Adopt

Puppies and dogs in Maine

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Maine

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

Corky

Poodle (Standard)

Male, Young
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Corky ❤️ A Sweet Boy Just Waiting to Feel Safe Corky is a handsome little poodle mix, who is about a year old and weighing 53 pounds, has been through a pretty big change in his young life. Corky and his brothers were left behind at a cabin when the renter moved away. For these dogs, that cabin and the life they knew was their entire world — and suddenly, everything familiar was gone. The man who raised them just disappeared and abandoned them. Because of that, Corky is understandably very shy when he is in a new or unfamiliar situation. New places, new people, and especially busy environments can be overwhelming for him here in his first week of being away from the original place he was born. If you take the time to slow down and let Corky figure things out at his own pace, you begin to see a completely different dog. Once Corky honestly settles in and realizes he is safe, he is an incredibly sweet boy. When we met him in a setting where he felt more comfortable, he was friendly and gentle. The shy behavior we see in unfamiliar places isn't who Corky is at his heart — it's simply how he copes when he isn't sure what is happening around him. Corky has lived with other dogs, including his dad and brothers, and seems comfortable having canine companionship around him. He enjoyed being outside and having the familiar routine of his previous life. We think another confident, friendly dog could potentially be a wonderful companion for him as he learns to trust and experience new things. Please don't let his initial shyness fool you — this boy is smart! Corky is very trainable and has so much potential. With patience, consistency, positive reinforcement, and someone willing to celebrate the little victories, we believe his confidence will continue to grow. He may need a little extra time in the beginning, but every step forward will be worth it.   At the vet, Corky is especially shy and overwhelmed, which isn't surprising given everything that is new to him. But when he is somewhere he feels comfortable, we see that sweet personality starting to emerge. He just needs someone who understands that trust isn't built overnight.   Corky will do best with an adopter who is willing to support him on his journey rather than expect him to immediately be the confident, outgoing dog he may eventually become. He needs someone patient and kind, someone who will give him a safe place to decompress, a predictable routine, and plenty of encouragement. There is something especially rewarding about watching a shy dog realize that he is finally home. We believe Corky has the potential to become a wonderful, loving companion once he has the security and stability he has been missing. He didn't choose to be left behind. He didn't choose to have his whole world change. But with the right person beside him, Corky can learn that the next chapter of his life can be so much better than the first.    Corky is looking for someone who will give him the time, patience, and love he needs to blossom. In return, we think he will give you something pretty special — the joy of watching a sweet, smart little dog finally discover that he is safe, loved, and home.  Please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com if you are interested in being the lifechanging person and family in Corky's life. September 21, 2026, 11:31 am
new badge
Photo of Gunnerman

Gunnerman

Belgian Malinois

Male, Young
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
A second chance Cinderella story Sometimes the new beginnings in life for the puppies in this world are not the warm and fuzzy starts we wish for them. Gunnerman's story began in the hands of a homeless person who had temporary housing but unfortunately did not have the resources to provide this young puppy with the veterinary care and stability he needed. Gunnerman had a wound on his face that required medical attention, and thankfully, he received the care he desperately needed only to soon afterward have his owner get evicted.  The call came to us that Gunnerman was now outside with his owner and nowhere to go with no safe place to call home. That is when Critter Cavalry Rescue stepped in again, along with a kind foster dad who opened his heart and home to this handsome brindle boy. Together, we are determined to give Gunnerman the second chance he deserves and find him a strong, dog-savvy family who understands his needs and will surround him with love, guidance, and the steadfast certainty that his future will be a good one.We believe Gunnerman is a Malinois Shepherd mix, a type of Shepherd that many people may not be familiar with. Malinois are known for their intelligence, loyalty, athleticism, and incredible devotion to their people. They are quick learners and form very strong bonds with the humans they love. Gunner is already showing us those wonderful qualities at just about four months old.This boy is a lover of people and other creatures. We have not had the opportunity to introduce him to cats yet, but because he is still so young and has such a friendly, open personality, we believe that with the proper introduction, he could potentially become a cat's best friend and protector. Of course, any cat introduction would need to be done carefully and responsibly.Gunnerman has plenty to learn about life, but one thing he already does beautifully is bond with his person. He greets new experiences with curiosity, interest, and a happy smile. This boy is definitely not a shrinking violet! Gunnerman is ready to march off into the day with excitement and anticipation for whatever fun and adventure comes next.We anticipate that Gunnerman will grow into a handsome 50-pound adult, and we believe he is going to be one of the most loyal companions a family could ask for. He is working on his housebreaking and doing well with it, and like any young Shepherd mix, he will need continued training, structure, exercise, mental stimulation, and someone who will patiently help him become the wonderful adult dog he is destined to be.We do require that Gunnerman's forever family have a fenced and secure backyard where he can safely run, roam, explore, and smell all the wonderful things the great outdoors has to offer. Curiosity is definitely part of this boy's Shepherd heritage, and Gunner loves using his nose to investigate the world around him.We think Gunnerman is going to have a true Cinderella story. He started life without the security and stability every puppy deserves, but his story is changing now. We are so excited to watch this beautiful boy grow, learn, bond, and blossom into the loyal and devoted companion we know he can become.Gunnerman's future is waiting for him, and he will be forever grateful to the person or family who gives him the life he has always deserved. And so will all of us at Critter Cavalry Rescue.If you believe you may be the right forever home for this special boy, please contact Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrtennessee@gmail.com. September 21, 2026, 11:31 am
new badge
Photo of Spirit

Spirit

Husky

Female, Young
Auburn, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with cats, House-trained,
Story
🐾 Meet Spirit — a wonderful dog looking for her forever home! ❤️Spirit is a very loving, affectionate girl who absolutely loves to cuddle and soak up attention. She is playful, energetic, and loves having fun, but once the day is done, she settles down and sleeps peacefully through the night.She does well with adult/big dogs, although she is not comfortable with small dogs. Spirit is happiest in a home where she can receive lots of love, attention, and companionship.A very important note: Spirit does not do well with cats. She sees them as prey, so she needs a cat-free home.The reason we are looking for a new home for Spirit is not because she isn't a wonderful dog. She is simply very nervous and uncomfortable around children, and with 10 grandchildren, our current home isn't the right environment for her.We want to find Spirit a loving forever home where she can feel safe, relaxed, and truly be herself. She has so much love to give and deserves a family who understands her
new badge
Photo of Franklin

Franklin

Golden Retriever/Labrador Retriever

Male, 2 mos
Dover, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
-
new badge
Photo of PUPPY ROCKY

PUPPY ROCKY

Golden Retriever/Hound (Unknown Type)

Male, Puppy
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs,
Story
  Rocky is one of those very special puppies that has an old soul kind of personality and is going to be a BIG BOY!  This boy weighs 24 pounds at just 12 weeks and most probably will grow to be a 70 lbs adult. What you notice first about Rocky is his adorable freckled nose and his magical eyes that are lined in black.  His body just lumbers around with a swerve from head to tail like his back feet are trying to keep up with his front feet.  This handsome boy was found on a rural country road with his mom and all his 7 other siblings (8 total puppies). A call was made to us from the kind single mom of 2 children who took all of the puppies and the Momma Golden Retriever mix in and soon we had them all placed in foster homes.  Momma is adopted and now we have started the search for great homes for the puppies.  Rocky is the only puppy who has his unique look. His foster mom loves how he melts into her body when she picks him up or he lays on the sofa with her.  He is around extra big dogs daily and this past Saturday Rocky spent all day at different Puppy Yoga events and then a 13  year old boy's birthday  party just getting all the love and attention any puppy could want.  He was so easy going and compliant and  loved being carried around or sitting on someone's lap.  Rocky is well on his way to learning the ropes of going outside and he sleeps through the night with his brother Beau in the exercise pen in the den.  He is a good eater and he is not food aggressive in any way with any other dogs or people. This boy is going to be a special dog in your lifetime of owning dogs.  Don't miss out on Rocky.   He is ready for adoption on September 24th. He is currently in Nashville, TN and we transport to the northeastern states above Tennessee.  Please email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com if you are interested.  We cannot provide a meet and greet but can provide some videos and extensive conversations with the foster mom.          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.comSeptember 21, 2026, 11:31 am
new badge
Photo of Ashley

Ashley

Labrador Retriever/Whippet

Female, 2 mos
Dover, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
-

Search for a puppy or dog

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

Puppies and dogs in Maine cities

Shelters & rescues in Maine

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Central Aroostook Humane Society

26 Cross St., Presque Isle, ME 04769

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

More an arrow icon

Rescue

Northbound Hounds

Aroostook County, ME 04779

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Houlton Humane Society

263 Callaghan Road, Houlton, ME 04730

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Shelter

Ark Animal Sanctuary

102 Old Woodstock Road, Houlton, ME 04730

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

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!

Image of dog

Looking for a specific breed?

Select from the options below to view adoptable puppies and dogs in Maine

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