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Puppies and dogs in Independence, Iowa

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

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Adopt a dog in Independence, Iowa

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Independence, Iowa. 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 Lobo's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lobo

Lobo

Bullmastiff Husky

Male, Adult
Waterloo, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Great dog, just working way to much to give him the love he deserves.
We'll also keep you updated on Tango's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Tango

Tango

Poodle (Standard) Golden Retriever

Male, 7 yrs 4 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi! My name is Tango! I am a handsome 6-year-old male Goldendoodle. Yes, Goldendoodle! I weigh just over 50 lbs and every ounce of me is adorable. I joined the APL family after living with a loving family my entire life. I had a human Mom and Dad and 3 little human sisters. In late September 2023, I suffered a spinal cord stroke and lost the ability to use my back legs as a result. I did a lot of physical therapy to help me regain function. My family tried their best to help me as long as they could but made the selfless decision to surrender me to A Purposeful Life in April 2024, so I could continue the road to my best mobility and to start a new chapter in my life. I love my new foster family and all my friends at APL. My favorite things to do are to play ball in the backyard, to snack on yummy treats, and to soak up and give lots of love and cuddles to anyone within a mile of me. I have no toy or food aggression and take treats oh so gently. I am extremely happy and sweet and am confident and curious about everything in my environment. I have loved every person I've ever met and will ask for pets all day long. Prior to my spinal cord stroke, I loved to go for long walks and runs. The wonderful people at APL knew this so they had a set of custom wheels made just for me! Now I'm back at it, leaving my people in the dust! I am an amazing traveler and love to go places. Adventures are my jam! I rarely bark and I don't chew on things I am not supposed to. I'm great with children of all ages, as long as they are respectful of me. I get along well with other animals and I don't mind having my paws touched at all. I love to chew on rubber balls and any toy with a squeaker in it, those are the best! Since joining the APL family, I have been spending considerable time at the awesome Iowa State Veterinary Rehabilitation Clinic to strengthen my back legs with exercises, massage, underwater treadmill, pool time, acupuncture and walking the halls with my cart. I am a staff favorite and they all have fallen in love with me. I mean....who wouldn't? I'm literally the BEST dog! I do require that you help me by expressing my bladder a few times a day. You will be given lots of help by my APL team to learn how to do this...it's really pretty easy and there are lots of online videos to help as well. The secret of a special needs dog is that they bring to their people a unique feeling of limitless purpose, joyous possibility, and unmatched happiness in accomplishment! A hero is someone who adopts a special needs dog, makes accommodations to care for their unique needs, and helps that dog to live a full and happy life. I'm looking for a family that sees beyond my different abilities and appreciates my incredible spirit. A household that's patient, loving, and ready to welcome me, despite my need for a bit more care. I promise to reward you with boundless love and joy and be your best companion by stealing your heart from the moment you meet me. Tango is up to date on vaccinations, 4DX tested, microchipped and neutered. He will come with all his cool gadgets so you can easily take him along on adventures. Applications to meet Tango can be submitted at: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/dogs
We'll also keep you updated on Harvey's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Harvey

Harvey

Australian Cattle Dog German Shepherd Dog

Male, 6 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi there, I'm, Harvey! I might be a puppy, but I’ve already mastered the art of loving big! I’m 6 months old, and my foster family says I’m adorable from head to tail—especially my ears! One look, and you’ll know exactly what they mean. My happy tail is always wagging, especially when I’m snuggling, playing, or just being near my people. Speaking of snuggles, I’m a pro. My favorite move? A full embrace hug where I wrap my paws around your neck. It’s my way of showing how much I care! When I’m not hugging, you’ll find me chewing on a bone (great for my puppy teeth), learning new things (I’m a quick study with sit, off, and wait), or shadowing my humans to see what they’re up to. I start my day with happy tail wags, kisses, and a quick potty break before breakfast and playtime. Afterward, it’s nap time—because even busy puppies like me need rest! At night, I sleep soundly with some white noise and the comfort of knowing my people are nearby. I’ve been working on my confidence when I’m alone, and with a cozy blanket and calming sounds, I can self-soothe during nap time. I’m also crate-trained for those moments when you’re away. I’m a social butterfly who loves dogs my size and understands their social cues like a champ! I haven’t met any cats yet, so I’m not sure what I’d think of them. I warm up quickly to women and kids, and with men, I just need a little extra time to sniff and feel safe—then I’m all in for belly rubs and snuggles! My ideal furever home could include other canine friends, kids, or just adults who are ready to love me and help me grow. I’d thrive with a family that’s around often, as I love being with my people. At my young age, I’m soaking up everything like a sponge and can’t wait to learn all the things with you! If you’re looking for a loyal, loving companion with the sweetest snores, cutest ears, and a heart of gold, I’m your guy. Let’s make forever happen together! Harvey is fully vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped and neutered. Our adoption process and application for this sweet boy can be submitted here: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Boone's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Boone

Boone

Shepherd (Unknown Type) Mixed Breed (Large)

Male, 4 yrs 6 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi, I’m Boone! I’m a beautiful 4 ½-year-old, 70-pound German Shepherd mix with a big heart and an even bigger desire to finally find my forever home. I’ve been passed around from family to family, never really knowing where I truly belong—until now. My current caretakers see what a special boy I am, and I hope you will too! I have great manners, listen well, stay close to my people and am super smart. I love learning new things and am always eager to please. Whether we’re out on an adventure or just hanging out at home, I’ll be right by your side, ready to be your loyal companion. I free-roam like a champ, love all people, and get along with dogs of all sizes. I’m even learning how to live with cats! Most of all, I’m full of love and live for close snuggles. I don’t just want a home—I want a person to belong to, forever. Could that be you? Boone is up to date on vaccinations, 4DX tested, microchipped and neutered. Applications can be submitted from within his bio, here: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/dogs
We'll also keep you updated on Wesley's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Wesley

Wesley

American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Young
Cedar Rapids, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Wesley is a nosey, spunky, and intelligent 3 1/2 year old pittie. He is very food motivated so it is relatively easy to train him. He has been able to complete enrichment toys with no issue. He loves to play fetch. He would run as long as you let him. But with that being said he would do best with a fenced in yard. The minute he sees a squirrel or bunny he wants to take off. There has not been any issues with chewing on furniture or things a like. He loves squeaky toys. He does seem to have an issue with some males. He met my family which has 4 males in it and no issue. Met a male friend with no issue but then met another male friend and he would bark, but didn’t show aggression it was more of a fear bark. Along with taking him on walks there were some males he would bark at and others he wouldn’t. Unsure how he does with children.
We'll also keep you updated on Athena's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Athena

Athena

American Staffordshire Terrier Boxer

Female, Adult
Cedar Rapids, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
I adopted Athena from the Santa Fe Animal Shelter in March 2019. She was approximately 3 at the time and had come in as a stray. She met and got along well with my two existing dogs. She is very loving and a real cuddler. I lost my job in December 2024 and moved in with family in Iowa. Unfortunately Athena does not get along with my family member's cats and I must rehome her.

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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in Independence, Iowa.

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Independence, Iowa

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Cedar Bend Humane Society

1166 W. Airline Highway, Waterloo, IA 50703

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Better Together Animal Rescue, Inc.

211 West 4th Street, Vinton, IA 52349

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

New Rattitude - Iowa

Arlington, IA 50606

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Northeast Iowa Pet Rescue

519 Westwood, Strawberry Point, IA 52076

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Cedar Valley Greyhound Adoptions, Inc.

7411 Mt. Vernon Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52324

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Waverly Pet Rescue

PO Box 291, Waverly, IA 50677

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

AGAPE FOSTERS

Marion, IA 52302

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

Marion, IA 52302

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 Independence, Iowa 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