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Puppies and dogs in Franklin, Tennessee

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

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Adopt a dog in Franklin, Tennessee

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Franklin, Tennessee. 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 PUPPY GEORGIE BOY LUVS CATS's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of PUPPY GEORGIE BOY LUVS CATS

PUPPY GEORGIE BOY LUVS CATS

Border Collie Australian Shepherd

Male, Puppy
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
This handsome 4.5 month old puppster is called Boy George and he is what you would call….a character.  A Border Collie mix puppy who is smart and mischievous and a leader in life.  He was born in a litter of 8 puppies around the middle of October and he was the biggest kid in the bunch. He is laidback yet very much an involved pup when it comes to creating dog events that are fun and inquisitive.  He is one that doesn’t back down because he knows that he can win the challenge with his tenacity.  Boy George has conquered all the obligations in his life to learn about housebreaking, crate time and how to walk on a leash with at least a B- rating.  Practice will make perfect when in a family that has more one on one time for him.  He is going to be a 55 pound boy once he is grown.  His Mom is Blue Eyed Kaye and she is a wonderful girl with a happy demeanor and has certainly passed it along to all her sweet offspring.  Boy George is a good pup but he is looking for an even smarter owner that will figure him out before he slips one in on you. He is loving and can be an attention grabber because when you are raised in a pack of 8 siblings, you kind of crave some private time for yourself.  Boy George will be a fun pup to raise and one that will excel at puppy training classes.  At 18 weeks of age and 32 pounds, he is a great size to take on car rides, walks on a trail or  your local neighborhood.  He will welcome new dogs and people to meet and did we mention that he LOVES CATS!   To our Boy George they are just another friend in life!   We will require a home with a securely fenced yard so that this boy can explore and hang out in the great outdoors/backyard.  He is not a digger and he is not a fence climber.  But he is a dog that requires the stimulation both physically and mentally every day.  Teach him things and he will make you a proud dog owner. Someone is looking for a dog like this.  Maybe an only dog in the home or just a great addition because he will be play buddies with anyone.  But always know that you must be the leader of your pack and Boy George.  He craves the boundaries and rules.  He thrives best not having his way and is so moldable.  If interested please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com   Mention where you live, city and state.  Transport is available to the northeast outside of Tennessee where he is being fostered PLEASE NOTE:   Our dogs and cats are fostered in Tennessee and can transport weekly up to the Northeast region.  Request an application and learn more about Critter Cavalry at https://www.crittercavalry.com/adoption. ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.April 22, 2025, 3:33 pm
We'll also keep you updated on SONNY BOY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of SONNY BOY

SONNY BOY

Pomeranian Chihuahua

Male, Adult
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet SONNY BOY Sonny is a five-year-old small breed mix who is full-grown at 25 lbs. His DNA tests say mostly Pomeranian and Chihuahua with a bit of Dachshund. But like many small dogs, he struggles with possessive behavior in which he “lays claim” to a particular resource, typically a specific toy or the attention of his favorite human. He's a snuggle bug who is happy to be your lap dog - but also needs to be active and kept occupied. He requires a patient, strong, and experienced small and possessive dog owner. Sonny is the loyalist of loyal dogs to his people. But he has struggled with being rehomed and his resource guarding has escalated due to all of the changing in his environments. For this reason we are committed to only placing him in a home that is well aware and experienced with managing resource aggression behaviors.   This little guy loves nothing more than snuggling up on your lap and soaking up some attention. In fact, Sonny is the perfect lap dog - if you're okay with him laying claim to your lap as his own personal resource.But don't let his small size fool you - Sonny is also full of energy, sass, and needs to be kept active. He's an intelligent dog who loves to learn new tricks, but he can also be a bit of a handful. He has a bite history that is manageable and connected to dogs toys, but requires a patient and experienced owner who is willing to put in the work to manage his resource aggression behaviors and provide him with an environment that won’t trigger these bad behaviors.   Sonny was picked up as a stray in Gulfport, Mississippi, and after making his way to Nashville, TN, his x-rays revealed that he has a shotgun pellet that healed near his pelvis. We are only rehoming Sonny to quiet homes and do not include children or frequent visitors because, in his previous home, Sonny developed a reputation for snapping at strangers. This sweet dog is not at all aggressive towards strangers or children as a rule. In fact, he's very fond of strangers and is quick to claim visitors as family. His favorite person in the world is his vet! He simply has a charming but very dominant personality and  becomes temperamental and territorial when threatened and he’s overly protective of his belongings. Experienced small dog owners will know this Chihuahua personality trait well and Critter Cavalry is requesting that adopters commit to a toy-free home for the first 3 months so that Sonny is setup for success with regard to his resource guarding tendencies.    Sonny Boy happily lives with dogs of all sizes and ages and is an excellent companion to dogs of his size in particular. He’s a good wrestler and is respectful of his companion’s meals. No cats because he barks and scares them. He loves to play and treasures the attention of his family. He is house-trained, leash-trained, and knows basic commands. He enjoy’s being vocal but is mature enough to be corrected when barking excessively. There is a lot of sweet personality and attitude packed into this adorable dog. The ideal owner for Sonny would include a quiet household. With or without a companion dog as long as the companion dog is submissive. A fenced-in yard is a plus - but not required as long as this social boy gets his regular activity. Sonny does get regular visits to the dog park but requires an attentive owner because dog barks frequently have lose balls which can easily trigger his possessive tendencies.    If you're up for the challenge, you'll be rewarded with a lifelong friend who is fiercely loyal and always ready for a good time. Middle-Tennessee only.  Please email us at ccrtennessee@gmail.com. ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Learn more about Critter Cavalry and request an adoption application at CritterCavalry.com. ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.November 3, 2024, 10:10 pm
We'll also keep you updated on VIOLA's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of VIOLA

VIOLA

Beagle Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Adult
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  Viola is a beautiful soul that we think is about 3 year old  and a Beagle mix girl. This black and white beauty with adorable speckled legs and a sweet She only weighs 20 lbs and has the sweetest smile and absolutely loves people. She was found as a stray that was taken to the shelter very scared and almost shutdown while there. Her human mother died and Viola is now 5 years old. Unfortunately we don’t really know her story, but we feel there is some trauma there in her past. It takes her a little bit to get used to people and even longer for dogs. She wants a safe place to observe (wire crate suggested)  till she figures it out. Her foster kept her behind a gate and her bed was her safe place. For a few days she would growl through the gate at the other dogs but after that it was over. We would leave the gate open and she would venture out and if she got nervous she would go back to her safe place. She is never ugly to the other dogs at her foster and  if one of the Chihuahuas was mean to her,  she just ignored her. We have her using puppy pads because there is  no fenced yard. Viola would definetly need a fenced yard so she can safely explore and have potty breaks. The outdoors makes her nervous still. She loves her people immensely and adores  kids but older ones are best.  If you want to help and REALLY rescue a dog them Viola would be forever indebted to you.   If you are interested please email at ccrtennessee@gmail.com    ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.November 29, 2025, 1:51 pm
We'll also keep you updated on RODDY's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of RODDY

RODDY

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Male, Young
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Roddy — a 22-pound Schnauzer mix bundle of joy who is just 9 months old and discovering how wonderful life can be. With his bright eyes that look at you like he is human and can understand what you are saying,  to his happy energy and playful spirit, Roddy approaches each day like it’s an adventure waiting to happen. Roddy truly loves everyone he meets. People? Yes please. Other dogs? Absolutely. Cats? Very likely! He’s the kind of boy who wants to be friends with the whole world and is happiest when he’s included in whatever is going on. He’s active and enthusiastic, making him a great match for an individual or family who enjoys daily walks, playtime, and continuing his training. The good news? Roddy already walks nicely on a leash and is housebroken — he’s off to a great start. Despite his sweet nature, Roddy hasn’t had the easiest beginning. When his owner moved away and left him behind with a roommate, Roddy waited for her to come back… but she never did. Thankfully, Critter Cavalry Rescue stepped in, made sure he was fully vetted, and gave him the second chance he so deeply deserves. Roddy is a smart, eager-to-please pup who learns quickly and soaks up guidance like a sponge. Having another dog in the home would be a wonderful bonus for him, as he learns beautifully by example. With patience, consistency, and love, Roddy will grow into an incredible lifelong companion. Give this sweet boy a chance, and you’ll gain a loyal friend who will fill your days with laughter, love, and wagging tails.For more information or to apply, please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com. ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.February 19, 2026, 10:10 pm
We'll also keep you updated on PATCHES TINY 18 lbs.'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of PATCHES  TINY 18 lbs.

PATCHES TINY 18 lbs.

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Young
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  Patches didn’t have the best start in life, but thanks to quick action and a lot of heart, her future is bright. She came from a situation where very senior owners in failing health allowed multiple dogs to continue breeding. When Critter Cavalry Rescue learned about the conditions, they stepped in—taking all the adult dogs to be altered and ensuring the puppies, including Patches, would have the chance at loving homes and responsible futures.   Now this 10-month-old Terrier/Dachshund mix is ready to write her own happy ending.   Weighing in at a perfectly compact 18 pounds, Patches is fully grown and packed with personality. She is intelligent, curious, athletic, and endlessly entertaining. This girl will absolutely keep you laughing and on your toes in the best way. If you’ve ever wanted a dog to truly do things with—whether it’s hiking, learning new tricks, agility, or even Flyball—Patches would shine. She has the focus and drive to excel, and she would thrive with someone motivated to train and engage her sharp little mind.   Socially, she’s a superstar. Patches loves other dogs, does wonderfully with children, and hasn’t met a person she doesn’t adore. She’s happy, playful, and always ready for the next adventure. Because she is so people-oriented, she would do best in a home where she receives plenty of attention and interaction.   If you’re looking for a small but mighty best friend just under 20 pounds who will bring energy, fun, and devotion into your life, Patches is your girl.   To learn more or apply, email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennesseee@gmail.com and please include your city and state. Patches is fostered in Tennessee, and while we love our local adopters, we also transport almost every weekend to homes throughout the Northeast.   ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.February 28, 2026, 9:50 pm
We'll also keep you updated on SHANIA 12 LBS 1 YR.'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of SHANIA  12 LBS 1 YR.

SHANIA 12 LBS 1 YR.

Jack Russell Terrier Westie, West Highland White Terrier

Female, Adult
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Shania, our beautiful little comeback girl — and just like her country music namesake, she’s ready for a brand-new chapter filled with love, understanding, and the right environment to truly shine. Shania is a sweet JRT/Westie mix girl who is happy, lively and just 1-year, weighing just 12 pounds. Her look is a charming wiry coat paired with an absolutely darling personality. She enjoys leash walks, watching the world go by, and will happily investigate any squirrel bold enough to cross her path. She’s wonderful with other dogs, cats, and is friendly with men she meets out in public. Inside the home, however, Shania needs a very specific setup to feel safe and secure. Due to something in her past, she becomes protective if a man lives in the home and believes she must guard the woman she loves. Because of this, Shania needs a female-only household with no men living in the home. In the right environment, she relaxes, settles beautifully, and shows just how loving and joyful she truly is. She is currently working on potty training and does well using potty pads, and with continued consistency, she will keep improving. Shania is small, affectionate, and full of potential — she simply needs the right person who understands her and is willing to give her the peaceful, predictable home she deserves.  If you think you could be the perfect match for this special girl, please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com. ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.March 1, 2026, 10:50 am

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Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Franklin, Tennessee

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Rural Animal Rescue Effort (RARE)

Franklin, TN 37069

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

Critter Cavalry Rescue - TN

608 East Castle Ct., Franklin, TN 37069

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Rock City Rescue - TN chapter

Franklin, TN 37069

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Goofy Foot Dog Rescue - Nashville Area

Nashville, TN 37069

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Abandoned Angels Rescue

P. O. Box 1554, Franklin, TN 37064

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Happy Tales Humane

4001 Hughes Crossing, Suite 161, Franklin, TN 37064

Pet Types: cats, dogs, small animals

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Rescue

WeHelpAnimals.Net

Franklin, TN 37064

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Williamson County Animal Center

1006 Grigsby Hayes Court, Franklin, TN 37064

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

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Rescue

Must Love Danes Rescue

Franklin, TN 37064

Pet Types: dogs

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