Adopt

Puppies and dogs in Worcester, Massachusetts

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Worcester, Massachusetts

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Worcester, 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 Tharos's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Tharos

Tharos

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Adult
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Tharos – 4-Year-Old Male Full-Bred Pitbull Terrier (Neutered) ☀️ Sun lover & couch cuddle king 🦴 Extreme chewer toy fan 🏡 House & crate trained 💉 Up to date on vaccines, flea/tick & heartworm meds 🍖 Eats Purina Adult Dog Chow 🐕 Sweet, loyal, calm, and loving
We'll also keep you updated on Zadie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Zadie

Zadie

Hound (Unknown Type)

Female, 9 yrs 3 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Zadie — 45 pounds of pure love, loyalty, and snuggles. 💕 At almost 9 years old, Zadie still has a lot of pep in her step! She has perfected the art of human companionship. She spent the last eight years adored by her family and is now ready to share that same love with a new one. Zadie’s dream home? ✨ One filled with people who enjoy leisurely walks and cozy nights in ✨ A calm, low-drama vibe ✨ A spot on the couch (and in your heart) that’s all hers Zadie adores humans — adults, kids, neighbors, delivery drivers — she’s everyone’s biggest fan! She thrives on affection and will happily soak up every hug, scratch, and kind word you offer. Other dogs, though? She’d prefer not to share the spotlight. Zadie wants to be your one and only furry best friend, the star of your household, and the sole recipient of your love and attention. With her joyful tail wags, soulful eyes, and endless capacity for snuggles, Zadie is the perfect match for someone looking for a devoted companion who’s all about her humans. If you are interested in finding out more about Zadie, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Zadie is being fostered in Boston, MA. The adoption fee is $400. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Lexie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lexie

Lexie

Chihuahua

Female, 4 yrs 5 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Lexie — a 4-year-old Chihuahua firecracker who comes in a tiny package but lives life at FULL VOLUME. 🔊💥 According to her foster mom, “she’s wonderful!”. Lexie is smart, knows tons of commands, and plays like it’s her full-time job. She can get a little nippy when she’s amped up, but it’s all in good fun — she never bites hard and immediately goes back to being adorable. Lexie is excellent at: • Barking when she’s happy • Barking when other dogs bark • Barking when she thinks she’s being ignored • Barking because… well, she’s Lexie With Lexie’s generous bark budget, apartment living isn’t the best fit for her. That said, she thrives in chaos — kids running, dogs zooming, family noise — that’s her happy place. If your home is peaceful, quiet, calm, or contemplative, Lexie says she’ll pass. She’s not good off leash (there are too many exciting things to chase), and she listens beautifully… when she feels like it. She’s a queen, after all. But her softer side? Pure gold. She LOVES cuddles, loves being carried around, and is happiest when she’s wrapped in your arms, preferably supervising you. Lexie wants a home that matches her zest, her sparkle, and her energy. If you’re fun, lively, chaotic, and ready for a tiny best friend with a giant personality, Lexie is your girl. 🐾💛 If you are interested in finding out more about Lexie, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Lexie is being fostered in West Brookfield, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on McDreamy's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of McDreamy

McDreamy

Chihuahua

Male, 6 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet McDreamy — a 12-pound Chihuahua who is exactly as charming as his name suggests. This little guy arrived with a painful eye condition and, once it was removed, he blossomed into the happiest, winking ray of sunshine you’ll ever meet. He's somewhere between 6-9 years old (best guess for this former stray). Like any self-respecting Chihuahua, McDreamy may bark or grumble when he meets someone new — but give him a minute and he’s melting into your arms, wagging his tail like a tiny propeller, and demanding snuggles as if you’ve been best friends forever. McDreamy’s vibe with other dogs: • Small dogs: “You’re cool. Let’s hang.” • Big dogs: “I decline.” He’s not a fighter, but he won’t back down if another dog brings the drama, so a home without an alpha-type resident is ideal. He’s affectionate, clever, deeply cuddly, and—bonus—housebroken. A tidy little gentleman through and through. Everything is exciting to McDreamy: • 🍽️ Mealtime: Pure joy. • 🌳 Walks: Peak adventure. • 🛌 Burrowing under the blankets: Nightly bliss. • 🎾 Toys: Big fan. Loves all of them. Will proudly parade them around like trophies. He asks for love almost instantly in neutral territory, snuggles like a pro, sleeps under the covers like it’s his life’s calling, and leans into you with total trust. He is currently getting daily ointment in his remaining eye, which he tolerates quite well, and may need it for the foreseeable future. If you’re looking for a pint-sized sweetheart who will adore you, follow you everywhere, and fill your home with wiggly, affectionate joy, McDreamy is ready to sweep you off your feet. 💕🐾 If you are interested in finding out more about McDreamy, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog McDreamy is in Somerville, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Ollie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Ollie

Ollie

Boston Terrier

Male, 8 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Meet Ollie! He is a 12-pound Boston Terrier mix who came to WARL as a stray and is now looking for a home that will give him the time and the attention he deserves! He can be a little shy at first, but once he feels safe, Ollie’s playful side shines—he loves to zoom around and happily play with his toy collection. Ollie will make a wonderful companion. Ollie is close to being housetrained, so a home willing to continue that training will set him up for success. He enjoys going for walks and would do best with people who are excited to make daily strolls part of his routine.Ollie may be able to live with another dog, but any potential canine housemates should meet him first. If there are kids in the home, they should be older and can be gentle with his small size. Ollie should meet kids and dogs in a new prior to adoption. He is already doing great spending time with staff and volunteers. *Ollie will have to return to the shelter later in the month for a surgery on his eyes, that WARL will provide at no extra cost to his adopters. We would be happy to tell you more - please email dogs@worcesterarl.org with questions.If you are interested in adopting Ollie, please come to the shelter on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 12-4pm during our walk in hours. If you are unable to come during those hours please email dogs@worcesterarl.org to check what other times/days may be available.
We'll also keep you updated on Virgil's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Virgil

Virgil

American Bulldog

Male, 5 yrs 4 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
At first sight, you are sure to be smitten with this super sweet bulldog mix. His body is too cute for words! Virgil is about 5-years-old and weighs 53 pounds. He loves to get belly rubs, and show off his butt wiggle. He has been waiting awhile for his person and would love nothing better than to start his new life with you. Virgil has the traits of an American Bulldog, but somehow acts more like a water dog. He has an incredible love for water, especially when he can swim out to retrieve a thrown tennis ball or stick. It’s one game he never tires of. We like to say he’s a natural mer-man ‘wading’ for his forever family! Virgil is rather low maintenance. He is fulfilled by outdoor time, observing nature, and simply being with his people. He also enjoys walks and is good on the leash, though playing in water really makes his day. He has a funny way of turning meal time into fun time by batting around his Rolly Kong for kibble. Although he likes activity, he also has a lovely mellow side and enjoys quiet time. Among his many qualities, he’s also a dapper dude. Would you believe he loves being pampered and brushed? Virgil is very food-motivated and enjoys pleasing you. Since he is wary of strangers, his love of treats comes in very handy when introducing him to new people. If someone new approaches with a treat and lets him make the first move, voila! He’s a happy boy who will sit, lay down, or shake hands with you for more treats. Virgil has a sad background, but with the resilience of a champ he overcame abandonment. As a stray, he landed in a shelter with no ID tag, no microchip, very fearful, and left unclaimed. Because the staff gave him time and tender loving care, he started coming out of his shell. Soon after, Virgil attended a basic obedience class and then transitioned to a foster home where he is learning what a good, safe home is all about. Virgil now has a bouncy puppy-like strut and each day more and more of his personality comes through! He works with his foster mother daily. She reinforces all he learned in training and gives him new challenges as well. Virgil needs an adopter to continue providing direction and confidence-building activities. We know Virgil will thrive in a stable forever home with an experienced person or family who will help him recognize how special he really is. In this type of environment, he is such an easy dog. He just needs time to know things are A-OK so he won’t be fearful and anxious. With your gentle time and patience, you will earn his trust. Fortunately, Virgil provides all the companionship you’ll ever need. He doesn’t do well with other dogs, or cats, but he would be ok with older kids with dog experience. Since he alerts you to noise, he is not good for apartment or condo/townhouse living or tight neighborhoods. Ideal perks are a fenced yard and water access! Please complete an adoption application at https://www.brokentailrescue.org/adopt/ For serious inquiries, email maryloumaria@yahoo.com Thank you! Virgil is being fostered in Gloucester, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Worcester, Massachusetts

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Skyllers in Worcester

Worcester, MA 01601

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

North Star Labrador Retriever Rescue

Worcester, MA 01602

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Broken Tail Rescue, Inc.

Broken Tail Rescue, P.O. Box 60296, Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Worcester Animal Rescue League

139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

angels in waiting

24 adella st, auburn, MA 01501

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Harmony Fund

Holden, MA 01520

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Leicester Animal Control

3 Washington St, Leicester, MA 01524

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Bay State Dogs

Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Safe With Us Animal Rescue

Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

More an arrow icon

Rescue

The Boxer Rescue, Inc.

PO Box 440, Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: 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 Worcester, Massachusetts 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