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Puppies and dogs in Hamilton, Ontario

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Hamilton, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Hamilton, 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 Bubbles

Bubbles

Labrador Retriever American Bulldog

Male, 2 yrs
Flamborough, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
MEET BUBBLES Bubbles is a 2 year old lab bulldog mix looking for his forever home! Bubbles was found abandoned, emaciated, covered in fleas, and eating garbage. He had a horrible skin infection, and was clearly feeling very defeated. He was picked up by local Animal Services, but unclaimed. He was initially stressed in the shelter setting, very low energy, and declined to play. Since coming into care, Bubbles has gained a healthy weight, he has gained back an appropriate amount of energy, and his personality has really started to shine through! This gorgeous boy is affectionate, very goofy, and absolutely loves training and working for food! Bubbles isn't the brightest bulb - he is constantly doing silly things that make his foster parents laugh, and come and help him when he gets stuck. Despite his funny habits of trying way to hard to do things the wrong way, Bubbles is very food motivated and making excellent progress in his training! He knows "sit", "down", "crate", "place", and is working on perfecting his recall and duration. Bubbles thrives with clear communication, and is doing excellent with the marker training system. We are currently working on giving behaviours with distractions, and increasing duration. Bubbles walks well on leash. He is currently being fostered in a rural environment, but does get regular walks in town, and for little outings. Bubbles is happy to ignore all other people on walks, unless they come to say hello, and doesn't seem to care about kids, strollers, or bikes. Bubbles is interested in other dogs and will pull towards them, but doesn't seem to think to much about them after they've passed. Bubbles is VERY interested in squirrels on walks, and in the backyard. Bubbles is a medium energy young boy. He doesn't bounce off the walls, but appropriate exercise and enrichment are important to him. He seems to appreciate longer walks to do his business, and doesn't mind adventures in the rain! We haven't had him long enough to get his opinion on snow, or swimming. Bubbles is being fostered with two other male dogs. Bubbles is a sensitive boy, and would do well with another calm, confident dog. He will react back towards reactive dogs, and put off funny energy towards other dogs who are not comfortable around other dogs. One of his foster brothers is very happy go lucky, the other is insecure/reactive/avoidant. After slow intros with his more insecure foster brother, Bubbles is now happily integrated in the pack, and mostly ignores the other boys. He has been a bit confused about play, but loves sniffing them, and peeing where they have peed. Bubbles is very affectionate with his people. He especially loves bum rubs, and has recently discovered weaving in between legs to get those ideal lower back rubs! He loves to sit on his people's feet and watch the world go by with them. Bubbles is playful, but is still getting used to toys. We've engaged him in tug once, but it's a work in progress! Bubbles favourite toys are treat balls, frozen kibble toppls, and his deer antler. Pretty much anything food related! Bubbles is housetrained and crate trained. He is very quiet in his crate, unless the chipmunks are teasing him right outside of his window, or his foster mom is cutting the grass (or playing with other dogs right outside his window). He doesn't seem to mind household noise, his vocal triggers seem to be "more interesting than usual" visual cues. Bubbles is happy being crated during a normal work day. Bubbles is nervous initially the car, but well behaved. He may show his discomfort by drooling, or nervous toots, but he sits calmly besides his people and likes to watch the world outside go by. Bubbles doesn't love the bath, but tolerates it. He handles physical manipulations from his trusted people well, even those dreaded ear cleanings! He can be nervous of strangers - like the vet-putting lots of pressure on him. Confused Bubbles just doesn't trust strangers to do.... whatever they're trying to do! Normal interactions with strangers are fine - Bubbles loves his pets! Bubbles is looking for a patient, quiet home to "level up" from his street days. He would prefer a consistent, calm home where his silly antics are the highlight of his people's day! Bubbles enjoys adventures, but would prefer home to be a nice place to relax! SUMMARY 2yo (male) lab X bully breed -Good with dogs -Untested with cats (do not recommend) -Older kids that can participate in training -Good with strangers, loves all people -Medium energy, tires quickly -Walks well on leash -Excellent in crate, goes in on command -Loves training, very food motivated -Nervous in car, but well behaved -Personality: curious, affectionate, sensitive, loves to please, independent, calm. Bubbles perfect home: -Quiet/calm home where he can relax and feel safe. Bubbles doesn’t seem to care about normal household noise, but can be vocal seeing dogs playing outside his house, seeing his foster mom cut the grass, or other activity. He’s probably better off without that pretty view of the park! Happy to walk through the park! -Patient humans who can advocate for him. Bubbles is a sensitive boy, and can feel stressed with lots of activity, or new environments. He probably would prefer being in his crate in a quiet room if a bunch of people are coming over to celebrate Thanksgiving, or instead of visiting someone else’s home for a holiday. Bubbles doesn’t care about working parents – he’s happy to nap in his crate all day! -Can live with another dog, or solo. Bubbles picks up cues from other dogs, and picks up on their energy. He could live with a calm, confident, canine companion, or solo, but would likely do best not in a busy home with many other dogs. He has a prey drive for small animals, and animals who run, so he may not be the best fit with cats. Untested with cats at this time. Bubbles is a sensitive boy and needs slow introductions to new places. He is very routine oriented and will automatically do the next thing in his routine ahead of you! Because he is sensitive, he will likely take longer to transition into a new home. Structure, consistency, and lots of treats will help him discover the routine in his new home! Bubbles would benefit from patient adopters who give him a little grace, and help him work through changes and build confidence! Bubbles shows his stress by pacing and struggling to settle, and sometimes drooling. While he isn't a drooly boy regularly, things that are stressful for him, like car rides, will produce little bubbles of drool... that is actually how he got his name at the high volume shelter he came from! Bubbles is easily entertained, and is happy to chew on a bone or play with a toy by himself. He isn't too interested in most toys, but every once in a while finds a good one. He LOVES food and food toys, so that is a great enrichment activity for him. Bubbles loves to chill out right beside his people and get a good bum rub. He has a calm, quiet little play style with his people. To apply, please email molsonsfosterfriends@gmail.com.
Photo of Julian

Julian

Chihuahua

Male, 4 yrs 2 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Julian 💙 At just 4 years old and 8.5 pounds, Julian is a tiny guy with a heart full of love. After being rescued from a hoarding situation, he's discovering what it means to be safe, cherished, and part of a family. Julian is a sweet, gentle soul who is slowly finding his confidence and his place in the world. Every day, his personality shines a little brighter as he learns that life can be full of kindness and fun. One of Julian's favorite things is running and playing with other dogs. They help him feel confident and bring out his playful side. He hasn't quite figured out toys yet, but watching him experience new things is part of the joy of loving him. Like many dogs who didn't have the best start, Julian is still learning some of the basics. He's working on leash walking and his potty training is still a work in progress. What he needs most is a patient family that understands progress comes one small victory at a time. Julian's ideal home is one where he will never have to be left alone. He would love to have another friendly dog as a companion, but it's not a requirement if someone is home with him and can give him the security and companionship he needs. He does well with dog friendly kids but is afraid of larger dogs. If you're looking for a dog whose trust you'll earn, whose milestones you'll celebrate, and whose love will grow deeper every day, Julian may be the perfect match. His past doesn't define him—it's simply made every act of kindness mean that much more. Could you be the person to show Julian that he's finally home? 🐾❤️
Photo of Bosco

Bosco

Chihuahua

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, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Currently fostered in Texas Bosco is just under 7 pounds and 1 year old. A tiny dainty boy with a big heart, a lot of emotions and some pretty good dance moves. He LOVES attention from anyone who will give it to him. He would be carried around all the time if he could. He would probably be fine if his feet rarely touched the ground he thinks he is a little prince and possibly believes he is a human child. Bosco came from our local shelter. He is a very loving and sweet boy, but he is a bit whiny and requires quite a bit of attention. He would do best in a home where people are not gone for very long hours. He is great with cats, well mannered kids,used to being around a dog this small, and dogs . Very social and an equal opportunity snuggle. He would make a great office dog. Good on leash and harness and although he is not 100% potty trained yet, he does not Mark and he does squat to pee and uses the potty pads if they are available . He is a gentle loving soul ready for a better ….and more spoiled ….life . 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.
Photo of Lotus

Lotus

Chihuahua Dachshund

Female, 10 yrs 2 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Lotus (Lolo)! ❤️ At 10 years young and just 7.5 pounds, Lotus—affectionately known as Lolo—is a tiny sweetheart with a big personality. With her short legs and long body, we think she may be a Chiweenie mix, although she certainly has plenty of Chihuahua charm! Lolo came into rescue through no fault of her own when her loving owner could no longer afford the treatment she needed for seizures. Thanks to proper veterinary care, she is now stable and thriving. She will need lifelong medication, which she happily takes tucked inside a tiny pill pocket. Aside from her well-managed seizures and some mild age-related vision changes, she's in wonderful health. She has also had a dental, been spayed, and had a benign mammary tumour removed. Lolo is equal parts sweet and sassy! She gets along well with the other dogs in her foster home and is good with respectful children, though her tiny size makes her better suited to a home without very young kids. She hasn't been tested with cats. This little lady loves life! She enjoys zoomies, playing fetch with soft toys, and proudly removing every squeaker and bit of stuffing she can find. When playtime is over, she's happiest curled up in your lap giving kisses or snuggled under the blankets beside you at bedtime. Lotus loves sunny days, leisurely walks filled with lots of sniffing, and spending time outdoors. She has good emerging leash manners and is fully house-trained in her foster home, using either the yard or pee pads. Like many dogs, she may need a little patience while adjusting to a new home, but she's a quick learner. Lolo can be vocal when she hears noises or visitors arrive—not because she's unfriendly, but because she'd much rather be picked up for cuddles! Because of this, a detached home would likely suit her better than an apartment or townhouse. If you're looking for a loving little companion with plenty of personality, Lotus is ready to fill your home—and your lap—with love.
Photo of Minnie

Minnie

Chihuahua

Female, 10 yrs 2 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
MINNIE is currently being fostered in Texas and come to Canada. Minnie is a senior dog. Her paperwork says seven, but she is most likely closer to 10 she weighs 8 1/2 pounds. Minnie came to us after being found as a stray. She was very scared, timid and was missing most of her fur. All of her coat has now grown in and she looks a lot better. She seems to be a lot happier and her body is more relaxed. She wags her tail and gets very excited for breakfast. She prefers mostly wet food. Her teeth are not in bad condition for her age. Minnie is going to be extremely shy at first and will need some time to decompress. She really likes other dogs, especially older dogs that are calm and she would do well in a home that had other dogs to show her that the world is safe and that humans can be kind. We think someone was very mean to this sweet dog at some point in time. When she came to us she was always cowering or in a corner and she would be very scared for you to pick her up. She still tenses her body when you pick her up, but this getting better everyday. She is a work in progress. She is not great on a leash and harness yet and is so frightened of change, new people and places. She just needs help building some confidence and be given a lot of love and grace. She may be a little rough around the edges the first couple weeks in her new home that we promise you that she does warm up, relaxes, does little tail wags, and becomes an absolutely gem with a very loving demeanor once she gets used to her new surroundings. 💎 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.
Photo of Cullum

Cullum

Chihuahua

Male, 2 yrs 5 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
CULLUM is currently being fostered in Southern Ontario. Meet Cullum 🖤 A total mama’s boy with a heart of gold 💙 Cullum is a 2–3‑year‑old, 9‑lb sensitive little soul with a huge heart, just waiting for the right person to love. He may be timid at first, but beneath that shy exterior is a deeply loyal companion who bonds hard and loves even harder. Once you’ve earned his trust, you’ll have his whole heart forever. ❤️ Cullum is the definition of a “mama’s boy.” When he chooses you, he becomes your shadow, your snuggle buddy, your biggest fan. His happiest place is tucked under the covers, curled up close to his person at the end of the day. Because of his past, Cullum is deeply fearful of men and requires a women‑only, child‑free home. Male visitors are fine, but his caregiver(s) must be women so he can feel safe and thrive. One thing that brings Cullum pure joy? Other dogs. He absolutely lights up around friendly, playful pups and becomes a goofy, carefree little guy. He must have at least one playful dog in his forever home — a confident canine friend helps him feel secure, happy, and brave. Cullum has excellent housetraining manners and thrives on routine. He would love a home with a securely fenced yard where he can safely explore and relax. He’s learning to walk nicely on leash, but because he can be easily startled, an escape‑proof harness is essential. He is also crate trained and finds comfort in having a safe, cozy space of his own. Cullum has been through a lot, but he’s ready to give his heart to someone who understands him. With patience, gentleness, and time, he will reward you with a rare kind of devotion — the kind that only comes from a dog who finally feels safe. Once Cullum trusts you, he will love you with a depth and loyalty that is truly extraordinary. If you believe in the beauty of helping a fearful dog blossom into the joyful companion he was meant to be, Cullum might just be your perfect match.

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Dog shelters and rescues in Hamilton, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Ladybird Animal Sanctuary

P.O. Box 80005 RPO Concession, Hamilton, ON L9A 0A6

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

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Shelter

City of Hamilton Animal Services

247 Dartnall Road, Hamilton, ON L8W 3V9

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

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Rescue

Fur Warriors

Hamilton, ON L8W 3B2

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Hamilton Burlington SPCA

245 Dartnall Rd, Hamilton, ON L8W 3V9

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

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Rescue

Hammer City Paws Rescue

Hamilton, ON L8V 4R5

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Hamilton Animal Control

Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y5

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Great Animal Rescue

1710 Main Street West Apt 103, Hamilton, ON L8S 1G6

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Molson's Foster Friends

Flamborough, ON L8N 2Z7

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

The Pride Rescue

Hamilton, ON L8R 1J5

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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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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