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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.
We'll also keep you updated on Apollo's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Apollo

Apollo

Belgian Malinois

Male, 2 yrs 7 mos
Hamilton, ON
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
Apollo is a 2.5-year-old Malinois/Mastiff mix with a big brain, big energy, and an even bigger heart. He came to us as a stray, but he’s now ready to blast off into his forever home with the right co-pilot by his side. This handsome guy thrives on mental and physical stimulation—Apollo doesn’t just want a walk, he wants a mission. Training sessions, structured exercise, enrichment toys, learning new skills… that’s his happy place. When he’s bored, he may invent his own entertainment (and trust us, you probably won’t approve), so an active, engaged household is a must. Apollo knows sit and is eager to learn more, but he’ll benefit greatly from consistent obedience training. He can pull on leash and greets people with enthusiastic gusto, so clear boundaries and guidance will help him channel that excitement into good manners. The good news? He’s smart, motivated, and absolutely capable of becoming an exceptional companion with the right structure. He did wonderfully meeting other dogs and may do best with a canine buddy who can help burn off energy and show him the ropes. A confident dog sibling could be the perfect workout partner. Apollo is not a beginner dog, but for someone experienced with high-drive, high-energy dogs, he’s a dream in the making. If you enjoy working with dogs that are smarter than most people, love training as bonding time, and see the journey as part of the fun—you’ll find Apollo incredibly rewarding. With patience, consistency, and daily outlets for both his brain and body, Apollo will repay you with loyalty, devotion, and endless enthusiasm. He’s looking for someone who understands that greatness takes investment—and is excited to build something amazing together. Ready for a little adventure? Apollo is waiting. 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 Lucky's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lucky

Lucky

American Bulldog

Female, 2 yrs 1 mo
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hi, I’m Lucky — thanks for coming to my interview! Interviewer: Lucky, tell us about yourself. Lucky: Great question. I’m a 2-year-old Lab / American Bully mix with lots of energy, a big personality, and an even bigger love for life. If there’s something happening, I want to be part of it. If there’s nothing happening… I can help fix that Interviewer: What’s a perfect day for you? Lucky: Adventures! Walks where I get to sniff everything, training time (especially if snacks are involved), and play sessions with my true love: tennis balls. Squeaky ones. Bouncy ones. If it squeaks and flies, I’m obsessed. Other toys? Meh. Tennis balls have my heart. Interviewer: Do you know any commands? Lucky: I do! I know sit and paw already—pretty impressive, right? I’m super food-motivated and really eager to learn more. I’ll admit, though, I can get excited and strong, especially on leash. That’s why continued obedience training is important for me. With consistency, structure, and positive reinforcement, I’m going to shine. Interviewer: What kind of home are you looking for? Lucky: An active one! I’d love a family who enjoys staying busy, going on outings, and including me in their daily routine. I need both mental and physical exercise every day to keep my energy balanced and my brain happy. Training + fun = my dream life. Interviewer: How do you feel about other dogs? Lucky: I came in with another dog, so having a canine buddy might help me burn off energy—but slow, supervised introductions are the way to go. I like thoughtful approaches. Interviewer: Anything adopters should know about your past? Lucky: I’m starting fresh. My past had some inconsistency—no real routine, not much structure, and a lot of figuring things out on my own. Things like house manners and crate training may be new to me or need a refresher. What I really need now is clear boundaries, predictable routines, and someone who knows dogs and wants to help me grow. Interviewer: Final thoughts? Lucky: I have so much potential. With the right person—someone patient, active, and excited about training—I’m going to be an incredible companion. If you’re ready to put in the time, energy, and love to help me be my best self…I just might be the girl for you Interview concluded. Tennis ball requested. 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 Kiki's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Kiki

Kiki

Mixed Breed (Medium) Hound (Unknown Type)

Female, 3 yrs 11 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
KIKI – Mexi-Hound Mix / 2.5 years / 17 kg / F-Spayed We asked Kiki's foster parents the secret to her success, and it just comes down to the right match! Kiki is so incredibly smart and thrives when in learning mode. Combined with her passion for activity, this girl will soar! Exercising her body and her mind give this girl her glow! She would make a great running partner and would appreciate a 5k in her day. She is great on a leash, and as her favourite mode is "let's go!" a jog would be fab for her. Her training foundation is solid - she knows a ton of commands, is great in the house, has good leash manners: where her new people will have fun with her training is with agility or other mind/body programs. In her downtime, she is very cuddly and happy to be with her people. Some dogs may find her a bit extra, so we think she'd be happiest as the solo dog in the home, provided there are a ton of toys and playtime. If you are looking for an adventure buddy in your life, Kiki could be for you! Please check out the adoption process and application at www.dibsrescue.com. Her adoption fee is $750. If you are a family with older kids, please check out our resources on kids and dogs before you apply. (https://dibsrescue.com/kids-dogs)
We'll also keep you updated on Chloe's adoption status with email updates.
Bonded Pair
Photo of Chloe

Chloe

Boston Terrier Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 yrs 2 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
🐾 Meet Our Boston Terrier Mix Besties! 🐾 Double the love. Double the wiggles. Double the cuddles. 💕 Chloe and Oriel are a bonded pair of 2.5-year-old Boston Terrier mixes searching for their forever home — together. Their connection is truly special, and they give each other so much confidence and comfort. ✨ Chloe (brown and 26lbs) is the social butterfly with the BIGGEST butt wiggles for everyone she meets. She’s outgoing, silly, and ready to be your best friend instantly. ✨ Oriel (black and 25 lbs) is more laid back and takes a little time to connect, but once she chooses you, she is incredibly affectionate and devoted. Both girls are people-loving and happiest when close to their humans — or snuggled up side by side for a cozy nap. They get along beautifully with dogs, cats, and kids. They enjoy playtime, short walks, and plenty of cuddle breaks. True to their Boston roots, they’re playful and goofy, but they also appreciate a comfy couch and a good snooze. 🛋️ They are crate trained (and happily sleep together at night), house trained, and leash trained. Their foster family does not crate during the day. They may bark when someone arrives and get very excited for visitors (hello, pets please! 🙋‍♀️), but they settle quickly. They’re working on keeping all four paws on the floor — and since they are very food/treat motivated, continued training should be a breeze! 🍪 🩺 Health Notes: • Oriel tested positive for Anaplasma (a tick-borne illness) but is symptom-free. The vet has advised no treatment is needed, though she may test positive for years. • Chloe has a small black spot on her eye that has been vet-assessed and is simply pigmentation. These sweet girls thrive with routine, love, and consistency. If you’re ready to open your heart and home to two loyal companions who will always have each other’s backs, Chloe and Oriel are waiting. 💞 Double the love really is better. 🐶🐶
We'll also keep you updated on Oriel's adoption status with email updates.
Bonded Pair
Photo of Oriel

Oriel

Boston Terrier Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 yrs 2 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
🐾 Meet Our Boston Terrier Mix Besties! 🐾 Double the love. Double the wiggles. Double the cuddles. 💕 Chloe and Oriel are a bonded pair of 2.5-year-old Boston Terrier mixes searching for their forever home — together. Their connection is truly special, and they give each other so much confidence and comfort. ✨ Chloe (brown and 26lbs) is the social butterfly with the BIGGEST butt wiggles for everyone she meets. She’s outgoing, silly, and ready to be your best friend instantly. ✨ Oriel (black and 25 lbs) is more laid back and takes a little time to connect, but once she chooses you, she is incredibly affectionate and devoted. Both girls are people-loving and happiest when close to their humans — or snuggled up side by side for a cozy nap. They get along beautifully with dogs, cats, and kids. They enjoy playtime, short walks, and plenty of cuddle breaks. True to their Boston roots, they’re playful and goofy, but they also appreciate a comfy couch and a good snooze. 🛋️ They are crate trained (and happily sleep together at night), house trained, and leash trained. Their foster family does not crate during the day. They may bark when someone arrives and get very excited for visitors (hello, pets please! 🙋‍♀️), but they settle quickly. They’re working on keeping all four paws on the floor — and since they are very food/treat motivated, continued training should be a breeze! 🍪 🩺 Health Notes: • Oriel tested positive for Anaplasma (a tick-borne illness) but is symptom-free. The vet has advised no treatment is needed, though she may test positive for years. • Chloe has a small black spot on her eye that has been vet-assessed and is simply pigmentation. These sweet girls thrive with routine, love, and consistency. If you’re ready to open your heart and home to two loyal companions who will always have each other’s backs, Chloe and Oriel are waiting. 💞 Double the love really is better. 🐶🐶
We'll also keep you updated on Pauly's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Pauly

Pauly

Chihuahua

Male, 2 yrs 1 mo
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Currently fostered in Texas. Pauly is approximately 2 to 3 years old and 8.7 pounds. He is timid when meeting new people for a short period and acts a little shy but very quickly warms up and acts like such a sweet baby boy. He is great with all other animals, due to his shy nature and instinct to run when he feels threatened, we ask no small young children under 8 years old. He will not bite a child he just would probably be very timid with a young hyper child. Once he comes out of his shell, though he is very funny and extremely playful. He plays a lot with the other dogs and loves toys. He is a gentle soul. He will walk on leash and harness wearily and nervously once he gets to know you but this has to be done with extreme caution as he is a nervous nelly in new situations. A fenced yard or fenced area to potty the first couple days to a week would be ideal however if that is not possible and he needs to be on a leash and harness we suggest using a leash and well fitted harness along side leash and collar so he is double protected if he tries to run. I promise he does warm up very quickly and becomes SUCH a mamas boy within a few days. He will need a belly band in the home until he is fully potty trained , however he never makes a mess in his kennel at night so I think potty training will be an easy task with love, kindness and patience. He has been through quite a lot and needs stability and love . I adore this kid and love his little stocky build 💕 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.

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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

Hamilton Burlington SPCA

245 Dartnall Rd, Hamilton, ON L8W 3V9

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

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Rescue

Fur Warriors

Hamilton, ON L8W 3B2

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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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

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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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 Hamilton, Ontario 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