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Puppies and dogs in Rhode Island

Looking for a puppy or dog in Rhode Island? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Rhode Island

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Rhode Island. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
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Photo of LENNY

LENNY

Border Collie/Labrador Retriever

Male, 1 yr
Warren, RI
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Hello, My name is Lenny. I am the sweetest boy you have ever met. No one knows how I got on this country road in between the woods. All I know is I am the luckiest fellow around. The person who found me was so nice. She was heading down the road to feed her pack. How lucky, food, shelter, and safety from coyotes. I was happy someone had stopped and talked to me. Upon me coming up to her, my foster mom noticed scrapes on my face, neck, and legs. This is consistent with being tossed out of a moving car. But this trauma has not made me affraid of a car ride, only afraid of climbing in the truck. With time and many car rides, this fear will go away. Psst, cheeseburger rewards are my favorite! I am fully vetted now, dog social, doggy door trained, crate trained, leash trained, and house trained. I know to sit. I do not realize how big I am. My foster mom is teaching me off. Jason (handyman) comes over to fix things and I like to follow him around to see what he is doing. I am curious. My world is lonely without you. Please request an application from alittlelonger2home@gmail.com. Upon receiving the application, please fill out completely including your three references email addresses. Your references cannot be related to you. Lenny Male Neutered Breed Border Collie mix Color Black and white Age 11 months to 1 yr old Weight 65lbs Great with people, older children, dogs. Puppies & cats/ kittens unknown Adoption donation $325 Carlton Rescue- Operation Puppy Love 501c3 (Follow us on Facebook) https://treatva.onelink.me/rVix/RI150 (sign up today and help earn real food and treats for our rescue)
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Photo of MARIGOLD

MARIGOLD

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, Puppy
Cranston, RI
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
MARIGOLD HAS ENTERED THE BUILDING. And apparently, we've all been expecting her. Some puppies arrive a little nervous. Not Marigold. ABSOLUTELY NOT. This 4 month old, 22 pound ray of sunshine marched through our front door like she'd just purchased the building, helped herself to the toys, and introduced herself to everyone. Our rescue partners down South told us there were tears when she left because everyone had fallen so completely in love with her. After approximately 30 seconds, WE GET IT. Marigold is playful, outgoing, wonderfully confident, and somehow both the life of the party and the sweetest little soul. We expect she'll grow into a medium sized dog, with a personality large enough to fill your entire house. We don't know who needs to hear this, but your household may be operating at a dangerously low Marigold level. She's ready for adventures, belly rubs, and a family who appreciates a girl who has never once questioned whether she belongs in the room. Because, darling, SHE IS THE ROOM. Starting the Application Process To begin the adoption process, please fill out an application online and then visit us during adoption hours. Click here to fill out our dog adoption application: https://tinyurl.com/8usxu6bh Click here to fill out our cat adoption application: https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/HORI/Cat Adoption hours take place at: EGAPL Heart of RI, 44 Worthington Road, Cranston, RI. Tuesday: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Wednesday: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM, and Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Submitting an application does not guarantee approval or place an animal on hold. Our team reviews applications carefully to help make the best possible match for both the adopter and the animal. What to Bring With You For an application to be considered complete, we must have all required documents. Please bring or email the following: - Proof of homeownership This may include a tax form, deed, mortgage statement, or similar documentation.ORLandlord approval If you rent, we need a copy of your lease clearly stating that you are allowed to have the type of pet you are applying for, or written and signed consent from your landlord. - Up to date veterinary records, if you currently have pets. Vet records should show proof of current vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery for animals already living in your home. You may bring hard copies with you during adoption hours or email them to HeartofRIAdoption@gmail.com Requirements to Adopt from EGAPL Heart of RI To adopt from us: - You must be a Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont or Maine resident. We are unable to adopt to residents living in Massachusetts due to policies in that state. - You must be at least 21 years old. - Everyone living in the home must be aware of and involved in the adoption.All household members must meet our team before an application can be approved. They do not all need to come in at the same time. - Any current dogs in the home must complete an o Starting the Application Process To begin the adoption process, please fill out an application online and then visit us during adoption hours. Click here to fill out our dog adoption application: https://tinyurl.com/8usxu6bh Click here to fill out our cat adoption application: https://new.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/HORI/Cat Adoption hours take place at: EGAPL Heart of RI, 44 Worthington Road, Cranston, RI. Tuesday: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Wednesday: 3:00 PM 7:00 PM, and Saturday: 10:00 AM 2:00 PM Submitting an application does not guarantee approval or place an animal on hold. Our team reviews applications carefully to help make the best possible match for both the adopter and the animal. What to Bring With You For an application to be considered complete, we must have all required documents. Please bring or email the following: - Proof of homeownership This may include a tax form, deed, mortgage statement, or similar documentation.ORLandlord approval If you rent, we need a copy of your lease clearly stating that you are allowed to have the type of pet you are applying for, or written and signed consent from your landlord. - Up to date veterinary records, if you currently have pets. Vet records should show proof of current vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery for animals already living in your home. You may bring hard copies with you during adoption hours or email them to HeartofRIAdoption@gmail.com Requirements to Adopt from EGAPL Heart of RI To adopt from us: - You must be a Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont or Maine resident. We are unable to adopt to residents living in Massachusetts due to policies in that state. - You must be at least 21 years old. - Everyone living in the home must be aware of and involved in the adoption.All household members must meet our team before an application can be approved. They do not all need to come in at the same time. - Any current dogs in the home must complete an onsite meet and greet with the dog you are hoping to adopt. - Current pets in the home must be up to date on veterinary care and spayed or neutered. Once veterinary records have been reviewed, our team will schedule an onsite meet and greet with the dog you are hoping to adopt and any current dog or dogs in your home. We want to help make sure the match is safe, appropriate, and successful. Please do not bring your dog with you when you first apply. Our team will contact you to schedule a meet and greet if your application is moving forward. Helpful Reminders There is no set timeline for how long it takes to process an application. Our team does their best to review applications as quickly as possible. We kindly ask that you do not send duplicate emails asking for updates, as this can slow down the process.We do not do same day adoptions. Submitting an application does not mean you are approved to adopt a specific animal. We are looking for the best match for each animal based on their needs, personality, age, energy level, medical history, and the home environment. Adoption Fees Adoption fees help us continue to provide lifesaving care to animals in need. EGAPL Heart of RI is a nonprofit animal rescue and does not receive state or federal funding. The cost of veterinary care, food, supplies, staffing, transport, medications, and daily shelter operations has increased significantly.While adoption fees do not cover the full cost of caring for each animal, they help offset a portion of the medical care, housing, and support each pet receives before going home. Every adoption also helps make room for the next animal who needs safety, care, and a fresh start. DOGS Puppies under 1 year: $675 Adult dogs 1 year and older: $575 Dog adoptions include, as age appropriate: Spay or neuter surgery Rabies vaccine Distemper/parvo vaccines given while in our care, based on the dogs age and vaccine schedule Leptospirosis vaccine started while in our care, when age-appropriate Bordetella vaccineInitial deworming Heartworm testing, when age appropriate Microchip Flea and tick prevention or treatment while in our care Basic medical evaluation and care while at EGAPL Adoption counseling and take home guidance Please bring a leash and collar with you at the time of adoption, or ask our team what size is best for your new dog. CATS Kittens under 1 year: $425 Adult cats 1 year and older: $325 Cat and kitten adoptions include, as age appropriate: Spay or neuter surgery Rabies vaccine FVRCP/distemper vaccines given while in our care, based on the cat or kittens age and vaccine scheduleInitial deworming FeLV/FIV testing, when age appropriate Microchip Flea treatment or prevention while in our care Basic medical evaluation and care while at EGAPL Adoption counseling and take home guidance Please bring a secure cat carrier with you at the time of adoption. A Note About Puppy and Kitten Vaccines Puppies and kittens require a series of vaccines as they grow. We provide as many age appropriate distemper vaccines as possible while they are in our care, but young animals may still need additional boosters after adoption.Your adoption counselor will review your pets vaccine record with you so you know exactly what has been done and what may still be needed with your veterinarian. A Note About Leptospirosis Vaccines for Dogs We start dogs and puppies on the leptospirosis vaccine when age appropriate. Because some dogs are adopted before the booster is due, the full lepto series may not be completed before adoption. Your adoption counselor will review your dog's vaccine record with you and let you know whether a booster is still needed with your veterinarian. After Adoption Veterinary Care We recommend setting up an appointment with your veterinarian shortly after adoption. This helps your new pet establish care, allows your veterinarian to review their medical and vaccine history, and ensures they stay on track for any boosters or follow up care they may need. Flea and tick prevention, as well as heart worm prevention for dogs, are typically prescription products. Your veterinarian can help choose the safest and most appropriate preventatives for your pet based on their age, weight, medical history, and lifestyle. Why Adoption Fees Matter Every animal who comes through our doors receives individualized care. Some arrive healthy and simply need vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, and a safe place to land. Others need emergency care, diagnostics, treatment for parasites or infections, dental care, behavior support, special food, foster care, or weeks to months of daily shelter care before they are ready for adoption.Your adoption fee helps support that full circle of care. It helps the pet you are bringing home, and it helps the next animal who needs us. Thank you for choosing adoption and for supporting the lifesaving work of EGAPL Heart of RI.
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Photo of Tater tot

Tater tot

Chihuahua/Jack Russell Terrier

Male, 1 yr
Johnston, RI
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
For an application please go to: Rpacirescue.org. RPACI is a non profit rescue, and currently possess our 501C3 to operate as such. Please visit us on Facebook: Rebecca's Paws and Claws in Remlap and our website: www.rpacirescue.org. All dogs from this rescue are transported from Alabama to the New England area and delivered in RI. Each dog will come fully vetted. Price also includes transportation and a Health Certificate as required by law. There is a 150.00 deposit required at the time of adoption to secure the transport crate. The remainder of the fee will be paid once you pick up the dog. Naturally the 150.00 comes off the total owed at pick up. It will be refunded if for any reason you decide you do not want to adopt, unless the transport has already left.with the dog. To get a application please go to: saveapreciouspaw@gmail.com 🥔 Meet Tater Tot! 🐾❤️ Tater Tot is a 1-year-old Chihuahua/Jack Russell mix with a sweet personality and a whole lot of love to give! This little guy is as adorable as his name and gets along well with other dogs. He’s ready to find a loving family who will give him the happy, safe forever home he deserves. Could Tater Tot be the missing piece of your family? 🏡💕
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Photo of Peanut

Peanut

Jack Russell Terrier/Chihuahua

Female, 1 yr
Johnston, RI
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
For an application please go to: Rpacirescue.org. RPACI is a non profit rescue, and currently possess our 501C3 to operate as such. Please visit us on Facebook: Rebecca's Paws and Claws in Remlap and our website: www.rpacirescue.org. All dogs from this rescue are transported from Alabama to the New England area and delivered in RI. Each dog will come fully vetted. Price also includes transportation and a Health Certificate as required by law. There is a 150.00 deposit required at the time of adoption to secure the transport crate. The remainder of the fee will be paid once you pick up the dog. Naturally the 150.00 comes off the total owed at pick up. It will be refunded if for any reason you decide you do not want to adopt, unless the transport has already left.with the dog. To get a application please go to: saveapreciouspaw@gmail.com 🐾 Meet Peanut! 🥜❤️ Peanut is a 1-year-old Jack Russell mix with a sweet personality and a playful spirit! He loves having fun and gets along well with other dogs. This adorable boy is ready to find a family who will give him the love, attention, and forever home he deserves. If you’re looking for a fun-loving companion to add a little extra happiness to your life, Peanut might just be your perfect match! 🏡🐶
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Photo of Cash

Cash

Shih Tzu/Maltese

Male, 1 yr 6 mos
Johnston, RI
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
For an application please go to: Rpacirescue.org. RPACI is a non profit rescue, and currently possess our 501C3 to operate as such. Please visit us on Facebook: Rebecca's Paws and Claws in Remlap and our website: www.rpacirescue.org. All dogs from this rescue are transported from Alabama to the New England area and delivered in RI. Each dog will come fully vetted. Price also includes transportation and a Health Certificate as required by law. There is a 150.00 deposit required at the time of adoption to secure the transport crate. The remainder of the fee will be paid once you pick up the dog. Naturally the 150.00 comes off the total owed at pick up. It will be refunded if for any reason you decide you do not want to adopt, unless the transport has already left.with the dog. To get a application please go to: saveapreciouspaw@gmail.com 🐾 Meet Cash! 💙 Cash is a small Shih Tzu mix, around 1–2 years old, who was rescued and is now looking for a family to call his own! He’s a sweet little guy who gets along well with other dogs and would love the chance to be someone’s loyal companion. If you’re looking for a small dog with lots of love to give, Cash might just be your perfect match! 🏡❤️Cash is ready to cash in on his happily ever after! 🐶
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Photo of Fiona

Fiona

Miniature Poodle

Female, Senior
Foster, RI
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Princess Fiona is ready for the good life! This beautiful poodle-mix is around 13 years old and weighs 12 pounds. Fiona was found in a swamp in Connecticut over the summer. When no one claimed her, we brought her to VPR for a fresh start. Over the past few months, Fiona has made incredible progress. While she was once fearful and aloof, she has grown into a much more confident, affectionate girl. These days, she greets newcomers with a wagging tail, seeks out attention, and happily asks for pets. Fiona does not seem to enjoy being picked up or held, but she is a great companion and will follow you around between naps. She’s a great mix of independent and affectionate, enjoying your company while also appreciating her own space. Fiona gets along well with the other dogs, but will show her teeth/gums if a dog wanders over to a bed she’s occupying. This behavior seems to be her way of asking for space so she can nap in peace. When Fiona first arrived, she was malnourished and covered in so much matted fur that she needed a full shave. Since then, her soft curls have grown in beautifully, and she’s reached a healthy weight. Fiona was also anemic and suffering from severe dental decay. With a nutritious diet and medication, her anemia improved, and she was able to have her dental surgery. All but four teeth were removed, and she feels so much better now that she is no longer in pain. Fiona also has a grade 4 heart murmur and stage B1 mitral valve disease. No medication is needed at this time, but we recommend an annual echocardiogram to monitor her heart health. She also remains slightly anemic, which should continue to be monitored as well. Fiona is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and recently had full bloodwork. If you’re interested in adopting Fiona, please complete an application at https://www.vintagepetrescue.org/adopt

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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in Rhode Island.

Puppies and dogs in Rhode Island cities

Shelters & rescues in Rhode Island

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Save A Lab

Middletown, RI 02842

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Potter League for Animals

87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown, RI 02842

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

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Rescue

Mutts4rescue

PO Box 509, Portsmouth, RI 02871

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Pitter Pat Junction, Rhode Island transport

Little Compton, RI 02837

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Friends of Homeless Animals of RI, Inc.(FOHA)

Saunderstown, RI 02874

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

North Kingstown Animal Shelter

395 Hamilton Allenton Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Southpaws Express

Slocum, RI 02877

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Animal Rescue RI

506B Curtis Corner Rd, Peace Dale, RI 02883

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Shelter

Bristol Animal Shelter

10 Minturn Farm Road, Bristol, RI 02809

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Project Safe Pet

Bristol, RI 02809

Pet Types: dogs

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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!

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Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Rhode Island

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