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Puppies and dogs in Virginia

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

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Adopt a dog in Virginia

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Virginia. 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 PUPPA-DOO's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of PUPPA-DOO

PUPPA-DOO

Jack Russell Terrier

Male, Adult
richmond, VA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
  This darling little Jack Russell boy is a young 18 month male that weighs 20 pounds and is a solid little love of a dog.  His name is Puppa-Doo and he is an owner surrender that we are seeing far too many of lately.   Who doesn't love a bright and happy to be alive Terrier pup that dances when you come home from a long day at the job.  Puppa-Doo is great family dog just waiting to fit right in when you invite him to come home with you!!!   He is housebroken and will go to door to alert you when he needs to go out. That is a huge plus in most family's check list.  He loves to chase the cat for sport and fun and he will of course do a record demolition destuffing of any weak plush toy.  Oh, how he loves to do that.  And then to keep him responding to sounds, a squeaky toy just makes his soul delight and sore to rapid panting and smiles.  He gets super excited when you play throw the squeaky toy. Puppy-Doo also will play fetch and chase if you want and that is perfect for young children who want a playful dog in their life.  At the end of the day and lots playtime, he likes to give kisses and lay on your lap. . He's a door greeter-both inside the house and when a car pulls up.  He adores love and attention and likes to sit and watch TV when you are there watching it with him. . And if you want a bed buddy then please let him crawl right up there next to you i   He is a great protector and will alert you like a doorbell would and barks when he hears a car on the gravel driveway.  All great and normal dog responsibilities that you want in your family lover and protector. And when someone shows up to visit at the house he runs circles around the outside of the house which is her own personal canine racetrack.  He is active like a JRT should be.  He is made that way.  Crate trained and housebroken and good with other dogs and kids and adults.  What more do you want in a dog and for your lifestyle.   A physically fenced yard or invisible fence would be good to have for this boy.  Safety for your family pet is so important.  If you are interested please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com        PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 23, 2026, 12:30 pm
We'll also keep you updated on PUPPY LEXIE's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of PUPPY LEXIE

PUPPY LEXIE

Australian Shepherd

Female, Puppy
richmond, VA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
  Lexie is one of those little girl puppies that makes you melt at first glance. She’s so soft and fluffy you can’t help but think, “Oh my goodness… she’s adorable.” But spend five minutes with her and you’ll quickly discover there is a BIG personality packed inside that plush little body. Her long, crazy-soft hair has just enough wild wave to it that it makes you think of 'Pink' the singer — bold, confident, a little sassy, and completely unforgettable. Lexie defines herself in so many ways. She knows what she wants out of life, and she goes after it with playful determination and a happy heart. She is loving, spirited, curious, and strong in the very best way.   Born December 4th to a very mixed-breed mama (who looks nothing like her eleven puppies!), Lexie and her littermates appear to have some Aussie influence. We expect her to grow into a beautiful 35–40 pound adult with plush, wavy hair — and in Lexie’s case, maybe just a touch delightfully untamed. It fits her perfectly.  Lexie is being raised in a remarkable foster home in Nashville, TN, where life is full of learning and love. She’s part of a small hobby farm with goats, a few horses, chickens, other dogs, and even a cat. The family homeschools their daughters, so Lexie spends her days surrounded by children, structure, and steady socialization. She’s learning basic commands, thriving on a reward system (she’s very motivated by treats after successful potty breaks!), and adjusting beautifully to a routine.   While she has a bold spark, she also has a wonderfully calm side. Lexie can happily curl up on the couch to watch a movie and soak up time with her people. Her appetite is big, her curiosity is strong, and her heart is even bigger. All eleven puppies in this litter — 7 girls and 4 boys — have proven to be easy to love, eager to learn, and ready to melt right into the fabric of a family’s life. There are no “lesser” choices here. They are truly ROCK STAR puppies.... all 11.  Local Tennessee adoptions can happen now. Transport to northeastern states is available on March 6th. Don’t miss your chance to make Lexie part of your story. Please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com for more information.   PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 23, 2026, 12:30 pm
We'll also keep you updated on GIZMO's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of GIZMO

GIZMO

Australian Shepherd

Male, Adult
richmond, VA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained,
Story
  Gizmo is the very definition of bravery, resilience, and second chances. At just 18 months old and a tiny 10 pounds, this Miniature Aussie mix carries a story far bigger than his size. He is a breathtaking tri-color boy with a fluffy tail and the most unforgettable face — one deep chocolate brown eye and one sparkling blue eye that seems to hold an entire journey inside it. Gizmo came from a heartbreaking situation — over 200 dogs crammed into a tiny home and outdoor kennels by a backyard breeder. He was just a number there. Overlooked. Under-loved. His natural shyness became his shield, keeping him safe but also keeping love at a distance.   But then everything changed.   His foster family patiently worked their way into his guarded little heart, and once he realized he was safe, he opened up in the most beautiful way. While he can still be shy in new environments, with a little patience and kindness he blossoms. And when he trusts you? He is loyal beyond measure. He has chosen the dad in his foster home as “his person,” and he will happily follow him from room to room like the devoted little shadow he is.Gizmo is fully housebroken and an absolute champion on a leash. Like many Australian Shepherds, he is incredibly intelligent and eager to learn. He loves being outdoors — soaking up the sunshine in a securely fenced yard or patio and enjoying peaceful walks on a quiet street. A calm home environment would help him thrive. He does wonderfully with dogs and cats of all sizes, but he would also be perfectly content as your one-and-only companion. He’s a quiet little guy who loves his treats, enjoys curling up in his cozy bed to watch TV with his humans, and simply wants to belong.   If you’ve ever wanted to be part of a true rescue “rags to riches” story, Gizmo is waiting. His journey includes a recent miracle that will absolutely amaze you — and we would love to share it with serious adopters. To learn more about this incredible little survivor, please write to Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com. Gizmo is ready for the next chapter of his beautiful life.   PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 23, 2026, 12:30 pm
We'll also keep you updated on PUPPY GEORGIE's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of PUPPY GEORGIE

PUPPY GEORGIE

Australian Shepherd

Male, Puppy
richmond, VA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
  Meet Georgie — the charming little Aussie mix puppy with the softest black and white fur and the biggest, most hopeful heart. This handsome boy was born the first Thursday in December.12/4, and is already dreaming about the forever family who will help him grow into those adorably paws. Georgie’s mom is a 35-pound mixed breed girl who looks nothing like her eleven puppies — proving once again that rescue litters are full of delightful surprises. Georgie may still be small, but his personality is already shining bright. His foster mom says her daughters absolutely adore him — and it’s easy to see why. Georgie is a cuddler through and through. His soft coat practically invites you to scoop him up and hold him close for as long as he’ll allow (which is usually quite a while!). He’s also the first one up and ready each morning, happily heading outside for potty time or playtime adventures.Curious, bright, and attentive, Georgie already listens carefully when being taught. That willingness to learn is such a wonderful trait in a young puppy. He knows “sit,” “shake,” and even recognizes “Potty Time!” A small treat goes a long way with this smart little guy, making future training both fun and effective. Georgie is being fostered on a tiny hobby farm in Nashville, TN, where he has met cats, dogs, chickens, goats, and even horses — and he greets them all with calm curiosity. Laidback is a perfect word to describe him. His steady, easygoing temperament will make him an incredible family companion. Children over 7 years of age are recommended.   Critter Cavalry Rescue transports to the northeastern corridor every weekend, and Georgie will be ready to take his road trip on March 6th. There are 7 girls and 4 boys in this beautiful litter — all lovely inside and out.If you’re ready to raise one of the best puppies you could ever dream of, email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com and reserve Georgie today.    PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 23, 2026, 12:30 pm
We'll also keep you updated on PUPPA-DOO's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of PUPPA-DOO

PUPPA-DOO

Jack Russell Terrier

Male, Adult
Norfolk, VA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
  This darling little Jack Russell boy is a young 18 month male that weighs 20 pounds and is a solid little love of a dog.  His name is Puppa-Doo and he is an owner surrender that we are seeing far too many of lately.   Who doesn't love a bright and happy to be alive Terrier pup that dances when you come home from a long day at the job.  Puppa-Doo is great family dog just waiting to fit right in when you invite him to come home with you!!!   He is housebroken and will go to door to alert you when he needs to go out. That is a huge plus in most family's check list.  He loves to chase the cat for sport and fun and he will of course do a record demolition destuffing of any weak plush toy.  Oh, how he loves to do that.  And then to keep him responding to sounds, a squeaky toy just makes his soul delight and sore to rapid panting and smiles.  He gets super excited when you play throw the squeaky toy. Puppy-Doo also will play fetch and chase if you want and that is perfect for young children who want a playful dog in their life.  At the end of the day and lots playtime, he likes to give kisses and lay on your lap. . He's a door greeter-both inside the house and when a car pulls up.  He adores love and attention and likes to sit and watch TV when you are there watching it with him. . And if you want a bed buddy then please let him crawl right up there next to you i   He is a great protector and will alert you like a doorbell would and barks when he hears a car on the gravel driveway.  All great and normal dog responsibilities that you want in your family lover and protector. And when someone shows up to visit at the house he runs circles around the outside of the house which is her own personal canine racetrack.  He is active like a JRT should be.  He is made that way.  Crate trained and housebroken and good with other dogs and kids and adults.  What more do you want in a dog and for your lifestyle.   A physically fenced yard or invisible fence would be good to have for this boy.  Safety for your family pet is so important.  If you are interested please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com        PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 23, 2026, 12:30 pm
We'll also keep you updated on PUPPY LEXIE's adoption status with email updates.
new badge
Photo of PUPPY LEXIE

PUPPY LEXIE

Australian Shepherd

Female, Puppy
Norfolk, VA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
-
Story
  Lexie is one of those little girl puppies that makes you melt at first glance. She’s so soft and fluffy you can’t help but think, “Oh my goodness… she’s adorable.” But spend five minutes with her and you’ll quickly discover there is a BIG personality packed inside that plush little body. Her long, crazy-soft hair has just enough wild wave to it that it makes you think of 'Pink' the singer — bold, confident, a little sassy, and completely unforgettable. Lexie defines herself in so many ways. She knows what she wants out of life, and she goes after it with playful determination and a happy heart. She is loving, spirited, curious, and strong in the very best way.   Born December 4th to a very mixed-breed mama (who looks nothing like her eleven puppies!), Lexie and her littermates appear to have some Aussie influence. We expect her to grow into a beautiful 35–40 pound adult with plush, wavy hair — and in Lexie’s case, maybe just a touch delightfully untamed. It fits her perfectly.  Lexie is being raised in a remarkable foster home in Nashville, TN, where life is full of learning and love. She’s part of a small hobby farm with goats, a few horses, chickens, other dogs, and even a cat. The family homeschools their daughters, so Lexie spends her days surrounded by children, structure, and steady socialization. She’s learning basic commands, thriving on a reward system (she’s very motivated by treats after successful potty breaks!), and adjusting beautifully to a routine.   While she has a bold spark, she also has a wonderfully calm side. Lexie can happily curl up on the couch to watch a movie and soak up time with her people. Her appetite is big, her curiosity is strong, and her heart is even bigger. All eleven puppies in this litter — 7 girls and 4 boys — have proven to be easy to love, eager to learn, and ready to melt right into the fabric of a family’s life. There are no “lesser” choices here. They are truly ROCK STAR puppies.... all 11.  Local Tennessee adoptions can happen now. Transport to northeastern states is available on March 6th. Don’t miss your chance to make Lexie part of your story. Please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com for more information.   PLEASE NOTE:  Our dogs are transported from Tennessee to meeting places in the states where we have posted.  Further information about us is given on our Adopt-A-Pet site.  The adoption fees vary and will be provided as well as noted on the application you receive.  Contact us at 615-661-5333 or ccrnewengland@gmail.comFebruary 23, 2026, 12:30 pm

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in Virginia cities

Shelters & rescues in Virginia

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Portsmouth Humane

4022 Seaboard Court, Portsmouth, VA 23701

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

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Rescue

Australian Shepherds Furever - Portsmouth,VA Chapter

2910 S. Archibald # A 607, Portsmouth, VA 23702

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Adopt A Spot Dalmatian Rescue

P.O. Box 9375, Chesapeake, VA 23321

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Australian Shepherds Furever - Chesapeake, VA Chapter

PO Box 1676, Chesapeake, VA 23321

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Critter Cavalry Rescue - VA

Norfolk, VA 23510

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

PETA

501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510

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

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Rescue

Old Dominion Boston Terrier Rescue

Portsmouth, VA 23507

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Animal Rescue of Tidewater (A.R.T.)

Norfolk, VA 23517

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Suffolk Humane Society

4300 Nansemond Parkway, Suffolk, VA 23435

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, small animals

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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 Virginia

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