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Puppies and dogs in Kitchener, Ontario

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

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Adopt a dog in Kitchener, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Kitchener, 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 Missy

Missy

Standard Poodle

Female, 5 yrs 8 mos
Kitchener, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
CAMBRIDGE, ON - Thank you for your interest in Missy. By the time she came to SPIN, she had already been through at least three homes and none of it was her fault. Her most recent owner took her in with the best of intentions, only to discover, after the fact, that Missy came with an unclear medical history and was very anxious about being left alone or in a crate. Despite caring for Missy and trying to make it work, her owner knew that Missy’s need for steady companionship and dislike of her crate were more than her household could manage. She reached out to SPIN, and we said “yes” without hesitation.
Photo of Lilli - Kitchener

Lilli - Kitchener

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 yrs 6 mos
Kitchener, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
Lilli is a soft-hearted summer sweetheart with the energy of a firefly-lit evening! This girl may start out a little shy when meeting new people, preferring to dip her toes into friendship slowly rather than cannonball right in. But with patience, kindness, and a few meet-and-greets, Lilli begins to bloom like a wildflower in July sunshine. Once she knows she’s safe, get ready for the full Summer Lilli Experience! We’re talking joyful zoomies across the yard, playful bursts of energy, and then dramatic flops beside you for snuggles after all the excitement is over. And kisses? Oh yes. Lilli believes affection should be delivered generously and enthusiastically, preferably in the form of smooches straight to the face.Lilli is looking for a patient and understanding family who will let her set the pace as she builds confidence in the world around her. In return, she’ll give you the kind of love that feels like golden hour on a perfect August evening: warm and impossible not to smile about.If you’re searching for a loyal companion with heart and enough sweetness to rival a melting popsicle on the porch, Lilli may just be your perfect summer match! Come by the shelter and meet this girl today.IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:50 lbs HOME TYPE:House or Townhouse- No apartments as she can be quite nervous of new environments. CHILDREN:No- Adult only home due to nervousness, touch sensitivity and pushy/jumpy behaviour.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Yes- Cats potentially compatible with slow proper introduction.OTHER DOGS:No- Due to her experiences in a previous home, Lilli would do best as the only dog in the household. She was uncomfortable living with another dog in her former home and would truly thrive as the center of attention and your one-and-only canine companion.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:First time dog owner possible that is willing to work through nervous behaviour.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:At least two in-person training sessions to work on socialization, basic training, desensitization and manners.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Can be very nervous of new people and likes to take her time to warm up. After a couple meets she is snuggling right up and wanting belly rubs.FAVOURITE THINGS:Loves to spend her time with the people she is c
Photo of Onyx-Kitchener

Onyx-Kitchener

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 3 yrs 1 mo
Kitchener, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
Meet Onyx! A shiny gem of a dog with a heart of pure gold and enough wiggles to power a small city. This happy-go-lucky boy lives life like every day is the best day ever, and honestly? He may be onto something. Onyx loves to greet his favourite people with full-body wiggles and the sort of joyful energy that makes you feel like a celebrity arriving on the red carpet. He absolutely adores people and believes every new friend is simply someone he hasn’t gotten kisses from yet.Whether he’s bouncing around on an adventure, soaking up attention, or proudly trotting by your side like your personal shadow, Onyx brings sunshine wherever he goes. His playful spirit and goofy nature make him impossible not to love. This boy also has an affectionate side and he’s always ready for cuddles after the excitement winds down.If you’re looking for a best friend with a sparkling personality, Onyx is ready to rock your world!IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:94 lbs.HOME TYPE:House or Townhouse- No apartments or shared walls, as Onyx can be vocal at times. CHILDREN:Yes- Older Children with large dog experienceCATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Yes- Cats potentially compatible with slow proper introduction.OTHER DOGS:Yes- Dogs potentially compatible.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:First time dog owner possible, provided they are willing to work on difficult behaviours such as separation anxiety and manners. TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Two in-person training sessions required to work on socialization, basic training and separation anxiety. HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social.FAVOURITE THINGS:Getting all the attention. He will stand in-between your legs to get butt scratches!For more information on any behaviours stated above, please check out our behaviour fact sheet: https://kwsphumane.ca/BehavioursandDefinitionsAt HSKWSP we do not assign our dogs or cats with a breed as we cannot guarantee the specific breed that they are. All dogs are labelled as small, medium and large breed and cats are labelled as DSH, DMH and DLH based on their characteristics.***NOTE*** Please remember that animals are coming back from foster care to the centres for their meet and greets. They will be experiencing a new environment and meeting new people,
Photo of Maple - Kitchener

Maple - Kitchener

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 yrs 2 mos
Kitchener, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
Meet Maple, the sweetest little syrup drizzle of a dog you’ll ever meet! This affectionate girl is happiest when she’s with her people, whether she’s curled up beside you for a cozy afternoon nap or trotting around proudly with her favourite toy in tow. Maple’s signature move? Fetch, of course! This girl plays like she’s training for the Olympics and will happily chase a ball until she’s all tuckered out and ready to melt into your side like butter on pancakes. While Maple has a heart as warm as a stack of fresh pancakes, new places and unfamiliar surroundings can make her a little nervous at first. She’s looking for a patient and understanding family who will let her set the pace as she becomes her most confident self. With kindness and a little time, Maple is sure to blossom into your new best friend!If your home could use a little extra warmth and wagging tails, Maple may just be the perfect addition to your family tree!**This dog’s adoption fee has been reduced to help them find their forever home! Applicants will still need to complete our regular adoption process and meet all of this pet’s requirements to be approved**IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:68 lbs.HOME TYPE:House or Townhouse- No apartments or shared entrances due to nervousness and reactivity.CHILDREN:No - Adult only home. Maple is a large dog who can be very mouthy at times.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:No - Due to prey drive.OTHER DOGS:No - Maple has shown reactivity while in the shelter and would be best suited to a home where she is the only animal.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:Maple will need an experienced dog owner who is familiar with behaviours typical of high-drive dogs like herding/shepherd type breeds.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Three in-person training sessions to work on socialization, manners, basic training, general anxiety and reactivity.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Once comfortable Maple is very human social and loves to be with her people!FAVOURITE THINGS:Laying in the sun shine, long walks, playing fetch, and snuggles.For more information on any behaviours stated above, please check out our behaviour fact sheet: https://kwsphumane.ca/BehavioursandDefinitionsAt HSKWSP we do not assign our dogs or cats with a breed as we cannot
Photo of Bodhi - Kitchener

Bodhi - Kitchener

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 3 yrs 8 mos
Kitchener, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
Bodhi is a happy-go-lucky guy with a zest for life and a serious case of the wiggles. From the moment he’s out and about, his personality shines, he’s friendly, enthusiastic, and always ready for whatever adventure comes next. Whether he’s zooming around or engaging in a game with his favorite toys, Bodhi brings big “let’s have fun” energy wherever he goes. He’s an active boy who loves to explore and interact, but he also enjoys moments of connection and working together with his people. Bodhi clearly enjoys learning and engaging, it’s all part of the fun for him. Bodhi would be a great match for someone looking for a lively companion and a love for doing things together. If you’re searching for a dog who makes every day feel a little more like recess, Bodhi might just be your perfect teammate!**This dog’s adoption fee has been reduced to help them find their forever home! Applicants will still need to complete our regular adoption process and meet all of this pet’s requirements to be approved**IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:66 lbs.HOME TYPE:Any.CHILDREN:Yes- Bodhi is potentially compatible with older children who have experience with large dogs. Due to his size and enthusiastic play style, he is best suited for kids who are comfortable with big, energetic companions.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:No- Due to high prey drive.OTHER DOGS:Yes- Dogs potentially compatible.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:His new family ideally should have previous large dog experience and be willing to work on difficult behaviours such as general anxiety.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:At least two in-person training sessions to work on socialization, basic training, manners and anxiety. HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social. Bodhi loves tummy rubs and will always seek out people he is comfortable with for attention. FAVOURITE THINGS:Loves playing with toys! FOSTER AND FIELD TRIP INSIDER INFO: (please note that dogs may behave different in foster`s care than adopter`s care and the following cannot be guaranteed)HOUSE TRAINING:Yes, Bodhi does great with housetraining. CAR MANNERS:Bodhi loves the car, and sticking his head out the window.LEASH MANNERS / ON WALK MANNERS:He can pull when he gets excited, but he re
Photo of Bug-Kitchener

Bug-Kitchener

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 4 yrs 1 mo
Kitchener, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
Bug is a loveable girl who believes there`s no such thing as too many scratches or pets. She`s endlessly affectionate, always ready to lean in for cuddles or flop over for belly rubs. Don`t let the sweetness fool you though, this smart girl knows a handful of fun commands and loves showing them off for attention (and maybe a treat or two). Equal parts snuggle bug and clever pup, Bug brings joy wherever she goes!**This dog’s adoption fee has been reduced to help them find their forever home! Applicants will still need to complete our regular adoption process and meet all of this pet’s requirements to be approved**IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:51 lbs. HOME TYPE:House or Townhouse- No apartments as Bug can be vocal at times.CHILDREN:Yes- Older children potentially compatible.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Yes- Cats potentially compatible with slow proper introduction.OTHER DOGS:Yes- Dogs potentially compatible. ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:First time dog owner possible, but large dog experience preferred. Bug has little to no prior training and will need her new family to start with the basics. She will benefit from consistent, positive reinforcement training to help her learn appropriate behaviors and build a strong foundation for success in her new home.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Two in person training sessions to work on socializing, manners, basic training and possible separation anxiety.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social. Can have a hard time being alone.FAVOURITE THINGS:Ball toys, playing fetch, treats, training time/learning, belly rubs, rolling in the grass.For more information on any behaviours stated above, please check out our behaviour fact sheet: https://kwsphumane.ca/BehavioursandDefinitionsAt HSKWSP we do not assign our dogs or cats with a breed as we cannot guarantee the specific breed that they are. All dogs are labelled as small, medium and large breed and cats are labelled as DSH, DMH and DLH based on their characteristics.***NOTE*** Please remember that animals are coming back from foster care to the centres for their meet and greets. They will be experiencing a new environment and meeting new people, which means they may not exhibit the same behaviours they did in their foster videos or whi

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Dog shelters and rescues in Kitchener, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

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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Shelter

Danes in Distress

1309 Michael Crescent, Cambridge, ON N3H 2R1

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Standard Poodles In Need, Rescue - Kitchener

Kitchener, ON N2M 3R3

Pet Types: dogs

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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

Canadian Royal Potcake Rescue

cambridge, ON N3C 0C8

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Rescue Dogs Match

6-425 Hespeler Rd, #375, Cambridge, ON N1R 8J6

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Cambridge & District Humane Society

1650 Dunbar Road, Cambridge, ON N1R 8J5

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

Halfway Home K9 Rescue - Cambridge

Cambridge, ON N1R 6Z5

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Ontario Britts Rescue

Waterloo, ON N2V 2J2

Pet Types: 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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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