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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.
Photo of Bella

Bella

Schnauzer (Miniature) Rottweiler

Female, Puppy
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Bella was born in January 1st 2026. She is about 8 months old who is full of love and energy. She weighs about 30 pounds and is spayed. She has all her vaccinations, routine blood work, and prevention medicine for ticks and fleas. She is the best cuddler to have at night and acts like the biggest baby. I would love to find her a home preferably with a backyard.
Photo of Mila

Mila

Husky

Female, Puppy
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
They gave it to me when I was two months old the old owner couldn't take care of it so he gave it to me I got very attached to it but I don't have time to take care of it anymore
Photo of Aria Spencer Arruda

Aria Spencer Arruda

Australian Shepherd Australian Cattle Dog

Female, Young
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
She 7, I got her as a baby from my cousins. She loves fast and the furious but only the 5th movie. Loves walks, hates baths unless it’s with warm water, loves people, loves going into ponds or lakes but not pools. She sweet and hyperactive. Looking for someone who will take good care of her and love her. She loves watching soccer and playing soccer. If she hears a train she might bark along with it or watch it go by. She’s an amazing dog and so sweet and loves belly rubs and hugs. She will lick you tons
Photo of Ruthie

Ruthie

Chihuahua

Female, 11 yrs 5 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Ruthie: senior in years, noodle in body, and professional couch hog 💕🐾 Ruthie is a 9lb, 11-year-old Chihuahua mix who somehow missed the memo about looking her age. She’s got the long, tall, lanky body of a tiny greyhound and just enough pep to keep life interesting—think “elegant senior with a playful streak.” She’s a quiet little lady who prefers peace and calm. Loud noises? Hard pass. Barking? Rare—but fair warning, when she does bark, it’s impressively loud for her size. Her absolute favorite place to be is on the couch with her foster mom, nose-to-nose, like they’re sharing top-secret gossip 😂. Ruthie is excellent in her crate and does wonderfully with routine. She can be a bit shy when meeting new people, but with a little time and gentle reassurance, she’s expected to grow more confident as she settles in. When it comes to exercise, Ruthie enjoys short strolls to sniff the neighborhood and stretch her long legs—marathons are not on her vision board. A cozy home, a comfy couch, and a person who appreciates a calm companion would be her dream come true. She can be vocal and shy with new people, so an apartment might not be the best environment for her. Ruthie is currently working on some reactivity issues. She does not like to be disturbed while she is sleeping and will let you know when she isn't happy with how you're touching or moving her. If you’re looking for a low-key best friend with a quirky body, Ruthie is the dog for you 💖 If you are interested in finding out more about Ruthie, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Ruthie is being fostered in Millbury, MA. The adoption fee is $225. 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.
Photo of Rufus

Rufus

Labrador Retriever Mixed Breed (Large)

Male, 11 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Rufus, the Gentle Giant ❤️🐾 Rufus is a sweet, affectionate gentleman with a lot of love to give—and a few more playful tricks up his sleeve than you might expect from an older guy! He LOVES his Kong tennis balls and is a fetch master. He also enjoys strolling through the woods, sniffing around, and doing a little digging when the mood strikes. Rufus gets along with dogs, but he would probably be happiest in a quieter home without a young, boisterous, or overly energetic dog or kids constantly wanting to play. A calm canine companion—or being the only dog—would allow him to relax and enjoy the easygoing life he deserves. He also enjoys cats and has shown that he can be wonderfully respectful of small animals; his foster family's free-roaming house bunnies barely registered on his radar! Despite his size and strength, Rufus is a true gentleman on leash. He does have a natural pull, but he listens well and is surprisingly easy to handle—even his foster's 7-year-old son was able to walk him without any trouble. Rufus can be a little possessive of his water bowl and may growl if another dog approaches while he’s drinking. His new family should be prepared to manage food and water separately and give him his own space around meals and water. Because of this, a home with kids over 13 would be best. Don't let his age fool you—Rufus still has plenty of personality, enjoys his adventures, and absolutely loves being around his people. He's the kind of guy who can enjoy a good game of fetch, take a leisurely woodland stroll, and then settle in for some well-earned cozy time. Rufus would thrive with someone who appreciates a calmer pace but still wants a companion for walks, sniffing adventures, and the occasional rousing game of fetch. Give this handsome gentleman a little space around his resources and a lot of love, and he'll happily return the favor. ❤️ If you are interested in finding out more about Rufus, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Rufus is being fostered in Millbury, MA. The adoption fee is $225. 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.
Photo of Zakai

Zakai

Pekingese Mixed Breed (Small)

Male, 6 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet this adorable little Pekingese mix who's proof that the best things really do come in small packages! This little guy has been through a lot in a short period of time and that doesn’t seem to have slowed him down. This 10lb pup has pup has enough personality, love, and enthusiasm to fill a house twice his size. He's equal parts cuddle bug and playful sidekick, always ready for a game, a walk, or, preferably, curling up as close to you as physically possible. If you're looking for personal space... he respectfully declines. He's happiest when he's following his person from room to room, making sure he doesn't miss a single moment. Shadow status: achieved. While he has plenty of pep in his step, he's also wonderfully easy to live with. He's quiet around the house, only occasionally announcing when someone walks past the yard. He's mostly housebroken and continues to make great progress every day. This sweet boy is still building his confidence and will thrive with a patient family who can show him that the world isn't such a scary place. As he settles in and learns to trust, his playful, affectionate personality shines brighter every day. He absolutely loves other dogs and would enjoy having a canine companion, though it's not required. He'd likely do well with cats too. Kids are an unknown, but respectful older children who understand that shy dogs need a little time may be a good fit. One area where he still needs a little extra support is veterinary visits. He gets very anxious and currently requires some sedatives for appointments, which may be related to the trauma he experienced before rescue when he was found severely matted. With time, patience, and positive experiences, we're hopeful his confidence will continue to grow. Zakai does have a heart condition that requires daily medication. His medical records are available for interested adopters to review with their veterinarian so they can better understand his condition and ongoing care needs. If you're searching for an easygoing little companion who's equal parts playful, loyal, and world-class snuggler, this sweet guy is ready to steal your heart—and probably your spot on the couch. If you are interested in finding out more about Zakai, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Zakai is being fostered in Shrewsbury, 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.

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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

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Rescue

North Star Labrador Retriever Rescue

Worcester, MA 01602

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Worcester Animal Rescue League

139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Broken Tail Rescue, Inc.

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

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

angels in waiting

24 adella st, auburn, MA 01501

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Harmony Fund

Holden, MA 01520

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Shelter

Leicester Animal Control

3 Washington St, Leicester, MA 01524

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

The Boxer Rescue, Inc.

PO Box 440, Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Bay State Dogs

Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Safe With Us Animal Rescue

Grafton, MA 01560

Pet Types: cats, dogs, small animals

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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 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