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Puppies and dogs in New Jersey

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

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Adopt a dog in New Jersey

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in New Jersey. 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 Chico's adoption status with email updates.
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Chico

Chihuahua

Male, 8 mos
Newark, NJ
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Chico, also lovingly called “Chico the Rabbit,” is an 8-month-old Chihuahua who loves bouncing up and down for attention and to be cradled. He ended up in our care through absolutely no fault of his own. His previous family adopted him without landlord approval, and unfortunately, sweet Chico was the one who lost his home. Thankfully, he’s now safe and exactly where he needs to be. Chico is scheduled for his neuter this week, and we’ll be sharing updates as we continue to learn more about his adorable personality. He can be a little nervous at first—which is completely understandable after everything he’s been through—but he warms up quickly. Once he trusts you, he is incredibly sweet and simply wants to be loved. Chico gets along wonderfully with both dogs and cats and currently shares his foster home with a 60-pound canine sibling. He is full of joy and excitement—once he sees you take out his leash and harness, he can’t contain his happiness! He loves car rides, sits calmly on your lap, and is crate trained—making him easy to integrate into a new home. Chico would do best in a home with adults only or with a family already familiar with the Chihuahua breed. He is looking for a foster-to-adopt home or a committed adopter who can provide the stability, patience, and understanding he deserves. He needs a kind forever family who will never give up on him again. If you can open your heart and home to Chico, please email us at info@rootrescue.org . Let’s give this little boy—the bouncing, lovable “Chico the Rabbit”—the forever home he’s been waiting for!
We'll also keep you updated on TROY BOY's adoption status with email updates.
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TROY BOY

Boxer

Male, Adult
Sussex, NJ
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
  There are some things in rescue work that are simply impossible to understand. One of those things is how anyone could throw a big, beautiful black Boxer from a moving truck and drive away.   But that is how Troy’s story began. On a quiet country road, good people working in their yard witnessed the unthinkable. They saw a truck slow down just enough to push this large dog out onto the pavement. He hit the ground on his head, dazed and bleeding, while the truck sped off without a second glance. Confused and hurting, Troy didn’t know who to trust. It took time, patience, and soft reassurance before he would allow those same strangers to help him. When he finally climbed into their backseat, his big, injured head rested in his rescuer’s lap the entire drive — seeking comfort even after such betrayal.   Physically, Troy has healed well. His wounds have closed and his strength has returned. But emotionally, you can still see that he is waiting for someone to prove that he is safe… truly safe… forever. And here is the remarkable part — Troy is an exceptional dog.   He is sweet, obedient, and wonderfully behaved in the home. He does not dig, does not climb fences, and respects his space. He wants structure, kindness, and someone to belong to. While he can coexist with some larger dogs, he would truly flourish as the only dog in the home where he doesn’t have to compete for affection. Cats are not a good match for him. A securely fenced yard would give him the freedom to stretch his legs and enjoy life while feeling protected. Troy doesn’t need pity. He needs commitment. He needs a Boxer lover who understands the loyalty and devotion this breed gives and who is ready to return that devotion tenfold. Someone who will look into his soulful eyes and promise that he will never again be discarded or unwanted. We have helped him start over. Now we are praying the right person will step forward and give him the stable, joyful future he deserves.   If you believe you could be that person for Troy, please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com     PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 20, 2026, 11:20 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Oopsie Daisy's adoption status with email updates.
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Oopsie Daisy

French Bulldog

Female, 2 yrs 1 mo
Lake Hiawatha, NJ
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
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Story
WISE is entirely volunteer-run and all of the donations made to our rescue go directly back to the animals in our care. By partnering with veterinary practices that support our work, we are able to save animals lives and restore them back to health. While some animals only need standard care, others require more extensive veterinary or behavioral care. Regardless of which dog you are applying for, we are looking for adopters to support our program with a minimum donation of $850. The donation may or may not be directly applied to care of the dog you're adopting but rather goes toward supporting all of the dogs in the rescue. We appreciate the understanding of our potential adopters. Please keep this in mind prior to applying.NAME: Oopsie DaisyBREED: French BulldogDOB: Dec 31, 2023 (2 years 1 month)Home Recommendation: Oopsie Daisy is a sweet, very smart, and easy-going girl who has been a joy to care for. She handles handling and grooming beautifully. She has a calm, trusting nature and takes everything in stride, making her a great match for a home looking for an affectionate and cooperative companion. WHY DID THEY COME TO WISE: Oopsie Daisy spent her entire life as a breeding dog in a puppy mill. When her 'breeders' decided they no longer had a use for her, they planned to discard her. Thankfully, WISE was able to step in and rescue her giving her a second chance to experience the love and warmth of a real home. Now shes ready to start that new chapter!Personality: Oopsie Daisy a very easy-going, intelligent dog who adapts well to new situations. She does great with other dogs and is currently being fostered alongside an 80-lb dog, getting along wonderfully. Her gentle and social nature suggests she would also do well in a home with children. Overall, shes a laid-back, friendly companion who would be a great addition to a variety of households.KIDS: YesDOGS: YesCATS: YesTraining: Oopsie Daisy is doing very well with training and has made impressive progress in a short amount of time. By day two, she was already going potty outside; however, during a stretch of cold and windy weather, she quickly learned to use wee-wee pads and does well with them. She enjoys running around, playing with toys, and chewing on bones. While she is still getting used to being around people, she has come a long way in just a few days and continues to build confidence. She does not do stairs and will need to be carried. A pen is set up with a crate attachedshe willingly goes into the crate during the day to sleep, and at night she sleeps in the crate with the door open while the pen is closed.Visit WiseAnimalRescue.org to fill out an adoption application.Adoption areas include: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maine, Vermont, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.
We'll also keep you updated on Shera's adoption status with email updates.
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Shera

Labrador Retriever/Spaniel (Unknown Type)

Female, 8 mos
Morristown, NJ
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Age: 7 months old Weight: 28 lbs Vet Record: 100% vaccinated, spayed, microchipped, female Sweet and loving, Shera is looking for her people! Shera is friendly, loyal, and incredibly people-oriented. She’s also very smart, even though she’s still a puppy; she’s already house-trained and mastering her leash-walking skills. Take her to a training class, and you’ll be so proud of her! Shera is a happy, active girl who loves playing with other dogs and toys, sniffing around the yard, and then flopping down nearby for a break. She’d be a wonderful playmate for another dog. She’s also good with cats, which makes her a great fit for many types of homes. A fenced yard would be a big plus for her so she can safely run and play. Ready to meet Shera and fall in love? Fill out an adoption application — she can’t wait to meet you! More photos and info: https://www.sochidogs.org/shera Adoption application: https://www.sochidogs.org/adoption-inquiry Learn about our rescue: https://www.sochidogs.org/aboutus/ Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sochidogrescue/ Note: Sochi Dogs Rescue works on a foster to adopt model. All of our adopters have a 1-week trial period to decide if the dog is the right match for you. Should you decide the adoption is not working out, you can notify us within the first week and we will coordinate a time to take the dog back into a foster home and issue a refund of the adoption fee minus $75
We'll also keep you updated on Layla's adoption status with email updates.
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Layla

Labrador Retriever/Foxhound

Female, 8 mos
Morristown, NJ
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Age: 8 months old Weight: 35 lbs Vet Record: 100% vaccinated, spayed, microchipped, female Say hello to beautiful Layla! Layla is a happy, affectionate girl who absolutely loves attention, cuddles, and hugs. She’s super friendly, smart, and always ready to brighten your day. At just 8 months old, she’s already house-trained — such a good girl! Layla enjoys playing with toys and can happily entertain herself when you’re busy, but her favorite place is right next to her people. She can be a little shy around big dogs at first, but she’s wonderful with cats! If you’re looking for a sweet, joyful, and easygoing companion to grow up with your family, Layla could be your perfect match. Fill out our adoption application! More photos and info: https://www.sochidogs.org/layla Adoption application: https://www.sochidogs.org/adoption-inquiry Learn about our rescue: https://www.sochidogs.org/aboutus/ Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sochidogrescue/ Note: Sochi Dogs Rescue works on a foster to adopt model. All of our adopters have a 1-week trial period to decide if the dog is the right match for you. Should you decide the adoption is not working out, you can notify us within the first week and we will coordinate a time to take the dog back into a foster home and issue a refund of the adoption fee minus $75
We'll also keep you updated on Papi's adoption status with email updates.
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Papi

Shih Tzu

Male, Young
Iselin, NJ
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Papi is very loving I am upset I can’t take him with me and so are my kids he is not a barker

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in New Jersey cities

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Shelters & rescues in New Jersey

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Peace4Paws Inc.

Westwood, NJ 07675

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Caring About The Strays Inc.

80 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Good Karma Dog Rescue

Bergen County, NJ 07675

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

S.A.F.E. House Animal Rescue and Sanctuary, Inc

216 Westwood Ave, P.O. Box 832, Westwood, NJ 07675

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

Fables Farm-Over The Moon Rescue

River Vale, NJ 07675

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

East Coast Animal Rescue

53 Crest Street, Westwood, NJ 07675

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Halfway Hounds

P.O. Box 132, Park Ridge, NJ 07656

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Adopt-A-Buddy Pug Rescue

P.O. Box 66, Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Closter Animal Welfare Society

Closter, NJ 07624

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Paramus Animal Shelter

Carlough Drive, Paramus, NJ 07652

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, rabbits, 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 New Jersey

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