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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 SHANIA 28 LBS 1 YR.'s adoption status with email updates.
Photo of SHANIA  28 LBS 1 YR.

SHANIA 28 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
Good with kids, 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 28 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 7, 2026, 12:24 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.March 7, 2026, 12:24 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.March 7, 2026, 12:24 pm
We'll also keep you updated on BEAR's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of BEAR

BEAR

Boxer

Male, Adult
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Big Boy. Big Heart. Big Cuddles. Meet Bear. Bear is the kind of dog people dream about finding. He’s healthy, well-mannered, deeply loyal, and full of love—he simply needs a new home because his family is relocating and sadly cannot take him with them. Born August 25, 2023, this handsome 90-pound Boxer boy is the total package. His parents are AKC registered Boxers, and while Bear isn’t registered himself, he has all the best qualities of the breed. He is neutered, microchipped, fully housebroken, and wonderfully smart. Bear will even let you know when it’s time to go outside—or when bedtime has arrived. Bear’s personality is where he truly shines. Every morning starts the same way: a giant Bear hug. He absolutely adores his family and believes the best place in the world is curled up close to his favorite humans. Despite his size, he is convinced he’s a lap dog and will happily drape himself across you for cuddle time. While he loves his family endlessly, Bear is a little reserved when meeting new people and likes to take things slow. Busy environments and crowded stores aren’t really his style. He currently lives on a farm and enjoys the calmer side of life where he can focus on what matters most—his people. With other dogs, Bear is a social butterfly. He enjoys canine friends and especially loves playing chase in the yard or at the dog park. Toys aren’t really his thing, but he will occasionally chew on a bone and then happily stretch out on his bed for a long nap. Bear is great with children and other dogs, listens well, and already knows his basic commands. He rides nicely in the car and enjoys going on walks with his family. At the end of the day, Bear is exactly what his name suggests—a big, lovable teddy bear who thrives on companionship and loyalty. The perfect home for Bear will appreciate his affectionate nature, give him time to warm up to new people, and enjoy having a devoted best friend by their side. If you’re looking for a loyal companion with a huge heart and an even bigger cuddle factor, Bear may be the perfect dog for you. To learn more or apply to adopt Bear, please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.March 10, 2026, 12:49 am
We'll also keep you updated on PUPPY HARTMAN's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of PUPPY HARTMAN

PUPPY HARTMAN

Australian Cattle Dog

Male, Puppy
Franklin, TN
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
  Hartman is a strong little pup in every way.  He is a Red Heeler through and through! Found with his Momma Red Heeler on a isolated country backroad in Middle Tennessee, he was part of a litter of 6 pups who were only 3.5 pounds when found..  Probably 4-5 weeks old.  That was Feb. 13th, 2026.  This little family was heartlessly dropped off for reasons the good humans in this world cannot understand.   The good samaritan who found them was kind enough to bring them to the already crowded rural shelter and within 2 days they were in the care of a wonderful Critter Cavalry Rescue foster home who helps with litters like this.  We have determined that perhaps the litter was born around the first of January 2025.  The story behind this throw away pure bred Red Heeler momma and her puppies will never be known but the future of their story will be shaped by Critter Cavalry's efforts to help raise these puppies in foster homes and find the puppies and their momma find perfect Heeler loving homes. This smart, energetic pup loves to be in the middle of the action and has already started showing off his natural herding instincts—he’s been known to help “round up” the kids in the yard.  Gently but with a purpose.  Some parents need the help and welcome it.  Others might not and the puppy can be shown that humans do not need the herding help.  Hartman was named this because he has a beautiful and perfect heart shaped spot on the top of his head.  As of March 6th he is 8 pounds and one day should be only 35 pounds tops.  So cute!  What his foster mom says, is that he would thrive in an active home, especially one with plenty of space to run and explore. A big yard or property where he can have a job would be a dream come true for this clever boy. Heelers are known for their intelligence, and Hartman is no exception—he’s eager to learn and loves to please his people. After a good play session, Hartman is more than happy to settle in for some couch time and soak up all the affection he can get. He’s a sweet, loyal companion who enjoys being close to his humans. Hartman is currently being fostered with young kids, large dogs, and a cat. He’s done well with everyone so far, though he’s still a little unsure about the cat and may bark. With proper introductions and a dog-savvy cat, we think he’ll adjust just fine. If you’re looking for a handsome pup who is smart, loyal and ready for adventure—and cuddles—Hartman might be your perfect match!  Please contact us at ccrtennessee@gmail.com    We can adopt to Tennessee residents where he is fostered and we also transport to the northeast as well to families outside of Tennessee.  We transport most weekends.  Out of state adoptions will be ready around April 10th.          ADOPTION FEE REQUIRED. Contact ccrtennessee@gmail.com.March 9, 2026, 6:34 pm

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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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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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