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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 Jiggles's adoption status with email updates.
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Jiggles

Labrador Retriever

Female, Adult
Holly Springs, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
You can fill out an adoption application online on our official website. Online Adoption Application › Jiggles is a sweet 1.5 year old mixed breed with a little swing in her step that earned her the name Jiggles! Jiggles thought she had found forever when a family adopted her from the Iredell county shelter in November, but by January Jiggles was running through the icy road, and Jiggles foster mom almost hit her with her car. Jiggles got scanned for a chip and it came back registered! Unfortunately, it took threatening to have the sheriffs office to get involved in order to even get a response from Jiggles family. The family had conflicting stories of how Jiggles ended up on the street, but ultimately did not want her back. Thankfully the lady who almost hit Jiggles with her car is a long time foster mom - so Jiggles hit the foster home jackpot! Since coming to her foster home Jiggles has shown to be everything friendly - kids, cats & dogs! She is a happy go lucky girl who is just glad to be with you! She loves chew toys, and spending time sunbathing. Jiggles is enrolled in a basic training class, so that she can perfect her manners! Jiggles is potty trained, crate trained, and walks well on leash. She would do best in a home with a fenced in yard so she can get her zoomies out, but she does enjoy walks through the park in the evenings! ***This is a courtesy post for Little Blue Tattoos Rescue. Jiggles adoption fee is $200. She is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on vaccines. Interested in adopting Jiggles? Please submit an application at www.littlebluetattoos.com***  Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet.March 5, 2026, 11:08 pm
We'll also keep you updated on DREAM GIRL NALA's adoption status with email updates.
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DREAM GIRL NALA

Cocker Spaniel

Female, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
  Nala is the kind of little dog people dream about finding. This beautiful, petite purebred Cocker Spaniel is 4 years old and weighs only about 15 pounds, making her a truly tiny and delicate girl. She was discovered wandering alone in a rural county of Tennessee until a kindhearted Good Samaritan stepped in and contacted rescue so she could finally have a chance at the safe and loving life she deserved.   Now Nala is ready to leave the uncertainty of her past behind and begin the wonderful life that should have always been hers.   When we say Nala is a dream girl, we truly mean it. She has the gentlest soul and the sweetest presence. She is the kind of dog who quietly fills a room with warmth just by being there. Nala loves to be close to her people, sharing soft cuddles, calm companionship, and those soulful Cocker Spaniel eyes that seem to understand everything.   Not long after being rescued, Nala went through treatment for irritable bowel issues that were most likely brought on by the stress of whatever life she lived before she was found. Stress can affect animals deeply, but with proper care and love she has recovered beautifully. Her foster family is committed to making sure her life from now on is peaceful, predictable, and full of kindness. And truly, Nala deserves nothing less. This precious blonde angel gets along wonderfully with everyone she meets. She is great with people, gentle with other animals, and has the lovely manners that make her such an easy companion to have in the home. She is housebroken, well behaved, and simply a joy to live with.   Her foster mom absolutely adores her and says that Nala is one of the best dogs she has ever had in her home. That is high praise for a dog who seems to bring calm, sweetness, and quiet happiness wherever she goes.   No dog is perfect, but Nala comes awfully close. She is the kind of companion who will make your heart feel fuller every single day. If you have been hoping for a sweet, gentle Cocker Spaniel to share your life with, Nala may be the girl who was meant for you.   Please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com to learn more about adopting this precious little dream girl.   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.comMarch 5, 2026, 2:34 pm
We'll also keep you updated on MINA PAWS's adoption status with email updates.
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MINA PAWS

Shih Tzu

Female, Senior
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
  Mina Paws is a rare and beautiful black Shih Tzu girl who is estimated to be about 10 years old, though you might never guess it by looking at her bright expression and those surprisingly beautiful teeth. This sweet little lady weighs about 17 pounds and has recently begun a new chapter in life after losing the only home she had ever known.   Sadly, when her owner passed away, Mina’s life took a heartbreaking turn. The remaining family members left her outside for a period of time, and this gentle girl went from being someone’s companion to being neglected and forgotten. By the time rescue was able to step in, Mina was in very poor condition. Her coat had thinned drastically from untreated skin issues, her nails had grown so long they were nearly curling into her paw pads, and she was understandably frightened and confused. But even through all of that, Mina’s sweet spirit was still there waiting to shine again.   With proper veterinary care, treatment for her skin, and the kindness of a loving foster home, Mina has been transforming day by day. Her hair has almost completely grown back in, her skin is healing beautifully, and she is beginning to look like the lovely Shih Tzu girl she was born to be. Even more importantly, her heart is healing too.   Mina can be a little shy at first when meeting new people, which is understandable after everything she has been through. But once she feels safe, her affectionate personality blossoms. She loves to cuddle, happily settling into a warm lap where she feels most content. She has even started to rediscover the joy of play as she slowly lets go of the sadness from her past. It’s truly wonderful to watch her greet each new day with a little more confidence and happiness.   Mina Paws also gets along beautifully with other animals. She lives peacefully with both dogs and cats and enjoys their quiet companionship. She would do well in a calm home where she can continue to feel safe, loved, and cherished.   This sweet senior girl is fully vetted and ready for the next chapter of her life. She has been spayed, microchipped, fully vaccinated, heartworm tested negative, and has even had a complete senior bloodwork panel to ensure she is healthy moving forward.  All Mina wants now is a gentle home where she will never again have to wonder if she is loved.   If you are interested in giving this precious girl the safe and happy future she deserves, please write to Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com and tell us where you live.   Mina Paws is currently in Nashville, TN, and we also transport every to families in the northeastern region.   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.comMarch 5, 2026, 2:34 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Gwen's adoption status with email updates.
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Gwen

German Shepherd Dog/Mixed Breed (Large)

Female, 5 mos
MOORESVILLE, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
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We'll also keep you updated on Nykee (CL)'s adoption status with email updates.
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Nykee (CL)

German Shepherd Dog

Male, Young
Durham, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
[DogName] is a COURTESY LISTING available for adoption -- for more information, please contact the owner listed below. DO NOT apply through the GSRA website as this dog and owner are not affiliated with GSRA. Hi! Im Nykee a one-year-old Malinois/Shepherd/Cur mix with 64 pounds of fun, energy, and personality. If youre looking for a smart, active companion whos always ready to do something, I might be your guy. Im still very much a puppy, which means I bring lots of playful energy and enthusiasm to everything I do. I love toys, enjoy getting out for walks, and Im always happy when theres something fun to figure out. Puzzle toys, enrichment games, and training are right up my alley because Im a smart boy who loves to learn. Speaking of learning Im very treat-motivated and eager to please, so Im already picking up on training quickly. Give me some guidance, consistency, and a few tasty rewards, and Ill happily show off how clever I can be. Im also a pretty affectionate guy. I enjoy attention, being brushed, and spending time with my people after a good play session. I get along well with medium to larger dogs who enjoy an active play style like I do. Cars are still a little scary for me at first, but once Im inside, I ride just fine. Im young, though, so with patience and positive experiences I know Ill get the hang of it. Im neutered, healthy, and up to date on my vaccines. What Im really looking for now is a home that will give me the exercise, mental stimulation, and love I need to keep growing into the amazing dog Im meant to be. If youre ready for a loyal, fun-loving adventure buddy, Id love to meet you. SEE MY PHOTOS AND VIDEOS HERE Paws and Claws, Alleghany, NCPaula ApplegateSparta, NC pacalleghany@gmail.com Contact Paula at Paws and Claws for more information about [DogName]. Please visit our website www.gsdrescue.org to learn more about this amazing pet and to see other available dogs.
We'll also keep you updated on Sargent (CL)'s adoption status with email updates.
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Sargent (CL)

German Shepherd Dog

Male, Senior
Durham, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
[DogName] is a COURTESY LISTING available for private adoption -- for more information, please contact the owner listed below. DO NOT apply through the GSRA website as this dog and owner are not affiliated with GSRA. Hi, Im Sergeant -- Ive been deeply loved since the day my owner brought me home from a breeder in August 2022. Im a healthy, happy, and yes a little spoiled boy who has been someones whole world. This isnt an easy decision for my owner. Its being made out of love and a desire to make sure Im always safe and cared for. I love going to the park and spending time with my person. Ive been fed good, healthy food and kept up-to-date on all my vaccinations and heartworm prevention. Im in great health and have no medical issues. My owner is facing serious health challenges and doesnt have family or friends nearby to step in during an emergency. If something unexpected were to happen, theres a real fear I could be left alone without care. I deserve a secure, stable future with a family who will always be there for me. To help me transition, my owner is willing to provide a few months of my food and heartworm prevention to my new family, if needed. Theyre also willing to drive me out of state to make sure I get to the right home. Im a loving, loyal companion who just wants to be someones best friend. If youre ready to give me a safe and committed forever home, Im ready to give you all my love in return. Christopher HarrisRichmond, VA ch4193958@gmail.com(804) 363-2145 Contact the owner listed above for more information about [DogName]. Please visit our website www.gsdrescue.org to learn more about this amazing pet and to see other available dogs.

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

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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

Columbus County Animal Protective Services

288 Legion Drive, Whiteville, NC 28472

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

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Rescue

Flip Side Sanctuary

PO Box 11, Tabor City, NC 28463

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

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Rescue

A Shelter Friend

Elizabethtown, NC 28337

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Homestead Animal Rescue

Ash, NC 28420

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

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Rescue

The Norman P. Wiggle Home for Wayward Dogs

Riegelwood, NC 28456

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Fur-Ever Home Animal Rescue of NC, Inc.

No Public Shelter, 100% Foster-Based, Lumberton, NC 28358

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Robeson County Humane Society

3180 West 5th Street, Lumberton, NC 28358

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Franny's Friends

No Public Shelter, Lumberton, NC 28358

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Empowering Pawz, Inc

Calabash, NC 28467

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Carolina Dal Pals Dalmatian Rescue, Inc.

Ocean Isle, NC 28469

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