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Puppies and dogs in Massachusetts

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

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Adopt a dog in Massachusetts

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Massachusetts. 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 Rey's adoption status with email updates.
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Rey

Treeing Walker Coonhound/Hound (Unknown Type)

Female, 4 yrs 6 mos
Amherst, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained,
Story
Meet Rey! A thoughtful almost five-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix currently living in Medford, MA, whose heart beats strongest for bacon-scented fetch balls, cozy naps, and training games that come with tasty rewards. With her striking black and fawn coat and expressive eyes that light up for treats, Rey is both clever and loyal! She’s house-trained, crate-trained, and knows an impressive list of commands like “sit,” “stay,” “heel,” “touch,” and even “hold,” where she’ll patiently balance a treat on her nose. Walks around the neighborhood and treat-dispensing puzzle toys are some of her favorite ways to spend the day, and she’s happiest when life follows a calm, predictable routine. Rey is currently taking daily fluoxetine to support her anxiety, and with consistent training and structure, she’s made incredible progress! Her anxiety tends to show up around unfamiliar people and dogs who approach her with interest, and while she can settle quickly when left alone, she needs help managing greetings and space boundaries. Her current caregivers use leash management, positive reinforcement, and distance-based games to help her feel secure during new encounters. It’s important to note that Rey has a bite history. In past situations where she felt startled or overwhelmed—such as when someone disturbed her while she was sleeping or tried to take food—she has reacted defensively and bitten. These incidents were not unprovoked and did not require medical attention, and her signals when uncomfortable are easy to spot with experience. For this reason, Rey is not suitable for homes with children or other pets. She’s best suited for a quiet, structured environment with a caregiver who has experience working with anxious or reactive dogs. Despite her challenges, Rey is deeply connected to her people and incredibly responsive to training. She’s not high-energy, but she’s engaged and eager to learn when motivated by food and trust. We’re including a full month of behavioral guidance from our consultant to help Rey settle in. Her new family will have compassionate support every step of the way to feel confident, connected, and at home. Could your steady, pet-free home be the space where Rey can thrive with calm leadership and loving patience? Reach out to adopt@joyfulpets.com to learn more about welcoming this special girl into your life! Content Notice: This pet is represented by Joyful Pets. All photos, descriptions, and behavioral summaries are proprietary and may not be republished, altered, or used by third-party platforms. Any unapproved aggregation or rewriting of this listing is strictly prohibited.
We'll also keep you updated on Smiley's adoption status with email updates.
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Smiley

Cattle Dog

Female, 2 yrs
Leverett, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
When we first met Smiley, she was living on the streets of Cleveland, Texas. She was malnourished, had horrible skin and Heartworm. Thanks to a foster stepping up, Smiley is now heartworm negative, happy, healthy and ready for her forever home. She got her name because she smiles when she's happy.   Mass License #0092 ##2599718##
We'll also keep you updated on Liesl's adoption status with email updates.
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Liesl

Shepherd (Unknown Type)/Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 mos
Saugus, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
She's soooo cute!!!!! Liesl has a sweet & very loving & loyal personality She’s doing great in her foster home and is settling in beautifully!! She enjoys her playtime and exploring, but she also loves her quiet moments and soaking up attention from her people. Liesl is working on crate training, housebreaking, and all her puppy basics as she continues to grow and learn. This little PAL is looking for a forever family that’s home enough to raise an active puppy and excited to guide her through all the love, learning, and fun that puppyhood brings. *large breed experience please  2–3 mo shepherd mix working on all puppy basics happy, loving, affectionate altered, microchipped, age-appropriate vaccines Ready for forever 2/4- pick up Amesbury  Apply today & get matched with a great PAL *Please note: We're an all-volunteer organization, and incomplete applications cannot be processed.* If you're interested in adopting a GBP rescue PAL, please submit an application through the link below. A member of our team will reach out within 48 hours to begin the approval process. www.galsbestpal.com/adoption Not sure which dog is the best fit? No worries! We're matchmaking experts and can help you find the perfect PAL for your home. Interested in saving a life and becoming a FOSTER HERO? Fill out an application, and a member of our FOSTER HEROES TEAM will reach out to discuss our life-saving foster-based rescue program. https://galsbestpal.com/foster/ To learn more about our mission or to join our mailing list, visit us at https://galsbestpal.com/ Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos, updates, and videos of our available dogs. We're always sharing new content! Thank you for considering adopting a rescue PAL —there are so many amazing dogs in need right now! With love, The GBP Team PS: Our bios are based on feedback from each dog’s current foster home. We cannot guarantee how a transition will affect the dog, but GBP is here to support you. Time and patience are key when adopting a new PAL. Please note that breed mixes and ages are our best estimates and cannot be guaranteed. ##2630624##
We'll also keep you updated on Kurt's adoption status with email updates.
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Kurt

Shepherd (Unknown Type)/Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 mos
Saugus, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Kurt is a silly, goofy, happy puppy with a wonderful personality and so much love to give He’s always ready for fun and keeps everyone smiling with his playful, upbeat energy. He loves to play, explore & be right in the middle of whatever is going on, but he’s also happy to slow down for cuddles and attention from his people. Kurt is working on crate training, housebreaking, and all the puppy basics as he continues to learn and grow. This little PAL is looking for a forever family that’s home enough to raise a puppy and excited to enjoy all the laughs, learning + love that puppyhood brings. *lg breed experience please  2–3 mo shepherd mix fostered with kids & other dogs  happy, playful, loving & smart  altered, microchipped, age-appropriate vaccines Ready for forever 2/4 - pick up Amesbury MA APPY TODAY + get matched with a great PAL *Please note: We're an all-volunteer organization, and incomplete applications cannot be processed.* If you're interested in adopting a GBP rescue PAL, please submit an application through the link below. A member of our team will reach out within 48 hours to begin the approval process. www.galsbestpal.com/adoption Not sure which dog is the best fit? No worries! We're matchmaking experts and can help you find the perfect PAL for your home. Interested in saving a life and becoming a FOSTER HERO? Fill out an application, and a member of our FOSTER HEROES TEAM will reach out to discuss our life-saving foster-based rescue program. https://galsbestpal.com/foster/ To learn more about our mission or to join our mailing list, visit us at https://galsbestpal.com/ Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos, updates, and videos of our available dogs. We're always sharing new content! Thank you for considering adopting a rescue PAL —there are so many amazing dogs in need right now! With love, The GBP Team PS: Our bios are based on feedback from each dog’s current foster home. We cannot guarantee how a transition will affect the dog, but GBP is here to support you. Time and patience are key when adopting a new PAL. Please note that breed mixes and ages are our best estimates and cannot be guaranteed. ##2630627##
We'll also keep you updated on Dennis's adoption status with email updates.
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Dennis

Boxer/Hound (Unknown Type)

Male, 2 yrs
Saugus, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Meet Dennis Dennis is a 58-lb white-and-tan gentleman with excellent manners and an even better heart. This easygoing guy knows how to give paw, but his real specialty is gentle hugs for his favorite people.  Dennis is very people-friendly, dog-friendly, and has been fostered with other pups like a total pro. He walks nicely on leash, keeps his kennel accident-free, and treats beds and blankets with the respect they deserve (no shredding here!). If you’re looking for a handsome, affectionate companion who’s equal parts polite and lovable, Dennis is ready to shake on it—and maybe give you a hug too. 58 lbs + estimated 2-3 y/o dog friendly, loves his foster siblings  crate and potty trained in foster  completed HW treatment + fully vetted available for adoption in Feb with pick up in Amesbury Application link in bio fill out a general app and note Dennis! *Please note: We're an all-volunteer organization, and incomplete applications cannot be processed.* If you're interested in adopting a GBP rescue PAL, please submit an application through the link below. A member of our team will reach out within 48 hours to begin the approval process. www.galsbestpal.com/adoption Not sure which dog is the best fit? No worries! We're matchmaking experts and can help you find the perfect PAL for your home. Interested in saving a life and becoming a FOSTER HERO? Fill out an application, and a member of our FOSTER HEROES TEAM will reach out to discuss our life-saving foster-based rescue program. https://galsbestpal.com/foster/ To learn more about our mission or to join our mailing list, visit us at https://galsbestpal.com/ Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos, updates, and videos of our available dogs. We're always sharing new content! Thank you for considering adopting a rescue PAL —there are so many amazing dogs in need right now! With love, The GBP Team PS: Our bios are based on feedback from each dog’s current foster home. We cannot guarantee how a transition will affect the dog, but GBP is here to support you. Time and patience are key when adopting a new PAL. Please note that breed mixes and ages are our best estimates and cannot be guaranteed. ##2637310##
We'll also keep you updated on Rex's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
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Rex

American Pit Bull Terrier/American Staffordshire Terrier

Male, Adult
Newton, MA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained,
Story
Rex is an 8-year old, very energetic pitbull. He was adopted at 8 weeks old in Massachusetts. He is a sweet boy who loves intensely. This can cause him to have big feelings in the house. He has separation anxiety and would need an owner who is willing to put in the time to work with him. He loves to run around and be around his people. We can no longer take care of Rex. His ideal home would have someone who is willing to work with him to work on his outside manners as well as his anxiety. He is a very sweet dog who loves attention and play. Recent events have made it not possible for our family to care for Rex anymore. He would be a great dog for any owner who is willing to put in the effort to work with him.

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

Puppies and dogs in Massachusetts cities

Shelters & rescues in Massachusetts

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Mutt Rescue

102 Grove Street, Chicopee, MA 01020

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center

627 Cottage Street, Springfield, MA 01104

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Ludlow Animal Control

612 Chapin Street, Ludlow, MA 01056

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

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Shelter

Rover Starts Over Dog Adoptions

P.O. Box 113, Granby, MA 01033

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Dakin Humane Society

171 Union St, Springfield, MA 01105

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

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Shelter

FACES Inc.--Dog Adoption

P.O. Box 704, W. Springfield, MA 01090

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Rainbow Rescues Inc

Westhampton, MA 01027

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

White River Animal Rescue - MA

Westfield, MA 01085

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

ASRI / Positive Options

P.O. Box 1815, Westfield, MA 01085

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Westfield Animal Control and Shelter

178 Apremont Way, Westfield, MA 01085

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, reptiles, small 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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Looking for a specific breed?

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

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