Java German Shepherd Dog Mix Cincinnati, OH

Java and Zavi are handsome shepherd mixes who were left together in the drop pen of a rural county shelter. Sadly there was no note left with them, but in the short time we have known these boys we can tell you that they are both very sweet and friendly. They are about 1 1/2 years old, and could possibly be brothers. Java weighs 47 pounds and Zavi is 42 pounds. Both are your typical high energy, loving to play and get all the ear scratches you’re willing to give-kind of puppy dogs. They’re the kind of puppy dogs that will bring you plenty of smiles. They both love to play whenever given the chance; whether it be with each other, their STAF canine playmates, the STAF volunteers or any toy they can nab…they just love to play:)

Here’s some great feedback from a volunteer after a walk with Java: “What a gentle soul! This boy greeted me with gentle nuzzles and waited calmly and patiently while I got him in his harness and ready for our trip to the park. Java is good on leash and really enjoyed our hike. He was interested, friendly and calm with all the dogs we met at the park. He is a bit shy but very friendly and gentle with the people we met as well. He greets people a bit cautiously but with a gentle tail wag and interest. He was wary but gentle and friendly with the kids he met too. Java is easy to be with and wants to please. When I would stop and bend down to check in with Java, he would nuzzle me and look at me with the sweetest, gentle eyes. This guy has a soft, loving way about him. When we came across two large white tailed deer he just stood very still and stared in wonder. Java is very handsome and prances when he walks. He is just a friendly, fun guy and I can't imagine a better companion.” We've included a sweet video of Java as he prances on his walk:)

Their names, Zavi and Java, come from the word Zavijava which is a star in the Virgo constellation that is larger and more massive than the sun. We have no doubt these two boys are going to shine bright, when they join their forever families.

Java’s estimated birth date is June 2017
Java will need: An active home to help him burn his puppy energy and positive based obedience training
Java will love: A fenced yard to romp in and a canine playmate or trips to doggie daycare


Please see our homepage for visiting hours and adoption details.

All of our animals are spayed/neutered and current on shots.

Visit our website www.staf.org to download our application.

We do not do same-day adoptions; we ask that you return for a follow-up visit before taking an animal home.

You must be 21 years or older to adopt a dog from STAF

We require a physical fence for homes with children under the age of 11. We also may require a physical fence for specific dogs on a case-by-case basis, depending on each dog's behavior and exercise needs.

Invisible fences - Due in part to increasing coyote activity/incidents in the area and the difficulty of predicting how a dog will respond to invisible fence training--we cannot adopt to homes with invisible fences unless otherwise noted in a dog's online profile.

We do request vet and personal references.

At this time, we are only able to consider applicants within 75 miles of Cincinnati.

Can’t adopt but want to help? You can make a difference! Our shelter is run entirely on volunteer-power and generous donations from animal-lovers like you. 100% of your contribution goes directly to caring for our 500+ furry residents. Thank you for your support.