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Puppies and dogs in Oshawa, Ontario

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

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Adopt a dog in Oshawa, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Oshawa, 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 Magnus

Magnus

Standard Poodle

Male, 3 yrs 3 mos
Oshawa, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
OSHAWA, ON - Magnus is a 3-year-old standard poodle who has been loved every day of his life. But when the owner’s health and mobility declined, and a move was on the horizon, they made the decision to reach out to SPIN, as they could no longer meet Magnus’s exercise and mental enrichment needs. Magnus is currently in his foster home and his foster family has been nothing short of amazed by his intelligence and playfulness.
Photo of Violet

Violet

German Shepherd Dog

Female, 9 yrs 9 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
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Story
Meet VIOLETVIOLET / AGE: 9 yrs / FEMALE / BREED: GERMAN SHEPHERD and HUSKY MIX / WEIGHT: 90lbs (41kgs) / Currently fostered in WARKWORTH, ONGood with other dogs, older children and farm animals (cows and horses)NO Cats pleaseHouse trainedMajor medical concerns: NoneMeet Violet, a gentle soul with a quiet charm that’s impossible to resist. At around nine years young, Violet is gracefully stepping into her golden years and searching for a peaceful retirement home where she can be cherished as much as she’ll cherish you.Unlike most dogs, Violet doesn’t bark — she speaks. Her soft vocalizations are reserved for special moments, like mealtime, which she absolutely adores. She’s had two TPLO surgeries, so she prefers short, leisurely walks, but that doesn’t stop her from playing with her favourite squeaky toys in the yard. Her playful spirit still shines through, especially when she’s surrounded by the things she loves: treats, food, and squeaky balls.Violet is wonderfully social and carries herself with the grace of a seasoned hostess. Off-leash, she’s Miss Congeniality, getting along beautifully with other dogs and greeting people with friendly curiosity. Her personality is a lovely blend of curiosity, intelligence, and quiet affection. She’s also impeccably clean and fully house-trained, making her an easy and delightful companion.Her ideal home would be in a quiet rural or suburban setting — she’s comfortable around cows and horses, but cats and city life aren’t her cup of tea. A secure, fully fenced yard would give her the outdoor space she’s used to, and she’d love to share her days with another calm, balanced dog. Violet thrives in a mature household, preferably without young children, though older teens are just fine. She would be happiest with someone who works from home or is retired, someone who has time to share with her and is looking for a loyal companion to walk through life together.If you’re looking for a sweet, soulful friend who will fill your home with love and gentle companionship, apply to meet Violet at www.caninehaven.org/dog-application. She is waiting patiently to meet you!Spayed / Microchipped / Vaccinations up to date**PLEASE FILL OUT OUR ADOPTION APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED -https://caninehaven.org/dog-application/
Photo of Knox

Knox

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 3 yrs 5 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
Knox / 3 years old / Male / Mixed Breed / ~30 lbs (13.5 kg) / Currently fostered in MarkhamBest as the only pet / Good with respectful older children / No cats or small animals / House-trained and settles well with daily exercise and enrichmentMedical concerns: Knox is scheduled for upper canine extractions (August 14, 2026)Some dogs quietly settle into your life. Knox arrives with a wagging tail, a toy in his mouth, and enough enthusiasm to remind you that every day is an adventure waiting to happen.This happy-go-lucky guy is full of personality. He loves his people, loves to play, and is happiest when he`s included in whatever you`re doing. Whether it`s heading out for a long walk, playing fetch in the yard, working on a puzzle toy, or simply following you from room to room, Knox is all in. He`s the definition of a Velcro dog, always wanting to be close to the people he loves.Knox has the sweetest little quirks, too. His tiny ears bounce with every step, and because he`s missing a few lower teeth, he has an irresistibly goofy smile that perfectly matches his joyful personality.He`s incredibly friendly with people and genuinely enjoys meeting new friends. After he`s had a chance to burn off some energy, his favourite place is curled up beside you on the couch, soaking up all the cuddles he can get.Knox is looking for an active home that can keep both his body and brain busy. Two good walks a day, playtime, and enrichment activities help him be his happiest self. He`s very food motivated, eager to learn, and already knows basic cues like `sit` and `come.` Like many young dogs, he`s still working on managing his excitement, which can sometimes show up as jumping or gentle mouthing, and he`s building confidence with spending time home alone. He`s already making great progress with consistency and positive reinforcement.Knox would do best as the only pet in the home. While he can pass other dogs politely on walks when everyone gives each other space, he prefers not to share his home with other animals. He also has a prey drive, so a home without cats or small animals is the best fit. Because he can get excited and bouncy, he`d do best with respectful older children who understand dog boundaries.Knox has so much love to give and is ready to find a family that will embrace his playful spirit, continue his training, and include him in everyday life. In return, you`ll get an endlessly loyal c
Photo of Snarf

Snarf

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 5 yrs 1 mo
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
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Story
SNARF / FEMALE / CHIHUAHUA MIX / 5 YRS / 8 LBS / CURRENTLY FOSTERED IN ONTARIOGood with other dogs / Would enjoy a playful dog companion or dog friends nearby / Not recommended for seniors or families with young children / House-trained / Comfortable with free roam / Good on leash / Best suited to a home where alert barking can be managed / Not recommended for condo or shared-wall livingIf you`re looking for a tiny dog with a huge personality and an even bigger heart, Snarf might just be your girl.Snarf is eight pounds of adorable Chihuahua sass, curiosity, adventure, and charm. With her sweet underbite, expressive little face, full-face kisses, and funny demand digs when she wants your attention, she has a way of making herself impossible not to love.Snarf is smart, playful, food-obsessed, and always ready for an adventure. She loves toys, exploring, running around, and spending time with her people and canine friends. Once she`s settled in, she can also be wonderfully snuggly -- but like any true Chi, affection is on her terms.Snarf can be cautious when meeting new people and dogs, but give her some time and you`ll quickly see her personality shine. She really enjoys having dog friends and would love to have another playful dog in her home. If that`s not possible, regular opportunities to play with friendly dogs in the neighbourhood would be a great fit. She can absolutely thrive as an only dog as long as she is included in everyday family life and gets plenty of companionship, attention, and opportunities to socialize.Snarf has moderate-to-high energy for a little dog. She loves a good walk, playtime, exploring, and running around with her dog friends. A backyard isn`t necessary -- a nearby green space and a longline are perfect for giving her a safe place to stretch her legs and burn off her zoomies. Once she`s had her exercise and enrichment, she`s happy to settle down and relax.Snarf is house-trained, good on leash, comfortable with free roam, and has no significant behavioural concerns. She knows some basic commands and is continuing to work on focus and alert barking. Like many Chihuahuas, she can be vocal when something catches her attention, so she would do best in a home where her alert barking can be managed without concern for close neighbours. For this reason, condo or apartment living with shared walls would not be the best fit for her.Snarf isn`t a purse pooch. She`s a funny, a
Photo of Hubert

Hubert

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 5 yrs 11 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
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Story
HUBERT/ MALE / 5-7 yrs old / Mixed Breed / 70lbs / Rescued from Hamilton Animal Services / Fostered in OshawaHouse and Crate TrainedOlder or dog savvy kids only pleaseNO cats pleaseHi, I’m Hubert — and we might be perfect for each other.Hi there! I’m Hubert. I’m a happy fluffy boy with a whole lot of personality. I’ve been told that I`m “distinguishingly handsome,” and I absolutely love being close to my humans. If you sit down, I’ll be right beside you… and if you let me, I’ll happily curl right up on top of you. Personal space? Never heard of it.I’m a very loving dog — cuddly, friendly, playful, and always excited to be part of whatever you’re doing. I love going for walks, running around the yard, and playing fetch with my favourite squeaky pig. I also love sniffy games, treat puzzles, and anything that makes me use my brain. After some activity, I’m great at settling in and relaxing. Honestly, I give world-class couch snuggles.I’m also a pretty smart guy! I know lots of tricks and commands, and I learn fast. Training together is one of my favourite ways to bond. I sleep quietly in my crate all night, I’m totally house-trained, and I’ve been really well-behaved staying home on my own during long work shifts.I do have a few things I’m still working on. Other dogs get me very excited and a little overwhelmed, so I need a confident human who can help me manage that on walks and give me lots of space from other pups. I would be happiest as your only dog — I want all your attention, anyway! I can also get a bit protective of really tasty treats or favourite toys, but with someone who understands dog body language, I do great.When new people come in the door, I’ll let you know they’re there, but as soon as they’re inside, I’m ready to make a new friend. I’ve met kids of different ages; I’m very sweet, but because I’m big and like being close, I’d do best with older kids who are confident around dogs.At home, I’m a mix of goofy, cuddly, and gentle. I love routine, I love attention, and I love being someone’s buddy. I’m not perfect, but I’m full of love — and with a patient, kind, dog-savvy family, I know I’m going to be the best companion.If you’re looking for a loyal, affectionate dog who will follow you around, make you laugh, and snuggle with you every evening, I think we should meet. I can’t wait to find my forever family.Love,Hubert Neutered / Microchipped / Va
Photo of Orchid (Orca)

Orchid (Orca)

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 7 yrs 11 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
ORCHID/ Female / 5 years old / Mixed Breed / 18kgs;40lbs/ Located in Trent Hills, ON Good with dogs and older, dog savvy kids / No cats please / Crate and house trained Hey there! My name is Orchid! Just like the beautiful flower, I can also be seen as a symbol of strength and good luck. Coming all the way from Saudi Arabia with a past life on the streets, I was reluctant to trust humans when I first arrived. Passing all of my recent training with flying colours, I am very eager to get back into the world and share my love with a new family. I am looking for adventure with someone who is playful and enjoys exploring. I’ve been told I walk well on a leash and have excellent recall skills… all I really know is that if it means I get yummy treats, I am happy to oblige. Lots of exercise and mental stimulation are important to keep me happy, and learning new tricks is one of my favourite pass-times. Stuffies are no match for me- I love to show ‘em who’s boss and have the fluff fly everywhere! I get along with other well-balanced dogs, and enjoy an environment where I can run and play around with doggy friends. I would do well in a home with another dog who can match my playful energy and help me learn to make the most out of domestic living. No cats please! I would however be fine with respectful, dog savvy teenagers. I can be cautious and nervous around strangers at first, and take a little longer to warm up to men, but with time and patience I can learn to trust and be comfortable with new people. My new family should be committed to continuing my training and helping me continue to build confidence. My ideal family lives in a quieter area (rural or suburban), as city noise is too overwhelming for me. A backyard to play in would definitely be a bonus! My paws are crossed for an understanding, patient family who can help me continue to learn, trust and reach my full potential. Fostering is a fun and rewarding way to have a trial run with one of our of dogs. All supplies are provided, including a dedicated support team member, and you even get first dibs at adopting your foster pup. Contact foster@caninehaven.org for more information on our foster and foster to adopt process. Apply to foster or foster-to-adopt Orchid today: https://caninehaven.org/foster-application/ Spayed / Microchipped / Vaccinations up to date *PLEASE FILL OUT OUR APPLICATION TO CONSIDERED- https://caninehaven

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Dog shelters and rescues in Oshawa, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Durham Region Animal Centre

1505 Wentworth Street, Whitby, ON L1N 0H9

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

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Rescue

SCC Dog Rescue

Whitby, ON L1N 3C7

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Canine Haven Rescue

Ajax, ON L1T 1V8

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Revolutionary Rescue

Whitby, ON L1M 0E9

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Just Paws Animal Rescue

Toronto, ON L1K 1H2

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

LOYAL Rescue

14B-1822 Whites Road, Suite 327, Pickering, ON L1V 0B1

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