Essex

Puppies and dogs in Essex, Ontario

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

Adopt a dog in Essex, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Essex, Ontario. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.

Rocky (bonded with Hazel)

Golden Retriever Husky

Male, 1 yr 1 mo

Windsor, ON

Size

(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)

Details

Story

Meet Rocky, a big, goofy husky-type guy with a whole lot of personality, an even bigger love for treats, and a heart that’s deeply devoted to his grandmother, Hazel. Rocky greets the world with enthusiasm, happily getting his leash on and heading out for walks with loose, wiggly confidence. For a dog his size, he only pulls hard when something especially exciting catches his eye—other dogs, for example—but he’s easy to redirect and eager to engage when food is involved. He knows his sit, takes treats gently, and responds really well to positive reinforcement, making him a fun and rewarding partner for continued training. Rocky is social and friendly, greeting strangers with a soft body and happy tail wags. His solid, people-friendly temperament isn’t just a joy for those who meet him—it’s also a source of comfort and confidence for Hazel, his grandmother, who helped raise him. Hazel relies on Rocky’s steady presence and outgoing nature to feel safe and secure in the world. Their bond is truly special, and for her sake, Rocky needs to stay by her side. These two have grown up together, leaned on one another, and they are happiest and most confident when they’re together. Rocky seems to enjoy the company of other dogs, especially with proper introductions and a bit of guidance when his excitement bubbles over. True to his husky roots, he can be vocal, impatient, and a little jumpy. While he’s tolerant of handling, he’s not a big snuggler and prefers to keep moving—unless, of course, he’s checking in on Hazel. He has lived with kids before and could do so again, though children should be sturdy since Rocky might accidentally bowl them over in his excitement. He has never lived with cats, so his response is unknown; dog-savvy cats and slow introductions would be needed to set everyone up for success. Rocky will need some help with housetraining and managing marking, along with a home that’s set up to prevent counter surfing and mischief. With consistency, structure, and plenty of mental and physical outlets, he’s likely to thrive. Rocky would do best with an active adopter who appreciates a talkative, playful dog—and who understands that adopting Rocky also means honoring the beautiful bond he shares with his grandmother, Hazel. She needs him, he needs her, and together they’re looking for a home where they can continue their journey side by side.

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Max

Labrador Retriever

Male, 4 yrs 3 mos

Windsor, ON

Size

(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)

Details

Story

Hi… I’m Max.I’m a gentle-hearted guy who’s still learning that the world isn’t as scary as it sometimes feels. I’m the kind of dog who watches first, thinks second, and maybe comes over third—especially in new places. I try my best, but new faces, new rooms, and new routines take me a little time to understand.When I’m nervous, I might hesitate, step back, or hide for a moment… but if you speak softly and give me space, I start to melt. Once I know you’re safe, I’ll slowly lean in, sit by your side, and even nudge my head under your arm to ask for more affection. I may look unsure on the outside, but inside I’m hoping for someone kind and patient who sees the sweet dog trying his best.I’m still working on feeling confident out in the world—sometimes I pull or get a little panicked on walks—but I listen well and redirect easily. I’ve met calm dogs and gentle people and done just fine once I’ve had a moment to settle. I warm up to men too, I just need them to go slow and let me approach on my terms.What I want most is a quiet, understanding home where I can decompress, take things one step at a time, and bond at my own pace. Give me patience, reassurance, and a little time, and I’ll give you all the love I’ve been holding onto. I really do want to trust—I just need the right person to help me get there.

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Grey Duck

Husky

Male, 2 yrs

Windsor, ON

Size

(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)

Details

Story

Hi, I’m Grey Duck. Yes, that Grey Duck—like from the game Duck, Duck, Goose… or as some people historically (and correctly) say, Duck, Duck, Grey Duck. I’m the unexpected plot twist, the calm one you didn’t see coming, and honestly? I live up to the name.For a husky-type guy, I’m surprisingly laid back. I walk beautifully on leash, listen well to gentle guidance, and I’m much more interested in enjoying the great outdoors than causing chaos. I’m polite when getting my collar on and off, totally fine with handling, and I lean right in for affection. Bum scratches are my absolute weakness—give me one and you’ll get a full wiggle-back-end performance.I’m friendly and relaxed with new people, and I’ve shown I can stay calm and respectful around other dogs, even when they’re not feeling particularly social. I don’t feel the need to argue or escalate—I’m happy to just walk away and do my own thing. I could live with a polite dog friend or be perfectly content as your one and only. Cats and kids are still a mystery, so slow, thoughtful introductions would be important.Food-wise, I’m a bit of a connoisseur. Dry kibble? Meh. Wet food? Now we’re talking. I take treats gently and don’t guard my food or toys. Toys are fun for about five seconds, and then I’m over it. Attention is nice, but mostly I just want to be outside, exploring and taking in the world.I should be honest—I do have a little husky mischief in me. I can and will hop up on tables or counters if something interesting is up there, so you’ll want to manage that and keep tempting snacks out of reach while I learn the house rules. I’d also benefit from some gentle crate training to help me settle and relax when needed.I came in as a stray, so my past is a mystery, but my present is pretty easygoing. I’d likely do well in an apartment with an active person who enjoys walks, adventures, and a dog who’s more “chill sidekick” than “chaos goblin.”So if you’re looking for a husky who zigged when you expected a zag—calm, affectionate, a little goofy, and named after a children’s game that sparks heated regional debates—I might just be your Grey Duck.

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Dewey (Underdog)

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 2 yrs 2 mos

Windsor, ON

Size

(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)

Details

Story

Hi everyone, I’m Dewey, professional bouncy ball, and part-time lap dog! I’m only 2 years old, but don’t let my age fool you, I’ve already perfected the art of winning hearts. Seriously, I’ve never met a human who didn’t instantly become my new favourite person.When I’m inside, I’m actually pretty calm… as long as I’ve gotten my playtime in. But once the toys come out, watch your toes! I like to shake them like I’m auditioning for a doggy heavy-metal band. I also play catch! I mean, I chase the ball like a champ… returning it nicely is something I am still, uh, “developing as a skill.”And water? Puddles?? SNOW??Let’s just say if it splashes, melts, or comes in cube form, I’m your guy. Bad day? Hand me an ice cube and you will be smiling in no time.When playtime’s over, I switch to my other job: certified cuddler. Yes, I partially identify as a lap dog, and yes, I will ask for snuggles.Also I love my cozy little den. It’s my safe, happy place where I curl up like a cinnamon roll. When you leave the house, just pop me in my crate with a yummy treat and I’ll tuck myself in for a peaceful nap with zero complaints. Seriously, I snooze so well you might start wondering if someone swapped me for a teddy bear.I’ve been practicing tricks and working hard on not jumping up (sometimes my excitement jumps before I do). My biggest homework assignment is leash walking. I am reactive on walks and really need someone patient and committed to helping me learn how to be calm walking on a leash. Though I do very well on car rides and will sit patiently till we get to the next destination. Come meet me, just be ready, because I’ll definitely think you’re my new best friend.*I am listed as an Underdog because I will need extra training (with an approved trainer) to work on my reactivity! This means that my adoption fee is up to you!

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Levi

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 3 yrs 2 mos

Windsor, ON

Size

(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)

Details

Story

Hi, I’m Levi, and I’m 3 years old. Once I feel safe, I’m an incredibly sweet, wiggly, and affectionate boy who loves spending time with my people. I’m smart, playful, and very food-motivated, which makes training fun and rewarding. I enjoy my walks, I’m good on leash, and I absolutely love car rides—adventures are one of my favourite things. I’ve got plenty of energy to burn and would thrive in a home that’s ready for walks, training, enrichment, and quality time together. Apartment living isn’t the right fit for me; I do best with space, routine, and a person who’s committed to helping me continue building confidence. I’ll be honest right from the start: I can be a bit of a shy guy when I first meet new people. New humans—especially the ones wearing hats (seriously… what are those?)—can make me unsure, so I might bark while I take a moment to figure things out. I just need time, patience, and kindness to feel safe. When I first came to the shelter, I was pretty nervous, but I’ve made great progress since then, and my personality continues to blossom with consistency and trust. I can be a bit vocal at times, whether it’s with people, other animals, or objects that definitely moved when I wasn’t looking. I’m still learning how to feel confident in the world, and with continued socialization and a human who understands sensitive pups like me, I know I can really shine. Loud, unpredictable, chaotic homes aren’t my favourite. Tiny, boisterous kiddos can be overwhelming for my sensitive heart, so I’d do best in a calm home with respectful teens or adults who appreciate structure and predictability. If you’re patient, understanding, and ready to give a loving dog the chance he deserves, I promise I’ll repay you with loyalty, affection, and plenty of goofy moments.

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Champ

Pomeranian

Male, 1 yr 6 mos

Windsor, ON

Size

(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less

Details

Story

Hi, I’m Champ! I’m a young Pomeranian mix with a fluffy coat, a big personality, and a heart that takes a little time to hand over. I didn’t get my name because I’re cocky (okay… maybe a little), but because when I’m unsure, I’ll pop my paws up and try to look very brave. New things and new people can feel overwhelming at first, and when I don’t know what to expect, I like to make my feelings known. Once I realize you’re kind and patient though? Total game-changer.I’m the kind of guy who believes trust should be earned, not rushed. Give me time, move at my pace, and use plenty of treats (did I mention I love treats?), and I’ll start showing you the real me. When I warm up, I actually enjoy affection and will even seek it out. I’m a big fan of consent petting—let me come to you, read my body language, and we’ll be best friends much faster. I’m sensitive about things going over my head like leashes or collars, so a harness or a clip-on collar and some gentle desensitization training will be important for me. Slow and positive is my motto.I enjoy walks once we’re on our way, I’ve got a medium energy level, and I can be a bit chatty—so apartment living could work as long as you’re okay with some commentary from me. I like other dogs and would probably do well with a playful, tolerant canine buddy who doesn’t mind me taking a little time to settle in.I’m looking for a very patient, understanding adopter who knows that confidence grows with kindness, consistency, and snacks. If you’re someone who celebrates small wins, respects boundaries, and believes that trust is the real prize… well, I just might be your Champ.

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Dog shelters and rescues in Essex, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Windsor/Essex County Humane Society

1375 Provincial Road, Windsor, ON N8W 5V8

Pet Types: cats, dogs

Rescue

Southern Ontario Sighthound Rescue

Leamington, ON N8H 3V7

Pet Types: cats, dogs

Shelter

River Rouge Animal Shelter

100 W. Pleasant St, River Rouge, MI 48218

Pet Types: cats, dogs

Rescue

Ratbone Rescues (MI Chapter)

Detroit, MI 48231

Pet Types: dogs

Rescue

Metro Area Animal Adoption Association

269 Walker St., #232, Detroit, MI 48207

Pet Types: cats, dogs

Shelter

German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Michigan

Detroit, MI 48226

Pet Types: dogs

Rescue

NBRAN Michigan

Grosse Pointe, MI 48230

Pet Types: dogs

Shelter

Grosse Pointe Animal Clinic

15135 Kercheval, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230

Pet Types: cats, dogs

Rescue

I Heart Pits

5927 Kensington Ave., 5927 Kensington Ave., Detroit, MI 48224

Pet Types: dogs

Shelter

Michigan Humane - Detroit

7401 Chrysler Drive, Detroit, MI 48211

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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!

Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Essex, Ontario and nearby cities.

Popular dog breeds

Labrador Retriever Chihuahua Shih Tzu Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier German Shepherd Dog Poodle (Miniature) Husky Maltese English Bulldog Boxer Collie Rottweiler Beagle Dachshund Golden Retriever Pug Border Collie Bichon Frise Pomeranian American Bulldog

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

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

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Puppies and dogs in Essex, Ontario

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Adopt a dog in Essex, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Essex, Ontario. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.

Search for a puppy or dog

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Essex, Ontario

Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

Looking for a specific breed?

Popular dog breeds

Popular dog breeds