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Puppies and dogs in Worcester, Massachusetts

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

A pair of dogs

Adopt a dog in Worcester, Massachusetts

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Worcester, 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 Tharos's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Tharos

Tharos

Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium) American Pit Bull Terrier

Male, Adult
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Tharos – 4-Year-Old Male Full-Bred Pitbull Terrier (Neutered) ☀️ Sun lover & couch cuddle king 🦴 Extreme chewer toy fan 🏡 House & crate trained 💉 Up to date on vaccines, flea/tick & heartworm meds 🍖 Eats Purina Adult Dog Chow 🐕 Sweet, loyal, calm, and loving
We'll also keep you updated on McDreamy's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of McDreamy

McDreamy

Chihuahua

Male, 6 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet McDreamy — a 12-pound Chihuahua who is exactly as charming as his name suggests. This little guy arrived with a painful eye condition and, once it was removed, he blossomed into the happiest, winking ray of sunshine you’ll ever meet. He's somewhere between 6-9 years old (best guess for this former stray). Like any self-respecting Chihuahua, McDreamy may bark or grumble when he meets someone new — but give him a minute and he’s melting into your arms, wagging his tail like a tiny propeller, and demanding snuggles as if you’ve been best friends forever. McDreamy’s vibe with other dogs: • Small dogs: “You’re cool. Let’s hang.” • Big dogs: “I decline.” He’s not a fighter, but he won’t back down if another dog brings the drama, so a home without an alpha-type resident is ideal. He’s affectionate, clever, deeply cuddly, and—bonus—housebroken. A tidy little gentleman through and through. Everything is exciting to McDreamy: • 🍽️ Mealtime: Pure joy. • 🌳 Walks: Peak adventure. • 🛌 Burrowing under the blankets: Nightly bliss. • 🎾 Toys: Big fan. Loves all of them. Will proudly parade them around like trophies. He asks for love almost instantly in neutral territory, snuggles like a pro, sleeps under the covers like it’s his life’s calling, and leans into you with total trust. He is currently getting daily ointment in his remaining eye, which he tolerates quite well, and may need it for the foreseeable future. If you’re looking for a pint-sized sweetheart who will adore you, follow you everywhere, and fill your home with wiggly, affectionate joy, McDreamy is ready to sweep you off your feet. 💕🐾 If you are interested in finding out more about McDreamy, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog McDreamy is currently being fostered in Millbury, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Princess's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Princess

Princess

Chihuahua

Female, 15 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Princess — proof that royalty only gets better with age. 👑🐾 Princess is an estimated 15-year-old, 8-pound Chihuahua who arrived with a few other senior pals and immediately made it clear she did not come here to fade quietly into the background. After completing treatment for anemia, Lyme disease, and a skin infection, she is now doing phenomenally in her foster home and living her best golden-years life. Medically speaking, Princess has high blood pressure that’s easily managed with daily medication. It did cost her vision in her left eye, but don’t worry — she didn’t get the memo. She navigates life like a pro. She’s also rocking a recent dental with just five teeth remaining, plus a partially dissolved lower jaw that gives her an absolutely iconic perma-blep. It’s adorable. You will be obsessed. Despite her senior status, Princess has great mobility. She hops on and off the couch unassisted, handles short staircases just fine, and would likely enjoy short, leisurely leash walks. But her true cardio routine? Mealtime. Princess LOVES food. Like… full-body zoomies, all-four-paws-off-the-ground, dancing-for-her-dinner levels of love. She’s housebroken-ish: she’ll happily potty outside right away and does great with frequent outings. For longer stretches or less supervision, diapers help keep everyone stress-free and happy. Socially, Princess is a dream. She adores other small senior dogs and regularly snuggles up in a cozy canine pile. She ignores cats like the dignified lady she is and is wonderful with children. She’s generally quiet, though she may bark at unfamiliar visitors — because even queens have boundaries. In short? Princess is sweet, resilient, cuddly, hilarious, and full of heart. If you’re looking for a tiny royal with a big personality, a legendary blep, and endless love to give, Princess is ready to rule your couch (and your heart). 💕👑 If you are interested in finding out more about Princess, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Princess is being fostered in Sutton, MA. The adoption fee is $225. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Milo's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Milo

Milo

Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Male, 10 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
*** Foster-to-Adopt until dental is complete *** Meet Milo — a 10-year-old, 23-lb terrier mix with the heart of a snuggler Milo is a calm, gentle gentleman who thrives with quiet companionship. He loves curling up next to a mellow human and has been wonderful with dogs of all shapes and sizes. He’s polite, non-confrontational, and generally prefers peace over drama — the kind of dog who would rather nap than argue. Because of his sweet nature, he’d likely do well with respectful kids and possibly cats too. Despite being a distinguished 10 years old, Milo still enjoys playing with toys — proof that you’re never too old for a little fun. Milo is happiest when he’s near his people. If crated or gated away, he’ll voice his displeasure (he prefers togetherness, thank you very much). At night, though? Total angel. He's been sleeping quietly on the bedroom floor without his crate. He’s still polishing up his potty training skills. Milo is learning the routine and recently had a big win by doing his business outside — progress! With consistency, patience, and encouragement, he’s well on his way. If you’re looking for a sweet, low-key companion who loves food, cuddles, toys, and peaceful coexistence, Milo is ready to settle into his golden years right by your side. If you are interested in finding out more about Milo, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Milo is being fostered in Worcester, MA. The adoption fee is $400. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Lexie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lexie

Lexie

Chihuahua

Female, 4 yrs 5 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Lexie — a 4-year-old Chihuahua with a big personality, a bigger heart, and just enough sass to keep life interesting. 💁‍♀️🐾 According to her foster mom, “she’s wonderful!” — and that pretty much sums it up. Lexie is smart, knows lots of commands, and absolutely lives for playtime. She LOVES playing with other dogs and thrives in a lively, bustling home where there’s always something going on. Lexie uses her voice strategically — to ask for attention, request a potty break, or alert you to a potential “intruder”. Once she’s settled and content, she relaxes beautifully and happily curls up with her people. Lexie does great with kids, dogs, and cats in her foster mom’s busy household and handles chaos like a champ. Running kids? Multiple pets? General household mayhem? She’s in her element. She can get a little mouthy during high-energy play, but it’s all excitement and enthusiasm — no hard biting, just a pup who sometimes forgets she’s not a lion cub. And when the energy winds down? Lexie turns into a cuddle bug extraordinaire. She LOVES giving kisses, soaking up affection, and being carried around like the tiny VIP she is. Lexie isn’t an off-leash gal (too many fun distractions), and she listens best when properly motivated — but she’s charming enough that you’ll forgive her selective hearing. If you’re looking for a joyful, affectionate, playful little dog who wants to be part of the action and part of the cuddle pile, Lexie is ready to bring the fun, the love, and the kisses to your home. 💛🐶 If you are interested in finding out more about Lexie, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Lexie is being fostered in West Brookfield, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Niko's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Niko

Niko

Chihuahua

Male, 10 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Niko — 7 Pounds of Cozy, Cuddly Perfection 🐾🛋️ Niko is an approximately 10-year-old Chihuahua mix and a distinguished little gentleman weighing in at a mighty 7 pounds. He was found in an empty apartment hanging out with some cats, and he’s since decided that the good life is all about comfort, warmth, and snacks. Niko’s top hobbies, in strict order of importance: 1️⃣ Cuddling deep inside sofa blankets 2️⃣ Eating soft food (he’s rocking just 4 teeth, and he uses them wisely) 3️⃣ Nesting himself into bed comforters like a tiny, living throw pillow He enjoys relaxing in his crate but is thrilled to share your bed at night if you’re open to hosting a very small, very warm roommate. Think canine heating pad with ears. Niko is quiet, polite, and gets along just fine with other dogs, but let’s be clear — his true calling is being emotionally and physically attached to his human. He’s house trained, though he firmly believes snow is a personal insult and would much prefer to potty indoors during winter unless closely supervised. This is a low-energy, low-drama senior who dreams of a predictable life filled with naps, cozy blankets, and frequent meals. Speaking of meals — Niko nearly lost his entire mind over a rotisserie chicken his foster mom was preparing. Food is love. Food is life. If you’re looking for a tiny companion who will happily spend his golden years snoozing beside you, warming your blankets, and silently judging your portion sizes — Niko is ready to move in and claim his spot. 🐶❤️ If you are interested in finding out more about Niko, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Niko is being fostered in Somerville, MA. The adoption fee is $400. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.

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

Puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Dog shelters and rescues in Worcester, Massachusetts

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

Skyllers in Worcester

Worcester, MA 01601

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

North Star Labrador Retriever Rescue

Worcester, MA 01602

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

Worcester Animal Rescue League

139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Broken Tail Rescue, Inc.

Broken Tail Rescue, P.O. Box 60296, Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

angels in waiting

24 adella st, auburn, MA 01501

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Harmony Fund

Holden, MA 01520

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Shelter

Leicester Animal Control

3 Washington St, Leicester, MA 01524

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

The Boxer Rescue, Inc.

PO Box 440, Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

Safe With Us Animal Rescue

Grafton, MA 01519

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

Bay State Dogs

Grafton, MA 01519

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 Worcester, Massachusetts 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