Adopt

Puppies and dogs in Charlotte, North Carolina

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Charlotte, North Carolina

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Charlotte, 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 Dash's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Dash

Dash

Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Young
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
To begin the adoption process, please fill out the SOTB Adoption Application completely. Once your application has been submitted, our Adoptions Team will be in contact shortly to set up a phone interview and a home visit. Handsome Dash was found with his sister in someone's yard, what a nice surprise to wake up to! Ok, maybe not for the finder, because these two obvious littermates found their way to the local shelter pretty quickly. They were in rough shape, but everything was easily solved and now they're learning the ways of life and love in a people house. Dash is around 9 months old as of early October, and right around 40lbs. He's a super love bug who wants to be as close to his person as he possibly can be, typical pittie sweetheart. He's been doing a great job of learning all of his house dog manners, he's crate trained, he's doing great with housebreaking and he does his best to stick to his toys for chewing. For a pup his age, he's got pretty easy going energy level and is more than happy to chill with you to watch the game or go sun himself in the yard when nothing interesting is going on. He's great with dogs, cats and kids, but he is currently pretty afraid of men. We're not quite sure where he came from or what he's seen, but we've got several kind men who are showing Dash that the deep voice people are actually friends who can be trusted. We're just enchanted with this little dog and his big, kind heart. He's growing in confidence every day and he's ready for us to find his happily ever after. Dash has been going to work just about every day to meet new people and see new things, he's super affectionate once he knows someone's safe and he's having a blast discovering the world. He loves to play fetch and zoom around, then curl up with his foster mom for a good snuggle sesh. Does Dash sound like the kind soul you've been searching for? Visit southofthebully.com and fill out an adoption application, we'd love for you to meet him.Our adoption fee is $300. This covers spay/neuter, microchip, microchip registration, all age appropriate vaccines, and any needed vet care. October 8, 2025, 8:47 pm
We'll also keep you updated on CUBBY IS A HIKER's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of CUBBY IS A HIKER

CUBBY IS A HIKER

Husky

Male, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  Meet Cubby – Your Adventure Buddy and Best Friend! Breed: Husky Mix | Age: 2.5 years | Weight: 50 lbs Cubby is a stunning Husky mix with soulful eyes and a heart of gold. After being rescued from an overcrowded backyard situation, this sweet boy has blossomed in foster care and is now ready to find his forever family.   Cubby has discovered the joys of life—walks, playtime, snuggles, and, most of all, people! He’s affectionate, smart, and always seems to be trying to understand everything around him with those expressive eyes. He’s especially great with children and loves being part of a family.   An energetic and athletic pup, Cubby thrives on adventure. He loves long walks, hiking, backpacking, playing fetch, running beside a bike, and splashing in the water. If you lead an active lifestyle, Cubby might just be your perfect match. And when the day is done? He’s happy to chill on his dog bed, content just being near his people.   Cubby currently lives with two other dogs and absolutely loves playing with them. He would thrive in a home with a fenced yard and another dog buddy—or as your one-and-only if he gets plenty of exercise and enrichment.   Cubby is not just a dog—he’s a loyal companion, hiking partner, and forever friend who will bring joy, laughter, and love to your life. All he needs is a family who will give him the active, loving home he deserves.    Fostered in Tennessee   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.comMay 15, 2025, 6:39 pm
We'll also keep you updated on KAHLUA's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of KAHLUA

KAHLUA

Treeing Walker Coonhound

Male, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  If you are looking for a loyal outdoor companion with a heart of gold, say hello to Kahlua—an 8-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound mix who defines “good ole’ boy” in the best possible way. Around 60 pounds of love and sweetness, Kahlua lives for sunshine, breezes, rustling leaves, and long, thoughtful walks. He’s the kind of dog who doesn’t rush through life—he notices everything, appreciates the little things, and reminds you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Kahlua has impeccable manners. Need to tie your shoe? He’ll stop and wait. Collar slips off? He’ll walk right over so you can fix it. He listens beautifully and truly wants to please his person. He also has a fun side—he loves squeaky toys, playing fetch (sharing the ball is a work in progress!), giving kisses, and being tucked in under cozy blankets like the pampered hound he is.  This boy is also a lake and boat enthusiast—a true water bug who will happily join you for every lakeside adventure. He grew up with other dogs and prefers being the “big guy,” doing well with respectful smaller dogs or calmer companions. Solo walks? He’s relaxed and steady. With bigger, energetic dogs? He may pull a bit in excitement. Kahlua loves kids who treat him kindly and is friendly toward cats, even though he didn’t share a home with them before. Above all else, Kahlua is drawn to people who make him feel loved—give him attention and he’ll give you his whole heart. He does get springtime seasonal allergies, so starting Apoquel in February or early March keeps him feeling his best. It’s a simple bit of care for a dog who gives so much sweetness in return. Kahlua’s former mama adored him deeply but faced life changes that made caring for him impossible. Now he’s ready for a forever home where he can spend his years surrounded by stability, love, comfort, and a family who appreciates everything he has to offer. Kahlua is ready to be someone’s best friend. If you want a loyal companion with an old soul and endless love to share, come meet this wonderful boy.  Please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com if you are interested in giving this boy the years of his life as your best sidekick ever   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.comJanuary 12, 2026, 9:57 am
We'll also keep you updated on FEN's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of FEN

FEN

Husky Labrador Retriever

Male, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  Fen has spent far too many days watching the world from the end of a chain. When his owner moved away, this 6-year-old Lab/Husky mix was left behind on a lonely tie-out at an empty house, cared for only by kind neighbors who refused to let him be forgotten. They shared that Fen once lived indoors, but as his owner’s health declined, Fen’s life slowly shrank to neglect and isolation. Despite it all, Fen’s heart remains wide open.   This sweet boy is full of gentle enthusiasm and gratitude for every bit of attention. The moment he’s free to stretch his legs, Fen lights up — he loves to run, play, and feel the joy of simply being a dog again. He already knows how to sit, walks well on a leash, and shows just how smart and willing he is to listen and learn. Fen wants so badly to connect with people; he leans in for affection like he’s been saving up years of love to give.   Because he’s been forced to live outside for so long, he may need a little patience while relearning house manners and routine — but he’s had a home before, and he’s eager to understand again. Fen is currently underweight, a visible reminder of how he’s been failed, but also a hopeful sign of how much better his future can be with someone who truly cares.   Fen isn’t broken. He’s loving, loyal, and ready to bloom in the hands of a family who will never leave him behind again. All he needs now is a warm place to land, steady meals, and the promise that he’ll always belong.   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.comJanuary 20, 2026, 9:56 pm
We'll also keep you updated on NALA's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of NALA

NALA

Corgi

Female, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  Meet Nala — a 41-pound, 7-year-young Corgi mix who somehow missed the memo about “acting her age.” Honestly, we’re pretty sure she’s more like 2 or 3.   Nala is all about fun, movement, and people. She loves playing chase with other dogs, greeting everyone she meets like a long-lost friend, and soaking up attention whenever it’s available (sometimes by enthusiastically jumping up to say hello — she’s working on that!). She’s also polishing up her leash skills, but her joyful spirit makes every walk an adventure.   Due to instability in her previous home, her family made the loving decision to give Nala the chance at a calmer, happier life — one filled with peace, play, and laughter. And that’s exactly what this girl brings to the table.   Nala does best with older children who can match her energy and not mind her zest for life. She’s crate trained, great with other dogs, and if you’ve got squirrels or rabbits in your yard… well, let’s just say she considers that a bonus feature. &#239&#184&#143   Her black-and-tan markings are beautiful, and those ears — almost standing straight up, with a charming little flop forward — give her a look that’s impossible not to smile at.   Nala’s motto? “Smile everywhere you go!” And she truly lives it.   Interested in adopting this happy girl? Write to Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com and tell us your city and state. We transport north from Nashville, TN almost every weekend — and Nala already has her bags packed!   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 1, 2026, 3:08 pm
We'll also keep you updated on ROCK STAR - MRS RILEY RAY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of ROCK STAR - MRS RILEY RAY

ROCK STAR - MRS RILEY RAY

Border Collie

Female, Adult
Charlotte, NC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Rockstar Ms. Riley Ray didn’t get her name by accident — she earned it with heart, resilience, and a spirit that refuses to fade. This stunning 8-year-old purebred Border Collie has lived a life that didn’t quite match the energy she was born with. Adopted as a puppy by a loving older couple, Riley grew up surrounded by affection but very little structure. Long days indoors, extra bites of fast food and table scraps, and almost no exercise slowly took a toll.  Now this girl after just 3 weeks with us she is down 12 pounds and a nice 69 pounds and still on the way down.  All she needs is to walk daily for a few miles and then play fetch the ball and stay on a strict diet with no caloric treats.  Riley lives for fetch. The moment a ball appears, her eyes light up and her whole body comes alive. It’s as if she’s saying, “This is who I really am.” She is affectionate, loyal, incredibly smart, and still has so much joy and drive left to give. Riley is searching for an active home that understands Border Collies and will help her continue her health journey. She doesn’t want to sit on the sidelines anymore — she wants to run, chase, play, and finally live the life her breed was built for. Her past may have slowed her down, but it never dimmed her spark. Now she’s ready for the next chapter, one filled with movement, purpose, and a human who will see the Rock star she truly is.  Contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com if you are interested 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 1, 2026, 3:08 pm

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Charlotte, North Carolina

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Rescued Me

PO Box 5366, Charlotte, NC 28299

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Charlotte Metro Pet Referral

PO Box 411311, Charlotte, NC 28241

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

South of the Bully & Friends

Charlotte, NC 28282

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Beagle Freedom Project - Charlotte, NC

Charlotte, NC 28202

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals, rabbits

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Tarheel Weimaraner Rescue

North Carolina & Virginia, NC 28202

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Project HALO

PO Box 667924, Charlotte, NC 28266

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue, Inc.

Hickory, NC 28260

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Critter Cavalry Rescue -NC

Charlotte, NC 28201

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

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!

Image of dog

Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Charlotte, North Carolina 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