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Puppies and dogs in Mankato, Minnesota

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

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Adopt a dog in Mankato, Minnesota

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Mankato, Minnesota. 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 Mandy's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Mandy

Mandy

French Bulldog American Pit Bull Terrier

Female, 3 yrs 7 mos
Mankato, MN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
At 3½ years old, Mandy is a sweet and resilient Frenchie/American Bulldog mix who has already overcome so much. She gave birth to her third (and final) litter—seven beautiful puppies—on July 20th, just one day before she was surrendered to BENCHS by her previous owner, who was experiencing homelessness. Despite all the uncertainty she faced, Mandy remained calm, loving, and entirely devoted to her babies. Now that all seven of her puppies have been adopted, it’s finally Mandy’s turn to find her own happily ever after. Mandy absolutely loves people and is a world-class cuddler who thrives on affection and reassurance. She’s sensitive, eager to please, and deeply bonds with those she trusts. She can also be a little protective of the people she loves — a sign of her loyalty and big heart. She does well with cats and enjoys the company of most dogs when given slow, positive introductions. Mandy is still working on her potty training and can be a bit crafty when she’s bored, so she’ll do best with someone who can give her regular exercise and mental enrichment. She’s not a fan of rain or thunderstorms and appreciates a cozy space and calm voice during storms. This playful and loving girl adores chasing balls, flinging toys, and occasionally hunting the odd fly. She has a quirky fondness for nibbling grass and flowers, and at night she’ll happily curl up between your legs to sleep. Mandy is ready for a forever home where she can leave her past struggles behind and enjoy a life filled with comfort, love, and security — the kind she has always given so freely.
We'll also keep you updated on Nyx's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Nyx

Nyx

American Pit Bull Terrier Chihuahua

Female, 1 yr 11 mos
Mankato, MN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Meet Nyx — our tiny powerhouse with a big heart! At just 17 pounds, Nyx may be petite, but she is full of life, love, and zoomies. Nearly 2 years old, this beautiful pit mix came to BENCHS with more than 10 other adult dogs from a single home, and she’s been nothing but sweet, spirited, and eager to start her next chapter. Nyx is a high-energy, excitable little firecracker who thrives on activity, playtime, and all the attention she can get. She adores people, leans into affection, and will happily soak up every ounce of love in a home that has room for her joyful personality. She does well with other dogs and would enjoy a canine friend who can match her playful style—though she’d just as happily be the center of someone’s world. Nyx is looking for a home that’s: ✨ Active – walks, playtime, adventures, or backyard games ✨ Affectionate – she wants to be your little shadow ✨ Ready for fun – she brings the energy and the smiles Small, spirited, and overflowing with sweetness, Nyx is truly one of a kind. If you’re searching for a tiny companion with a huge zest for life… Nyx is your girl.
We'll also keep you updated on Blaze's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Blaze

Blaze

American Pit Bull Terrier Chihuahua

Male, 1 yr 11 mos
Mankato, MN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Blaze may look like a tiny pit bull puppy, but don’t let those baby-face features fool you—this boy is a full-grown adult, weighing in at just 17 pounds. He’s a compact, gentle, sensitive soul who spent his entire life in one home before coming to us with 10 other dogs from the same household. The sudden transition to shelter life has been overwhelming for him, and he’s still learning how to navigate this big, new world. Blaze is a sweet, soft, emotional little guy. In the kennel, he struggles with stress and can shut down, but once he’s out with someone he trusts, he starts to shine. During his one-on-one sessions, he warms up quickly—leaning in for comfort, taking treats, and relaxing right into your arms. He wants so badly to be brave; he just needs someone patient enough to guide him. Blaze does wonderfully with other dogs and would greatly benefit from living with a confident, social, happy adult dog who can help show him the ropes. He looks to other dogs for reassurance, and he blossoms when he has a buddy to follow. A calm, patient home A friendly dog companion to build his confidence Someone who understands that transitioning from his first and only home into the shelter has been hard on him Kind handling, consistency, and time to feel safe Blaze isn’t just cute—he’s resilient. Beneath the trembling and uncertainty is a dog who is trying so hard to be brave, who relaxes into gentle hands, and who wants nothing more than to feel secure again. With love, routine, and a steady dog friend by his side, he will absolutely thrive.
We'll also keep you updated on Luna's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Luna

Luna

Chihuahua Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 1 yr 6 mos
Mankato, MN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Luna’s story began on the side of the road, where she was found abandoned and underweight. She was discovered with several other dogs who appeared to be her littermates. Luna took on the role of protector — the quiet Alpha among them — always watching over her siblings. Two of her littermates have since been adopted and are thriving, and now it’s Luna’s turn to lay her burden down and finally settle into peace. She came from a home with many dogs and likely faced medical neglect and food instability before arriving at the shelter. Despite everything she’s been through, she’s held onto her gentle, affectionate spirit — and now she’s searching for someone who will give her the stability and love she’s always deserved. Since arriving at BENCHS, Luna has struggled with the busy shelter environment. She showed signs of barrier frustration in her kennel, but after being moved into a quieter office space, she began to thrive. Luna has formed deep, loyal bonds with the staff who care for her most often. Because of her strong attachment, she may growl if someone suddenly enters the room — a sign she’s still learning that new people can be safe. Luna has done well with several other dogs, especially when introductions are done slowly and feeding time is supervised. She would likely thrive with another balanced dog who can help guide her, or with an experienced person who understands structure, consistency, and patience. This emotional girl craves affection — she loves kisses, cuddles, and curling up close with her people. She feels deeply and connects fully. Luna would do best in a calm, low-traffic home where she can continue to build confidence and decompress at her own pace. The shelter is simply too busy for Luna to reach her full potential. She needs peace, stability, and love — and she’s waiting for the right person to help her bloom.
We'll also keep you updated on Thor's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Thor

Thor

Mixed Breed (Small)

Male, 5 yrs 6 mos
Mankato, MN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Thor is a 5½-year-old small mixed breed who arrived at BENCHS with several other dogs—including some of his own adult puppies! Despite everything he’s been through, Thor has kept his sweet spirit and gentle nature. This little guy is friendly, social, and incredibly food motivated, which makes training enjoyable for both him and his future family. Thor currently lives with another dog at the shelter and does well with canine companions. He weighs 18.4 lbs, making him the perfect size for cuddling on the couch or tagging along on daily adventures. Thor may need some continued support with potty training, but with patience, consistency, and all of that treat-motivation, he’ll make great progress. Thor is ready to start fresh and find a family who will love him for the soft-hearted, loyal little dog he is.
We'll also keep you updated on Maxton's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Maxton

Maxton

American Pit Bull Terrier Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 3 yrs 11 mos
Mankato, MN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Maxton came to BENCHS from the Mankato Animal Impound as an unclaimed City of Mankato stray, and he has quickly shown us what a bright, animated boy he is. Estimated to be about 3½ (nearly 4) years old and weighing just over 50 lbs, he’s the perfect mix of youthful energy and grown-up charm. This handsome guy is very smart — he already knows sit, shake, and high-five, and he’ll proudly show them off for a tasty treat. He’s incredibly food motivated, eager to learn, and would thrive with someone who enjoys continuing his training. Maxton is affectionate and expressive, often leaning in for attention or chatting with you in his vocal, goofy way. He’s a dog with personality and heart, and he’ll keep you entertained every day. He may be selective with other dogs, and we’re not sure how he feels about cats yet. We are recommending a home without very small children, simply because when he gets excited, he can take treats a bit rough — nothing a little polishing and consistency won’t help smooth out. If you’re looking for a smart, fun, loving companion who’s ready to learn and bond deeply with his person, Maxton might be your boy. Come meet him and let him show you his high-five!

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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in Mankato, Minnesota.

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Mankato, Minnesota

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Blue Earth Nicollet County Pet Shelter/BENCHS

1250 N River Drive, Mankato, MN 56001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

crazy about critters rescue and adoption

mankato, MN 56001

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

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Rescue

Mending Spirits Animal Rescue

PO Box 5402, Mankato, MN 56002

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

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Rescue

Faith, Hope and Forever Animal Rescue

Mankato, MN 56003

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Hope For Homes Animal Rescue

50572 194th St, Lake Crystal, MN 56055

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

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Rescue

Forever Home Animal Sanctuary, Inc.

P.O. Box 592, New Ulm, MN 56073

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Watonwan County Humane Society

1309 Weston Ave N, Box 346, St. James, MN 56081

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Faribault County Humane Society

Blue Earth, MN 56013

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Southern Minnesota Animal Rescue Team, Inc

Lonsdale, MN 55046

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Unchained

Faribault, MN 55021

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 Mankato, Minnesota 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