Adopt

Puppies and dogs in Sylvan Lake, Alberta

Looking for a puppy or dog in Sylvan Lake, Alberta? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Sylvan Lake, Alberta

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Sylvan Lake, Alberta. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
We'll also keep you updated on Sable (mom) and Iris (daughter)'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Sable (mom) and Iris (daughter)

Sable (mom) and Iris (daughter)

Leonberger

Female, Adult
Red Deer, AB
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Sable born October 1 2018Loves attention and very intuitive to others feelings. She is protective and very loving. She has spent most of her life on acreages and had 3 litters. She has only had 2 vaccine shots to date. She is spayed.Iris born July 20 2021 she is standoffish to new people but warms up quickly and loves attention when she does. I had to revive her when she was 2 weeks old then syringe feed her till she was big enough to feed of Sable again cause she stopped growing for a month and a third of the size of her siblings.They both love walks and just going to the fields to run and play.They should stay together as they have never been apart..
We'll also keep you updated on Lily (and Indie)'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lily (and Indie)

Lily (and Indie)

Pomeranian

Female, Adult
Didsbury, AB
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Location: Calgary, AB // Age: Approx 3 years // Size: 15lbs // Sex: Spayed females // Energy level: Medium // Dogs: Yes, calm dogs // Cats: Untested // Kids: Older, calm kids // Combined adoption fee: $850 // Indie & Lily are a tender-hearted, bonded pair who are just beginning to discover how beautiful life can be. 💛 These two sweet girls have come such a long way in foster care, and while they’re still a little shy, their playful, loving personalities are starting to shine through more each day. When they first arrived, both Indie and Lily were very timid—unsure of their surroundings and needing time to feel safe. With patience and love, they’ve blossomed into affectionate, gentle companions who now seek out their people for cuddles, playtime, and reassurance. Indie is the more sensitive of the two, often looking to her humans for comfort, while Lily brings a touch of sass with her slightly bossy big-sister energy. Together, they balance each other beautifully. 🐾 These girls are total cuddle bugs. They love being held, snuggled, and will even gently paw at you to ask for pets—it's impossible to resist. Their tails wag like crazy when they see you, and their joy is contagious. They enjoy toys, short play sessions, and a couple of daily walks, but they’re just as happy curling up for a nap or soaking up the sun. Indie and Lily would thrive in a calm, quiet home where they can continue building confidence at their own pace. Busy households or high-traffic environments will not be a good fit for them. They are still learning about the world and can become overwhelmed in new or chaotic situations, often retreating to a safe space until they feel secure again. A patient adopter who understands that trust takes time will be key to helping them truly flourish. 🌿 A confident resident dog would be a wonderful bonus, as they take comfort in the presence of other dogs and learn by watching them. While they coexist well with other dogs, they tend to play independently rather than directly engaging. Lily can be a little bossy at times—especially around coveted spots like the human bed—but she responds well to gentle boundaries. They’re both crate trained, house trained, and settle nicely when left alone for a few hours. On leash, they’re still learning the ropes and can be a bit pull-y, but they absolutely love their walks and will benefit from continued positive, force-free training. Because of their beautiful long coats, Indie and Lily will require regular grooming to keep them comfortable and mat-free. Routine brushing at home and consistent professional grooming appointments will be an important part of their ongoing care. ✂️ Indie and Lily are looking for a home filled with patience, kindness, and lots of love. In return, they’ll give you the sweetest companionship, quiet loyalty, and those heart-melting moments when they choose you as their safe place. 🥹 If you’re ready to open your heart and home to two gentle souls who just need a little time to fully bloom, Indie & Lily might be your perfect match. 💕 If you would like to meet the girls, please complete an application: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form
We'll also keep you updated on Ellie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Ellie

Ellie

Mixed Breed (Large)

Female, 2 yrs 1 mo
DIDSBURY, AB
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
🐾 Meet Ellie — a gentle giant with a heart full of love Ellie is a stunning black-and-tan beauty with soulful eyes, a soft expression, and the kind of warm presence that makes you feel instantly at home. With her big paws, relaxed posture, and sweet, happy face (often complete with that adorable tongue-out smile), Ellie is the definition of a lovable, easygoing companion. This lovely girl was found as a stray with no ID, and while we don’t know her past, it’s clear she hasn’t let it dim her kind and loving spirit. Ellie is ready to leave that chapter behind and start fresh with a family who will cherish her the way she deserves. She enjoys life at a comfortable pace — lounging in the sunshine, stretching out on a cozy bed, and taking in the world around her. While she has a calm and laid-back nature, Ellie still enjoys her daily walks and outdoor time, happily exploring and sniffing her way through new adventures. She’s not high-energy, but she does appreciate getting out and about and spending quality time with her people. Ellie is incredibly affectionate and forms strong bonds with the people she trusts. One of her most endearing traits is her love of cuddling — she will wrap her big paws around you in the sweetest doggy hug, leaning in close for comfort and connection. It’s her special way of showing just how much she loves being near you, and once you’ve experienced an Ellie cuddle, you won’t want to go without it. Because of her size and strength, Ellie would do best with a family that has large breed dog experience. She’s a wonderful dog with a kind heart, but she will thrive with someone who understands how to guide and support a bigger dog, helping her continue to feel confident, secure, and well-balanced. Ellie is happiest when she’s part of the family — whether that’s relaxing at your feet, joining you for a walk, or simply being your loyal shadow throughout the day. She doesn’t ask for much, just love, companionship, and a place where she truly belongs. 💛 If you’re looking for a devoted, affectionate, and gentle companion — one who will quite literally wrap you up in love — Ellie is ready to find her forever home.
We'll also keep you updated on Fifi's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Fifi

Fifi

Border Terrier

Female, Young
Didsbury, AB
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Location: Airdrie, AB // Age: Approx 1 year // Size: Approx 15lbs // Energy Level: High puppy energy // Sex: Spayed female // Dogs: Yes // Cats: Not Tested - likely okay // Kids: Not Tested but older dog savvy kids are likely okay // 🐾Meet Fifi 💕 If you’ve ever wanted a toy-loving, zoomie-powered, underbite-smiling little gremlin who will steal your heart (and maybe your socks)… Fifi is your girl. 🐾At 11 months old, Fifi has blossomed into a happy, playful, affectionate young dog who absolutely lives for toys, dog friends, and outdoor adventures. She is still very much a puppy at heart — running, playing, digging through the toy box one by one, chewing her bones, and then repeating the entire routine again just for fun. Her adorable underbite makes it look like she’s constantly smiling, and honestly… she kind of is. 💕 Her absolute favourite thing in the world? Other dogs. Fifi thrives with canine companions. She gains confidence from them, follows their lead, plays endlessly with them, and cuddles up beside them for naps. A home without another playful dog is not the right fit for her — she truly needs a dog friend to feel safe and fulfilled. 💕 She’s smart, eager, and learning fast. Fifi is fully house trained and rings the bells on the door when she needs outside. She knows sit, come, stay, kennel, outside, bedtime, and more. She is very food-motivated and responds beautifully to positive reinforcement training. She sleeps soundly through the night in her crate (as long as it’s in the room with you) and happily runs to her kennel when you say “bedtime.” 💕 She is affectionate… on her terms. Fifi is still nervous with new people and being picked up or handled. She will come over to sniff you, get excited when you’re around, and once she feels safe, she will happily melt into your lap for belly rubs and cuddles. But trust takes time for her, and her forever family must be patient and allow her to come to them at her own pace. Having other dogs around helps her feel brave — they are her security blanket. 💕 Things she’s still working on: Fifi is fearful on leash and hasn’t ventured past the backyard yet. She will need slow, gentle leash training and a family committed to helping her build confidence with the outside world. Nail trims and handling can be a bit of a process, and like any puppy, she still thinks socks, paper, and the occasional gross outdoor treasure are fair game. She has made huge progress with resource guarding and now only needs management when enjoying very high-value chews like bully sticks. 💕 Her personality in a nutshell: Happy. Goofy. Toy-obsessed. Loyal. Playful. Cuddly. A little quirky. A little sensitive. Very, very lovable. She will make you laugh daily with her toy hoarding, her excited squeaky greetings when you come home, and the way she proudly empties the toy box like it’s her life’s mission. 🐾Fifi’s ideal home: ✔ At least one friendly, playful dog. ✔ A patient, calm family committed to positive reinforcement. ✔ A yard to run and play in while she learns leash skills ✔ People who will give her time to build trust and confidence. ✔ Lots of toys. Seriously. So many toys. 🐾Fifi is not the kind of dog who will walk into a new home and be instantly confident — but for the family who gives her time, she will become deeply loyal, incredibly loving, and endlessly entertaining. She just needs someone to believe in her the way her foster home does. 🐾💗 If you’d like to meet sweet, smiley Fifi, please complete an application: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form
We'll also keep you updated on Toto's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Toto

Toto

Chihuahua

Male, Adult
Didsbury, AB
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Location: Didsbury, AB// Age: Approx 5 years// Size: Small// Sex: Neutred Male// Energy level: Low// Vaccines: Up to date// Dogs: Yes// Cats: Yes// Kids: Kids 15+// Toto has been in long-term foster care with our rescue’s founder for about two years, and during that time he has made incredible progress. When he first arrived, his foster couldn’t even come within a few feet of him for the first six months. With patience, love, and positive reinforcement, Toto has slowly learned that the world—and people—can be safe. Toto is still a very fearful boy, especially when it comes to physical touch. Most of the time he prefers to keep his distance, but when he does choose to snuggle, he shows so much love. In those moments, you can tell just how badly he wants to be cuddled and cherished, even if it’s scary for him. Recently, he’s even started sitting on his foster mom’s lap once in a while when he’s feeling brave. These tender milestones are proof of how far he’s come. Toto has also started exploring his backyard—something he couldn’t do before. He is a very routine-oriented boy who thrives on predictability and the security of knowing what to expect each day. He doesn’t have a mean bone in his body—he’s incredibly sweet and gentle. New people don’t seem to scare him as long as they give him space; from a distance, he seems perfectly content having humans around. While Toto isn’t comfortable going for walks and finds the leash and outside world overwhelming, he has recently allowed his harness and leash to be put on slowly if needed for a car ride. Getting in the car is tough, but once he’s in his foster family’s car or camper, curled up in his bed, he’s happy to be part of the adventure. He no longer needs his crate, either—another big step forward! Most nights, he sleeps in bed with his foster parents or in his dog bed nearby. Toto eats a special dehydrated food that works best for him since many of his teeth have been removed. One of his most endearing quirks is his pre- and post-meal “happy dance”—a little wiggle and shuffle that never fails to make his foster family smile. Toto’s progress may be slow and steady, but he is a completely different dog today than he was two years ago. He may always be a work in progress, and it’s possible he will remain a forever Ruff Start resident—but he is still adoptable to the right home. Toto needs: An adopter with experience working with very fearful or previously feral dogs. A quiet, predictable home with a fully fenced yard. A slow, patient transition into his new home. Someone who understands that Toto may never be a typical snuggly dog, but who will celebrate every small step forward. Toto is good with other dogs, respectful cats, and would do best in a calm home with no young children. What he needs most is safety, stability, and unconditional love. If you have the heart and patience to continue Toto’s journey and give him a safe place to land, he just might be the perfect match for you. If you think your home would be a good match for Toto, please complete an adoption application on our website and one of our team members will be in touch with you shortly via email to arrange a phone interview.
We'll also keep you updated on Nito's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Nito

Nito

Chihuahua

Male, Senior
Didsbury, AB
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Location: Leduc, AB // Age: Approx 9 years old // Sex: Neutered male // Size: Approx 8lbs // Energy Level: Low/Medium // Dogs: Yes // Cats: Yes // Kids: Older kids // 🐾 Meet Nito — your tiny, devoted shadow. Nito is the definition of small but mighty. This sweet senior boy has seamlessly settled into foster life, proving that age is just a number. Whether it’s a leisurely 45-minute walk, a car ride adventure (bonus points if there’s a drive-thru involved 🍟), or curling up beside you on the couch, Nito is simply happiest being wherever you are. 🐾 He’s an easy, joyful companion on leash—no pulling, no fuss—just a friendly little gentleman who wants to say hello to everyone he meets. And while he may be tiny, he’s not afraid to stand up for himself if another dog isn’t polite. We love a confident king 👑 At home, Nito is affectionate, funny, and just the right amount of quirky. He adores being close to his person, happily snoozing beside you at night and soaking up every ounce of love during the day. He also fully embraces the spoiled life—think cozy beds, adorable outfits (which he loves wearing), and being carried like the royalty he clearly believes he is. 🐾 Nito gets along beautifully with people, dogs, cats and just about everyone he meets. Because of his small size, he would do best in a home with other small dogs who will respect his space—especially when he’s snuggled up with his favourite human. However he does love a good play buddy🐾 As a senior, Nito is looking for a home that truly understands and embraces the commitment of caring for an older dog. He has had an eye surgery and he requires eye drops minimum three times a day (some days up to six times!), so his future family will need a schedule that allows for consistent care. Regular veterinary check-ups and attentive monitoring will also be important to keep him feeling his best. There will be ongoing eye care for this sweet boy. In return, you’ll get a deeply loyal, loving companion who will make every single day brighter. 🐾 He’s still working on perfecting his housetraining (he’s getting there!) and may occasionally forget his manners in public spaces—but honestly, it just adds to his charm. 💛 Nito’s dream home? A calm, loving household where someone is home often and ready to dote on him endlessly. A family who will take him on walks, play with him and cherish these golden years, keep him cozy and cared for, and treat him like the incredibly special little soul he is. Because make no mistake—Nito isn’t just looking for a home. He’s looking for his person. And when he finds them… he’s not letting go. 🐾 If you're interested in learning more about Nito, please complete an application on our website: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form

Search for a puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in Sylvan Lake, Alberta.

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Sylvan Lake, Alberta

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for dogs in Sylvan Lake, Alberta. Browse these rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Companion Animal Outreach Services Ltd.

100-5250 22 Street, Red Deer, AB T4R 2T4

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Paws and Claws Animal Rescue Foundation

Box 26062, Red Deer, AB T4N 6X7

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Wild Rose Humane Society

13 CO OP ROAD, PO BOX 157, DIDSBURY, AB T0M 0W0

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Ruff Start Animal Rescue Foundation

Didsbury, AB T0M 0W0

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

More an arrow icon

Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

For a comprehensive list of all shelters and rescues, try our search page. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

Image of dog

Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Sylvan Lake, Alberta and nearby cities.

Popular dog breeds

Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Cocker Spaniel American Eskimo Dog American Hairless Terrier American Pit Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Aussiedoodle Australian Cattle Dog Australian Kelpie Australian Shepherd Australian Terrier Basenji Basset Hound Beagle Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Laekenois Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Belgian Tervuren Bernedoodle Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black and Tan Coonhound Bloodhound Blue Lacy/Texas Lacy Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier des Flandres Boxer Boykin Spaniel Briard Brittany Brussels Griffon Bull Terrier Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Cardigan Welsh Corgi Carolina Dog Catahoula Leopard Dog Caucasian Shepherd Dog Cavachon Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavapoo Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua Chinese Crested Chinook Chiweenie Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cockapoo Cocker Spaniel Collie Coonhound Corgi Coton de Tulear Curly-Coated Retriever Dachshund Dalmatian Dandie Dinmont Terrier Doberman Pinscher Dogo Argentino Dogue de Bordeaux Dutch Shepherd English (Redtick) Coonhound English Bulldog English Cocker Spaniel English Setter English Shepherd English Springer Spaniel English Toy Spaniel Entlebucher Feist Field Spaniel Fila Brasileiro Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat-Coated Retriever Fox Terrier (Smooth) Fox Terrier (Toy) Fox Terrier (Wirehaired) Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz German Wirehaired Pointer Glen of Imaal Terrier Goberian Golden Retriever Goldendoodle Gordon Setter Great Dane Great Pyrenees Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Greyhound Halden Hound (Haldenstrover) Harrier Havanese Horgi Hovawart Husky Ibizan Hound Icelandic Sheepdog Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Japanese Chin Jindo Kai Dog Karelian Bear Dog Keeshond Kerry Blue Terrier Kishu Komondor Kuvasz Kyi Leo Labradoodle Labrador Retriever Lakeland Terrier Lancashire Heeler Leonberger Lhasa Apso Löwchen Maltese Maltipoo Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mastiff Miniature Bull Terrier Miniature Dachshund Miniature Pinscher Morkie Mountain Cur Munsterlander Mutt Neapolitan Mastiff Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwegian Lundehund Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Olde English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier (Fell Terrier) Pekingese Pembroke Welsh Corgi Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Pitsky Plott Hound Podengo Portugueso Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Pomsky Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodle (Toy or Tea Cup) Portuguese Water Dog Presa Canario Pug Puggle Puli Pumi Rat Terrier Redbone Coonhound Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Saluki Samoyed Schiller Hound Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Schnoodle Scottie, Scottish Terrier Scottish Deerhound Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Sheepadoodle Sheltie, Shetland Sheepdog Sheppit Shepsky Shiba Inu Shih Poo Shih Tzu Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi St. Bernard Staffordshire Bull Terrier Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Texas Heeler Thai Ridgeback Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Tosa Inu Treeing Walker Coonhound Vizsla Weimaraner Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier Westie, West Highland White Terrier Wheaten Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintle/Mexican Hairless Yorkie Poo Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier