Mixed Breed Dogs Available for Adoption in Fairfax, Virginia

Meet Meatloaf — the curious cutie with a whole lot of heart!

If you’re looking for a dog who’s equal parts sweet, social, and delightfully quirky, Meatloaf might just be your new best buddy. From the moment he arrived, this handsome guy has charmed everyone with his gentle manners and eager-to-please attitude. Meatloaf is the kind of dog who trots right up to the kennel door, ready for adventure. He walks nicely on leash (with just a sprinkle of enthusiasm) and responds well to simple verbal reminders. During his assessment, he soaked up every bit of affection—leaning in for pets, relaxing into full-body handling, and showing how much he enjoys being close to his people.

Toys? Meatloaf thinks they’re neat... for a minute. After that, he’d rather hang out with you. He’s a connection-over-stuff kind of guy. He also has great manners around food—no guarding or fuss—though he does take enthusiastic bites, so giving him a little space at mealtime is a good idea.

When meeting another dog, Meatloaf showed curiosity, friendliness, and a loose, wiggly body. He offered polite sniffing, kept the vibes positive, and seemed genuinely interested in making a friend. As always, a slow dog-to-dog introduction will help set him up for success.
Meatloaf would thrive in a home that offers structure, love, and continued guidance. He’s smart, people-oriented, and eager to learn, so partnering with a trainer will help him shine even brighter.
If you’re searching for a lovable companion with a tender heart, a curious spirit, and a whole lot of potential, Meatloaf is ready to meet you. Come say hi—you might just fall in love!

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 Michael R. Frey 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 https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalservices/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...