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Puppies and dogs in Sumter, South Carolina

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

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Adopt a dog in Sumter, South Carolina

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Sumter, South Carolina. 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 Chilli's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Chilli

Chilli

Lancashire Heeler Blue Heeler

Female, 8 mos
Sumter, SC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hi! I’m a little Queensland Heeler — fast feet, big heart, endless wiggles Hi friends! It’s me — your speedy May baby, the Queensland Heeler pup who zooms everywhere, wiggles constantly, and truly believes life is one big adventure. I’m so excited to finally tell you my story in my own words. I’m still young and full of energy, and I’m learning all about the world. What I know for sure is this: I’m smart, athletic, and I love being involved in everything my people are doing. My brain works fast, my legs work even faster, and my heart? It’s huge. Sometimes my energy can seem like a lot — but with the right family, it’s actually just right. I’d thrive in a home where my zoomies are celebrated, my curiosity is encouraged, and my eagerness to learn is guided with patience and fun training. I’m the kind of girl who wants to play, explore, learn new things, and be your little adventure buddy through it all. When I picture my perfect day, it starts with movement and fun and ends with quiet time. After a long day of playing, I dream of curling up right next to my person — someone who looks at me and says, “That’s my girl. She’s perfect just the way she is.” What I’m really searching for now is a forever home — a family who sees my energy as joy, my curiosity as brilliance, and my heart as something worth loving forever. In return, I promise loyalty, enthusiasm, laughter, and a whole lot of love. I’ve got so much to give… and I’m just waiting for someone to give me a chance. With hope, love, and endless wiggles,Your little Heeler girl ##2593890##
We'll also keep you updated on Coal's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Coal

Coal

Dachshund Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Male, 7 yrs 3 mos
Sumter, SC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Coal Coal is a 7-year-old gentleman with a calm soul and a heart full of loyalty. He’s the kind of dog who thrives on companionship—happy to follow his person from room to room, nap near warm feet, and simply be present in your daily life. Coal is heartworm negative, neutered, and fully vetted, and he’s ready for a home that appreciates a laid-back, affectionate companion. House Manners & Marking:Coal does have a tendency to mark indoors, which we believe is habit-based rather than anxiety-driven. The good news? He has no issue wearing a belly band and does great with it. We are actively working with him to help curb this behavior through routine, structure, and positive reinforcement—and he continues to make progress. Coal will do best with a patient, understanding adopter who knows that some habits can be managed while training continues. With consistency, guidance, and love, Coal has everything he needs to succeed. Why Coal is special:• Calm, easygoing temperament• Affectionate and people-oriented• Low-energy, perfect for a relaxed home• Happy to be your quiet shadow and couch companion Coal isn’t looking for perfection—just a family who will see him for the good boy he truly is and meet him where he’s at. In return, he’ll give unwavering loyalty, comfort, and love. Fostering in Sumter, SC Message us to learn more about Coal and see if he’s the right fit for your home. Lucky Paws Rescue – Be the Bridge ##2553791##
We'll also keep you updated on Hope's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Hope

Hope

Mutt Labrador Retriever

Female, Senior
Sumter, SC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Here’s a little about my dog, Hope. I got her from my brother in New Mexico when I was pregnant with my son, and I didn’t realize how hard it would be to care for a dog and a young child at the same time. Since moving to South Carolina, she’s developed severe allergies that require medications I can’t afford. She has to wear a cone 24/7 to keep her from licking herself raw. She takes allergy chews, but they don’t help much, and the other medications that could help are expensive. She’s 11 years old and needs more care and comfort than I can give right now. Hope is great with kids and warms up to people quickly. Once she likes you, she wants to be by your side and loves sleeping in the same room as you. She doesn’t let me do her nails at home, so I take her to a groomer for trims and she does great there. She also doesn’t like fireworks or storms, so we give her anxiety chews during bad weather to help her stay calm. I’m hoping to find her a loving home that can meet her needs.
We'll also keep you updated on JOHN's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of JOHN

JOHN

German Shepherd Dog

Male, 11 mos
Sumter, SC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet John (aka “Puppy”) — A Big Heart Looking for His One True Forever Sometimes, even when love is real, life changes. John — lovingly called Puppy — is coming back to Lucky Paws Rescue through no fault of his own. His family’s world shifted quickly with a pregnancy and a job transfer, and they made the heartbreaking decision to return him so he can find the stability and permanence he deserves. And make no mistake… this boy is pure joy wrapped in fur. John is sweet, affectionate, and overflowing with happiness. He gives all the kisses, all the cuddles, and all the love. If there’s an open lap, a couch corner, or a cozy spot near his people, he will find it — because cuddling is his favorite thing in the world. He’s also fast. Like… blink-and-he’s-gone fast.John lives for zoomies — racing joyful laps around the yard, playfully chasing other dogs (even though he usually laps them and ends up chasing from the front ). He’s been raised with medium to large dogs and does wonderfully with them, happily and respectfully submitting to both male and female dogs. John is fantastic with children. He’s lived with a toddler and a baby and has been nothing but gentle, patient, and loving — never a growl, never irritation, just a big-hearted puppy who wants to be part of the family. He is energetic, and like any smart, young dog, he needs an outlet for that energy. When he doesn’t get enough stimulation, he’ll entertain himself — chewing, digging, or finding his own “projects.” He will thrive in a home that understands puppies need structure, exercise, enrichment, and consistency. What breaks our hearts the most is that John has already experienced what it feels like to belong… and now he’s starting over. We are begging — pleading — for a permanent, committed home for this boy. Not a “for now.” Not a “we’ll see.”But a forever. John is not disposable.He is not temporary.He is love. He is loyalty. He is joy. If you are ready to give him stability, patience, guidance, and a lifetime of cuddles and adventures — John will give you his whole heart in return. Please help us make sure this is the last time he has to say goodbye. ##2360073##
We'll also keep you updated on Pepper Crew - Habanero's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Pepper Crew - Habanero

Pepper Crew - Habanero

Setter (Unknown Type) German Shorthaired Pointer

Male, 4 mos
Sumter, SC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hi! I’m Habanero — small but mighty, with just the right amount of spice Hi friends! My name is Habanero, and I’m the tiny trailblazer of the Pepper Crew. I might be the runt of the bunch, but don’t let my size fool you — my heart is big, my spirit is brave, and my personality? Extra spicy. I love following my sister Cayenne on all her adventures, and sometimes I even lead the way myself. Exploring the world is one of my favorite things! I’m playful, curious, and always ready to see what’s around the next corner. After a full day of puppy business, though, I’m more than happy to switch gears and settle in for some quality cuddle time. I’m the kind of pup who brings joy wherever I go. I’ve got that small-but-mighty energy, a sweet nature, and a silly side that keeps everyone smiling. I’d thrive in a home that laughs at my puppy antics, celebrates my confidence, and scoops me up when I’m ready to snuggle. What I’m really looking for now is a forever family — humans who will love me for exactly who I am and welcome a little extra warmth (and spice!) into their lives. I promise to return that love with loyalty, cuddles, and endless affection. I may be tiny… but I’ve got so much love to give. With wiggles, kisses, and puppy charm,Habanero ##2553781##
We'll also keep you updated on New Years Pups - Hope (male)'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of New Years Pups - Hope (male)

New Years Pups - Hope (male)

Labrador Retriever Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Female 2 mos
Sumter, SC
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Hope Hope is a sweet Lab mix boy with a gentle soul and a playful heart. He enjoys being part of the puppy pile and watching the world around him before jumping in on the fun. Hope has a calm, loving presence that makes him easy to fall for — the kind of pup who will grow into a loyal best friend. This litter is FOSTER ONLY until they reach 8 weeks of age on 1/3/2026. ##2608795##

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Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Sumter, South Carolina

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Windy Ridge Rescue

Sumter, SC 29154

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Lucky Paws Rescue Inc

PO Box 3150, Sumter, SC 29151

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

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Shelter

Saving Sumter's Strays

1230 Winkles Rd, Sumter, SC 29153

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Carolina Helping Paws Rescue

Sumter, SC 29153

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Sumter Animal Control

1240 Winkles Rd., Sumter, SC 29153

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

A Second Chance Animal Shelter, a/k/a Animal Shelter of Clarendon County

5079 Alex Harvin Hwy, Manning, SC 29102

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Animal Protection League of South Carolina

Hopkins, SC 29061

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Patter Pets, Inc.

P.O. Box 9594, Columbia, SC 29290

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Calhoun County Animal Shelter

140 Purple Martin Drive, Saint Matthews, SC 29135

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Aunt Claudias Animals

383 Stumphole Road, Elloree, SC 29047

Pet Types: cats, 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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Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Sumter, South Carolina 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