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Puppies and dogs in Elkhart, Indiana

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

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Adopt a dog in Elkhart, Indiana

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Elkhart, Indiana. 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 Opal's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Opal

Opal

Shih Tzu

Female, 8 yrs
Elkhart, IN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Miss Opal is a Shih Tzu mix that's estimated to be around 8 years old and is 12 lbs of love and devotion.  Opal is a bit reserved at first but blossoms into a bubbly little girl with some patience and kindness. She loves to spend her days rolling around on her blankets and squeaking her toys like it's her own personal concert. She thinks of herself as a personal assistant and loves to follow her foster dad around the house, helping with whatever chores he does. When she winds down for the day, she enjoys curling up in a warm lap and basking in the sounds of her favorite Netflix shows. Her tongue is perpetually out and makes her the perfect model for cute photos.  Opal came to us with matted hair and untreated allergy issues that required a full shave. Her skin is clearing up nicely now with regular meals and medicated baths. But she may need lifelong medical management(allergy meds and/or special food) as needed. She is missing some patches of fur, but it is growing in more as her skin clears. Her fur is as soft as velvet and will require some light brushing and occasional grooming as it grows out again.  Opal is puppy pad trained and working hard on her outside potty training. Chicken is her favorite treat and is helping her with her recall and kennel training. She gets along well with other dogs and even cats.  Opal would thrive in a calm household with an owner that is looking for a personal shadow and lap warmer. She has lots of love to give and her owners will be benefit from a pup that adores them.   Opal's adoption fee is $200.  She is fully vetted for 1 year, spayed, microchipped, & on prevention. She will need regular vet visits, though to keep on top of her allergy issues.  Applications to adopt are at www.trackingintheshadows.com.  Applicant must live within 1 hour of Elkhart IN.  Once approved we will contact you to set up a date/time to meet Opal.  Please be prepared to meet her and take her home within 1-3 days of application approval.  *We do not accept electric/underground fences. All dogs & cats in the home must be spayed/neutered & up to date on core vaccines & preventatives in order for your application to be approved.* ##2655879##
We'll also keep you updated on Chupa - In Training's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Chupa - In Training

Chupa - In Training

Husky Miniature Pinscher

Female, 5 yrs 1 mo
Elkhart, IN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Chupa is a sweet, sensitive 5-year-old girl with adorable oversized ears and a heart that’s learning to trust again. This 27-lb Husky / Miniature Pinscher mix is currently our little lady in training — working on her manners and getting ready for the perfect forever home. At around 5 years old, Chupa may be a little shy when she first meets new people. Give her a little time, though, and her confidence blooms. Once she feels safe, Chupa becomes playful, affectionate, and very loyal to her people. Her adorable oversized ears seem to have a personality of their own and are usually the first thing people fall in love with. Chupa absolutely loves other dogs and does wonderfully with canine friends of all sizes. She enjoys playing with her dog buddies and would likely be happy in a home with another friendly pup. She is also good with children and enjoys being part of a family environment. Right now Chupa is attending training — think of it as her personal finishing school. She already knows commands like sit, shake, and up, and she’s working on polishing her leash skills and continuing to build confidence. Like many smart dogs, she’s learning quickly and improving every day. Chupa enjoys squeaky toys, sunny spots to nap in, and cozy couch cuddles with her humans. Her energy level is about 6 out of 10, meaning she enjoys playtime but also settles nicely for relaxing evenings. Chupa is currently about 85% potty trained and does best with consistency and routine while she continues learning. Chupa is currently in training, but you can still apply to adopt her now. She is expected to be ready to go home March 20, 2026. Chupa at a glance • 27 lb Husky / Miniature Pinscher mix• About 5 years old• Good with dogs and kids• Learning leash manners in training• About 85% potty trained• Energy level: 6/10 Chupa’s adoption fee is sponsored. She is spayed, microchipped, fully vetted for one year, and on monthly preventatives. Please note:All dogs and cats in the home must be spayed/neutered and up to date on core vaccines and preventatives. We do not accept electric or underground fences. Adopters must live within 1 hour of Elkhart, IN. Dogs currently in training often receive fewer applications, but Chupa is already making wonderful progress and will be an amazing companion for the right family. If you think Chupa might be the perfect addition to your family, please submit an adoption application at:www.trackingintheshadows.com ##2631920##
We'll also keep you updated on Juneberry (Junebee) – In Training's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Juneberry (Junebee) – In Training

Juneberry (Junebee) – In Training

German Shepherd Dog

Female, 3 yrs 5 mos
Elkhart, IN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Juneberry — lovingly called Junebee — a playful, intelligent German Shepherd mix who is finishing professional training and ready to find her forever home. Junebee has a big personality and a joyful, goofy spirit. She loves to run, play, learn new things, and be part of whatever her people are doing. She’s the kind of dog who will happily try to climb into your lap for affection — even though she doesn’t quite realize she’s a 67-pound shepherd mix. Junebee is currently enrolled in a structured professional training program where she has been working on obedience, leash skills, impulse control, and confidence. She has made wonderful progress and is showing just how smart and capable she is. She already knows many commands including: • Sit• Down• Stand• Heel• Place• Crate• Wait• Leave It• Come / Recall She has also started learning fun tricks like: • Spin• Reverse• Sit Pretty• Shake / High Five Her trainer describes her as very intelligent, eager to work, and full of potential. Junebee truly enjoys learning and thrives when she has structure, consistency, and a clear leader. With continued guidance, she will be an incredible companion for an active home. Her adopter will receive guidance on continuing the training she has already learned. Junebee loves to play with other dogs and would do great with a canine friend who enjoys her playful energy. Because she can get excited and sometimes forget how big she is, she would do best with older children. She does not do well with cats, as she enjoys chasing them. Junebee is housebroken, affectionate, and loves spending time outdoors. A secure fenced yard is recommended so she has space to run and burn off some of her shepherd energy. She is currently finishing her training and will be ready to go home on March 20, 2026, but applications are being accepted now. The right home for Junebee will be one that enjoys an active, intelligent dog who loves to learn, play, and be part of the family. Quick Facts About Junebee • 3 years old• German Shepherd mix• About 67 pounds• Good with dogs• Best with older children• Not good with cats• Housebroken• Currently completing professional training Her adoption fee is sponsored, and she will go home spayed, microchipped, fully vetted for one year, and on monthly preventatives. Please note: • All pets in the home must be spayed/neutered• Pets must be current on core vaccines and preventatives• We do not accept electric or underground fencing Adopters must live within 1 hour of Elkhart, Indiana. If you think Junebee might be the perfect addition to your family, please submit an adoption application. ##2631925##
We'll also keep you updated on Chico's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Chico

Chico

Chihuahua

Male, 12 yrs 2 mos
Elkhart, IN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Chico, 10lbs, Male Chihuahua mix, may only love one person — but he will love them with his whole heart. When Chico first came into rescue he was extremely overweight and struggling to move comfortably. He couldn’t navigate stairs, couldn’t really play, and life had become very small for him. Since then, his foster family has taken his health journey seriously and Chico has already made incredible progress. He’s now navigating stairs, playing with toys, and showing the joyful personality that was hiding underneath all that extra weight. Chico forms a deep bond with his person and becomes a loyal little shadow. Once Chico decides you are his human, he will happily follow you from room to room, celebrate your return home with enthusiastic zoomies, and settle in beside you for cozy evenings. His favorite place in the house is the couch (as you can see in his photos). Like many Chihuahuas, Chico can be cautious and a little grumpy with new people at first. With patience and time, Chico forms an incredibly strong connection and becomes deeply devoted to his person. Being chosen by Chico is something special — once he trusts you, he will shower you with the love only a tiny, loyal Chihuahua can give. Chico does well with other dogs but should not live in a home with cats. Chico does not require a fenced yard, but he should always be leash-walked outside. Don’t let his short legs fool you — Chico is quick and has shown a bit of an escape artist streak in play yards. Chico will crate for short periods of time, though it isn’t his favorite. In his foster home Chico is typically left out during the day and has very few accidents. Like many small dogs, Chico does best with a consistent potty routine and regular opportunities to go outside. Chico would thrive in a home where his person is around often and can enjoy the companionship of a devoted little sidekick. Chico at a glance • Chico, 10lbs, Male Chihuahua mix• Approximately 10–12 years old• Adoption fee: $150• Neutered and microchipped• Fully vetted for one year• Recently had a dental• Good with other dogs• No cats Once approved, we will schedule a meet-and-greet. Approved adopters should be prepared to bring Chico home within 1–3 days of approval. Adopters must live within 1 hour of Elkhart, IN. If you think Chico might be your person, please submit an adoption application at:www.trackingintheshadows.co ##2607048##
We'll also keep you updated on Lenny's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lenny

Lenny

Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier Shih Tzu

Male, 6 yrs 1 mo
Elkhart, IN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Lenny is a sweet, gentle, and slightly shy little guy with the softest heart. Once he feels safe, he will happily stay right by your side — or even better, curled up in your lap. If you’re looking for a true lap dog, Lenny is your perfect match. He can be a bit reserved at first, but he hasn’t met a person he doesn’t warm up to with a little time and kindness. He thrives in calm environments and would do best in a quiet home where he can feel secure and loved. Lenny would be happiest as an only dog, soaking up all your attention, or with another quiet, low-key canine companion. Because of his gentle and sensitive nature, a home without young children would be ideal for him. We’re not exactly sure of his breed mix, but when he first came to us, he had very long, beautiful hair — giving him an especially charming and fluffy look. We are currently working on potty training, and he is making progress. His future adopter will need patience, consistency, and understanding as he continues to learn. With a steady routine and positive reinforcement, he will continue to improve. If you’re searching for a loyal, affectionate little shadow to share your couch, your quiet evenings, and your heart, Lenny may be the one for you.   Lenny's adoption fee is $200.  He is fully vetted for 1 year, neutered, microchipped, & on monthly preventatives. but will need a booster in 2-4 weeks.  Once approved, we will set up a day/time for you to meet Lenny.  Please be ready to take him home within 1-3 days after application approval. *We do not accept electric/underground fences. All dogs & cats in the home must be spayed/neutered & up to date on core vaccines & preventatives in order for your application to be approved.* Please live within 1 hour of Elkhart, Indiana ##2658717##
We'll also keep you updated on Tula's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Tula

Tula

Fox Terrier (Wirehaired)

Female, 10 yrs 2 mos
Elkhart, IN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Needs special attention, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Tula Tula is a 10-year-old wirehaired terrier mix weighing about 15 pounds who is looking for a very special home where she can finally feel safe. Tula came to rescue from a hoarding situation, so adjusting to normal home life has been a slow journey for her. Because of her past, she is a very shy and reserved girl who feels most comfortable around other dogs. Tula will need a home with at least one confident, friendly dog to help her feel secure and show her the routines of everyday life. She truly prefers dogs to people and will need a family that understands that trust takes time. Her adopter will need patience and a calm environment while she continues learning that people can be kind and safe. Her foster has found that quiet moments — like relaxing together on the couch — have helped Tula slowly begin accepting gentle pets and affection. When she starts to trust you, the progress is incredibly rewarding. Because she is still learning routines, Tula may need to drag a lightweight leash indoors at first until she becomes comfortable in her new home. Tula is not completely housebroken yet. She does use potty pads most of the time but occasionally misses the pad while she is still learning. Tula also has a very particular palate. After trying many foods, we discovered she absolutely loves Fresh Pet chicken and vegetables. She eats well on this diet, so her future family should be willing to continue feeding this food or provide a similar fresh diet. A secure fenced yard is required so she can safely explore outside. Tula may sound like a high-maintenance girl — and in some ways she is — but helping a shy dog learn to trust is one of the most rewarding experiences there is. With the right person and a calm, patient home, Tula has the potential to blossom. Tula at a glance • Wirehaired Terrier mix• Approximately 10 years old• About 15 pounds• Very shy but gentle• Must live with another dog• Best in a quiet home• Not fully housebroken (uses potty pads)• Requires a fenced yard Tula’s adoption fee is $150. She is spayed, microchipped, fully vetted for one year, and on monthly preventatives. If you would like to meet Tula, please submit an application at:www.trackingintheshadows.com Applicants must live within 1 hour of Elkhart, Indiana. We do not adopt to homes with electric or underground fencing. All pets in the home must be spayed/neutered and up to date on vaccines and heartworm prevention. ##2616780##

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Dog shelters and rescues in Elkhart, Indiana

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

MUSH MisUnderstood Siberian Husky Rescue

1309 Sweetbay Dr, Elkhart, IN 46514

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

ALL 4 ANIMALS RESCUE INC

2300 w. 6th Street, mishawaka, IN 46544

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Homeward Bound Animal Welfare Group

Mishawaka, IN 46546

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Humane Society of St. Joseph County Indiana

2506 Grape Rd., Mishawaka, IN 46545

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Humane Society of Elkhart County

54687 County Road 19, Bristol, IN 46507

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

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Rescue

Family Pet Health Center

2621 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, IN 46615

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Heartland Small Animal Rescue

PO Box 6033, South Bend, IN 46660

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

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Rescue

PetsConnect! Inc.

P.O. Box 8104, South Bend, IN 46660

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, horses

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Shelter

Pet Refuge, Inc

4626 South Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN 46614

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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