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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 Sully's adoption status with email updates.
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Sully

Labrador Retriever/German Shepherd Dog

Male, Puppy
Winston Salem, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained,
Story
I adopted my Sully pup in CA from a sidewalk adoption event. He came home with me, literally, the moment I set my eyes on him. He is a sweet, cuddly, intelligent, energetic boy with lots of love to give. He needs someone, or a couple, that can provide him with the time and energy he needs. Sully needs someone that has the resources to properly train him. He needs someone that can be there with him and spend time with him, and/or has other dogs to keep him entertained and help him spend his energy. He is 1 year old on the 31st of March.
We'll also keep you updated on Fritz (Nutcracker)'s adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
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Fritz (Nutcracker)

Dachshund

Male, Adult
Greensboro, NC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs special attention,
Story
FritzDouble Dapple DachshundFostered in Sanford3 years old17 pounds Short list: Friendly, velcro dog, Good with kids over 8, limited sight, limited hearing, could be only dog or with other dogs, working on housetraining, cannot do stairs, no apartments, on slow kill treatment for heartworms Fritz is one of the happiest, most affectionate little guys we’ve ever met. Found wandering in eastern NC, this special double dapple boy hasn’t let his rough start—or his disabilities—dim his joy for life. Because he’s a double dapple, Fritz has limited vision and hearing, which just means he experiences the world a little differently… and bonds very deeply with his people. He doesn’t just follow you — he super-glues himself to you. If he can’t find you, he’ll bark to let you know (which is why apartments and condos won’t work). Once reunited, he’ll immediately melt into your lap and fall asleep. Cold nights? Loneliness? Not in 2026.Fritz sleeps through the night, loves the big bed, and is an A+ snuggle partner who never steals the covers. Despite his vision challenges, Fritz enjoys walks, plays with other dogs, and has even discovered toys. However, Fritz can resource guard, especially over his person. He will need to be an only dog or with a family who can manage the resource guarding. He’ll need a stair-free home (or one where stairs can be blocked off and he can be carried), and a laid-back dog pack that’s welcoming and gentle. H Potty training is a work in progress — he does well on a schedule and uses both outside time and pee pads. Pro tip: if Fritz barks “out of nowhere,” he’s probably politely asking to go potty. Fritz is neutered and has had a dental cleaning. He’s UTD, microchipped, and had bloodwork. Because he is heartworm positive, we have started him on the slowkill treatment for heartworms and the rescue will pay for it until he tests negative. Fritz is looking for a homebody or work-from-home family who wants a loyal companion, understands his special needs, and is ready to start the New Year with a dog who will love them with his whole heart. Make 2026 the year you find your shadow, your snuggle buddy, and your best friend. Fritz is ready for his new life!  ##2603793##
We'll also keep you updated on JoJo's adoption status with email updates.
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JoJo

Plott Hound

Female, 10 mos
Smithfield, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Meet Jojo (aka Juni, aka Josie) – Professional Joy Distributor Jojo is a 10 month-old brindle beauty (DOB 05/13/25) with a personality just as unique as her coat. At about 35 pounds, she’s the perfect medium size, but don’t be fooled. This girl has the spirit of an Olympic athlete and the heart of a snuggle champion. Her gorgeous tiger-striped brindle coat makes her look like she walked straight out of a nature documentary. People stop and stare because she really is that stunning. Jojo is what we like to call “happiness on four legs.” She LOVES: • Running just because it feels good • Playing with toys • Long walks and outdoor adventures • Water… especially pools (seriously, she thinks she owns them) • Other dogs and pets • Cuddling up after she’s done zooming around Jojo is very social and absolutely enjoys being around other animals. She would thrive in a home with other dogs or pets, where she can have playmates and companionship. Because she’s young and full of joyful energy, a home with a large fenced yard would be ideal so she can run, explore, and show off just how fast she is. Watching Jojo run is basically watching pure happiness in motion. And when the day winds down? That energetic athlete transforms into a total cuddle bug who loves curling up next to her people. Jojo is sweet, affectionate, playful, and endlessly entertaining. She just needs a family that’s ready to embrace her fun-loving spirit and give her the space and companionship she deserves. If you’re looking for a dog who will make you laugh, keep you active, and then curl up next to you at the end of the day, Jojo might just be your perfect match. ***PLEASE NOTE*** Are you interested in adopting this cat or another JCAPL pet you have seen? You'll need to start by completing an adoption application: https://jcapl.org/blog/jcapl-adoption-process/. There is no obligation to adopt by completing an application, however, we do recommend submitting an application as soon as you find an animal you are interested in. We review applications in the order they are received. Completed applications can be submitted online, or sent via email to adopt@jcapl.org, or faxed to 919-300-5524. We will contact you as soon as possible once we receive your application. *** Thanks for thinking adoption! ***
We'll also keep you updated on Nova's adoption status with email updates.
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Nova

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs
Calabash, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
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We'll also keep you updated on Teagan's adoption status with email updates.
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Teagan

Dutch Shepherd/Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs
Calabash, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Teagan has a heart of gold! This recent mama is starting her foster journey and boy is she excited! This girl loves people and loves attention. She is playful with other dogs. She is just as sweet as can be.
We'll also keep you updated on Petunia's adoption status with email updates.
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Petunia

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 4 mos
Calabash, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Petunia is a sweet gal who is learning all about puppy life from her foster siblings and working on her puppy manners and training! If you are looking for an all around sweet and loyal gal - Petunia is ready for you!

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

Catawba County Animal Services

201 Government Services Drive, Newton, NC 28658

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

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Rescue

Blue Ridge Animal Rescue

P.O. Box 888, Icard, NC 28666

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Barks and Wiggles Boxer Rescue

PO BOX 198, Conover, NC 28613

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Pyrenees Rescue of Western NC

Claremont, NC 28610

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

HAPPY TAILS RESCUE, INC.

PO BOX 84, MAIDEN, NC 28650

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Humane Society of Catawba County

P.O. Box 63, Hickory, NC 28601

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Fur Babies Rescue

Hickory, NC 28601

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

AtYourServiceAnimalRescue

Hickory, NC 28601

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Lincoln County Animal Services

650 John Howell Memorial Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28092

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, 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 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