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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 Dumpy Dumpling

Dumpy Dumpling

German Shepherd Dog

Male, 2 mos
Middletown, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
Meet Dumpy Dumpling, I am spoiled… and I wear that title proudly! My mom didn’t have enough milk, so I was bottle-fed. I still got plenty of time with her, but I also spent countless hours snuggled up in people’s arms. That’s why I’m such a social, loving little pup—I adore being around people! I’m the perfect mix of playful and relaxed. I love romping around with my toys and having fun, but I’m just as happy curling up for a nap when playtime is over. I’ve been loved from the very beginning, and I’m ready to share all that love with a forever family. If you’re looking for a puppy who’s affectionate, well-socialized, and always ready for cuddles, I just might be the one you’ve been waiting for! He/she is hw ( heartworm) negative, fully vetted, spayed/neutered and microchipped. Please fill out an application at www.northboundrescue.com
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Photo of Otto

Otto

Dachshund

Male, Adult
Norwalk, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
 ALL our cats and dogs are in the NY area but can be adopted out of state to the purrfect furever home.  In some cases, we can help transport.  Zani's al fresco Summer Adoptions  follow us on FB to find us this summer as we will try new locations to meet the needs of NYC and support the little stores:)     Sweet 2yrs old 20lbs Otto from Puerto Rico would make a perfect Companion dog. All dogs are located in NY/NJ area All our puppies need puppy play dates/doggy facetime so we recommend homes with other pups or daily interactions to keep them tired out, happy and social.     Facebook: Zani's Furry Friends ZFF (weekly adoption event info posted there) Twitter: zanisff  Instagram: zanisfurryfriends   Dogs are spayed/neutered, UTD on age appropriate vaccines, Rabies vaxed, and microchipped (not Lyme vaxed but we seriously recommend it!)  All are in the NY/NJ area but we will adopt out of state to the purrfect home and in some cases, we can arrange transport.  Please go to our site  https://zanisfurryfriends.org  fill out an application  Many of us (cats/dogs) will be on display on Saturdays or Sundays, weather dependent--please ask by writing us at dogs@zanisfurryfriends.org and following us on FB. If you are seriously interested in adopting one of us in particular, please fill out an application early Friday so that we can be sure to be there. Otherwise we decide based on other variables. Usually we are in our foster homes so this is a bit more stressful and a slightly artificial environment but we do want to be seen and find our furever homes too.   Please consider providing a home for more than one dog, especially if you are considering adopting a puppy. Dogs are pack animals and very much enjoy as well as need other dog company to learn to play, socialize and be good companion animals to people. The upside to this is that you won't feel as guilty leaving them alone and you get twice the love. Please come! And if you can't adopt, maybe you can foster or volunteer, and you can always donate! If you want to know about cats/dogs specifically being shown at our adoption locations, please email us info@zanisfurryfriends.org closer to the date so we know your interest and will make every effort to have that pet at the event or let you know how and where you can meet.  It is extemely helpful and speeds up adoption if the application is filled out prior to visiting us so please do that before coming to our weekend events. Our weekend locations are: Saturdays or Sundays, weather dependent  Follow us on FB, Zani's Furry Friends ZFF, for latest updates. Usually we are in our foster homes so all this is a bit more stressful but we do want to be seen and find our furever homes. Please come! And if you can't adopt, maybe you can foster or volunteer. And you can always donate:) Cats and Dogs are spayed/neutered, UTD w/ all age appropriate shots and microchipped. Cats are feline combo tested for FIV/FeLV; dogs are heartworm tested and rabies vax'd, (NOT lyme vaxed but we seriously recommend it); rabbits are spayed/neutered. Please fill out an application and email to: For Cats: cats@zanisfurryfriends.org For Dogs: dogs@zanisfurryfriends.org For Rabbits: nyc.acc.rabbits@gmail.com. Please visit our website zanisfurryfriends.org. July 6, 2026, 8:02 am
Special Needs
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Photo of Cosmo

Cosmo

German Shepherd Dog

Male, Young
Manchester, CT
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained,
Story
Cosmo – 5yo Obedient GSD for Experienced, Structure-Loving Handler Location: Connecticut (Will travel/meet for the perfect match) Age: 5 Years Old Breed: Purebred German Shepherd (Male) Weight: 105lbs Health: Neutered, up to date on vaccines, successfully managed on daily Prozac for stranger fear. Ideal Home: Adult-only, no other pets, experienced handler. Cosmo is a stunning, 5-year-old male German Shepherd who is the epitome of a loyal, working-breed companion. If you understand the German Shepherd mind, you will absolutely fall in love with him. He is intensely intelligent, deeply devoted, and incredibly obedient when paired with a confident handler who knows how to set clear, calm, and structured boundaries. Cosmo thrives on routine. Once he knows you are the leader, he is eager to please, highly responsive to commands, and a phenomenal partner.
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Photo of Lacey

Lacey

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Young
Bloomfield, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Lacey is stitched together with sweetness, playful energy, and puppy charm. This adorable 6-month-old medium sized mixed breed has a beautiful short tan and black coat and a lovable personality that is sure to steal hearts everywhere she goes. She is expected to be a medium size gal of weighing anywhere up to 60 pounds when fully grown. Lacey has a medium energy level and is at the perfect age to learn, explore, and enjoy all the fun that puppyhood has to offer. She has done well with other dogs and children, making her a wonderful fit for a family home. Lacey has not yet met a cat, so her relationship with cats is unknown at this time. She is a social and affectionate young pup who enjoys attention, playtime, and being part of the action.Her leash training is in progress. She is eager to demonstrate her mastered skills of house training and crate training. As a young puppy, Lacey will need patience, consistency, positive training, and plenty of exercise and enrichment as she continues learning the routines of home life. It is important to remember that although Lacey is housetrained, accidents can occur while adjusting to a new home environment.If you are looking for a sweet and playful companion to grow alongside your family, Lacey could be the perfect match. She is ready to bring fun, cuddles, and lots of puppy love into her forever home.* When considering adoption, keep in mind that dogs thrive on structure and routine. They adjust much better when their owners are committed to providing consistency and stability.The adoption fee for Lacey is $500. That includes the cost of spaying/neutering, up to date vaccinations, foster care, rescue and transportation fees. To get the ball rolling, head over to our Adoption Application and submit your application today. A Dog Star representative will contact you within 24 hours. To speed up the process, contact your vet and give them permission to speak with us.If you do not get a response within 24 hours, check your spam folder.July 6, 2026, 7:35 am
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Photo of Sangria

Sangria

Rat Terrier

Female, 2 yrs 1 mo
Wolcott, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
APPLY FOR SANGRIA Warning: Side effects of meeting Sangria may include instant love, excessive smiling, and an overwhelming urge to take her home. Meet Sangria, a tiny little lady with a heart that's far bigger than her 4-pound body! Born on May 22, this adorable girl is expected to stay small to small-medium when she's all grown up, making her the perfect sized girl!Sangria's mom is a 23-pound Rat Terrier mix, and while Dad remains a mystery, one thing is certain, Sangria inherited an abundance of sweetness.With her moderate energy level, Sangria is the perfect mix of playful and cuddly. She loves making new friends and gets along beautifully with dogs, cats, and kids, so she'll fit right in whether your family has two legs, four legs, or both!Like every young puppy, she's still learning the ropes when it comes to housebreaking and crate training. She'll thrive with a family that's ready to guide her through puppyhood with patience, consistency, and plenty of love.Sangria is at that age where every day is a new adventure, every toy is the best toy ever, and every cuddle feels like home.She's looking for someone who will help her grow into the amazing dog she's meant to be, and in return, she'll fill your home with tail wags, happy dances, puppy kisses, and a lifetime of unconditional love. Tiny paws. Big heart. Forever best friend. If you've been waiting for the perfect little BFF to brighten your days, Sangria is ready to pour a little extra joy into your life. Could you be her happily ever after? Apply at www.astdogrescue.com/dog-application Apply at astdogrescue.com/dog-application ♥ Adoption fee includes age-appropriate vaccines, microchip and alteration (see more details on our website)  ADOPTION FEE: $663 ADOPTION FEE INCLUDES:  Alteration, Microchip, Vaccines APPLICATION: Click here to apply IF YOU HAVE OWNED A PET IN THE LAST 10 YEARS, PLEASE CALL YOUR VET AHEAD OF TIME TO ALLOW RESCUES TO SPEAK TO THEM APPLY FOR SANGRIA ##2774841##
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Photo of Martini

Martini

Rat Terrier

Male, 2 yrs 1 mo
Wolcott, CT
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
APPLY FOR MARTINI  Meet Martini! Shaken, not stirred! Martini is a charming little guy with a big heart and an even bigger future! Born around May 22, this sweet pup is expected to grow into a small-to-medium-sized adult. His mom is a 23-pound Rat Terrier mix, and while we aren't sure about dad, one thing is certain: Martini is 100% adorable. Martini has a moderate energy level, making him the perfect balance of playful and cuddly. He's always up for an adventure but is just as happy relaxing with his favorite people after a day of fun. This friendly boy gets along wonderfully with dogs, cats, and kids, making him a great fit for many different types of families. Whether he's making new furry friends or soaking up attention from his humans, Martini is happiest when he's surrounded by love. He's neutered, microchipped, and up to date on all age-appropriate vaccinations, so he's ready to start his next chapter. If you're looking for a loyal companion with a sweet personality and a lifetime of love to give, Martini is ready to raise a paw and say, "Pick me!" Apply at astdogrescue.com/dog-application ♥ Adoption fee includes age-appropriate vaccines, microchip and alteration (see more details on our website)  ADOPTION FEE: $663 ADOPTION FEE INCLUDES:  Alteration, Microchip, Vaccines APPLICATION: Click here to apply IF YOU HAVE OWNED A PET IN THE LAST 10 YEARS, PLEASE CALL YOUR VET AHEAD OF TIME TO ALLOW RESCUES TO SPEAK TO THEM APPLY FOR MARTINI ##2774840##

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Rescue Dog Village Guardian, Inc

Preston, CT 06365

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Norwich Animal Control

70 West Thames Street, Norwich, CT 06360

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Ledyard Animal Control

J Alfred Clark Way, Ledyard, CT 06339

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Animal Advocates of New England

Lisbon, CT 06351

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Griswold Animal Control

28 Main St, Griswold, CT 06351

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Wings of Freedom Animal Rescue, Inc.

PO Box 172, Griswold, CT 06351

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

All Paws on Deck

Griswold, CT 06351

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Lead Me Home Rescue - CT Transport

461 Voluntown Road -Transport Stop, Griswold, CT 06351

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

A.A.R.F. TN to CT Transport

Griswold, CT 06351

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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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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Looking for a specific breed?

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