Pit Bull Terrier Dogs Available for Adoption in San Jose, California

***BIG CARROT (A1406828) has been placed on final on 05/26/26.*** He must be pulled prior to 5:00 PM on 05/29/26 or he will be humanely euthanized. Big Carrot is a large dog who has been struggling hard in the shelter environment. He is overwhelmed, shut down, and can become aroused when outside of his kennel. In his best moments — outside, decompressing with a patient handler — Carrot has solicited petting, leaned in for affection, offered soft tail wags, and shown playful, bouncy energy with toys. He has real capacity for connection. He just needs someone who understands where he's coming from. His FAS scores have consistently been high (FAS 4), and his risk assessment scored him at “High”, Consequences=Moderate, Likelihood=Likely. Behavioral needs: Extreme environmental fear, barrier reactivity, stranger danger, high arousal and energy. Requires experienced handlers only. Positive Ponts: Solicits affection from trusted people, plays with toys, walks well on leash, easy to leash and handle, responsive to verbal redirection. Ideal placement: Rescue with behavior experience, quiet home with slow introductions, no young children, committed to ongoing behavior support. Based on these observations and reported history, Big Carrot has been placed on FINAL status due to the reported behaviors at the shelter and concern for future escalation. Path Forward: Rescue or adopter must commit and *pull* Big Carrot by 5 PM on 05/29/2026, or Big Carrot will be humanely euthanized. Rescue or adopter will also need to have a waiver signed and submitted prior to leaving with the dog. ****BIG CARROT IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR FOSTER OR ADOPTION, RESCUE ONLY**** EXTENSION REQUEST PROCESS: A Rescue Group (RG) may request an extension of an animal’s Needs Rescue Final Date no later than 10:00 a.m. on the noted ‘final date’ via email to the SJRescue@sanjoseca.gov with a cc to a Division Manager or Shelter Operations Supervisor.

The Pit Bull Terrier is a resilient and loyal breed known for its muscular build and loving nature. Originally bred for bull baiting and later dog fighting, Pit Bulls today are beloved family pets cherished for their gentle temperament and playful personality. With proper training and socialization, Pit Bull Terriers make affectionate companions that thrive on human interaction. Recognized for their strength and agility, these dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to channel their energy positively, reinforcing their reputation as devoted and trainable pets.

The mission of San José Animal Care & Services is to provide a welcoming and humane place for animals and...