
Axel
German Shepherd Dog · Young · Male · Large
Oakland, ca
- Good with dogs
- Special needs
Best in an adults-only home
Special needs: [BLUE]Background: Owner surrender on 5/30/26 due to moving. Dog was given yellow dot on initial intake. Was changed to blue exit searching, difficult to get in/out of kennel, panting. Handlers first time meeting for behavior evaluation on 6/1/26.O: Dog retreated to the back of the kennel. Handler lowered the guillotine and went around the back. At the back of the kennel, the dog retreated to the guillotine. Lowered his body to the floor, looked up at the sides of the kennel as if looking for exit. Lowered his head as handler stepped in to drape loop over his head. Followed handler out of the ward then pulled hard ahead, while leaning into the wall, low tail and lowered/crouched body language. Stress panting. In the yard, dog paced and did not fully engage with handlers. Approached each person for a few seconds at a time to sniff and take treats. Sniffed toy but did not pick up. Pulled hard back to kennel with lowered/crouched body language. Darted into the kennel ahead of handler. Stayed still for handler to approach and remove leash by hand. A: Difficult to assess as dog is very stressed. P: Dog has been prescribed medication for FAS x 5 days. Playgroup. Crew outings. Reassess within one week.Update 6/11/26: Make available for adoption.B Dog has been relaxed with handling from multiple playgroup volunteers and staff as well as Light Blue volunteers. He is beginning to play during playgroup. Recommend patient rewards-based approach to basic training (leash walking, basic commands) with structured and slow introduction to new environments/people. May do best in an adult only home or with older dog-savvy older kids as dog is somewhat timid and anxious. Owner surrender notes also noted that dog can be mouthy or jumpy.B [2026-06-11 18:08:00.000]
Psst… hi! Axel here.
I'm still young and full of beans, with a whole lot of love (and a few zoomies) saved up for the right person.
I'm on the bigger side — but honestly, that's just more of me to hug.
I do come with a few special needs, but please don't let that worry you — I just need a patient friend, and I pay it back tenfold.
I'd love to meet you. But if I'm not quite the one, maybe you could do me one tiny favor — print my bio and pop it up somewhere a future best friend might spot it. Who knows, I might see you at the park someday! Either way, thank you for stopping by and giving me a moment. It really did mean a lot. — Axel 🐾
The rescue’s notes on Axel
This dog is available to meet by appointment only. Axel is a 1.8-year-old energetic Shepsky, who's learning that the world can be a safe and happy place. While this 58-pound pup can be shy around new people, he's already starting to come out of his shell with the help of some trusted dog friends. He loves toys, enjoys playtime, and is showing all the signs of wanting to connect and build confidence. Axel is looking for a patient, experienced family who can give him the time and support he needs to settle in. A home with a confident dog companion could be a wonderful fit for this sweet boy as he continues to learn, grow, and trust. Please submit an adoption questionnaire to meet her.
Axel is listed by Oakland Animal Services in Oakland, ca. Adoptions are handled directly by the rescue.
Adopt Axel →(510) 535-5602
Listing provided via RescueGroups.org. Details are maintained by the listing rescue and may change.



