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Puppies and dogs in Independence, Iowa

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

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Adopt a dog in Independence, Iowa

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Independence, Iowa. 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 Lulu's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lulu

Lulu

Dalmatian German Shepherd Dog

Female, 1 yr 3 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi my name is Lulu! I am what people believe to be an Australian Kelpie/Shepherd Mix and was born sometime around October, 2023. I am a petite girl, weighing in at just over 30 lbs. I was found roaming around town, an itty bitty girl, hungry and scared of everything around me, dreaming and praying I would be taken in and cared for the way I deserved to be. My dreams came true one day when a really nice family found me and couldn't bear to let me stay out in the cold rain. Now, I'm embarking on a new chapter - learning the ropes of family life in a home bustling with children and another furry friend. At first, I wasn't sure about toys or beds or anything comfortable since I had never had these amenities before. Because I was always scavenging for food, and although I now never miss a nutritious meal, I can sometimes get nervous that this resource will not last. I do let my foster siblings share my water bowl with me now and I've gained some healthy weight since I've been with my foster family. Now that I've been able to learn from my humans, I LOVE toys!! They're so fun to play with and run after! Balls are my absolute favorite! I have even learned to like my doggie bed, especially when my foster humans lay with me. I do still prefer no blankets in my crate when I am left alone or checking in for the night but have recently been sleeping in my foster parent's bed and I sleep like a dream! My foster Mom says I'm a beautiful, sweet and spunky girl. She loves my playful bouncy energy and that I like to cuddle up for belly rubs when I'm tired. Because I love to run and play so much, I would love an active family, with children 10 or older, that will take me on adventures and a fenced in yard of my own so I can zoom around safely! I can't wait to find my forever family! I would do great in a home with another playful, medium to large dog, to show me the ropes and even older human siblings old enough to throw my toys for me! Lulu is potty trained, up to date on vaccinations, has been dewormed, microchipped and spayed. She is participating in basic obedience training with our trainer so her adopters will be required to continue this training until completed, paid for by APL. Lulu will do best in a home with a physically fenced yard so she can run and play safely. Applications can be submitted at: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/dogs
We'll also keep you updated on Tango's adoption status with email updates.
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Photo of Tango

Tango

Poodle (Standard) Golden Retriever

Male, 7 yrs 3 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi! My name is Tango! I am a handsome 6-year-old male Goldendoodle. Yes, Goldendoodle! I weigh just over 50 lbs and every ounce of me is adorable. I joined the APL family after living with a loving family my entire life. I had a human Mom and Dad and 3 little human sisters. In late September 2023, I suffered a spinal cord stroke and lost the ability to use my back legs as a result. I did a lot of physical therapy to help me regain function. My family tried their best to help me as long as they could but made the selfless decision to surrender me to A Purposeful Life in April 2024, so I could continue the road to my best mobility and to start a new chapter in my life. I love my new foster family and all my friends at APL. My favorite things to do are to play ball in the backyard, to snack on yummy treats, and to soak up and give lots of love and cuddles to anyone within a mile of me. I have no toy or food aggression and take treats oh so gently. I am extremely happy and sweet and am confident and curious about everything in my environment. I have loved every person I've ever met and will ask for pets all day long. Prior to my spinal cord stroke, I loved to go for long walks and runs. The wonderful people at APL knew this so they had a set of custom wheels made just for me! Now I'm back at it, leaving my people in the dust! I am an amazing traveler and love to go places. Adventures are my jam! I rarely bark and I don't chew on things I am not supposed to. I'm great with children of all ages, as long as they are respectful of me. I get along well with other animals and I don't mind having my paws touched at all. I love to chew on rubber balls and any toy with a squeaker in it, those are the best! Since joining the APL family, I have been spending considerable time at the awesome Iowa State Veterinary Rehabilitation Clinic to strengthen my back legs with exercises, massage, underwater treadmill, pool time, acupuncture and walking the halls with my cart. I am a staff favorite and they all have fallen in love with me. I mean....who wouldn't? I'm literally the BEST dog! I do require that you help me by expressing my bladder a few times a day. You will be given lots of help by my APL team to learn how to do this...it's really pretty easy and there are lots of online videos to help as well. The secret of a special needs dog is that they bring to their people a unique feeling of limitless purpose, joyous possibility, and unmatched happiness in accomplishment! A hero is someone who adopts a special needs dog, makes accommodations to care for their unique needs, and helps that dog to live a full and happy life. I'm looking for a family that sees beyond my different abilities and appreciates my incredible spirit. A household that's patient, loving, and ready to welcome me, despite my need for a bit more care. I promise to reward you with boundless love and joy and be your best companion by stealing your heart from the moment you meet me. Tango is up to date on vaccinations, 4DX tested, microchipped and neutered. He will come with all his cool gadgets so you can easily take him along on adventures. Applications to meet Tango can be submitted at: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/dogs
We'll also keep you updated on Zoey's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Zoey

Zoey

Boxer American Staffordshire Terrier

Female, 6 yrs 9 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi, I'm Zoey! Not to toot my own horn but I am literally the sweetest 6 year old Boxer/Terrier mix you will ever meet. A few months ago, I got lost with my sister and someone found us running by a highway. They picked us up and took us to a local shelter where no one came to claim us. I was a staff favorite at the shelter but that setting was not good for me. That's why some really nice people came and took me to a foster home instead. I really love living in a home with people who show me love and kindness. My foster family says I'm special because of my resilience. You see, I am a shy girl that does the best with other dogs. They bring out my true self. Watching me open up and blossom in such a short time has filled their hearts with love. I've gone from a shy girl to a playful and affectionate companion, and I'm ready to bring joy to my forever family.. One of the cutest things about me is how I tilt my head when I'm curious-it always makes my foster family smile. And guess what? I love having my nails painted! It's like a little spa day just for me. Speaking of activities, I have a few favorites. I absolutely love playing ball-throw it, and I'll chase it for hours. Going on walks is another favorite; there's so much to see and sniff! When I'm not playing or walking, you can find me sunbathing, soaking up the warmth and relaxing. To help me continue to thrive, I need a home with another confident dog who can show me the ropes. Having a furry friend around helps me feel more confident and comfortable. Patience is key, too. I need a bit of time to fully open up and show you all the love I have to give. I get along well with other dogs, though I'm not sure about cats yet. When meeting new people, I can be a bit shy, but if you give me the space to get comfortable and do my own thing, I'll warm up in no time. I've never shown any aggression-just a little patience and kindness is all I need. With people I know, I'm a total "wiggle butt"! I get so excited and happy to see my favorite humans. I love kisses, belly rubs, and lots of attention. My foster family calls me their little speckled cow because of the black dots on my belly and the trail of water I leave after drinking water-it's my special quirk! The ideal home for me is one with an active family who has at least one other confident dog and loves to throw the ball for me. I also enjoy my spa days, especially when I'm pampered with a bath, some coconut oil on my belly and ears, and a manicure. If you're looking for a smart, loving, and playful companion, I'm your girl. I promise to shower you with love and bring endless joy to your life. I can't wait to find a forever family that will spoil me and shower me with the love I deserve. Zoey is up to date on vaccinations, heartworm tested, microchipped and spayed. She would do best in a home with a physically fenced yard so he can run and play safely. Applications to meet Zoey can be submitted at: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/dogs
We'll also keep you updated on Harvey's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Harvey

Harvey

Australian Cattle Dog German Shepherd Dog

Male, 5 mos
Marion, IA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Hi there, I'm, Harvey! I might be a puppy, but I’ve already mastered the art of loving big! I’m 6 months old, and my foster family says I’m adorable from head to tail—especially my ears! One look, and you’ll know exactly what they mean. My happy tail is always wagging, especially when I’m snuggling, playing, or just being near my people. Speaking of snuggles, I’m a pro. My favorite move? A full embrace hug where I wrap my paws around your neck. It’s my way of showing how much I care! When I’m not hugging, you’ll find me chewing on a bone (great for my puppy teeth), learning new things (I’m a quick study with sit, off, and wait), or shadowing my humans to see what they’re up to. I start my day with happy tail wags, kisses, and a quick potty break before breakfast and playtime. Afterward, it’s nap time—because even busy puppies like me need rest! At night, I sleep soundly with some white noise and the comfort of knowing my people are nearby. I’ve been working on my confidence when I’m alone, and with a cozy blanket and calming sounds, I can self-soothe during nap time. I’m also crate-trained for those moments when you’re away. I’m a social butterfly who loves dogs my size and understands their social cues like a champ! I haven’t met any cats yet, so I’m not sure what I’d think of them. I warm up quickly to women and kids, and with men, I just need a little extra time to sniff and feel safe—then I’m all in for belly rubs and snuggles! My ideal furever home could include other canine friends, kids, or just adults who are ready to love me and help me grow. I’d thrive with a family that’s around often, as I love being with my people. At my young age, I’m soaking up everything like a sponge and can’t wait to learn all the things with you! If you’re looking for a loyal, loving companion with the sweetest snores, cutest ears, and a heart of gold, I’m your guy. Let’s make forever happen together! Harvey is fully vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped and neutered. Our adoption process and application for this sweet boy can be submitted here: https://www.aplanimalrescue.org/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Hades's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Hades

Hades

Australian Shepherd

Male, Young
Marion, IA
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
His name is Hades after the Greek God, we got him from a breeder shortly after buying our house. He's 2 years his Birthday is Dec.15th of 2022 he's a huge cuddle bug and is all about the but wiggles and cuddles. He's great with other pets both cats and dogs and kids we have 2 daughters 6 & 8. The reason for our rehome is he just has too much energy for our older dogs and we underestimated his activity needs in comparison to our other dogs they are older and just can't keep up with him any more. He is kennel trained and house trained. He is by no means a gaurd dog but is vocal about visitors he is very responsive to commands and incredibly intelligent. He has been free feeding since a puppy so he will not over eat just fill the bowl and he will just eat randomly throughout the day, he does know how to use a doggy door. He knows many commands aswell. With the pros come some of the cons if you see them that way. He will piddle If scared or overly excited with butt wiggle .
We'll also keep you updated on Axel's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Axel

Axel

Husky

Male, Adult
Cedar Rapids, IA
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
I've had Axel for over 2 years after he was literally dropped on my doorstep. He was 2 years old at the time and he just turned 4 on December 1st. He had been passed around 7 homes before he came to me. I worked from home when I first got him but recently had to find a new job where I am in the office/away from home 11 hours a day. I have a large fenced yard and he has dug escape routes so I have to tether him outside and he can't run off his energy. We have been dealing with some behavioral issues like marking on furniture, tearing into trash, and going potty in the basement; I have an infant who is mobile and I can't put her on the floor because of these messes. She also has eczema which has been flaring up due to hair and dander, since Axel jumps up on the bed where she sleeps. He is gentle with the baby and is a very a cute, sweet, loving, snuggly, loyal dog. He loves treats, toys, snuggles and will follow you everywhere you go. He would do best with an active family.

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Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Independence, Iowa

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Cedar Bend Humane Society

1166 W. Airline Highway, Waterloo, IA 50703

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Better Together Animal Rescue, Inc.

211 West 4th Street, Vinton, IA 52349

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

New Rattitude - Iowa

Arlington, IA 50606

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Northeast Iowa Pet Rescue

519 Westwood, Strawberry Point, IA 52076

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Cedar Valley Greyhound Adoptions, Inc.

7411 Mt. Vernon Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52324

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Waverly Pet Rescue

PO Box 291, Waverly, IA 50677

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

AGAPE FOSTERS

Marion, IA 52302

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

A Purposeful Life Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

Marion, IA 52302

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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Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Independence, Iowa and nearby cities.

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