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Puppies and dogs in District of Columbia

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in District of Columbia

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in District of Columbia. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
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Photo of FRANCO

FRANCO

Cocker Spaniel

Male, Adult
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
  Meet Franco: A Sweet Soul Finally Getting the Life He Deserves   For the first four years of his life, Franco knew little more than loneliness because honestly he was treated like a 'junkyard dog' who was supposed to protect a terrible plot of land that a tire tread place existed.    As a puppy, he was given to a man who lived in a shed beside a tire service company's concrete parking lot. Instead of growing up as a beloved family companion, Franco spent his life chained to a fence as a 'guard dog.' Ironically, this gentle boy is a Cocker Spaniel mix—not exactly the fierce watchdog anyone would expect. He had no grass beneath his feet, very little shade beyond a worn-out doghouse, no protection from the weather, and almost no affection. He wasn't even given a name—he was simply called 'Dog.'   A dedicated Critter Cavalry Rescue volunteer spent months trying to convince his owner to let Franco go, even offering to pay for him. At last, the man agreed, and Franco was finally freed from the only life he had ever known.   Today, Franco is beginning a whole new chapter.   He has received veterinary care for the first time, enjoyed a much-needed bath and grooming, and now proudly wears the handsome red-and-white coat that will look even more beautiful once his fur grows back after all the painful mats were removed. He tested positive for heartworms, but he's already received treatment and a full recovery is in place.>   See our video of Franco that shows him experiencing life inside a home for the very first time. He's currently wearing a belly band while he learns his house manners, and he is soaking up every new experience. In just one day, he learned commands like 'sit,' 'leave it,' and 'no.' He clearly wants to please his people and is eager to learn.   Franco is now crate trained, although he may be a little vocal at first. He lives with both large and small dogs in his foster home.  At 4 years, he weighs 42 pounds and is healthy overall. His previous owner did at least keep him well fed. We're not sure how Franco would do with cats, as he did try to chase stray cats while he was chained outside.   What we do know is that Franco absolutely loves affection. He gives the sweetest kisses, happily buries his head in your lap, and is making up for four years without the love every dog deserves.   Franco has waited four long years for a second chance. Now he's ready for a family that will give him the love, patience, and forever home he's always deserved.   To learn more about Franco or to apply to adopt him, please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com.   When you contact us, please include your city and state.   Critter Cavalry Rescue adopts to Tennessee residents and also transports adopted dogs to families throughout the Northeastern corridor every weekend.   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.comJuly 21, 2026, 12:57 pm
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Photo of TINY TEDDY

TINY TEDDY

Yorkie, Yorkshire Terrier

Male, Adult
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
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Story
  Tiny Teddy is a very sweet and quiet 2 year old, Yorkie  that only weighs 5.8 pounds and is of a very delicate size.  To say he is little is an understatement.  He is minute!!!!  He loves to sit on your lap for cuddle time and you barely know he is there.  This little guy is pee pad trained and not good on a leash which is why he is pee pad trained. His former owners did not work with him much and after just a few years decided a pet was not for them.  He has been around an 8 year old child and did fine when respected.  He is good with calm dogs but we will not put him with active dogs in a home.  We are looking for a work from home or  young retired people who will not leave him for long periods of time to be away from home.  Maybe he could even go to the office with someone!  That could be so much fun.  His foster mom said he is one of the most calm dogs she has ever fostered and she has fostered hundreds and hundreds over the years as a long time rescue lady.  This little guy will be a treasure that is worth working on for leash walks and maybe even housebreaking  him to go outside on the leash.  Don't miss this tiny nugget of gold called Tiny Teddy. Please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com if you are interested.        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.comJuly 21, 2026, 12:57 pm
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Photo of PUPPY BODIE

PUPPY BODIE

Shih Tzu

Male, Young
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
  Meet Bodie – Your New Best Friend in an 8-Pound Package!If you're looking for a happy little shadow who will fill your home with laughter, cuddles, and puppy antics, then Bodie may just be the perfect match.This adorable 6-month-old Shih Tzu weighs just 8 pounds, but his personality is absolutely larger than life! Bodie is one of those puppies who believes every day is an adventure and every person is a potential best friend. His favorite place in the world is wherever his people happen to be. Whether you're making dinner, working from home, watching TV, or heading out for a walk, Bodie is ready to tag along with his wagging tail and joyful spirit.When playtime is over, this little cuddle bug is happiest snuggled beside you, soaking up all the love and attention he can get.Bodie has already learned some wonderful habits for such a young puppy. He is crate trained and will happily use pee pads, but he also enjoys going outside to do his business. He's doing great with his leash manners and absolutely loves going for walks, where he can explore the world one tiny paw at a time.Like any six-month-old puppy, Bodie is full of energy and curiosity. He loves to zoom around the yard, chase toys, and play with his canine friends. A securely fenced yard would be a dream come true, giving him plenty of room to run, stretch his little legs, and burn off that playful puppy energy. He would also enjoy having another friendly dog close to his size to romp and wrestle with. While he likes other dogs, larger dogs can sometimes intimidate him because they tend to play a little too rough for his liking.Bodie was raised in a home with three children and enjoys being part of a busy family. Because he's still very much a puppy, he sometimes gets so excited that he'll jump up to say hello. With gentle guidance and continued training, he'll quickly learn that four paws on the floor earn the most attention.His ideal family will understand that puppies need time, patience, and consistency as they grow. Bodie would especially love a home where someone is around most of the day. He thrives on companionship and loves being included in everyday life. He's not the kind of pup who wants to spend long hours alone—he wants to be your little sidekick through it all.Bodie has a wonderful way of making ordinary days feel brighter. His goofy puppy antics will keep you smiling, his sweet cuddles will melt your heart, and his loving nature will remind you every day why dogs truly are our best friends.If you're ready to welcome this happy, affectionate little guy into your family, Bodie is ready to fill your home with love, laughter, and plenty of puppy kisses.To learn more about Bodie or to apply for adoption, 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.comJuly 21, 2026, 12:57 pm
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Photo of Ned

Ned

American Bulldog

Male, 1 yr 1 mo
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
*Woof* I`m in a foster home! Email my foster caregiver to meet me: valann6@hotmail.comNed will win you over the moment you meet him — that adorable pouty face is just part of his charm. This handsome young boy is sweet, loyal, and wonderfully affectionate. While his bulldog genes give him that signature silly frown, his personality is anything but serious. Ned is a gentle, people-oriented dog who loves staying close and soaking up every bit of affection offered. He’s a joy to spend time with: fun, easy to walk, and eager to please. Ned is ready for a loving home where he can be cherished the way he deserves. If you’re looking for a very good boy who will brighten your days, come meet and adopt Ned today — he’ll be smiling in no time.
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Photo of Ocean

Ocean

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 3 yrs
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
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Photo of Butter

Butter

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, 3 mos
Washington, DC
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
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Story
*Woof* I`m in a foster home! Email my foster caregiver to meet me: christa.cooper@gmail.comButter is absolutely one of the cutest puppies you’ll ever meet, and she’s ready to make her new familyincredibly happy. She’s all puppy — turbo-charged energy, endless curiosity, and a heart full of love.Butter is a busy little cutie who delights in playtime, exploring, and making people laugh with her sillyantics. With yummy treats and positive reinforcement, she’s going to be a star student. She’s eager tolearn, eager to please, and eager to be part of a family who will guide her as she grows. Butter bringsjoy everywhere she goes, and she’s more than ready to bring that joy into her forever home. Meet andadopt this charming, funny, busy sweetheart today.

Search for a puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable puppies and adult dogs in District of Columbia.

Puppies and dogs in District of Columbia cities

Shelters & rescues in District of Columbia

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Brandywine Valley SPCA - New York Ave

1201 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

K9 Global Rescue

Washington DC, DC 20002

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Brandywine Valley SPCA - Ivy City Adoption Center

1516 Okie St NE, Washington, DC 20002

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Omani Paws

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Appalachian SPCA - DC

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Perfectly Paired Pitties (P3)

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Project Freedom Ride - Washington DC Transport Stop

Washington, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Bright Hope Animal Rescue - D.C. Chapter

Washington DC, DC 20001

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Rural Dog Rescue

719 8th Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

HFH - Washington D.C.

Washington, DC 20500

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 District of Columbia

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