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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.
Bonded Pair
Photo of Tegan

Tegan

Shih Tzu

Female, 6 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
These two precious Shih Tzu girls have already overcome more than any dog ever should. They were among a group of 13 dogs rescued from severe neglect, where they were found suffering from sarcoptic mange. Thanks to dedicated veterinary care and the love of an incredible foster family, these sweet girls have made an amazing transformation and are now ready to begin the next chapter of their lives together. One thing is very clear: they are happiest side by side. They play together, cuddle together, and comfort one another in their crate. Their bond is truly special, and we are looking for a family who will keep them together so they can continue to thrive. Their foster home has helped them blossom. They are crate trained in the house and enjoy spending time outside in their secure pen, where you'll often find them happily playing with their favorite toys. They are gentle, well-behaved little girls who have discovered that life can be fun. The slightly larger of the two is the more confident leader. She's playful, curious, and helps reassure her smaller companion. The little one is incredibly affectionate and, with her foster family's patience and encouragement, has really started to come into her own. Watching her confidence grow has been a joy. Both girls are sweet, loving, and absolutely adore their toys. They are ready for a family who will continue to show them kindness, patience, and all the wonderful things they missed out on early in life. Their treatment for sarcoptic mange has been completed, covering the full life cycle of the mites. As part of their continued care, their adopters will be responsible for follow-up veterinary care, including a skin scraping with their own veterinarian in approximately four weeks to confirm they are completely clear. If you're looking for a pair of loyal little companions who will fill your home with love, laughter, and twice the cuddles, these beautiful girls may be the perfect match. They have survived the worst and are now ready to experience the very best with a family they can finally call their own. Please complete an adoption request: 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
Photo of Oakley

Oakley

Shepherd (Unknown Type) Australian Cattle Dog

Male, 3 yrs
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
Have you ever met someone who says, "I don't trust you"... and then five minutes later is leaning against you asking for butt scratches? That's Oakley in a nutshell. This handsome 3-year-old Shepherd x Heeler mix arrived at the shelter as a stray, and although no one came looking for him, we're determined to find him the forever family he truly deserves. When Oakley first came to us, he wasn't feeling his best. He arrived with an injury to his front leg that may have been the result of being hit by a car. After a trip to the veterinarian, some medication, and plenty of TLC, he's feeling much better. He may occasionally have a little lingering soreness, but it certainly doesn't stop him from enjoying life. Oakley is what we'd call... selectively social. New people? "Hmm... I'm going to observe you from a safe distance first." Familiar people? "Oh hey! I was actually hoping you'd scratch behind my ears." He isn't the type to throw himself into your lap on the first date. Oakley believes in building meaningful relationships. Once you've earned his trust, you'll discover an affectionate, loyal companion with a gentle nature and an occasional goofy streak that reminds you not to take life too seriously. Being a Shepherd x Heeler mix means Oakley comes equipped with a deluxe brain package. He's already mastered "sit" and is eager to keep learning especially if treats are involved. Puzzle toys, sniffy walks, training games, and adventures with his favorite humans are right up his alley. Keeping both his body and mind busy will help this clever guy thrive. When it comes to other dogs, Oakley showed us he's quite the gentleman. He had a positive meeting with another respectful dog and may enjoy living with a calm canine companion who understands that personal space is a wonderful thing. Think "friendly roommate" rather than "constant wrestling partner." Now... let's address Oakley's greatest superpower. His ears hear approximately everything. A mysterious noise? A leaf that moved suspiciously? The dishwasher making that weird sound? Oakley would simply like a moment to process the situation before deciding whether it's friend, foe, or just... the recycling bin. Because sudden noises and unfamiliar people can still make him a little uneasy, Oakley would be happiest in an adult-only home where life is a bit more predictable and introductions can happen at his pace. In return, you'll receive one incredibly loyal companion who forms deep bonds, enjoys peaceful walks, appreciates quiet evenings, and has perfected the art of giving soulful looks that say, "I think you're my favorite human." Oakley isn't searching for someone who expects instant friendship. He's searching for someone who understands that the very best relationships are worth waiting for. If you're looking for a smart, sweet, slightly quirky best friend with a heart as big as his ears, Oakley is patiently waiting to meet you. Please complete an adoption request: 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
Photo of Honey

Honey

Labrador Retriever American Bulldog

Female, 3 yrs 7 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
A soft-hearted sweetheart bursting with life, joy, and love, Honey is the kind of dog who will quietly steal your heart and never give it back. This three and half year-old lab cross' happy spirit shines through in everything she does, from her enthusiastic sniff-filled adventures to the way she lights up around her favourite people. In the home, Honey is an absolute dream. She’s calm, affectionate, beautifully behaved, and a total crate superstar. She settles easily, loves being near her people, and has that comforting, gentle presence that makes a house feel more like home. Out in the world, Honey’s happiest place is a quiet park with plenty of room to roam, sniff, and explore at her own pace. Give her open space, a peaceful trail, or a calm suburban stroll, and you’ll see her relaxed, engaged, and happily trotting alongside you with her curious nose to the ground. Watching Honey enjoy the simple things in life like soft grass, fresh air, and a good sniffing route is pure happiness. Honey is a sensitive girl, and busy streets full of noise, traffic, bikes, and close-up dogs can feel overstimulating for her. Because of this, she’s looking for a patient, dog-savvy adopter who lives in a quieter suburban or country setting and can help her manage her leash reactivity. The beautiful thing? Through it all, her love for people never wavers. Her temperament with humans is truly exceptional as she is sweet, trusting, affectionate, and full of heart. Honey doesn’t need a perfect home, but she does need one where close encounters with the canine kind will be minimal. In return, Honey promises unwavering loyalty, joyful adventures, endless cuddles, and the kind of love that feels extra special because it’s been earned. 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
Photo of Lilah

Lilah

Rhodesian Ridgeback Mastiff

Female, 2 yrs
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hi! I'm Lilah, and I'm currently accepting applications for my forever family. A few things you should know about me: I firmly believe that personal space is overrated. If you're sitting down, congratulations — you've just become my couch buddy. If I can fit on your lap, I'm going to give it my best shot. My hobbies include squeaking soft toys, solving the incredibly important puzzle known as "How do I get these treats out of this Kong?", and collecting compliments about what a good girl I am. I'm pretty polite on leash! I like to walk out front to see what's happening, but I listen when my person asks me to slow down. Since I'm still a young lady, I'd love to keep learning with some training classes. I hear they're a great way to earn snacks! My energy level is low to medium, which means I'm always up for an adventure, but I'm equally happy hanging out with my people afterward. I came to the shelter as an unclaimed stray, and while I have some scars on my head and legs that hint at a story we'll probably never know, they don't define who I am. What does define me is my sweet, gentle heart. The shelter staff absolutely adore me and honestly, the feeling is mutual. I was a rock star during my medical exam, letting everyone handle me without a fuss. Apparently, not everyone enjoys blood draws... but I figured being brave was the way to go! I may even enjoy having a calm, polite canine roommate one day, as long as we're introduced nice and slowly. So, if you've been searching for a loyal sidekick, an expert cuddle consultant, and a dog whose greatest ambition is simply to love her people with her whole heart, I think we should meet. I promise to bring the snuggles, the squeaky toy entertainment, and the unconditional love. All you have to do is bring me home. Please complete an adoption application: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Lilah has an appointment to be spayed on July 15th. She will be ready to go to her forever home after this 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
Photo of Sadie

Sadie

American Bulldog

Female, 1 yr
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Sadie is an adorable one-year-old Bully mix with a heart full of love and a zest for life! She arrived at the shelter as a stray and, sadly, was never reclaimed. While her past is a mystery, she's ready to leave it behind and start her next chapter with a family of her own. When Sadie first arrived, she was understandably nervous in the shelter environment. It didn't take long for her sweet personality to shine through, though! Once she gets to know you, she'll greet you with an enthusiastic full-body wag and plenty of affection. She loves spending time with people she trusts and is eager to make new friends. As a young dog, Sadie is full of energy and still has plenty of puppy-like enthusiasm. She can be bouncy, jumps up when she's excited, and pulls on the leash, so she'll benefit from continued obedience training to help her become the best companion she can be. The good news? Sadie is highly motivated by both food and toys, making training a fun and rewarding experience for both her and her new family. Sadie will thrive in an active home that can provide her with plenty of daily exercise, enrichment, and mental stimulation. She's an affectionate, social girl, but she's also a busy body who will do best with structure, routine, and clear guidance. With consistency and patience, she's sure to blossom into an amazing lifelong companion. Sadie may enjoy having a confident, high-energy canine companion who can match her playful spirit and help burn off some of that youthful energy. Due to her jumpy nature and unknown history, a home without small children is recommended. If you're looking for a fun-loving, affectionate young dog who's ready to learn and eager to share her love, Sadie might just be the perfect match. With a little training, plenty of exercise, and a family committed to helping her succeed, Sadie is sure to become a loyal and loving best friend. Please complete an adoption request: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Sadie has a future appointment to be spayed. She will be ready to go to her forever home after recovering from this 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
Photo of Sara

Sara

Shih Tzu

Female, 6 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
These two precious Shih Tzu girls have already overcome more than any dog ever should. They were among a group of 13 dogs rescued from severe neglect, where they were found suffering from sarcoptic mange. Thanks to dedicated veterinary care and the love of an incredible foster family, these sweet girls have made an amazing transformation and are now ready to begin the next chapter of their lives together. One thing is very clear: they are happiest side by side. They play together, cuddle together, and comfort one another in their crate. Their bond is truly special, and we are looking for a family who will keep them together so they can continue to thrive. Their foster home has helped them blossom. They are crate trained in the house and enjoy spending time outside in their secure pen, where you'll often find them happily playing with their favorite toys. They are gentle, well-behaved little girls who have discovered that life can be fun. The slightly larger of the two is the more confident leader. She's playful, curious, and helps reassure her smaller companion. The little one is incredibly affectionate and, with her foster family's patience and encouragement, has really started to come into her own. Watching her confidence grow has been a joy. Both girls are sweet, loving, and absolutely adore their toys. They are ready for a family who will continue to show them kindness, patience, and all the wonderful things they missed out on early in life. Their treatment for sarcoptic mange has been completed, covering the full life cycle of the mites. As part of their continued care, their adopters will be responsible for follow-up veterinary care, including a skin scraping with their own veterinarian in approximately four weeks to confirm they are completely clear. If you're looking for a pair of loyal little companions who will fill your home with love, laughter, and twice the cuddles, these beautiful girls may be the perfect match. They have survived the worst and are now ready to experience the very best with a family they can finally call their own. Please complete an adoption request: 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

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

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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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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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