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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 Violet

Violet

German Shepherd Dog

Female, 9 yrs 8 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 Orchid (Orca)

Orchid (Orca)

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 7 yrs 9 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
Photo of Greer

Greer

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs 3 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
GREER / AGE: 3yrs / FEMALE / MIXED BREED / WEIGHT (25lbs and 12kgs) / Rescued from Barbados / Currently fostered in TorontoGood with other dogs with proper introductionsGood with dog savvy kidsUntested with cats but likes to chase so may not be a good fitHouse and crate trainedIf youre looking for a dog who believes life is meant to be lived at full speed (with frequent snack breaks), Greer is your girl. Shes a happy, bouncy bundle of energy who approaches every day like its a partyand youre her favorite guest. Equal parts affectionate shadow and playful goofball, Greer wants to be wherever her people are, preferably involving a game of tug, because in her opinion everything is a tug toy if you try hard enough.Greer is incredibly people-loving and has never met a stranger she didnt immediately want to be best friends with. Her greetings can be a bit enthusiastic (think: OH MY GOSH HI HELLO THIS IS AMAZING!!!), but she settles quickly and is more than happy to trade zoomies for cuddles once the excitement passes. Shes got that classic Velcro dog charmloyal, affectionate, and always checking in to make sure youre still part of her fan club.Smart, curious, and very food and treat motivated, Greer is already making great progress with her training. Shes working on her leash manners and learning that not every passing dog, bike, or squirrel is an invitation to a chase scene. Shes responsive, eager to please, and just needs someone whos ready to keep guiding her as she figures out the world.Greer would thrive in an active home that can match her energy and give her plenty of outlets to play, explore, and burn off steam. She loves other dogs and enjoys playtime, though she can get a little overexcited and forget her manners. At home, Greer settles nicely once her fun quota has been met. She does well with routine, relaxes in her crate, and is perfectly capable of recharging for her next adventure (or snack opportunity). With some guidance and breaks, she does great and just wants everyone to have a good time.Greer is the kind of dog who will make you laugh daily, keep you active, and love you endlessly. If youre ready for a loyal sidekick with a big personality, a bigger heart, and a slightly questionable definition of inside voice, Greer is ready to move in and steal your heart... and probably your socks. If Greer sounds like your new best friend, apply to meet her at www.caninehaven.org/dog-application
Photo of Hubert

Hubert

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 5 yrs 10 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 Tayto

Tayto

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 4 yrs 5 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
TAYTO / AGE 4yrs / FEMALE / MIXED BREED / WEIGHT 38lbs (17kgs) / Rescued from Barbados / Currently fostered in AjaxHouse and crate trainedGood with other dogs and kids 10+Untested with cats but has shown prey driveMeet Tayto Your Loyal, Happy Little ShadowTayto is the kind of dog who lives life with a permanent smile and a quirky tail that never stops wagging to match. If first impressions matter, Tayto has already decided you`re her new best friend. She greets everyone with enthusiasm, warmth, and just the right amount of `Im so excited you`re here!` energy.Her personality is a wonderful blend of social butterfly, playful goofball, curious explorer, and devoted companion. She truly loves being around people and takes her self-appointed role as your shadow very seriously - you go to the kitchen, she goes to the kitchen. You go to the living room, she goes to the living room. You sit down, she`s right there, ready for cuddles. Its less alone time and more together time, which, according to Tayto, is exactly how life should be.Tayto has a moderate to high energy level, so she`s happiest in a home that enjoys a mix of activity and relaxation. She loves walks, especially when she can stop and sniff everything along the way (she considers this very important investigative work). She also enjoys playtime and toys, but she`s just as content winding down afterward for some quality cuddle time.She has a great foundation at home she`s house-trained, crate-trained, and generally well-mannered. Tayto is also confident in new environments, rides nicely in the car, and enjoys meeting new people and dogs on her walks. She does have a bit of a prey drive, so a home without small animals will help set her up for success. The good news is she`s eager, responsive, and already making great progress with training.Socially, Tayto is friendly and affectionate, forming bonds quickly and only becoming more loving with time (and yes, she`s a fan of giving kisses). She would likely do best in a home with older children (10+), as quick or unpredictable movements from younger kids can make her a bit unsure. She gets along well with dogs she knows and enjoys playtime, though she does prefer her meals and cozy resting spots in an area without canine competition.At her core, Tayto is simply a dog who loves deeply and wants to be loved right back. She`s looking for a home where she can be part of daily life, your rout
Photo of Petal

Petal

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 6 yrs 7 mos
Ajax, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
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Story
Petal5 years / Female / Pomeranian + Spitz cross/ ~23lbs or 10kg / Rescued from Barbados / Currently fostered in Omemee, ON• Prefers calm dogs and should not be an only dog• Good with children 13+ • Unknown with cats• Working on house training (pee pad trained)• Crate trainedPetal is a 5-year-old Pomeranian/Spitz mix with a gentle, tender heart. Rescued from a very limited life, she is now discovering what safety, comfort, and love can feel like. Sensitive and cautious by nature, Petal blossoms when she feels secure and shows her sweet, affectionate side through gentle pets, belly rubs, and quietly resting near the people she trusts.Petal thrives in a calm, low-traffic home and needs at least one quiet, stable dog companion to help her feel confident. She is pee-pad trained, crate trained, and still learning her way in the world with patience and routine. She has been enjoying daily off-leash hikes with her foster and loves being outside, happily exploring at her own pace while staying close by.She’s looking for someone who understands her, respects her boundaries, and allows her the space to unfold at her own pace. In a home grounded in experience, patience, and compassion, Petal forms deep bonds and loves wholeheartedly. For her person, she will be endlessly devoted — their whole world. ??Spayed / Microchipped / Vaccinations up to datePLEASE FILL OUT OUR ADOPTION APPLICATION TO BE CONSIDERED -https://caninehaven.org/dog-applicationPetal may be your perfect match.

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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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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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