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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 Mara's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Mara

Mara

American Bulldog

Female, Adult
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Mara is a stunning 3-year-old American Bulldog mix who recently returned to our care—and she’s been her happy, friendly self ever since! The moment she saw familiar faces, her whole body lit up. She’s been soaking up affection from staff and reminding everyone just how special she is. Mara was returned through no fault of her own. She has a high prey drive toward cats and small animals, which couldn’t be safely managed in her previous home. Because of this, Mara may need a cat-free home with no small animals. When it comes to dogs, Mara may do well with a canine companion given slow, supervised introductions. She enjoyed meeting our test dog here at the shelter, though thoughtful matching is important—especially with other dominant female dogs. This sweet girl is loving, social, and truly shines when given structure, consistency, and positive guidance. She’s smart, active, and will thrive with daily exercise and mental enrichment. Mara walks nicely on leash, and continued obedience training is highly recommended—not only to build her social skills, but also to strengthen the bond with her future family. A professional trainer who worked with Mara shared this: “She is the sweetest, softest dog on the planet. She’s extremely responsive to gentle vocal correction and truly loves positive reinforcement.” Mara can be a bit nervous at first, and may bark at strangers or other dogs, but with calm, confident guidance and proper introductions, she does wonderfully. Because of this, we believe Mara would do best in a home (not an apartment) with more space and a less busy environment to set her up for success. If you’re willing to offer patience, consistency, and love, Mara will reward you with unwavering loyalty, affection, and a truly special companionship. Could Mara be the one you’ve been waiting for? 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 Bridgette's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bridgette

Bridgette

Labrador Retriever

Female, 3 yrs
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Bridgette is a 3-year-old, medium-sized mixed breed (possibly a Lab cross) with a sweet soul and an easygoing nature. She came to the shelter as an unclaimed stray, but it’s clear she’s ready to leave her past behind and start a new chapter with a loving family. This lovely girl is well-mannered in her kennel, truly enjoys human company, and greets everyone she meets with enthusiasm and affection. Bridgette has also enjoyed a playful romp with a male dog and may do well in a home with another friendly canine companion. Overall, she seems to be a fairly even-keeled, well-tempered dog who could fit nicely into many different home environments. Because her history is largely unknown, especially around young children, a home with older kids or adults may be the best match for her. Bridgette appears to have had a litter in the past, and now it’s her turn to be doted on and cared for. Bridgette would benefit from obedience classes to help her build new skills and polish her manners. She’s very food-motivated, making positive reinforcement training a great and fun way for her to learn. She would love daily neighborhood walks or weekend hikes—especially fitting, since she was found near the beautiful Albion Falls! If you’re looking for a friendly, affectionate, and adaptable companion, Bridgette might just be your perfect match. She’s patiently waiting to find a forever family to share her happy, balanced spirit with for the rest of her life. Please complete an adoption application: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Bridgette has an appointment to be spayed on January 8th. She will be ready for her forever home after she has recovered 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
We'll also keep you updated on Bounce's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bounce

Bounce

Hound (Unknown Type)

Male, Young
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
If enthusiasm had four legs and a wagging tail, it would be Bounce! Bounce is an approximately 1-year-old unclaimed stray with a huge heart and an even bigger personality. He might announce himself with a few barks when meeting new people, but give him a moment and—boom!—he transforms into a playful, affectionate goofball who’s eager for attention and love. When Bounce first arrived at the shelter, he was understandably nervous and overwhelmed. Handling was tough at first, and it’s clear that the shelter environment was stressful for him. Since settling in, though, Bounce has shown us who he really is: a sweet, energetic young dog who wants to connect and learn. Dog-friendly superstar! Bounce interacts well with other dogs and does an excellent job respecting corrections—an awesome sign that he has solid canine communication skills. He may do great with another friendly, well-mannered dog who can match his energy and help guide his play. Smart, but still learning Bounce knows some basic commands but would truly shine with obedience classes to work on leash skills, manners, and consistency. Ongoing socialization and confidence-building with new people will help him become the well-rounded dog he’s meant to be. Active & ready for adventure Bounce is a high-energy boy who will need plenty of physical exercise and mental enrichment to keep him happy and out of trouble. With structure, enrichment, and love, he’s going to thrive. The bottom line: Bounce is a wonderful young dog brimming with potential. Give him patience, guidance, and a chance—and he’ll give you loyalty, laughs, and a whole lot of love in return. Complete an adoption application and see if he’s the perfect match for you! 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 Ginny's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Ginny

Ginny

Jack Russell Terrier Pug

Female, 3 yrs
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
✨🐾 Meet Ginny: Small Dog, Big Personality! 🐾✨ Ginny may be pint-sized, but don’t let that fool you—this approximately 3-year-old Jack Russell Terrier X is packed with spunk, smarts, and confidence. She arrived at the shelter as a stray (with a mystery backstory we may never solve) and, sadly, was never claimed. Now she’s ready to claim a home of her own. True to her JRT roots, Ginny is friendly, social, and active. She loves meeting people and happily greets everyone like they’re her long-lost best friend. She’s a nice balance of outgoing and calm, but she definitely comes with that classic Jack Russell zest for life. Ginny already knows how to sit, but she’s also known to jump up and pull on leash—enthusiasm is kind of her thing. Continued obedience training will help polish her manners, and the good news is she’s smart and eager, making her a great candidate for training with consistency and patience. While she did well meeting another young dog at the shelter, Ginny can be a bit of a bossy boots with other dogs. She’s confident, direct, and expects others to respect her boundaries—especially around food. She communicates clearly without escalating, but she does best with slow, controlled introductions and dog friends who match her personality and respect her leadership style. Despite her smaller size, Ginny needs a family ready to provide daily exercise and mental enrichment to keep her happy and healthy. She’ll thrive in a home that understands and appreciates the quirks of a Jack Russell Terrier—because with Ginny, what you see is what you get: bold, bright, and full of character. If you’re looking for a fun, feisty, and loving companion who knows her mind and isn’t afraid to share it, Ginny just might be your girl. 💕🐶 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 Envy's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Envy

Envy

Labrador Retriever Shepherd (Unknown Type)

Female, 4 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
📬 Special Delivery: Envy (a.k.a. Envelope!) 🐶💌 Neither rain nor snow nor finding herself at a post office could stop Envy from delivering joy straight to your heart! This 3-month-old pup—aptly nicknamed Envelope—was discovered at a post office and is now officially ready to be mailed into her forever home (no stamps required). Envy is currently thriving in her foster home, where she’s proving to be a fast learner. She’s doing great with crate training and house training, and since she’s very food-motivated, teaching her new skills is a breeze—just consider treats her preferred currency. This little package is curious and playful with kids, always gentle and appropriate, and while she has some typical puppy “express delivery” mouthing, she’s easily redirected to toys (chew toys = her favorite parcels). With other dogs, Envy is playful but polite—happy to engage, and equally happy to give space when asked. Her energy level is medium-high, making her a perfect match for a home that enjoys walks, playtime, and puzzle toys. She walks well on a leash, loves playing with toys, and—after a busy day of deliveries—knows exactly how to curl up and cuddle like a pro. Most of all, Envy is a playful little love bug who adores her humans and wants to be part of everything you’re doing. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will stick to you like a return address, Envy is ready for pickup. 📦 Apply now—this is one package you won’t want to miss! 💕 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 Falkor's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Falkor

Falkor

Golden Retriever Husky

Male, 3 yrs 6 mos
Hamilton, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Needs special attention, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Falkor is a stunning 3.5-year-old Golden Retriever x Husky who’s ready to find his forever home! This handsome boy came to the shelter as a stray and, although no one came looking for him, he hasn’t let that dampen his joyful spirit one bit. Falkor is albino and may be deaf, but don’t let that fool you—this confident, friendly guy is full of life, love, and personality. In fact, he already knows sit and shake a paw, and he shines brightest when working with hand signals. He’s super food motivated and absolutely lives for tennis balls, making future training a fun and rewarding adventure for both of you. Because Falkor likely can’t hear, he navigates the world through visual cues and touch. He isn’t bothered by loud noises, but he does appreciate a gentle heads-up before touch—think vibrations, visual signals, or letting him see you approach. Once he knows you’re there, he’s all in for affection and interaction! Consistent hand signals, positive reinforcement, and a clear visual “yes” (like a thumbs up) will help him thrive. Falkor will do best in a home with a secure, fenced backyard, as recall can be tricky for dogs who rely on sight instead of sound. He’ll need daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep his body and mind happy—but after playtime, he’s more than content to relax on his blankets, chew on his toys, and soak up the love. This sweet, social boy has a wonderful temperament and so much love to give. Falkor is looking for a family who understands that his hearing impairment comes with unique needs—and who is excited to embrace them as part of everyday life. With patience, consistency, and commitment, Falkor will be an incredibly rewarding companion. Falkor recently tested positive for Lyme disease and is currently undergoing additional testing to ensure he gets the best possible care. Lyme disease in dogs is transmitted by ticks and, when caught early, is often very manageable with treatment—many dogs continue to live happy, active lives with proper veterinary care. Falkor isn’t broken—he’s just a little different, and a whole lot special. Could you be the family he’s been waiting for? And yes… he really does look just like Falkor from The NeverEnding Story. Please complete an adoption application: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/animals-pets/adopt-or-foster-pet/adoptions Falkor has a future appointment to be neutered on January 27th. His adopters must be willing to return him for 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

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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:

Shelter

Australian Cattle Dog Rescue of Ontario

762 Upper James Street, Box 249 , Hamilton, ON L9C 3A2

Pet Types: dogs

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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

DIBS Rescue - Hamilton

Hamilton, ON L8P 4Y5

Pet Types: 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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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