit: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt

The mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are a diverse and unique group with a blend of different characteristics from various purebred dog breeds. These dogs come from a mixture of lineages, resulting in a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments. While each mixed breed dog is distinct in its own right, they are known for their resilience, adaptability, and often have fewer health issues compared to purebred dogs due to their genetic diversity. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful companions for families looking for a loyal and one-of-a-kind pet.

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is Fairfax County’s only open-access, municipal shelter. With 4,000 to 5,000 animals coming through our...