Adopt

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.

A pair of dogs

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

Lacey

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 4 yrs 2 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
LACEY / 4Yrs / FEMALE / MIXED BREED / WEIGHT 27 lbs (12 kgs) / Rescued from Barbados / Currently fostered in Ayr, ONGood with dogs and kids Untested with cats, but likely okayHouse and crate trainedMajor medical concerns: noneNote: Missing a small piece of her left ear but completely healedHi everyone! My name is Lacey, and I’m a happy, wiggly, snuggly pup who absolutely loves people. If you sit down, there is a 99% chance I will try to climb into your lap. I take my job as a professional cuddler very seriously. While snuggling with me, you might notice I’m missing a tiny piece of my left ear. Don’t worry—I’m perfectly fine! It just gives me character and memories from my stray days. Life is pretty amazing now. I live with a foster mom who tells me I’m the sweetest dog she’s ever met. I love playing with my dog friend at home—we wrestle, chase each other, and sometimes zoom around the house like we’re racing in the Olympics. When I’m not playing, I enjoy long naps, especially if I can nap on top of a human. The closer the better.I have a special nickname: “The Jumping Bean.” When I get excited—like when dinner is coming—I can spring straight into the air. I’m so good at jumping that I’ve surprised my foster by reaching as tall as they are! Clearly I’m just enthusiastic! I’m great with kids, even tiny ones. I know how to be gentle and calm around them. I also get along with dogs big and small, and I’m very friendly, though sometimes I get too excited and need a reminder not to jump. I’m working on it! I learn fast though, especially when someone gives me attention or a treat.I love going for walks and sniffing absolutely everything. Sometimes I pull a little because I’m just so excited, but I correct easily and I’m always polite when we pass people and dogs. I’m confident, curious, and not scared of loud noises or busy areas. Mind you if I have a choice in the cold weather, I’d prefer to stay inside under a blanket, thanks. I’m also a big fan of toys—especially bones, chew treats, and anything that keeps me busy. I should be supervised with rubber toys because sometimes I get just a little too interested in them. I’m not picky with treats. If it’s edible, I’m thrilled.I’m crate trained, house trained, and very well behaved in the car. When my foster leaves for the day, I settle down in my crate and nap like a champ. I’ve free-roamed a bit, but I actually feel safer in my crate when people aren
We'll also keep you updated on Violet's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Violet

Violet

German Shepherd Dog

Female, 9 yrs 4 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) X-Large 101 lbs (46 kg) or more
Details
-
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/
We'll also keep you updated on Travis's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Travis

Travis

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 4 yrs 2 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
-
Story
TRAVIS / Male / 4 years old / Mixed Breed / 50lbs / Rescued from Hamilton Animal Services / Fostered in TorontoGood with well-balanced dogs / Untested with cats / Older kids only / House and crate trainedTravis is a 4-year-old, medium-sized bundle of energy and enthusiasm who’s ready to leap into his next chapter, with you of course! Travis is a confident, curious, and playful guy who loves trying new things - whether it’s agility, hiking, fetch, or any dog sport you can think of, Travis is all in, even if he’s not a pro at first. What he lacks in polish, he makes up for with heart and determination, and will keep you laughing and smiling all day long. This athletic pup thrives on adventure and would make an amazing partner for someone who enjoys staying active and having fun with their dog. With his higher energy, Travis does best with daily walks, play sessions, and training games to help keep him engaged. The good news? He’s fabulous on walks, especially with his head halter, and loves exploring the world around him.Travis is crate trained, house trained, and can be left alone for stretches of time. He’s mouthy and still learning his manners, but he’s eager to please and enjoys practicing new skills. When meeting new people, he’s excited and friendly (sometimes with a little too much enthusiasm!), but his happy energy makes him a joy to be around. Due to some jumping and mouthy behaviour, he would do best in a home without small kids. Social by nature, Travis loves other dogs, but he can be a bit much at first—think overexcited puppy energy in a grown-up body. Because of this, he’d do best with a confident handler who can help him continue working on polite greetings. Travis could live with another dog, but it would need to be the right fit—ideally a well-balanced dog who’s okay with slow introductions and can match his energy without being overwhelmed. Travis would do well in almost any living environment - apartment, house, or busy neighborhood—as long as he gets enough exercise and structure to keep him happy. With the right balance of activity, patience, and love, Travis will be the ultimate loyal and fun-loving companion. This sweet boy is ready to make you his whole world! Apply to adopt Travis today! https://caninehaven.org/dog-application/Neutered / Microchipped / Vaccinations up to date **PLEASE FILL OUT OUR ADOPTION APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED - https://caninehaven.o
We'll also keep you updated on Jade's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Jade

Jade

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs 1 mo
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Jade / Female / 3 years old / Mixed Breed / 13 lbs / Rescued from Barbados / Fostered in TorontoHouse and Crate Trained / Good with small dogsMay be ok with dog-savvy cats, but would need to be testedMeet Jade - A Quiet Girl Ready To BlossomJade is a sweet, timid girl with the softest scraggly ears, a dusting of silver on her snoot, and little white-tipped paws that make her look permanently dipped in snow. She may have come from sunny Barbados, but she’s handling Canadian winters like a champ — boots and all.Jade is still learning what it means to feel fully safe in the world. She’s not the life-of-the-party type — she’s the quiet observer, the one who wants to be near her people, watching, learning, and slowly building trust.She’s wonderfully gentle — takes treats politely, walks beautifully on leash, and is good with dogs her size or smaller. (She co-exists nicely with the resident senior chihuahua in her foster home). She enjoys her daily walks (and could absolutely be a great hiking buddy in warmer months), but she doesn’t demand endless exercise. At home, she loves curling up on the back of the couch where she can keep an eye on her people and the world around her.Jade feels like a dog with so much untapped potential. Her foster parents have already seen little glimpses — a zoomie before breakfast, a waggy tail at the door, curiosity starting to replace fear on walks. With patience and steady reassurance, she can blossom into a really special dog.Her Ideal HomeJade would thrive in:A quieter homePatient, dog-experienced guardians who understand shy dogsA calm dog companion her size or smaller (optional, but could help her confidence)Dog-savvy children only (older teens would be best)She mastered house training quickly, sleeps in her crate overnight, and is incredibly tolerant with grooming. She can be nervous with larger dogs and in new situations, but she looks to her people for reassurance and is already making progress.Like many dogs adjusting to a big life change, she may need time to feel secure when left alone and to build confidence in the car. What she needs most is consistency, patience, and someone who sees not just who she is today — but who she’s becoming. And when she finds that home? She’s going to be extraordinary!If Jade sounds like your perfect fit, please apply to meet her at www.caninehaven.org/dog-applicationSpayed / Microchipped / Vaccinations
We'll also keep you updated on Orchid (Orca)'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Orchid (Orca)

Orchid (Orca)

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 7 yrs 6 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
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
We'll also keep you updated on Aemon's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Aemon

Aemon

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 2 yrs 3 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
Aemon / Male / Mixed Breed / 2 yrs / 13 kg / Rescued from Barbados / Currently fostered in AjaxCrate and house trained / Good with dogs / Older kids okHe was born with microphthalmia; which is a condition where the eyes are smaller than normal and may be associated with other eye abnormalities. Once shy, now shining — Aemon is ready for his next chapterAemon is a gentle, handsome boy who’s learning that the world (and people) can be kind. He has a sweet, puppyish personality waiting to come out of its shell. A couch potato at heart, Aemon loves his rest, cozy naps, and calm routines, with the occasional burst of playfulness. He also enjoys treats and toys but is happiest lounging nearby, quietly keeping you company.Aemon is a wonderful house dog. He’s calm, respectful, and settles quickly in his crate, especially with a cozy blanket. He can be left alone for short periods and does well sticking to a predictable routine. He walks nicely on leash and continues to gain confidence, improving steadily with each outing. He enjoys being pampered and allows handling for baths and nail trims. While he can be wary of strangers and noisy environments, he has been making progress with reassurance. He hasn’t started working on formal commands yet, but he’s eager, attentive, and responsive in his own gentle way.When meeting new people, he may initially retreat to observe from a safe distance. With patience, consistency, and a calm approach, he slowly opens up and begins to show his affectionate side. He would benefit from living with a dog sibling, as he seems to gain confidence from canine friendships. He hasn’t met cats but does well with the household bunny and shows no prey drive.Aemon would thrive in a calm, loving home with predictable routines and adopters who enjoy being thoughtful, engaged dog parents. A quiet area with access to a securely fenced yard would be ideal. He’s best suited to an adult-only home or one with dog-savvy, older children.If you’re looking for a good-hearted dog who will grow with you and remind you how meaningful great dog parenting can be.Neutered / Microchipped / Vaccinations up to date**PLEASE FILL OUT OUR ADOPTION APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED - https://caninehaven.org/dog-application/ Aemon is waiting for you.

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

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

More an arrow icon

Rescue

SCC Dog Rescue

Whitby, ON L1N 3C7

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Canine Haven Rescue

Ajax, ON L1T 1V8

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Revolutionary Rescue

Whitby, ON L1M 0E9

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Just Paws Animal Rescue

Toronto, ON L1K 1H2

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Boxer Rescue Ontario

P.O. Box 7, Ajax, ON L1S 3C2

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

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!

Image of dog

Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Oshawa, 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