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Puppies and dogs in Ontario

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Ontario. 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 Xena's adoption status with email updates.
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Xena

Rottweiler/Bulldog

Female, Adult
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Xena’s story began as an unclaimed stray, but you’d never guess it from the love she carries in her heart. This sweet girl greets the world with a gentle spirit, soft eyes, and a wagging tail that seems to say, “I’m so happy to meet you.” Friendly with both people and other dogs, Xena has a naturally submissive personality and approaches new friends with kindness and respect. While she’s incredibly loving, Xena is still learning that the world can be a safe and happy place. She would thrive in a calm home environment where she can take things at her own pace—ideally a house rather than an apartment, where she can enjoy quiet space and stability. Her future family will play an important role in helping her grow her confidence with patience, encouragement, and plenty of reassurance. Xena may especially enjoy living with another friendly, confident dog who can help show her the ropes and demonstrate that new experiences can be fun. She’s eager to please and clearly wants to do the right thing, which makes her a wonderful candidate for obedience classes. Training together will not only help build her confidence, but also create a beautiful bond between Xena and her new family. Because she seems sensitive to harsh corrections, Xena responds best to gentle guidance and positive reinforcement. A kind, patient approach will help her blossom into the confident dog she’s meant to be. Despite her uncertain start, Xena remains incredibly affectionate and full of love. Once she trusts you, she’ll happily shower you with loyalty, companionship, and sweet moments that make every day brighter. Xena is ready for a second chance—one filled with kindness, patience, and a family who will help her shine. In return, she promises a lifetime of love. Could Xena be the gentle heart your home has been waiting for? Please complete an adoption application: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Xena has dental surgery March 26th. Her adopters must be willing to return her for this procedure, which is included in the adoption fee. Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families. *Please note: we only adopt within Ontario
We'll also keep you updated on Ragnar's adoption status with email updates.
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Ragnar

Husky

Male, 4 yrs
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Hear ye, hear ye! From the frosty north (or at least the local streets), arrives Ragnar, a 4-year-old Siberian Husky of epic proportions. Much like his legendary namesake Ragnar Lothbrok from the TV show Vikings, our Ragnar appeared as a mysterious wanderer — arriving at the shelter as a “stray,” unclaimed and clearly between conquests. He came in intact, sporting warrior-length nails, a bit of tartar on his teeth, and one chipped canine tooth (we’re calling it a battle scar from conquering the Realm of Couch Cushions). Ragnar is every bit the classic Husky: High energy like a longship cutting through stormy seas. Friendly… yet slightly aloof (he must maintain his mystique). Vocal enough to summon Odin himself. Because of his operatic howls and dramatic monologues, a detached dwelling is recommended. Apartment neighbors may not fully appreciate his Norse poetry at sunrise. This Viking does not simply walk — he charges into life. He: Knows “sit” (a true scholar-warrior). Is very food motivated (a fan of post-battle feasts). Pulls on leash like he’s towing a longship. Occasionally leaps up in excitement to declare you his favorite human. He does not enjoy being restrained — in true Husky fashion, he believes shackles are beneath him. Patience, structure, and consistent obedience training will be key to shaping this wild Norse heart into a loyal household champion. Ragnar needs: High physical exercise (raids on hiking trails preferred) Mental stimulation (puzzle toys = tactical war planning) Routine and calming cues (even Vikings need structure) Without proper enrichment, he may redecorate your village or attempt a daring escape worthy of saga retelling. Huskies are legendary escape artists, and Ragnar seems ready to live up to the folklore. His Ideal Clan A home experienced with the Husky breed A high-energy canine sibling to spar and burn energy with A confident, patient handler who can provide leadership (think wise Jarl, not chaotic villager) Supervision and structure to help build his self-control muscles While he may have come from a background lacking consistency, his natural Husky independence — already strong in the breed — just needs the right leader to channel it. True to his lineage, Ragnar embodies the full theatrical Husky flair: The “you have betrayed me” look when asked to wait The soulful howl of injustice when mildly inconvenienced The zoomies of Valhalla He is super fun, endlessly comedic, and guaranteed to keep his humans laughing daily. If you are ready to: Provide epic adventures Establish strong but kind leadership Embrace the drama And welcome a fluffy Viking into your hall… Then Ragnar awaits his forever fjord. Will you be the Jarl of his next great saga? Please complete an adoption application: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families. *Please note: we only adopt within Ontario
We'll also keep you updated on Ned's adoption status with email updates.
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Ned

Maltese/Poodle (Miniature)

Male, 8 yrs 6 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
This charming little fellow is an estimated 7–10-year-old Maltese who proves that great things truly come in small (three-legged!) packages. Arriving at the shelter as a stray and never claimed, he’s ready to write a new chapter — this time with a family of his own. Don’t let the “senior tripod” label fool you — missing his back right leg doesn’t slow him down one bit! He’s active, curious, and still enjoys his daily walks and mental enrichment. That said, he’s equally content to curl up beside you and perfect his couch potato skills. Once settled in, we suspect he may show a bit of a “bossy boots” streak — but he communicates clearly when he’s uncomfortable. He tolerates standard handling well. However, more intensive handling (such as medical procedures or dressing in clothing/harnesses) can cause him to grumble or growl. He’s not a fan of fussing during those moments, and he appreciates patient, respectful handling. Staff have had no trouble picking him up or walking him, and he’s been content being carried around the building for extended periods. At this time, a home without other dogs is strongly recommended. With very slow, proper introductions, he may be able to live with a calm, small, submissive dog — but he may also thrive best as the only dog in the home. He’s sweet, smart, expressive, and full of personality. While he can be sensitive during certain types of handling, he is affectionate, active, and eager to bond deeply with his people. Once he trusts you, you’ll have a loyal little companion who loves both fun adventures and warm laps. If you’re looking for a tiny best friend with character, resilience, and plenty of love to give — this tripod gentleman might just be your perfect match. We will be accepting applications until Friday, March 13th and those selected will be contacted the week of March 16th. Please complete an adoption application at the following link: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Ned has medical conditions that will require follow-up care at the adopter's vet at the adopter's expense. Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families. *Please note: we only adopt within Ontario
We'll also keep you updated on Diesel's adoption status with email updates.
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Diesel

Mastiff

Male, 2 yrs
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Built like a tank but powered by a very relaxed engine, Diesel is a 2-year-old Mastiff cross who is looking for a home where he can cruise comfortably through life. Diesel arrived as an unclaimed stray alongside another dog believed to be his littermate, and it’s clear he takes comfort in canine company. With a dog friend by his side, his confidence really shines. When he’s on his own, Diesel may take a moment to read the room and assess his surroundings but once he realizes everything is safe, he settles in nicely and continues on his way. Despite his size, Diesel is actually a lower-energy kind of guy. He’ll have a quick burst of goofy, puppy-like zoomies now and then, but they’re short-lived before he returns to his favorite activities: lounging, observing the world, and enjoying a peaceful nap. In his kennel he keeps things tidy and calm, and when passing by other dogs he’s friendly and polite. Diesel is also a smart cookie. He already knows “sit” and “paw,” and he’s very motivated when treats are involved. Because of this, he would really benefit from positive reinforcement obedience classes to help him learn more tricks and establish clear boundaries and routines in his new home. When meeting people, Diesel is polite and respectful - not the jumpy, over-the-top greeter type. He prefers a calm introduction and appreciates someone who can read his body language and give him a moment when he needs it. Because of this, we recommend a home with somewhat experienced handlers and no young children, where his cues will be understood and respected. In a perfect world, Diesel’s new home would include: possibly another friendly dog companion, daily walks and mental enrichment, a cozy sunny spot for naps and a yard where he can stretch out in the grass. During his medical exam Diesel allowed staff to check his ears but was a little tense during his dental check - understandable for a new environment. He'll need a more experienced home familiar with cues that he's uncomfortable. He has mild tartar on his molars, but no dental procedure is needed at this time. A dental-support diet is recommended to help keep that handsome smile healthy. Diesel is a gentle, thoughtful boy who just needs a patient home to help him continue building confidence and enjoying the good life he deserves. If you’re looking for a loyal companion with a calm nature, good manners, and the occasional burst of goofy energy, Diesel might be the perfect co-pilot for your next chapter. Please complete an adoption application: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Diesel has a future appointment to be neutered and will be ready to go to his forever home after his surgery. Animal adoptions and viewing are by appointment only. This allows our Adoption Staff to spend quality time with each potential home to ensure the most successful matches are made between the animals and their new families. *Please note: we only adopt within Ontario
We'll also keep you updated on Augie's adoption status with email updates.
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Augie

Mixed Breed (Small)

Male, 1 yr
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Currently fostered in Texas Augie is approximately 1 1/2 years old and 13 1/2 pounds. He was rescued from del Rio animal shelter. He is just an all-around fantastic boy. Augie walks on leash and harness. He is not overly barky. He is friendly with people and children and animals of all kinds. He does have a good bit of energy but it’s not overly hyper. He is just young and he loves to play so he would do well in a home that has other dogs that are playful. That being said, he is also super cuddly and adores attention . He loves to socialize and has never met a stranger . Approved adopters please send your hold requests to the email you were given. To get approved please visit our website www.texaschihuahuarescuecanada.org to fill in an application to adopt.
We'll also keep you updated on Scout's adoption status with email updates.
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Scout

Husky/Mixed Breed (Small)

Female, 2 yrs
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter,
Story
Currently fostered in Texas ****Scout needs a experienced adapter. Please read bio in full. **** Scout was trapped and rescued as a feral stray. She is approximately two years old and fully grown at 28 pounds. She looks like a mini husky. Her coat is gorgeous and so soft . She has come a long way in the short time we have had her and I know she will only blossom from here. We took her to a rescue friendly groomer who cut her matts out, gave her a bath, a brush out and half a blow dry before she was kind of over that. She was very scared of the trimers . Scout is still weary of humans but never ever aggressive. She comes around faster to women than men but that is pretty typical. She is great with all dogs and loves to play, she is submissive and listens very well to the Chihuahuas, however, she also needs a play partner that will rough house with her and run with her. She cannot be the only dog. Although we think she is part husky, she is not very vocal . She absolutely needs a well fenced in yard. She does not walk on leash and harness. When she first arrives she is going to be scared and look for places in the yard to get out , this will only last a day or two but she is absolutely not to be left outside alone for the 1st week. She acclimate very quickly and we’ll get used to her new home and environment and doggy friends fast. She seems ok with the cats but may try and chase them if they are running. She does not come to people, she will not willing come up for pets or cuddles. She does not like being picked up. That being said once you kind of cornered her in her little bed area she will allow you to pick her up but squirms a lot to get down. So this should never be done outdoors without a leash and harness. You cannot pick her up and take her to the car without a leash and harness on because if she squirm hard and gets down, she will runoff and you will not catch her. She needs a home where someone will just let her be for a couple weeks until she gets more used to you. She needs access to a very well fenced in backyard and a home where she can flourish, be loved and play with her dog friends. She should really not be taken out of that environment until she is more used to you and trusts you. This is not a dog you can take out to lunch or a farmers market. She is a cat dog. She loves toys and she does love following you around and has interest in being friendly with her humans. She even gives me a little kisses on the back of my leg when I am doing office work for chores. She also nudges me with her nose, she follows me everywhere. She still does not let me touch her without cornering her. Once she is in her little pen curled up in her bed I go in and sit with her and softly give her pets and kisses. Her body is starting to relax little by little with each day. She loves being in a home and she is very happy she is just not ready to be “mans best friend” yet. I think for her this has to be earned and I am fairly certain, once she does decide to love you, she will love hard and loyal. She does not eat a lot of kibble and tends to be picky with the wet food. We feed her canned food mixed with kibbles with chicken and cheese on top to entice her 🙂 She has had three names before settling on Scout so her paperwork has a few names on there . Birdie , Kai Kai and Scout . As a weird, sidenote, she sleeps in a large toddler pen that she can jump out of, but doesn’t. She will sleep in a kennel however, every time I have tried to put her in a large kennel she goes to the bathroom in it , which is odd considering I sleep all of 5 hours a day. where as I put her in the puppy pen with a bed on one side and her pee pad on the other even though the pee pad is there she never goes to the bathroom in the puppy/toddler pen I will send photos of set up . She also is not destructive . But has a little mischief in her . 🙂 like a fox

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in Ontario cities

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Shelters & rescues in Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

DIBS Rescue - Georgetown

Georgetown, ON L7G 2A3

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Halton Hills Animal Control

RR#1, Limehouse , Halton Hills, ON L0P 1H0

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

All Paws Rescue Group

Brampton, ON L7A 2C9

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

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Rescue

DIBS Rescue - Milton

Milton, ON L9T 0A1

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Milton Canine Rescue

Milton, ON L9T 7G2

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Companion Paws

Milton, ON L9T 1X6

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Endless Pawsabilities Animal Rescue, Inc.- Ontario Transport

41 Mill Street, Mississauga, ON L5M 1Y3

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Fetch + Releash Dog Rescue

Mississauga, ON L5M 1Y3

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Southern Connection Dog Rescue

Campbellville, ON L0P 1B0

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Paws Across The Water - Erin

Erin, ON N0B 1T0

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 Ontario

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