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Puppies and dogs in Connecticut

Looking for a puppy or dog in Connecticut? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Connecticut

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Connecticut. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
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Photo of Phoenix

Phoenix

Feist

Male, 1 yr
East Hartford, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
Phoenix is a 1-year-old male Feist mix who weighs around 25 lbs. Phoenix has a wonderfully goofy and quirky side that is sure to keep his family laughing. He’s playful, snuggly, gentle, resilient, and independent—a fun combination of ready-for-an-adventure and ready-for-cuddles. He’s also communicative and food-motivated, which can make training both fun and rewarding. Phoenix is a smart boy who’s ready to learn, explore, play, and then curl up with his favorite person when the day is done. Phoenix is ready to turn the page and start his next adventure—with a family of his very own. Phoenix is neutered, fully vetted and microchipped. Please sign up for your first month of pet insurance on us! If you’re interested in adopting, please fill out an application on our website at https://packleadersrescue.com/adoption-application/
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Photo of Lottie Love Bug

Lottie Love Bug

Labrador Retriever

Female, 3 yrs 7 mos
Hartford, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Lottie is a dream boat in every sense, all wiggle booty, soft eyes, and a sweet little love-lean that immediately makes you feel like you would move mountains to make her happy. This girl literally arrived speaking “best friend,” and had a whole crew of people fawning over her every move. That is some powerful magic. Everything about her says gentle, affectionate, and an absolute joy to be around. Want to see Lottie’s wiggle-booty charm in motion? Head to YouTube https://youtu.be/JPvzwyzn_mY Lottie is estimated to be just over 3 years old, she weighs a cool 42 lbs. That curious little nose and beautiful coat color paired with the thick little body frame make lead us to believe she could be a Lab/Beagle mix. Gosh, if it isn’t the cutest mystery mix though! If you still somehow need convincing that she is “the one,” here you go. Let’s talk about all her other awesome qualities. On leash she’s a sweet sidekick who adjusts beautifully to guidance, and naturally sticks close to her person. It feels natural from the first step, like “Alright, we’re doing life together now.” With dogs Lottie is just as sweet. She greets new dogs with a friendly, welcoming energy and if you happen to be standing behind her for this you will get the cutest wiggle-wag-booty-action! Its somehow a helicopter tail and a full booty bounce at the same time. With the rest of the dogs she was polite, and she reads the room well. With slow, thoughtful introductions, she should do well with dog friends. In the kennel, Lottie is an absolute star. She is both house and crate trained and walks right in and settles with no fuss. Just the same, once we came inside, she settled beautifully and showed us that she has a naturally low-energy. Couch potato vibes for sure! She was ready to lay down and nap within 5 minutes and she gives off strong “apartment-friendly” vibes. Small-ish, quiet, great leash manners, and sweet as a button. Cats were a “maybe” in a way that feels promising. At first she wasn’t overly interested, respectfully curious and are happy to arrange a sleepover with our Kitty Committee to confirm what that curiosity turns into once she’s fully settled. And one more detail that pretty much melted our hearts on contact, the day she came to spend the afternoon with us she rode in the car on her best-buddies lap in the backseat, the whole way.. Her best buddie is a sweet little boy just under the age of 10. As if she wasn’t already a full dream, she shows us her tender nature with kids to really solidify that. If you’re looking for a gentle, affectionate, low-key little lovebug who walks nicely, settles easily, and will happily become your quiet companion with a wagging tail and a leaning heart… Lottie is ready and waiting but we know she will not be waiting long. If you are interested do not let her get away! Apply today! Adoption application:https://adopt.animalsfirst.com/animal/62cc8e128b02916730334440/6973a82abb96ea1d7b034edd Coordinator email: Kristin@threelittlepittiesrescue.org We facilitate adoptions nationwide using our rescue run USDA certified transport system, ensuring every pet travel safely and comfortably with 24/7 care. Our transport includes drop off locations, in WA, UT, OR, ID, VA, PA, OH, NY, CT, VT, TN, KY, WI, MN, IL, WI and Canada (pick up in Bellingham, WA, Buffalo, NY or Brattleboro, VT for for Canadian adopters). You will have the opportunity to track their journey in real time, see photo updates, learn fun facts, connect with fellow adopters and fosters through our private Facebook event page! Before the adoption is finalized, you will meet your pet through a video call, creating a fun and personalized experience! The adoption fee is $1000 and includes all vetting (DAPP with booster, Bordetella, Rabies vaccine, multiple broad spectrum deworming treatments, spay/neuter, flea prevention, a 12 month heartworm preventative injectable, heartworm test and treatment if needed, a microchip with free lifetime registration, a high quality nylon Martingale collar, a health certificate deeming the pup healthy for travel, cost of transport*, and priceless years of love and loyal companionship! We proudly have over 17,000 successful adoptions and excellent Google Reviews: https://g.co/kgs/UQ5Pyai We care deeply about creating lasting matches between dog and family for long term success, and take the time to ensure each adoption is a fit through our matchmaking process. At our 2 acre Texas based property, we assess every animal with trainers on staff, we modify behavior as needed, and create individualized behavior plans to help prepare dogs for their future families including crate training, potty training, leash walking, etc. Our fosters are able to attend group training and socialization play groups helping them stay confident, well rounded, and adoption-ready. Our on-site trainers are dedicated to each dog’s growth and we enjoy seeing their progress! We go above and beyond to ensure every animal receives exceptional care. Veterinarians consistently praise our medical standards. From routine care to advanced treatments, each dog receives personalized attention. Hard costs for a healthy dog range from $804-$920; heartworm-positive dogs or those needing specialized care can exceed $2,000+. Adoption fees help cover a portion of these expenses, but without government funding, we rely on fundraising to bridge the gap—ranging from $100–$1,000+ per dog. Our adoption fees reflect the extensive care and resources that go into each animal we save. The adoption fee is a donation to the mission and goes far beyond getting a fully vetted pet. It doesn’t stop there! Our adopters also receive these SPECIAL PERKS: Extensive behavioral testing and information from trainers on our staff to ensure the perfect fit for your family Discounts on Embark DNA test kit- $30 off of Breed ID test or $50 off of Breed ID plus Health test 30 day trial of pet insurance with Trupanion A free private online dog training session with GoodPup, plus low pricing for future sessions Access to multiple dog trainers in your area, along with $40 off of your first session of in person dog training through Rover Training 70% off of your first order of Fetch, a delicious PNW based fresh dog meatballs subscription Coupons for a fun visit to Petco 20% off of Dr. Cuddles pet first aid and hygiene solutions Discounted heartworm, flea prevention, and monthly dewormer Access to our exclusive FB Adopters page, where you can network for play dates, resources, and connect with other adopters that share their passion for their adopted pup! The Greater Houston area faces one of the highest stray and overpopulation rates in the U.S. We’re a nonprofit on a mission—to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs at risk, while promoting spay/neuter outreach in the community. When you adopt, you save more than one life— the one you adopted, and the space opened up to save another. Follow our journey and stay connected! 🌐 threelittlepittiesrescue.org 📘 facebook.com/threelittlepittiesrescue 📸 instagram.com/threelittlepittiesrescue Ready to welcome a new furry friend into your life? APPLY TODAY and become a hero for pets in need! *Due to rising transportation costs, a $87 surcharge applies. DISCLAIMER- Breed type is determined based on general appearance and behavioral characteristics, and cannot be guaranteed without DNA testing. NOTE- Texas adopters must pick up from the Houston area.
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Photo of Ben

Ben

Lhasa Apso

Male, Adult
Bristol, CT
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Meet Ben, an adult neutered male Lhasa Apso mix! Ben is about 4 years old and 32 lbs but he is currently a bit overweight. He can be timid of men initially and he would do better in a home with children older than 12 years old. Ben will be arriving in CT on 9/19 and we are accepting applications for him now! He will be required to attend our adoption event in Dayville, CT on 9/20. Ben is medically up to date and neutered. Apply to meet this special pup today! Click HERE for Adoption Application: pawsrescueleague.org/adopt Adoption fees vary based on the dog and are not negotiable. As a small rescue that does not receive government funding or grants, we rely on adoption fees to stay afloat. Adoption fees help cover the following: vaccinations, wellness exams, heartworm/4DX testing, parasite prevention, spay/neuter (age-appropriate), microchipping, transport expenses, and other rescue-related overhead/administrative costs. Paws Rescue League, Inc is an all-inclusive rescue that does NOT only rescue puppies and young, healthy dogs.  We make a point to also rescue seniors, dogs with special needs, moms, and other “less desirable” dogs, knowing that we will likely incur higher veterinary expenses and that these dogs may take longer to get adopted.  As such, an individual adoption fee is not only reimbursing PRL for expenses directly related to that dog, but it is also helping us to continue our mission of taking in dogs that would otherwise be too much of a financial burden to save. We believe that ALL dogs deserve a second chance. Thank you for your support and understanding! ##2839102##
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Photo of Potsie

Potsie

Border Collie

Male, Puppy
Bristol, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
Meet Potsie!  Potsie is a very sweet puppy! He is about 5 months old and weighs about 27 lbs. We expect him to be a medium breed mix when grown. We are accepting applications for Potsie now!  This puppy is a typical happy, playful pup that would love to play and snuggle with you!  Click HERE for Adoption Application: pawsrescueleague.org/adopt Adoption fees vary based on the dog and are not negotiable. As a small rescue that does not receive government funding or grants, we rely on adoption fees to stay afloat. Adoption fees help cover the following: vaccinations, wellness exams, heartworm/4DX testing, parasite prevention, spay/neuter (age-appropriate), microchipping, transport expenses, and other rescue-related overhead/administrative costs. Paws Rescue League, Inc is an all-inclusive rescue that does NOT only rescue puppies and young, healthy dogs.  We make a point to also rescue seniors, dogs with special needs, moms, and other “less desirable” dogs, knowing that we will likely incur higher veterinary expenses and that these dogs may take longer to get adopted.  As such, an individual adoption fee is not only reimbursing PRL for expenses directly related to that dog, but it is also helping us to continue our mission of taking in dogs that would otherwise be too much of a financial burden to save. We believe that ALL dogs deserve a second chance. Thank you for your support and understanding! ##2839120##
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Photo of Molly

Molly

Pomeranian/Chihuahua

Female, Young
Bristol, CT
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Meet Molly, a young spayed female Pom/chi mix! She is about 8 months old and 12 lbs. Molly will be arriving in CT on 9/19 and we are accepting applications for her now! She will be required to attend our adoption event in Dayville, CT on 9/20. Molly is medically up to date and spayed. Apply to meet this special pup today! Click HERE for Adoption Application: pawsrescueleague.org/adopt Adoption fees vary based on the dog and are not negotiable. As a small rescue that does not receive government funding or grants, we rely on adoption fees to stay afloat. Adoption fees help cover the following: vaccinations, wellness exams, heartworm/4DX testing, parasite prevention, spay/neuter (age-appropriate), microchipping, transport expenses, and other rescue-related overhead/administrative costs. Paws Rescue League, Inc is an all-inclusive rescue that does NOT only rescue puppies and young, healthy dogs.  We make a point to also rescue seniors, dogs with special needs, moms, and other “less desirable” dogs, knowing that we will likely incur higher veterinary expenses and that these dogs may take longer to get adopted.  As such, an individual adoption fee is not only reimbursing PRL for expenses directly related to that dog, but it is also helping us to continue our mission of taking in dogs that would otherwise be too much of a financial burden to save. We believe that ALL dogs deserve a second chance. Thank you for your support and understanding! ##2839104##
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Photo of CT Drake

CT Drake

Australian Shepherd/Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 1 yr
Eastford, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
Meet me at PawSafe Animal Rescue, 348 Old Colony Rd, Eastford CT Wed 4-6:30/Thurs 10:30-12:30/Sat & Sun 11-1 🐾 Meet Drake—a 1-year-old, 42-pound sweetheart who’s ready to become someone’s favorite hit. This handsome boy is as smart as he is lovable. He already knows sit, tested great with other dogs, and has the softest coat you’ll ever want to cuddle. Drake is incredibly affectionate and happiest when he’s soaking up attention from his people. He’s young, eager to learn, and has his whole life ahead of him… he just needs someone to give him the chance. Drake would love to leave the shelter and head straight into a loving home. 🖤 Due to MA Dept of Agriculture restrictions, we can not adopt to MA residents.

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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in Connecticut.

Puppies and dogs in Connecticut cities

Shelters & rescues in Connecticut

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Rat Terrier ResQ - CT

Bristol, CT 06010

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Paws Rescue League Inc - CT

Bristol, CT 06010

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Spotty Dog Rescue, Inc

Bristol, CT 06010

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

New Britain Shelter Friends

New Britain Animal Control, Christian Lane, Berlin, CT 06062

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Pack Leaders Rescue of Plainville

Plainville, CT 06062

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Fur-Gotten Tails Animal Rescue

P.O. Box 778, Plainville, CT 06062

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

Emily's Friends

PO Box 1082, Farmington, CT 06034

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits

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Shelter

Friends of the Burlington Animal Shelter

200 Spielman Hwy, Burlington, CT 06013

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

SDBP Rescue CT

Wolcott, CT 06716

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Giddy Goat Farm Rescue

Wolcott, CT 06716

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

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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!

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Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Connecticut

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