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Puppies and dogs in North Carolina

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in North Carolina

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in North Carolina. 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 Nessie's adoption status with email updates.
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Nessie

Labrador Retriever

Female, 1 yr 5 mos
Wake Forest, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
Nessie, otherwise known as the Lochness lover, is not a mythical creature. She is all real, all dog, all lab mix (you see that stunning coat?) and all sweetness and adoration looking for her peeps to share that with! Nessie is an adult who weighs about 41 lbs full grown. A marshmallow at heart, Nessie has to admit that she is much more likely to roll over for a belly rub than pretty much anything else in life. Nessie adores people and it's hard not to adore her back. This lady needs a little bit of time to build some confidence but no time is needed to experience her love of all things human. She does well with other dogs but isn't one to need others and does not prefer raucous play or shenannigans. She is much more likely to be found socializing with the two legged folks at the farm. Nessie would settle into most homes (tho she admits that she does not love cats) as she is quiet and has a nice medium energy level. She is working on leash walking skills, as again, she is much more prone to the roll-over-rub-my-belly move than anything else. This is one you should not miss meeting.
We'll also keep you updated on Jacks's adoption status with email updates.
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Jacks

Labrador Retriever

Male, 1 yr 5 mos
Wake Forest, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
Jacks, not just a olde tyme game from the childhood of some, but fun and games for a lifetime and a doggo friend all in one. Jacks is a handsome as heck lab mix gent who weighs about 44 lbs full grown. While we aren't sure of Jacks' past, we are sure he is ready for a future of wonderful. Jacks is still a wee bit shy but is growing more confident all the time, learning lots about loving hands and sweet pets from all of the volunteers. Jacks is sure to blossom in a patient and loving home where he can settle in and be himself. Jacks is a good boy in his crate and enjoys time outside, but enjoys it most when it's with people. He is learning about walking on a leash and has done well on host weekends, melting hearts everywhere. Lab lovers need to come meet sweet Jacks...and ready yourself to melt.
We'll also keep you updated on Teddy's adoption status with email updates.
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Teddy

Pomeranian

Male, Young
Morrisville, NC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Bought from a reputable pet store in 2020 during Covid for my then 8‑year‑old son. He is a very loving dog and warms up to new people almost immediately. Our lives have become much busier, and we no longer have the time to give him the care and attention he deserves. I am looking for someone who has the time to truly care for him, love him, and happily receive his affection. There is no rush—I will keep him with us until the right **forever** home is found.
We'll also keep you updated on Churchill's adoption status with email updates.
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Churchill

Poodle (Standard)

Male, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Churchill is a 3½ year-old standard poodle mix with a heart as big as his curls. He currently weighs 38 pounds but should be closer to 50 pounds and is happily working on gaining some healthy weight. A certified good boy, Churchill is incredibly affectionate and thrives on being close to his people. He loves to follow his foster parents wherever they go and is always happiest when he’s part of the action. In his foster home, Churchill lives peacefully with both a large dog and a small dog and gets along well with both. There is also a cat in the home whom Churchill finds fascinating and he has chased her a few times, but only in an effort to play. Churchill enjoys playing with toys, romping with other dogs, going for walks, and playing fetch (he’s still perfecting his return game!). He already knows the “sit” and “shake” commands and is eager and capable of learning much more. He is both house-trained and crate-trained. When out in public, Churchill has been gentle and friendly with children, although there are no children in his foster home. As a poodle mix, he will require regular grooming every four to six weeks. Are you ready to give Churchill the loving, forever home he deserves and one that will never abandon him again? If you are interested in adopting Churchill, please submit an inquiry directly to Greater Charlotte SPCA by visiting charlottespca.org/adopt. The adoption amount is a suggested donation of $200 to $300 dollars based on the pet's age.   **Because our rescue is composed entirely of volunteers, local applications will take precedence. We will accept out of town applications, but any family is responsible for coming to Charlotte to complete a meet and greet. All out of town applicants will also have to be willing to drive to Charlotte to pick up the pet as soon as they are approved to adopt. **February 8, 2026, 4:14 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Max's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
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Max

Hound (Unknown Type)

Male, Puppy
Greensboro, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs special attention, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained,
Story
We met Max in the parking lot at the humane society. His first family was returning him at 7 months old because they worked and he needed too much attention. He is sweet and loving, since he is still a puppy he needs a lot of exercise. He loves to play with other energetic dog and goes to a dog play group twice a week. He is a born hunter, loves to chase squirrels and birds. We think he would make an excellent hunting dog. Off leash he will stay within earshot and come when called. We love him, however his engergy is too much for us. We are in our 70’s. Ideally he needs a home with a second dog for a playmate. He is one year old as of February 2026
We'll also keep you updated on Chloe's adoption status with email updates.
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Chloe

Mixed Breed (Small)

Female, 2 mos
Mebane, NC
Size
(when grown) -
Details
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Story
Hi, I’m Chloe! I’m a uniquely beautiful girl with a super sweet personality, and I’m ready to find my forever home. Chloe is currently in a foster home. If you are interested in me please visit https://paws4ever.org/adopt/meet-our-pets/ to fill out an adoption interest form. Once the form is received you will be contacted within 24 hours to discuss next steps. Please note our process works on a first come first serve basis and forms will be processed in the order they are received through the Paws4ever website. Please call us at (919) 241-8438 (ext. 103) or email adopt@paws4ever.org with any questions.

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in North Carolina cities

Dogs in Aberdeen Dogs in Albemarle Dogs in Angier Dogs in Apex Dogs in Archdale Dogs in Asheboro Dogs in Asheville Dogs in Ayden Dogs in Belmont Dogs in Bessemer City Dogs in Black Mountain Dogs in Boiling Spring Lakes Dogs in Boone Dogs in Brevard Dogs in Burlington Dogs in Butner Dogs in Carolina Beach Dogs in Carrboro Dogs in Cary Dogs in Chapel Hill Dogs in Charlotte Dogs in Cherryville Dogs in Clayton Dogs in Clemmons Dogs in Clinton Dogs in Concord Dogs in Conover Dogs in Cornelius Dogs in Davidson Dogs in Dunn Dogs in Durham Dogs in Eden Dogs in Edenton Dogs in Elizabeth City Dogs in Elon Dogs in Erwin Dogs in Fairview Dogs in Farmville Dogs in Fayetteville Dogs in Fletcher Dogs in Forest City Dogs in Fuquay Varina Dogs in Garner Dogs in Gastonia Dogs in Gibsonville Dogs in Goldsboro Dogs in Graham Dogs in Granite Falls Dogs in Greensboro Dogs in Greenville Dogs in Hamlet Dogs in Harrisburg Dogs in Havelock Dogs in Henderson Dogs in Hendersonville Dogs in Hickory Dogs in High Point Dogs in Hillsborough Dogs in Holly Springs Dogs in Hope Mills Dogs in Huntersville Dogs in Indian Trail Dogs in Jacksonville Dogs in Kannapolis Dogs in Kernersville Dogs in Kill Devil Hills Dogs in King Dogs in Kings Mountain Dogs in Kinston Dogs in Knightdale Dogs in Laurinburg Dogs in Leland Dogs in Lenoir Dogs in Lewisville Dogs in Lexington Dogs in Lincolnton Dogs in Lumberton Dogs in Maggie Valley Dogs in Marion Dogs in Matthews Dogs in Mebane Dogs in Mills River Dogs in Mint Hill Dogs in Mocksville Dogs in Monroe Dogs in Mooresville Dogs in Morehead City Dogs in Morganton Dogs in Morrisville Dogs in Mount Airy Dogs in Mount Holly Dogs in Mount Olive Dogs in Nashville Dogs in New Bern Dogs in Newport Dogs in Newton Dogs in Oak Island Dogs in Oak Ridge Dogs in Oxford Dogs in Pinehurst Dogs in Pineville Dogs in Pleasant Garden Dogs in Raleigh Dogs in Reidsville Dogs in Roanoke Rapids Dogs in Rockingham Dogs in Rocky Mount Dogs in Roxboro Dogs in Salisbury Dogs in Sanford Dogs in Sawmills Dogs in Selma Dogs in Shelby Dogs in Siler City Dogs in Smithfield Dogs in Southern Pines Dogs in Spring Lake Dogs in Stallings Dogs in Statesville Dogs in Summerfield Dogs in Tarboro Dogs in Thomasville Dogs in Trinity Dogs in Unionville Dogs in Valdese Dogs in Wadesboro Dogs in Wake Forest Dogs in Walkertown Dogs in Washington Dogs in Waynesville Dogs in Weddington Dogs in Wendell Dogs in Whiteville Dogs in Williamston Dogs in Wilmington Dogs in Wilson Dogs in Winston Salem Dogs in Winterville Dogs in Woodfin Dogs in Zebulon

Shelters & rescues in North Carolina

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

The Dog House K-9 Rescue

PO Box 527, Trinity, NC 27370

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

A Perfect Fit Rescue

1 John Mills Lane, Thomasville, NC 27360

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Carolina Jack Russell Rescue

Thomasville, NC 27360

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Ruff Love Rescue and Foster Care

P. O. Box 2013, Thomasville, NC 27361

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Ginger's Fund FOS-DCNC

PO Box 1036, Thomasville, NC 27361

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Loving Pet Project NC

1589 Skeet Club Road, Suite 102-111, High Point, NC 27265

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Nuttz4Muttz

sophia, NC 27350

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Home Wanted

Greensboro, NC 27407

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Shelter

Randolph County Animal Shelter

1370 County Land Road, Randleman, NC 27317

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

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Rescue

Kindernook Farm Animal Rescue

Randleman, NC 27317

Pet Types: 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 North Carolina

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