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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.
We'll also keep you updated on TRAPPER's adoption status with email updates.
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TRAPPER

Poodle (Standard)

Male, Adult
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
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Story
Despite how we know he felt in that condition, he still had a happy smile and a wagging tail for everyone he met.  When no identity was found and noone came forward looking for him, Critter Cavalry Rescue stepped up to help get him shaved down (boy did he feel great) and then off he went to the vet to get neutered, totally vetted and checked out from head to toe. This boy loves TOYS!   Get out a tennis ball and throw it all day long and you will have him chasing and bringing back all day long.  Give him a stuffed animal toy?  Oh my goodness how happy he will be.  Smiling, loving to play with little children that are near him and meeting new friends, both human and dogs.   This boy will be someone's fun sidekick in life.  He needs to gain some weight and become the 55 pound stunning Poodle that he once was. as his hair returns and his weight become more normal.  He is crate trained and really considers the crate as his special bedroom.  Housebroken and pretty good on the leash.  He is vibrant and so very present in life and involved in all the things in his life and what is going on around him.  This is a great Poodle and he will be a prize that will be a never to forget companion in your life. Please write to Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@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.comJune 12, 2025, 5:12 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Fanny 's adoption status with email updates.
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Fanny

Basset Hound/Golden Retriever

Female, 1 yr
Dover, ME
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats,
Story
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We'll also keep you updated on VADER's adoption status with email updates.
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VADER

Chihuahua

Male, Young
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained,
Story
From Shadows to Sunshine: Vader's New Beginning Starts With You In a world he didn’t choose, Vader survived. Not in a warm home with toys and cuddles, but in a heartbreaking hoarding situation with over 100 other Chihuahuas, crammed into chaos, forgotten by the world. Now, this light yellow 13-pound boy, just 1–2 years old, is gently learning that life can be kind. Vader is a soft soul. Cautious, yes—but never unkind. Despite everything he’s endured, he has never snapped, never growled—only quietly observed and waited. He takes comfort in his crate, snuggled into a blanket, watching the world slowly unfold around him. He doesn’t ask for much—just peace, and someone who understands. In his foster home, he’s already showing tiny signs of blooming: He’s housebroken—yes, already! He coexists easily with the other dogs, politely ignores the cats, and even accepts gentle love from a 3-year-old child. He’s finding courage. Day by day. Breath by breath. Vader doesn’t need a fast-paced world or loud voices. He needs you—someone patient, someone kind, someone who sees the beauty in a dog who's never truly known safety, but desperately wants to. If you’ve ever wished to be someone’s second chance… this is it. &#226&#157&#164&#239&#184&#143 Give Vader the forever he’s never known. Because behind those timid eyes is a heart just waiting to love. Email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com to apply or ask more.   PLEASE NOTE:   Our dogs and cats are fostered in Tennessee and can transport weekly up to the Northeast region.  Request an application and learn more about Critter Cavalry at https://www.crittercavalry.com/adoption.June 11, 2025, 9:36 pm
We'll also keep you updated on YODA's adoption status with email updates.
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YODA

Chihuahua

Male, Young
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained,
Story
Meet Yoda – A Little Dog with a Big Heart Ready to Shine With a name like Yoda, you'd expect wisdom, quiet strength, and a noble soul—and this little 10-pound Chihuahua mix embodies all of that and more. But our sweet Yoda didn't come from a galaxy far, far away—he came from a heartbreaking hoarding situation with over 100 dogs crammed into a chaotic home. There was no peace, no space, and no love. When rescue finally arrived, he was shut down and clinging tightly to another pup (now known as Vader), unsure of the world around him. But everything changed the day Yoda joined a loving foster home through Critter Cavalry Rescue. In just a short time, he began to soften. No longer hiding away or trembling in fear, Yoda now wags his tail when approached and welcomes gentle affection—especially from the 3-year-old human in his foster home, with whom he’s built a quiet bond. He’s proven that shy dogs often connect with children first, sensing their openness and kindness. Yoda is about 1-2 years old and fully vetted, neutered, crate trained, and housebroken. He’s quiet and gentle, gets along beautifully with the other dogs and cats in his foster home, and has already shown glimpses of the playful, loving companion he’s meant to be. This little guy is still on a journey of healing, but he’s come so far in such a short time—and with the love of a patient, understanding forever home, Yoda’s transformation will be nothing short of magical. He doesn't need perfection—just kindness, consistency, and the chance to finally be a dog. Open your heart and give this brave soul the future he’s always deserved. Because love heals, and Yoda is ready to return that love tenfold. To adopt Yoda, email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com PLEASE NOTE:   Our dogs and cats are fostered in Tennessee and can transport weekly up to the Northeast region.  Request an application and learn more about Critter Cavalry at https://www.crittercavalry.com/adoption.June 11, 2025, 9:36 pm
We'll also keep you updated on SARA's adoption status with email updates.
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SARA

Dutch Shepherd

Female, Young
Portland, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with cats, House-trained,
Story
Meet Sara — Your New Best Friend in a Perfectly Trained, 45-Pound Package of Love At just 20 months old, Miss Sara is already proving to be the kind of once-in-a-lifetime dog everyone hopes for—smart, affectionate, eager to please, and now… beautifully trained. Originally adopted as a puppy, Sara was very loved—but when her owner sadly fell ill and could no longer care for her, everything changed. She returned to us with a heart full of love, but without the manners every young pup needs. We knew this girl had potential, so off she went to a professional 3-week training program… and wow, is she showing off. &#226&#156&#133 Training? She’s nailing it. &#226&#156&#133 People? She adores them. &#226&#156&#133 Dogs? Instant besties. &#226&#156&#133 Kids? She belly-crawls just to be close to them—it’s beyond precious. We believe she’s a Dutch Shepherd mix, weighing in at about 45 pounds, with a gorgeous, sleek coat and a heart that beats for human connection. She is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on all vaccines—and yes, ready to go! Now, she’s just looking for a home that can match her devotion with love and guidance. Toys are her jam, and she’ll happily entertain herself or join you for a game of fetch. No kitties for this girl, please! Chasing them is just too much fun, and she needs a cat-free home to thrive. Sara is the kind of dog who makes you feel like the most important person in the world. Her loyalty is unmatched, her spirit is bright, and her readiness for her forever home couldn’t be clearer. Interested in giving this beautiful girl her happily-ever-after? Email Critter Cavalry Rescue at ccrnewengland@gmail.com today. Let Sara show you what love, intelligence, and a second chance can really look like. PLEASE NOTE:   Our dogs and cats are fostered in Tennessee and can transport weekly up to the Northeast region.  Request an application and learn more about Critter Cavalry at https://www.crittercavalry.com/adoption.June 11, 2025, 9:36 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Kai's adoption status with email updates.
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Kai

American Staffordshire Terrier

Male, Young
Lewiston, ME
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained,
Story
Hi my name is Kai. I am a 1.5 years old. I love to cuddle and play with my humans but other dogs as well. I love kids! & cats are alright too :) I have some anxiety but please be patient with me. With hard work and dedication we can both overcome this together! I lunge & nip at times but it’s not to hurt you, it’s just to let you know when something bothers me. I am crate & house trained. Can’t be left out of crate when home alone so please make sure I have treats & toys to make me happy and distracted. I love to sleep under the blanket at night and cuddle up with my humans. It makes me feel safe. Car rides make me nervous so I may not always be up to it! Thanks for being interested in me & can’t wait to find my forever home.

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:

Rescue

Companion Animal Rescue & Education (ME)

Biddeford, ME 04005

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Lucky Pup Rescue

kennebunkport, ME 04046

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Animal Welfare Society

46 Holland Road, Kennebunk, ME 04043

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

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Rescue

Paws From Afar

Kennebunk, ME 04043

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Animal Rescue Foundation ME

Scarborough, ME 04074

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Rock City Rescue - ME chapter

Scarborough, ME 04074

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Friends Fur Life North East

Alfred, ME 04002

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Almost Home Rescue of New England

South Portland, ME 04106

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Odd Dog ~NORTH

1053 N. Berwick Road, Wells, ME 04090

Pet Types: 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 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