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Puppies and dogs in Massachusetts

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Massachusetts

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Massachusetts. 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 Verity's adoption status with email updates.
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Verity

Chihuahua/Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 2 mos
Saugus, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Verity Meet Verity! This tiny sweetheart is full of joy and cuddles. She’s playful, affectionate, and always ready to follow her people around for love and attention.  Verity is a friendly little girl who thrives on companionship and would love a family with the time and patience to help her grow into her best self. *small breed experience please DOB 6/9/25 – Chihuahua mix Sweet, loving dog friendly & would love another Canine Bestie Working on the basics Altered, vaccinated & microchipped Ready for adoption 9/10 *Please note: We're an all-volunteer organization, and incomplete applications cannot be processed.* If you're interested in adopting a GBP rescue PAL, please submit an application through the link below. A member of our team will reach out within 48 hours to begin the approval process. www.galsbestpal.com/adoption Not sure which dog is the best fit? No worries! We're matchmaking experts and can help you find the perfect PAL for your home. Interested in saving a life and becoming a FOSTER HERO? Fill out an application, and a member of our FOSTER HEROES TEAM will reach out to discuss our life-saving foster-based rescue program. https://galsbestpal.com/foster/ To learn more about our mission or to join our mailing list, visit us at https://galsbestpal.com/ Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos, updates, and videos of our available dogs. We're always sharing new content! Thank you for considering adopting a rescue PAL —there are so many amazing dogs in need right now! With love, The GBP Team PS: Our bios are based on feedback from each dog’s current foster home. We cannot guarantee how a transition will affect the dog, but GBP is here to support you. Time and patience are key when adopting a new PAL. Please note that breed mixes and ages are our best estimates and cannot be guaranteed. ##2501809##
We'll also keep you updated on Valor's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Valor

Valor

Chihuahua/Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 2 mos
Saugus, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
Say hi to Valor! He’s adventurous, curious, and loves to play. Valor will keep you smiling with his goofy puppy antics, but he also has a snuggly side when playtime is over. He’s looking for a forever home that’s ready for puppy energy and lots of love. *Small breed experience, please DOB 6/9/25 – Chihuahua mix Curious, playful Working on the basics very dog friendly & would love another Canine Bestie Altered, vaccinated & microchipped Ready for adoption 9/10 *Please note: We're an all-volunteer organization, and incomplete applications cannot be processed.* If you're interested in adopting a GBP rescue PAL, please submit an application through the link below. A member of our team will reach out within 48 hours to begin the approval process. www.galsbestpal.com/adoption Not sure which dog is the best fit? No worries! We're matchmaking experts and can help you find the perfect PAL for your home. Interested in saving a life and becoming a FOSTER HERO? Fill out an application, and a member of our FOSTER HEROES TEAM will reach out to discuss our life-saving foster-based rescue program. https://galsbestpal.com/foster/ To learn more about our mission or to join our mailing list, visit us at https://galsbestpal.com/ Stay connected! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos, updates, and videos of our available dogs. We're always sharing new content! Thank you for considering adopting a rescue PAL —there are so many amazing dogs in need right now! With love, The GBP Team PS: Our bios are based on feedback from each dog’s current foster home. We cannot guarantee how a transition will affect the dog, but GBP is here to support you. Time and patience are key when adopting a new PAL. Please note that breed mixes and ages are our best estimates and cannot be guaranteed. ##2501807##
We'll also keep you updated on Kash's adoption status with email updates.
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Kash

Maltese

Male, 2 yrs
Vineyard Haven, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Meet CashDon’t let the tiny frame fool you—this 4.4 lb Maltese is all go. At 2 years old, Cash is a nonstop bundle of energy who’s way more into playtime than purse life. He’s not here to sit in a bag and pose for photos—he’s here to run, romp, and steal your heart (and maybe your socks). Cash is dog-social, people-loving, and obsessed with stuffed toys. He’s incredibly sweet but absolutely not for a quiet or sedentary household. No seniors, no couch potatoes, no exceptions.He needs a fun, active, younger family that’s as cool as he is and can keep up with his pace and personality. Regular grooming is non-negotiable—if you’re not into scheduled maintenance, he’s not your dog. Basically, Cash is looking for a life of movement, attention, and style. If you’re boring or slow, scroll on. If you’re ready to keep up, apply.   This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.)   To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   PLEASE READ:     •    If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this.     •    All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date.     •    Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments.   Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well.   Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation.   For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application. ##2503698##
We'll also keep you updated on Ivy's adoption status with email updates.
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Ivy

English Bulldog

Female, 2 yrs 6 mos
Vineyard Haven, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Meet Ivy! Ivy is a loving, playful, water-obsessed sweetheart who’s always ready for a belly rub or a romp with her dog friends. At approximately 2.5 years old and 33 pounds, this petite English Bulldog is as charming as she is compact. She walks beautifully on leash and enjoys spending time outside—but her absolute favorite thing? Splashing around like it’s her full-time job. Ivy has had a few accidents in her kennel, but given her unknown history, it’s possible she was previously kept outdoors. With structure and consistency, she’s the kind of dog who wants to do the right thing. Breed experience is required for this snorty little queen, as she’ll need a home familiar with the needs and quirks of bulldogs. This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.)   To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   PLEASE READ:     •    If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this.     •    All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date.     •    Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments.   Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well.   Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation.   For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application. ##2503654##
We'll also keep you updated on Posey's adoption status with email updates.
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Posey

French Bulldog

Female, 3 yrs
Vineyard Haven, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Story
Meet PoseyA perfectly pocket-sized French Bulldog with a big personality and even bigger zoomies. At just 3 years old and a little over 22 pounds, she’s all muscle, wiggles, and fun. We’re not sure how this beautiful little girl ended up as a stray—she’s far too special to have been left behind. Posey is super dog friendly and knows how to share—whether it’s food, treats, or toys. She’s active, playful, and full of that signature Frenchie stubborn charm. She loves attention from her people and is always ready for her next adventure. This is not the dog for seniors or low-energy homes. Posey needs structure, stimulation, and a family that understands the breed.French Bulldog experience is required. She’s small, but she’ll take up plenty of space in your heart—and probably your couch.   This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.)   To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   PLEASE READ:     •    If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this.     •    All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date.     •    Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments.   Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well.   Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation.   For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application. ##2504095##
We'll also keep you updated on Elenor's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Elenor

Elenor

Standard Poodle/Labrador Retriever

Female, 2 yrs
Vineyard Haven, MA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Meet ElenorLabradoodle • 2 years old • 55 lbs Elenor is a gentle, soulful girl with a mellow personality and a big heart. She’s polite, sweet, and goes with the flow — the kind of dog who makes herself at home without any chaos. She’s done beautifully in the kennel, with no accidents and no issues sharing space, food, or treats. She rides calmly in the car and responds well to soft energy and kindness. Elenor would do best with another dog in the home and requires regular grooming to keep her coat healthy and mat-free. She’s ready to be someone’s best friend — just quiet, steady love in a fluffy package.   This dog is up to date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered. (Please note: Puppies under 3 months old may not be sterilized prior to adoption. If this is the case, your adoption coordinator will provide guidance on the process.)   To adopt or learn more about this dog, you must complete an adoption application, which can be found on our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   PLEASE READ:     •    If a dog or puppy is listed, they are currently available for adoption. However, they may already be pending an adoption, and their profile may not yet reflect this.     •    All information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the posting date.     •    Unless explicitly stated, Sandy Paws Rescue does not guarantee the breed of any dog. Breeds listed are educated guesses made by shelter staff, volunteers, or veterinarians. Many of our dogs are mixed breeds, often with pit bull-type genetics, resulting in a wide variety of physical traits and temperaments.   Our dogs come from various situations, such as kill shelters, owner surrenders, or as strays. It is likely both parents were mixed breeds as well.   Sandy Paws Rescue does not have a public shelter in Massachusetts. Our dogs reside in private foster homes or boarding kennels in the South until adopted. Many dogs are spoken for prior to transport or release from state-mandated isolation.   For information on adoption fees, procedures, or FAQs, visit our website: www.sandypawsrescue.com.   The FIRST step in adopting from Sandy Paws Rescue is to submit a completed adoption application. ##2503710##

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

Puppies and dogs in Massachusetts cities

Shelters & rescues in Massachusetts

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Forever Paws Animal Shelter,Inc.

300 Lynwood St, Fall River, MA 02721

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

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Shelter

Faxon Animal Care & Adoption Center

474 Durfee Street, fall river, MA 02720

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Town of Swansea Animal Shelter

68 Stevens Road, Swansea, MA 02777

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

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Shelter

Humane Society & Shelter - SouthCoast

31 Ventura Drive, Dartmouth, MA 02747

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

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Shelter

Rehoboth Animal Shelter

Rehoboth, MA 02769

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Waiting Animals Getting Support

North Dighton, MA 02764

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

C.A.R.E. Southcoast

197 Middle Rd., Acushnet, MA 02740

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

Lighthouse Animal Shelter

596 Hathaway Rd., New Bedford, MA 02740

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Animal Advocates

596 Hathaway Rd, New Bedford, MA 02740

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, 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 Massachusetts

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