Adopt

Puppies and dogs in St Catharines, Ontario

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in St Catharines, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in St Catharines, 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 Moonpie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Moonpie

Moonpie

Pointer Hound (Unknown Type)

Male, 2 yrs 3 mos
Niagara Falls, 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
*This dog is fostered in Hamilton*Apply to adopt at rebeldogrescue.com*All adoptions with Rebel Dog Rescue have a 15 day probation period. Read about our adoption process on our website. Moonpie is a wonderful dog whos ready for a fresh start and a calmer, happier chapter. He is well mannered in his kennel, though he may bark at times to ask for attention. Hes a social boy who enjoys connection with his people.He can be a bit timid at first and does best when new people move slowly and introduce themselves calmly and respectfully. Once he feels safe, which often happens fairly quickly, his sweet personality shines through. He enjoys affection, settles nicely, and listens well.Moonpie has had positive off leash interactions with other dogs, including a playful, rambunctious puppy. His play style is more reserved, but he communicates beautifully, offers gentle corrections when needed, and removes himself from situations hes unsure about. He would benefit from a confident, easygoing dog companion who can help build his confidence and show him the ropes.Moonpie came to us as part of a large hoarding case, so its unlikely he had much structure or training early in life. Hes currently working on leash skills and basic training in foster care and is eager to keep learning. With consistency, patience, and positive guidance, he has so much potential to shine.His early life was chaotic and challenging, but Moonpie is ready for stability, kindness, and love. Hes looking for a home that will give him the time, understanding, and encouragement he deserves, and in return, hell offer loyalty, affection, and plenty of heart.Name: Moonpie Breed: Pointer mix Age: ~1.5 years Weight: ~50lbSex: Male, neutered Colour: White Medical: No concerns Good with men: Yes, but shy and warms up quicklyGood with women: Yes, but shy and warms up quicklyGood with kids 0-6: Unknown, not testedGood with kids 7-15: Unknown, not tested but presume yes to kids 10+When the dog meets new people, he: Approaches cautiously, Approaches in a neutral manner, Shy, Does not want to interact at first, but warms upGood with dogs: Yes, happy to co-exist with other dogsHow does this dog react to meeting new dogs? Loose body language, Neutral - will say hello nicely, Avoidant, Needs slow introductionsWhat type(s) of dogs does this dog prefer/be best with? Moonpie has interacted well with different play styles but would prefer a dog that can respect his need for space at first.He would do well with an outgoing but mellow dog that would come say ' Hi! ' from time to time - but could also give him the time he needs to acclimate to his new environment.Good with Cats: NoCrate training: Enters willingly and settles quickly. Amazing overnight in crate House training: YesResource Guarding: This is a work in progress. Moonpie has shown some resource guarding at times and will need clear boundaries, consistency, and ongoing guidance to help reduce this behavior.Walks on a leash: Hes enthusiastic on walks and can pull, especially when something exciting catches his attention due to his prey drive. With consistent training, clear guidance, and patience, he has lots of potential to improve and will do best with someone committed to helping him build calm leash skills.Energy level: Medium, he enjoys adventures but also a good nap.Areas to work on: He is continuing to build skills around leash manners and can be reactive on leash, especially when feeling unsure or overstimulated. He may show some fear-based reactions, get overexcited, and can be vocal at times. He can be cautious around strangers, so ongoing training, structure, and positive exposure will be important. Confidence building is key.What type of environments would NOT be suitable for the dog? Apartment/condo/Townhouse would be not the right fit for Moonpie.Any noted separation anxiety? No, he likes his people but can cope without them.Barker: Average to High at times What would be the ideal home for this dog? Moonpies ideal home would be on the quieter side, with low foot traffic and fewer new people coming and going, while still offering him opportunities for positive socialization and fun adventures at his own pace. He would thrive with a confident, easygoing dog friend who can help show him the ropes and boost his confidence.A home with a fenced yard would be ideal, along with no small animals. Hed love a family thats home often, as cuddling with his people is one of his favorite things. A medium to large dog companion with a medium energy level would be a great match for him.
We'll also keep you updated on Bepsi's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Bepsi

Bepsi

Shepherd (Unknown Type)

Male, 1 yr 7 mos
Niagara Falls, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs special attention, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
This is Bepsi. He is a young dog that was found alone in the rain in Northern Manitoba.When he was saved, he was severely injured, with a massive abscess above his right eye. He was taken to the emergency vet, where it was drained and cleaned, but unfortunately he also suffered a fractured skull. It is presumed that he was attacked by a much larger dog. Bepsi is missing the right half of his brain and will be a special needs dog who may have a limited ability to do normal 'dog' things but still deserves all the love. He loves car rides, chewing and baths. He cannot play normal games like fetch or tug of war but put a toy in his mouth and let him spin and he will have a blast. He loves cuddles and playing with other dogs who can be delicate with him. Due to his traumatic brain Injury he obsessively spins and will require special care for the term of his life. He needs reminders sometimes to stop spinning. You can pick him up, hug him, hold him or give him a toy to chew on in bed. He responds to clicking or snapping sounds to help stop spinning or move him forward. Baby gates, supervision and safety protocols are advised. His life span is not suspected to be affected. Weight: ~40lbs Good with men: yesGood with women: yesGood with kids 0-6: noGood with kids 6+: yesGood with dogs: yes, but with supervision because he doesnt have the reflexes or awareness to move out of their way if they are running Good with cats: yes, Cat friends are perfect for him because they can play with him without restraint or worry of sizing or hurting him.House trained: yes, but has frequent incontinence due to traumatic brain damage. Requires diapers or pee pads and frequent potty breaks. Requires consistent skin care to avoid break down or urine burns due to incontinence.Crate trained: yesResource guarding: noWalks on a leash: he gets tangled easily due to spinning, gets exercise by other means.Energy level: lowRequires detached/single home: noSeparation anxiety: cannot be left alone for long term. When he is left alone for short terms, he shows no sign of separation anxiety Barker: averageIdeal Home: someone who works from home or can be home with him throughout the day. Doesnt require much space. Would be a great ride along buddy for a driver or if he could attend work with owner.Medical:Bepsi is missing the right half of his brain and requires special needs care in areas stated above. He may require ongoing medication to assist with relaxing or reduction of spinning.
We'll also keep you updated on Garnett's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Garnett

Garnett

Chihuahua Dachshund

Female, 12 yrs 3 mos
Niagara Falls, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
*Fostered in the Hamilton region*Apply to adopt at rebeldogrescue.com*All adoptions with Rebel Dog Rescue have a 15 day probation period. Read about our adoption process on our website.Say hello to Garnett - also known as 'Nettie'! This sweet gal was found as a stray. She was in very poor shape and it is clear that she had many litters of puppies. Over the next few weeks Nettie underwent a number of diagnostics and treatments to help make her golden years as happy and comfortable as possible! She would do best in a home with a single person or a couple that is looking for a low-key pup to add to their family. Nettie will need someone who will be patient and allow her to open up. She isn't particularly affectionate or cuddly but this may develop as she builds a bond with her future family. She has recently started to show us that she is a big fan of belly rubs, and is quite a spunky gal! Overall, Nettie is an easy-going gal and is happy to sleep most of the day. She has been known to snap at people/other dogs when enjoying chew treats so would be best with older kids or no kids. She does not like being picked up or held and is happiest snuggled under a blanket on the couch beside you. Adoption fee: $550Name: Garnett (aka Nettie)Breed: Chihuahua mix Age: Senior (listed as 12 years - but presents much younger)Weight: ~11lbSex: Female, spayedMedical: Heartworm positive, undergoing slow-kill treatment; anaplasmosis positive, chronic dermatitis, dental with 7 extractions, mild shoulder degenerative joint disease, 3 malignant mammary tumours removed Good with men: YesGood with women: Yes Good with kids 0-6: No, not good with small childrenGood with kids 7-15: YesWhen the dog meets new people she...Approaches cautiously, Approaches happily/outgoing, Happy tail wag, ShyGood with dogs: Yes, happy to co-exist with other dogsHow does this dog react to meeting new dogs? Neutral - will say hello nicely, AvoidantWhat type(s) of dogs does this dog prefer/be best with? Either no other dogs or dogs of any size that are low energy and will give her space/ignore her Good with Cats: Unknown, not tested but suspect yes with proper intros Crate training: Must be placed in crate, Settles quickly and quietlyHouse training: Working on it - about 75% there - currently using pee pads Resource Guarding: Food/high value treats/some toys - from people and dogs Walks on a leash: Walks well, pulls Energy level: Low-MediumAreas to work on: Touch sensitivityAny noted separation anxiety?NoBarker: Average
We'll also keep you updated on Sesame's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Sesame

Sesame

Labrador Retriever Australian Cattle Dog

Male, 3 yrs 8 mos
Niagara Falls, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Sesame is one handsome fella with a signature furrowed brow that gives him a thoughtful, endearing expression. Youll see this experience a lot because Sesame likes to keep an eye on his humans and makes great eye contact. He is also a really smart guy who enjoys learning new things and staying mentally engaged. He has a rugged muscular build like the athlete he is, but is happy to curl up for a nap after some exercise. He loves tug toys, a game of fetch, and belly rubs. He has a perfect sit and takes treats with a soft mouth. He also walks well on leash and would make a great walking buddy. Sesame would do best with an experienced dog owner and has all the makings of an affectionate and loyal companion. Whether you're looking for a buddy for outdoor adventures to join you at the local watering hole or a friend to share your downtime with, Sesame is eager to join you. Name: SesameBreed: Mixed BreedAge: ~4 years Weight: ~55lbSex: Male, neuteredMedical: No concernsGood with women: Yes, but shy and warms up quicklyGood with kids 0-6: Unknown, not testedGood with kids 7-15: Unknown, not testedWhen the dog meets new people he...Approaches cautiously, Approaches in a neutral manner, Happy tail wag, Rolls on backGood with dogs: Sometimes - can be selectiveHow does this dog react to meeting new dogs?Depends on how the other dog is acting - Loose body language, he can be dominant, and have a stiff body with high tail wag, but he co-exists well with passive dogs What type(s) of dogs does this dog prefer/be best with? Sesame prefers friendly submissive dogs. Does not like small high energy dogs. He started several fights with dogs due to resource guarding issues that did not manifest until he was in the shelter for a few months. We have started muzzle training him in hopes of allowing him more dog socialization while keeping everyone safe.Do you suggest this dog has another dog in the home?No, best as an only dog Good with Cats: No, cannot live with catsCrate training: Unknown - used to kennel environment House training: Unknown - used to kennel environment Resource Guarding: Food/high value treats - from dogs, Toys - from dogsWill resource guard almost anything with other dogs including water and sticksWalks on a leash: Walks well, Has displayed leash reactivity to other dogsEnergy level: Medium - High, he enjoys regular exercise and adventures as well as relaxing calmly in the homeAreas to work on; Fearful of loud noises, resource guarding from other animals, Excitability/jumping up on peopleWhat type of environments would NOT be suitable for the dog? Prefer no apartments/condosAny noted separation anxiety?None notedBarker: Low - AverageDog can be vocal, but not necessarily barking (i.e. howling, whining)What would be the ideal home for this dog?A single dog home with an experienced dog owner. Sesame needs structure, boundaries, and physical and mental exercise. If he has this, I believe he would be an affectionate and loyal companion.Anything else to add?Ive known Sesame since he came to us - sadly, almost 2 years ago. Hes my favorite. Hes a smart dog who is stressed by his long stay. He throws things around in his kennel out of frustration. Hes a working dog with nothing to do. We try to give him extra attention and time out. He loves all our volunteers.We did a DNA test: cattle dog 25%, bully 24%, supermutt 23%, plus boxer, chow, and border collie. Here in Texas we would generally call him a black mouth cur.**Sesame is adoptable through WAG Rescue, based in Wimberley, Texas. He can be transported to Southern Ontario once a committed adopter has been found.**
We'll also keep you updated on Canelo's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Canelo

Canelo

Hound (Unknown Type) Pointer

Male, 3 yrs 2 mos
Niagara Falls, 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
Located in St Catharines Ontario. Apply to adopt at rebeldogrescue.com*All adoptions with Rebel Dog Rescue have a 15 day probation period. Read about our adoption process on our website. Meet Canelo (Nelly)Canelo, affectionately known as Nelly, is a sweet and gentle soul looking for a calm, confident leader to be his guide in life. Under the right leadership, he truly shines trusting his person to direct, guide, and protect him.Nelly is sound-sensitive and feels safest when his owner ensures that other dogs or people dont rush up to him. Sudden approaches can be overwhelming and even terrifying for him. He prefers to take his time getting to know someone as a leader before hes ready to show his affectionate side. With dogs, he builds strong friendships through calm, structured pack walking starting at a safe distance until he learns they are not a threat. Hes easily pushed out of his comfort zone if another dog is overly excited or invades his personal space, so environments like dog parks with unpredictable, high-energy interactions would be extremely stressful for him. Nelly is more of an introvert, preferring calm, structured socialization and taking a cautious approach to most new experiences.Thanks to consistent training, Nellys confidence has grown to the point that he no longer needs anxiety medication having clear rules, structure, and boundaries, along with outlets to drain his mental and physical energy, are all the medicine he needs. He absolutely loves wobble balls and enrichment toys, which keep him happily engaged, and hes fantastic in his crate, which he sees as his place of calm and relaxation.Nelly will thrive in a home that understands the importance of guidance, advocacy, and providing a safe, structured environment. Once trust is built, his affectionate nature blossoms, and he becomes a loyal, loving companion with both people and dogs he knows well.If youre ready to be the calm, steady presence Nelly needs, hell reward you with unwavering trust, endless love, and a bond that only grows stronger with time.Name: Canelo, aka Nelly Breed: Hound mixAge: ~2.5 years Weight: ~50lbSex: male, neutered Colour: White/tanMedical: No concerns, previously on anxiety medication - but no longer required Good with men: Yes, neutral and warms up Good with women: Yes, shy but warms up quickly Good with kids 0-6: Yes, has lived with small kids but looking for a home with older kidsGood with kids 6+: Yes, has lived with small kids but looking for a home with older kidsGood with dogs: YesGood with cats: NoHouse trained: YesCrate trained: Yes, settles quickly and quietly Resource guarding: None seen Walks on a leash: Yes, but can be nervous and needs encouragement Energy level: Medium Requires detached/single home: No, but should not reside in a busy city environment Separation anxiety: None noted Barker: Average
We'll also keep you updated on Pop Pop's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Pop Pop

Pop Pop

Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Male, 11 yrs 3 mos
Niagara Falls, 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
PopPop is fostered in Niagara FallsApply to adopt at rebeldogrescue.com*All adoptions with Rebel Dog Rescue have a 15 day probation period. Read about our adoption process on our website. Pop Pop is that cool grandpa you hope to be like one day. He is well mannered in the kennel, walks great on the leash, takes directions well, and has been friendly with everyone hes met. Hes got a youthful presence and has aged very well - but Pop Pop does also have a few bumps that show his age. He loves to interact and run around with other friendly dogs - and has a great give and take play style. Pop Pop would do best in a moderately active home that could provide at least one good walk each day. He is happy to accept affection and loves his people, but is good at keeping himself entertained with toys or a buddy.Name: Pop PopBreed: Mixed Breed - Terrier mixAge: ~10 yearsWeight: ~41lbSex: Male, neutered Colour: White and black Medical: Dental with extractions due to severe dental disease; Sternum has four raised hairless areas of swelling. The pores in these areas are inflamed and enlarged. When the pores are squeezed cystic material comes out. Suspect benign cysts not of concern. Good with men: Yes, friendly and outgoingGood with women: Yes, friendly and outgoingGood with kids 0-6: Yes, but has not lived with small childrenGood with kids 7-15: Yes, but has not lived with childrenWhen the dog meets new people heApproaches happily/outgoing, Wants affection, Happy tail wag, Loose body languageGood with dogs: Yes, enjoys being around and playing with other dogsWhat type(s) of dogs does this dog prefer/be best with? Pop Pop prefers other friendly / outgoing dogs who don't try to be overly dominant. He is happy to be submissive and let the other dog be the boss as long as it's all in good fun.Good with Cats: Maybe. Pop Pop was cat tested on leash with the cats contained in their kennels. He was curious of and happy to meet them at the kennel - presenting with a loose body. The cats swatted and hissed, so Pop Pop happily backed away and wanted to leave the room.Crate training: Enters crate with some coaxing, Settles after some barking/whiningHouse training: Yes Resource Guarding: None seenWalks on a leash: Walks wellEnergy level: Medium - enjoys regular exercise and adventures as well as relaxing calmly in the homeAny noted separation anxiety? Unknown in home environment Barker: Average

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in St Catharines, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Parents For Paws

St Catharines, ON L2S 2P1

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

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Rebel Dog Rescue

Niagara Falls, ON L2R 2H6

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Niagara Action for Animals

94 Welland Avenue, St. Catharines, ON L2R 2N1

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Humane Society of Greater Niagara

160 Fourth Ave., St. Catharines, ON L2R 6P9

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Pets Alive Animal Rescue Niagara Inc.

St. Catharines, ON L2R 6G4

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Big Paws Rescue

63 McCalla drive, St.Catharines, ON L2N 1A4

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Bruno Project Canada

St Catherines, ON L2M 6L9

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

BTFA Rescue

Vineland, ON L0R 2E0

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Beamsville 4Paw Rescue

Beamsville, ON L0R 1B5

Pet Types: cats, dogs, small animals

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Niagara Dog Rescue

Niagara Falls, ON L2E 5J4

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 St Catharines, 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