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Puppies and dogs in Fergus, Ontario

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

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Adopt a dog in Fergus, Ontario

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

Zinnia

Cocker Spaniel

Female, 6 yrs 2 mos
St Jacobs, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Zinnia-American Cocker Spaniel female's Story Meet Zinnia: Your Future Shadow, Cuddle Bug, and Best Friend. If you are looking for a gentle soul who will fill your home with quiet devotion, look no further than Zinnia (lovingly called Zinni). This 6-years-young American Cocker Spaniel has the most soulful eyes that will absolutely melt your heart! Zinni was recently rescued from a commercial breeding facility, where she spent her life as a commercial breeding dog and is now celebrating her "rebirthday" as a beloved indoor dog enjoying all of the comforts of beds and gentle TLC Zinni is learning what it means to be a cherished family pet, and she is embracing her new life with incredible resilience and grace. View Zinnia's full album of photos and videos here https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.927363186580975&type=3 Fully Vetted & Ready for Her Forever Home Zinni is completely healthy and ready to go! She has completed all of her vetting, including: Up-to-date vaccinations Bloodwork excellent and heartworm/tick disease tested Negative Heartworm/flea/tick preventatives Microchip implant Spay surgery Full dental surgery Gaining Confidence Every Day Because of her past, Zinni is very shy and timid around new people. However, in just a few short weeks in her foster home, she has been steadily gaining confidence, thanks to having another dog in her foster home who is teaching her how wonderful life can be. She has officially discovered that love, safety, and pampering are wonderful things! Here is a glimpse into her sweet personality: Morning Rituals: When the morning alarm goes off, she happily wags her tail and waits patiently for her morning neck massage. She has even recently trusted her fosters enough to roll over for belly rubs! The Ultimate Cuddle Bug: It took some time, but Zinni is now comfortable jumping up on the sofa to enjoy evening cuddle time while her foster family watches TV. Cozy Bedtime Partner: While she loves the security of her crate and will happily go in and out of it throughout the day for naps, night-time is a different story. She has discovered that jumping up into bed with her foster is the best thing ever, sleeping contently all night. Quiet as a mouse: Zinni has not yet made a single peep! She does not bark or whine, making her a truly peaceful presence. This may change of course as her confidence grows. House-Training Superstar: She was quickly house-trained! She only has occasional accidents inside if she is feeling particularly nervous or stressed. Things We Are Working On: Zinni is trying her best and learning new things every day! Her perfect adopter will need to help her continue working on: Hand-Feeding Confidence: She loves tasty treats, but she is still too timid to take them directly from your hand. For now, she will happily enjoy them if you gently toss them in her direction. Leash Training: Zinni has not yet learned to go for walks on a leash as she is still too timid. It will take her some time to get familiar with the hustle and bustle of the outside world and unfamiliar street noises. She thrives in a fully fenced yard for exploring. Her Ideal Forever Home: Because the big wide world can still be intimidating to her, Zinni is looking for a patient, quiet environment where she can continue to blossom at her own pace. Her ideal home: People Home Often: Because she loves her humans and is still learning to settle into domestic life, she would thrive in a home where people are home often to continue working on her socialization and training. A suitable canine companion: She requires a home with a gentle companion dog. Having a canine sibling for companionship and confidence, to watch and mimic, will continue to help her build confidence and learn how to navigate the world. No Young Children: Due to her timid nature, a home without young children is necessary to keep her environment safe, peaceful and stress-free. Zinni is a nervous flight risk and children coming and going through doors pose a serious escape risk as well Cats: Zinnia is very respectful of cats. Understanding Transitions: Her new family should be prepared to give her grace during her first week or two in a new environment, as stress can cause temporary potty accidents. Watching a resilient dog like Zinni discover the joy of a soft bed, a belly rub, and the gentle touch of a loving hand is the most rewarding experience in the world. She is so ready for her true happily-ever-after. Does Zinni sound like your new best friend? To apply to adopt this sweet girl, please submit an adoption application at this link https://hobohavenrescue.ca/dog-adoption-application Adoption fee $850 To help guide you through our application process, we have outlined our standard adoption criteria and procedures below. Reviewing the Profile Before submitting an application, we kindly ask that you thoroughly review the dog's entire profile. Each of our rescues has unique needs, and we prioritize matching them with families that meet the specific criteria outlined for their "ideal forever home." Adoption Requirements: Inground pools must be fully fenced (no exceptions) No dog doors- we believe in fully supervised outdoor time for all dogs Commitment to approved, positive reinforcement training classes The Application Process To maintain the highest standard of care for our dogs, we follow a structured screening process. 1. Vet Quality of Care Check 2. Zoom Home Inspection & Interview 3. In-Person Meeting in St. Jacobs Please note that an approved adoption application is required prior to scheduling any meetings. 4. Training Commitment 5. Educational Requirement: "Petfooled" As part of our commitment to "know better/do better," we ask all serious applicants to watch the documentary "Petfooled" (available for free on YouTube or Amazon Prime). We believe quality nutrition is just as important as love. This documentary explores the pet food industry and the importance of species-appropriate nutrition. It is purely educational and helps ensure our adoptive families are equipped to provide the best long-term health for our dogs. Please reach out to us again after your family has viewed the documentary to share your feedback or ask any questions you may have. Meet-and-Greet Policy All of our dogs reside in private, volunteer foster homes. To respect the privacy and schedules of our foster families—and due to the high volume of inquiries we receive—meetings are only scheduled for applicants who have been fully approved through our screening process.
Photo of Magpie

Magpie

German Shepherd Dog Australian Cattle Dog

Female, 3 yrs 3 mos
Guelph, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
Hi, my name’s Magpie!I arrived at GHS in July 2026. I`m known for my sweet nature and how affectionate I am once we get to know each other, though I do typically avoid strangers at first and can remain a bit on edge with new people in my home. Once I love my people, I really love my people, and that means I may bark when you try to approach them. With positive training, I`ve already shown nice progress in this area. My favourite activity is sniffing around and following my nose—there`s so much to explore! I`m looking for a forever home where I can share all the love I have; I would love to join a calm and relaxed family that will patiently build their bond with me.MY IDEAL HOME INVOLVES…CHILDREN: Teenagers should be fine, no young children as I do have a timid side.OTHER DOGS: No, I don`t enjoy sharing with other dogs and that makes it difficult for me to live with them, however I don`t mind having some calm dog friends for walks or short, managed visits.CATS: No, I would like to be the only pet and get all the attention.FIRST-TIME DOG OWNERS: I would do best with someone who has previous dog experience.FENCED-IN YARD: Not necessarily.HOUSING ENVIRONMENT: Any.SOMEONE HOME MOST OF THE DAY: Not necessarily.SOME OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ME…ACTIVITY LEVEL: Medium.HOUSE-TRAINED: Yes.SPECIAL DIET: Yes, I’m on a hypoallergenic diet.MEDICATIONS: Yes, I take a daily oral medication to help with my itching.If you think I would make a good match for your home, please click the `Adopt Me` button to apply!FOSTER ME! I’m excited to be selected as part of the Paisley Project and I’m looking for a foster home! If your home environment matches what I’m looking for based on the information above, please consider applying to foster me by copying and pasting the following link to fill out the questionnaire: https://guelphhumane.ca/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php?action=frm_forms_preview&form=7y88o.The Paisley Project aims to match selected, long-stay animals at GHS with fosters that can provide a home that gradually introduces them to the everyday experiences of life as a pet. Fosters will offer the routine, structure and stability needed to help get animals ready for their new family. Learn more at https://guelphhumane.ca/the-paisley-project/.
Photo of Akna

Akna

Xoloitzcuintle/Mexican Hairless

Female, Adult
Guelph, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Akna is a five-year-old Mexican Hairless (Xoloitzcuintli), born in Mexico and brought to Canada as a puppy. She is smart, elegant, obedient, house-trained, has excellent recall, and loves to learn.Akna is naturally cautious and takes time to trust, but once bonded, she is incredibly loyal and devoted. She thrives with consistency, structure, companionship, and daily exercise. She especially loves walks in nature, which help keep her happy and relaxed. As a hairless breed with sensitive skin, she needs regular skincare.We are rehoming Akna because our family dynamics have changed and we want to find her a home where she can receive the time and attention she deserves.She would do best with an experienced owner in a calm, stable home, with someone home most of the time and a fenced yard. She would be happiest with a single person or couple without children or plans for children. She must be the only pet.In the right home, Akna will be a loving, loyal, and devoted companion.
Photo of Koda

Koda

Husky

Male, 1 yr
Guelph, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
Hiya, my name`s Koda!WHAT YOU’LL LOVE ABOUT ME…- I’m a very sweet boy.- I’m friendly when meeting new people.- I LOVE to chase tennis balls!- I settle comfortably in my run and in a crate.MY NEW FAMILY SHOULD…- Use a positive training approach.- Avoid using any harsh communication or methods to train me.- Understand that I don’t get along well with other dogs.MY IDEAL HOME INVOLVES…CHILDREN: Teenagers should be fine, no young children given I can be sensitive.OTHER DOGS: No, I don’t seem to enjoy the company of other dogs.CATS: Yes, I have lived with cats before.FIRST-TIME DOG OWNERS: Potentially, if you have some experience with large breeds.FENCED-IN YARD: Recommended as my daily routine includes running laps in the playpen at top speed.HOUSING ENVIRONMENT: No apartment buildings given I don’t enjoy dogs in my personal space.SOMEONE HOME MOST OF THE DAY: Not necessarily.SOME OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ME…ACTIVITY LEVEL: Medium.HOUSE-TRAINED: Yes, but expect some accidents as I adjust to the new routine.If you think I would make a good match for your home, please click the `Adopt Me` button to apply!
Photo of Spud

Spud

Bernese Mountain Dog

Male, 5 mos
Guelph, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Hey there, my name`s Spud!!WHAT YOU’LL LOVE ABOUT ME…- I’m a sweet puppy- I’m a bit mischievous!- I love everybody, and I love attention!MY NEW FAMILY SHOULD…- Plan to continue my socialization: I need frequent and positive interactions with new things (think: people, children, other dogs, the vet clinic, different environments like friend’s houses and pet stores)- Be prepared to handle my energy and excitement.- Use a positive training approach.- Expect me to grow up to be a BIG boy!- Know that I have a history of eating things I shouldn’t, and be extra diligent about keeping things away that a puppy should not chew on. (I WILL eat socks.)If you think I would make a good match for your home, please click the `Adopt Me` button to apply!
Photo of Rowan

Rowan

Labrador Retriever

Male, 4 yrs 2 mos
Guelph, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
Hi, my name’s Rowan!I arrived at GHS in July 2026. I’m a sweet and affectionate boy. My past wasn`t the kindest but I`ve gained a lot of confidence and resilience since coming to GHS. I`m currently in a foster home where I enjoy spending time with my foster dog brother and my foster humans. They are so nice to me and have helped me learn that I can have space if I need it or I can get snuggles if I want (which I really like!). Recently, I have become so brave that I started to play and be silly! My humans say I have made a lot of progress and will make a great dog for my future home. I enjoy going for walks and car rides. I can still be nervous of new things or places but do well with a slow approach, supportive human and of course a few yummy treats.MY IDEAL HOME INVOLVES…CHILDREN: Teenagers may be ok if the home is generally on the calmer side.OTHER DOGS: Yes! I would appreciate a dog friend to play and hang out with.CATS: Yes, with a cat confident around big dogs.FIRST-TIME DOG OWNERS: No, I would do best in a home that has experience with large and timid dogs.FENCED-IN YARD: Required, so I have a safe and secure space outside to explore and exercise.HOUSING ENVIRONMENT: Any with a fenced yard.SOMEONE HOME MOST OF THE DAY: Not necessarily.SOME OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ME…ACTIVITY LEVEL: Medium.HOUSE-TRAINED: Yes.MEDICATIONS: Yes, I take daily medication orally to help with my stress.If you think I would make a good match for your home, please click the `Adopt Me` button to apply!

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Dog shelters and rescues in Fergus, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Nickquenum Dog Rescue

Guelph, ON N1E 2G1

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

New Hope Animal Rescue

4990 Jones Baseline, Guelph, ON N1H 6H8

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Barlee's Angels Rescue Network

Guelph, ON N1G 2X6

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Hobo Haven Pet Rescue

St Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Paws Across The Water - Erin

Erin, ON N0B 1T0

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Upper Credit Humane Society

5383 Trafalgar Rd N, Erin, ON N0B 1T0

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

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Shelter

Guelph Humane Society

190 Hanlon Creek Blvd, Guelph, ON N1C 0A1

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

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Shelter

Kitchener Waterloo Humane Society

250 Riverbend Drive, Kitchener, ON N2B 2E9

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

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Rescue

Grand River All Breed Rescue

PO Box 32116, Preston Postal Outlet, Cambridge, ON N3H 5M2

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

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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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