Adopt

Puppies and dogs in District of Columbia

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in District of Columbia

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in District of Columbia. 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 ELIJAH's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of ELIJAH

ELIJAH

Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier

Male, Adult
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
  Meet Elijah, a tiny teacup Yorkie with a soul far bigger than his 4-pound frame. Born on October 19, 2021, this silky-soft little boy is the definition of delicate sweetness. Elijah has spent much of his young life quietly waiting—waiting for lap time, gentle words, and the kind of love that makes a dog feel truly seen.   Though once deeply cherished, life circumstances changed for his owner, and long days crated with little attention became Elijah’s reality. With love in their heart, his owner made the selfless decision to release him to Critter Cavalry, so Elijah could finally find the attentive, devoted home he deserves.   Elijah is shy, tender, and incredibly gentle—a sweet little shadow who blossoms with kindness. He gets along wonderfully with other dogs, is pee-pad trained, and would do beautifully in a home where someone can continue his training with a consistent outdoor schedule. What Elijah wants most is simple: love, routine, and a warm lap to call his own.   As he hopes to start the new year off on the right paw, Elijah is dreaming of a forever home where he’ll never feel overlooked again. Could that be you—the person who gives him the affection, security, and quiet companionship he’s been waiting for?   Elijah is currently in Nashville, TN. Transport is available on January 9th to the northeastern states.Please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com   PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comDecember 31, 2025, 5:49 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Ringo's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of Ringo

Ringo

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 6 mos
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
This pet has just arrived at Brandywine Valley SPCA’s NYA Campus and is settling in. We are still getting to know their unique personality, but we already know they are ready to start the next chapter with a loving family.If you are looking to add a new companion to your life, come in and see if they might be the perfect match for you. Location: Brandywine Valley SPCA’s NYA Campus – 1201 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 888-7387
We'll also keep you updated on Prissy's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of Prissy

Prissy

Labrador Retriever/Beagle

Female, Young
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Please contact Kallie Brennan (kallieb@luckydoganimalrescue.org) for more information about this pet.Miss Prissy! PRISSY NEEDS A FOSTER OR FOREVER HOME!!!! Name:    Prissy       Best Guess for Breed:    Lab/Beagle Mix    Best Guess for Age:    3 years as of 12/31/25        SEX:    Female   Approximate Weight:    32lbs   Gets Along With:  Other dogs! We haven't seen them with cats or kids but we are happy to discuss integration techniques with any potential adopters!   Currently Living at:    Shelter. Prissy needs a foster or forever home!   Special adoption considerations: Prissy is a truly Lucky Dog. She tested positive for heartworms, but landed in a place where heartworm treatment is provided! Heartworm is not contagious to people or other pets, but results from mosquito bites. Heartworm, if left untreated, is life threatening, but after treatment, dogs that were heartworm positive should suffer no significant long-term effects so long as they are kept on a monthly heartworm preventative. Heartworm dogs can resume full active and normal lives, but need to be kept calm for 4-6 weeks after treatment. We are happy to discuss where in the treatment process this Lucky Dog is in right now! Just email the adoption coordinator - the address is at lower left!    Meet Prissy—proof that you can be a little fancy and a whole lot of fun &#226&#156&#168   This black lab/beagle mix is heading to DC all the way from South Carolina, bringing Southern charm, floppy-eared cuteness, and a nose that means business. Don’t let the name fool you—Prissy may have standards (like comfy couches and good snacks), but she’s also down for neighborhood strolls, sniffing everything, and being your most loyal sidekick. Prissy is sweet as sweet tea, classy as a porch swing at sunset, and ready to trade Southern humidity for DC city life.   If you’re looking for a pup who’s equal parts Miss Priss and Yes Ma’am, I’d love a belly rub, Prissy is ready to move in and steal your heart—politely, of course.      What My Foster Says About Me:   Stay tuned!   Lucky Dog cannot guarantee any dog is housebroken.  All of our dogs are working on their crate training.  TO ADOPT:    The adoption fee for this dog is $475, which includes the cost of routine vetting, including vaccinations, spay/neuter, and heartworm treatment.  If you are interested in adopting, please complete the Adoption Questionnaire online at bit.ly/adoptaluckydog   Lucky Dog Animal Rescue does our best to provide accurate information about the dogs we have for adoption. That said, we cannot make any guarantees about age, breed or temperament.   Thank you for contacting Lucky Dog Animal Rescue and helping to save a life!  Please visit us online at    www.luckydoganimalrescue.org   .    BE A FOSTER!!!    Fosters make it possible for Lucky Dog Animal Rescue to save and care for homeless and abandoned dogs!  To learn about fostering, please contact    fostering@luckydoganimalrescue.org   ! BE A SPONSOR!!!!    Sponsors help Lucky Dog support the many dogs we save.  To learn more about sponsorship, please contact   info@luckydoganimalrescue.org   .  December 31, 2025, 5:29 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Raja's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of Raja

Raja

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 5 mos
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
-
We'll also keep you updated on Lil Dino's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of Lil Dino

Lil Dino

Labrador Retriever/Catahoula Leopard Dog

Male, Puppy
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Please contact Kady Hammer (KadyH@luckydoganimalrescue.org) for more information about this pet.Cute spotted puppy! LIL DINO NEEDS A FOSTER OR FOREVER HOME!!!!   Name:   Lil Dino           Best Guess for Breed:   Lab/catahoula mix    Best Guess for Age:   13 weeks as of 12/31/25          SEX:  male   Estimated Weight (puppies' weights change quickly!):   16.4lbs as of 12/31/25   Gets Along With:        Most puppies are in the prime of their socialization window and will do well with other dogs, cats and kids so long as they receive patience and proper training.   Currently Living at:   DC area foster home   Special Adoption Considerations:       Puppies under 6 months of age need to have multiple potty breaks/exercise throughout the day. Potential adopters with a standard 8-hour workday must be willing to make arrangements to meet the needs of their puppy.  Lil Dino is Looking For:   Hiya! I'm Lil Dino! Me and my littermates, Lil Mia and Lil Frenchie, have loved our time in the puppy pile, but we are each ready to pack our bags and find our very own forever home! I'm looking for a home that will let me play with toys and get my puppy zoomies out and give me snuggles in between playtimes. When I'm a little older, I can't wait to explore my new neighborhood on lots of walks, and I'd really like to make a bunch of doggie friends along the way. Oh, and I should probably take a puppy obedience class or two so I can show you how smart I am. What do you say? Do you have room in your heart for me? What My Foster Says About Me: Coming soon! Puppy Vetting Requirements:        Lucky Puppies have had their age appropriate vaccines, but may not yet be “fully” vaccinated. It is the adopter’s responsibility to ensure that the remaining puppy vaccines are given at the appropriate time. Please also keep in mind that, until your puppy is fully vaccinated, they are at greater risk for illness than an adult dog.      Your new puppy will need to work on their house training and will also need to go to obedience school so they can grow into a well-socialized dog!  TO ADOPT:       The adoption fee for this puppy is $485, which includes the cost of routine vetting and transport from the shelter.    If you are interested in adopting, please complete the Adoption Questionnaire online bit.ly/adoptaluckydog   Lucky Dog Animal Rescue does our best to provide accurate information about the dogs we have for adoption. That said, we cannot make any guarantees about age, breed or temperament.   Thank you for contacting Lucky Dog Animal Rescue and helping to save a life! Please visit us online at        www.luckydoganimalrescue.org       . BE A FOSTER!!!       Fosters make it possible for Lucky Dog Animal Rescue to save and care for homeless and abandoned dogs!  To learn about fostering, please contact fostering@luckydoganimalrescue.org! BE A SPONSOR!!!!       Sponsors help Lucky Dog support the many dogs we save. To learn more about sponsorship, please contact       info@luckydoganimalrescue.org       .   &#226&#128&#139December 31, 2025, 2:31 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Lil Frenchie's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of Lil Frenchie

Lil Frenchie

Labrador Retriever/Catahoula Leopard Dog

Male, Puppy
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Please contact Kady Hammer (KadyH@luckydoganimalrescue.org) for more information about this pet.Cute spotted puppy! LIL FRENCHIE NEEDS A FOSTER OR FOREVER HOME!!!!   Name:   Lil Frenchie           Best Guess for Breed:   Lab/catahoula mix    Best Guess for Age:   13 weeks as of 12/31/25          SEX:  male   Estimated Weight (puppies' weights change quickly!):   16.8lbs as of 12/31/25   Gets Along With:        Most puppies are in the prime of their socialization window and will do well with other dogs, cats and kids so long as they receive patience and proper training.   Currently Living at:   DC area foster home   Special Adoption Considerations:       Puppies under 6 months of age need to have multiple potty breaks/exercise throughout the day. Potential adopters with a standard 8-hour workday must be willing to make arrangements to meet the needs of their puppy.  Lil Frenchie is Looking For:   Hiya! I'm Lil Frenchie! Me and my littermates, Lil Mia and Lil Dino, have loved our time in the puppy pile, but we are each ready to pack our bags and find our very own forever home! I'm looking for a home that will let me play with toys and get my puppy zoomies out and give me snuggles in between playtimes. When I'm a little older, I can't wait to explore my new neighborhood on lots of walks, and I'd really like to make a bunch of doggie friends along the way. Oh, and I should probably take a puppy obedience class or two so I can show you how smart I am. What do you say? Do you have room in your heart for me? What My Foster Says About Me: Coming soon! Puppy Vetting Requirements:        Lucky Puppies have had their age appropriate vaccines, but may not yet be “fully” vaccinated. It is the adopter’s responsibility to ensure that the remaining puppy vaccines are given at the appropriate time. Please also keep in mind that, until your puppy is fully vaccinated, they are at greater risk for illness than an adult dog.      Your new puppy will need to work on their house training and will also need to go to obedience school so they can grow into a well-socialized dog!  TO ADOPT:       The adoption fee for this puppy is $485, which includes the cost of routine vetting and transport from the shelter.    If you are interested in adopting, please complete the Adoption Questionnaire online bit.ly/adoptaluckydog   Lucky Dog Animal Rescue does our best to provide accurate information about the dogs we have for adoption. That said, we cannot make any guarantees about age, breed or temperament.   Thank you for contacting Lucky Dog Animal Rescue and helping to save a life! Please visit us online at        www.luckydoganimalrescue.org       . BE A FOSTER!!!       Fosters make it possible for Lucky Dog Animal Rescue to save and care for homeless and abandoned dogs!  To learn about fostering, please contact fostering@luckydoganimalrescue.org! BE A SPONSOR!!!!       Sponsors help Lucky Dog support the many dogs we save. To learn more about sponsorship, please contact       info@luckydoganimalrescue.org       .   &#226&#128&#139December 31, 2025, 2:31 pm

Search for a puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in District of Columbia.

Puppies and dogs in District of Columbia cities

Shelters & rescues in District of Columbia

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

K9 Global Rescue

Washington DC, DC 20002

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Brandywine Valley SPCA - New York Ave

1201 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Perfectly Paired Pitties (P3)

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Project Freedom Ride - Washington DC Transport Stop

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Appalachian SPCA - DC

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Bright Hope Animal Rescue - D.C. Chapter

Washington DC, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Omani Paws

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Bella's Bully Buddies - Washington D.C. Chapter

900 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Rural Dog Rescue

719 8th Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

DC PAWS Rescue

P.O. Box 23439, Washington, DC 20026

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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 District of Columbia

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