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Puppies and dogs in Stratford, Ontario

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

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Adopt a dog in Stratford, Ontario

These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Stratford, Ontario. 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 Sage - Stratford

Sage - Stratford

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 9 mos
Stratford, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats,
Story
Meet Sage – Shy, Sweet, and Adventure-ReadySage is a young, medium working breed mix who’s shy at first but bonds deeply—she’ll stick to you like Velcro. She loves hikes, beach days, and outdoor adventures, but needs a patient, active home that will advocate for her space and help her feel safe.She’s sensitive to sound, touch, and strangers, and can be vocal when scared. But once she knows you, she’s all in—lap dog cuddles included. Sage is looking for someone who understands her needs and is ready to be her safe place.IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:40 poundsHOME TYPE:No apartments or shared entrances as she can be quite nervous. House or town house only.CHILDREN:Teenaged - Sage is very shy when meeting new people.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Potentially compatible - was previously in a home with a cat and would show interest to play or herd. OTHER DOGS:Yes- Dogs potentially compatible with slow proper introductionACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:Previous working breed/ fearful dog knowledge or experience required.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Two in-person training sessions required to work on socialization, basic training, manners (jumpy/mouthy), touch & sound sensitivity, fear reactivity. HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:She is working on human socialization. She can still be very fearful and will need extra time and/or multiple meets.FAVOURITE THINGS:Getting all the love from people she is comfortable with and going for long walks.**For more information on any behaviours stated above, please check out our behaviour fact sheet: https://kwsphumane.ca/BehavioursandDefinitions**Please remember that animals are coming back from foster care to the centres for their meet and greets. They will be experiencing a new environment and meeting new people, which means they may not exhibit the same behaviours they did in their foster videos or while in foster care.If you are viewing this through 24PetConnect by PetPlace or Adopt-A-Pet, please visit our website https://kwsphumane.ca/adopt/process to submit an application. Any applications submitted outside of www.kwsphumane.ca may not be received.
Photo of Mr. Big-Stratford

Mr. Big-Stratford

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 9 yrs 3 mos
Stratford, ON
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats,
Story
Meet Mr. Big – A Little Dog with a Big Personality!Mr. Big may be small in size, but he’s overflowing with character! This senior mix breed is on the lookout for a calm yet active home where he can be the centre of attention. He’s a bit of a picky guy and knows exactly what he wants—a single individual to call his own, with no children or other pets.While Mr. Big enjoys socializing with dogs outside the home, he’s not a fan of sharing his space or belongings. He has resource guarding tendencies with toys, food, furniture, and his favourite people. Despite having minimal teeth, he’s still got plenty of spunk and can be touch-sensitive with new people, so an adopter with dog experience is a must.Mr. Big will thrive with clear boundaries and structured management. He’ll need an owner committed to consistent training and teaching him more release cues to help with his guarding behaviours. Until then, he’ll require careful supervision around valued items and firm but fair guidance to build trust and prevent conflicts.Once he’s comfortable, Mr. Big is a total sweetheart who loves treats, snuggles, and long walks, but he’ll be happiest in a home where he doesn’t have to share the spotlight. If you’re an experienced dog owner ready to give Mr. Big the one-on-one love, structure, and support he needs, he’ll reward you with loyalty and plenty of cuddles. IN SHELTER NOTES AND IDEAL HOME:SIZE:18 poundsHOME TYPE:House or Townhouse - No Apartments due to barrier reactivity (Barking through door). Separate exist dwellings are fine!CHILDREN:No - Due to resource guarding.CATS AND SMALL ANIMALS:No - strong prey driveOTHER DOGS:No - Not in home. Could potentially do well with another dog outside of the home away from high value resources, has not shown to be dog reactive! DIET:Mr. Big is on HYPO PD. This is a select protein based diet that comes from a vet that helps with his food sensitivities. Some food causes Mr. Big to be itchy but this medicated diet and regular soothing baths have helped him greatly. He will need to continue on this diet until your vet advises otherwise.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:Mod - High; will need daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation but enjoys some daily down time as well.HUMAN COMPATIBILITY:First time dog owner, No - Due to his behaviour needing lots of management; he needs an adopter that is willing to a
Photo of Oakley - Stratford

Oakley - Stratford

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 9 mos
Stratford, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats,
Story
Oakley is a spirited and dynamic large-breed puppy bursting with potential. She’s searching for a dedicated, experienced family who understands the needs of high-energy guardian or working breeds. Oakley thrives on activity, structure, and mental stimulation, making her an ideal companion for someone ready to keep her busy and engaged. This sweet girl isn’t suited for first-time dog owners or those with limited experience managing strong-willed, active dogs. As a young pup, Oakley is still learning her manners. She’ll need support in improving her impulse control and managing her mouthy, barky tendencies. In her foster home, Oakley enjoys going on long walks, taking selfies with her teenage siblings and relaxing on the couch.If you’re ready to invest in a loyal, energetic companion who will bring endless joy and excitement to your life, Oakley is eager to meet you! IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:40 pounds & GrowingHOME TYPE:No apartments or shared wall homes - Isn’t suited for first-time dog owners or those with limited experience in canine behaviour. Her ideal home will be free from shared walls or apartments, as she has some separation anxiety and a tendency to be vocal. CHILDREN:Teenaged Children at the earliest - Has a high drive to work and can become very jumpy and mouthyCATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Unknown - has show prey drive with rabbits and squirrels. OTHER DOGS:Yes - potentially compatible with other dogs of similar or larger size (no smaller dogs). Must be a confident larger dog who can help teach good canine behaviours. Can be fear reactive when first introduced. Oakley can be redirected onto a different task.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:Very high; will need excessive amounts of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:Family with previous owned large dog experience required, family with working/Guardian breed experience recommended but research must be done!TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Minimum 3 in-person training sessions to work on the following; Basic training, Basic manners including jumping up and mouthing, Impulse control training; Learning settling and disengage, Work on over-stimulation, Resource guarding, Reactivity, Training with high drive dogs and in dog sports, agility, scent work, herding, etc.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social and content to interact with anybody he meets but has a high
Photo of Star - Stratford

Star - Stratford

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Female, 9 mos
Stratford, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats,
Story
Star is a dazzling large-breed puppy with energy to spare and a heart full of potential. She’s looking for an experienced, active family who understands the needs of high-energy working or guardian breeds. Star thrives when given structure, activity, and plenty of mental challenges to keep her sharp and focused.Star is still mastering her manners and will need help with improving her impulse control and addressing her mouthy and barky behaviours.If you’re ready for an adventure-filled life with a devoted and energetic companion, Star is here to shine bright in your world!IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:40 pounds & GrowingHOME TYPE:No apartments or shared wall homes - Isn’t suited for first-time dog owners or those with limited experience in canine behaviour. His ideal home will be free from shared walls or apartments, as he has some separation anxiety and a tendency to be vocal. CHILDREN:Teenaged Children at the earliest - Has a high drive to work and can become very jumpy and mouthyCATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Unknown OTHER DOGS:Yes - potentially compatible with other dogs of similar or larger size (no smaller dogs). Must be a confident larger dog who can help teach good canine behaviours. Can be fear reactive when first introduced. Star can be redirected onto a different task.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:Very high; will need excessive amounts of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:Family with previous owned large dog experience required, family with working/Guardian breed experience recommended but research must be done!TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Minimum 3 in-person training sessions to work on the following; Basic training, Basic manners including jumping up and mouthing, Impulse control training; Learning settling and disengage, Work on over-stimulation, Resource guarding, Reactivity, Training with high drive dogs and in dog sports, agility, scent work, herding, etc.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social and content to interact with anybody he meets but has a high drive to work and learn with peopleFAVOURITE THINGS:Puzzles, training, treats, frozen enrichment, being outside.FOSTER AND FIELD TRIP INSIDER INFO:HUMAN SOCIAL:Star loves getting affection and she will sit on your lap if you sit on the floor with her.CAR MANNERS:It took some time for Star to settle in th
Photo of Bourbon - Stratford

Bourbon - Stratford

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 1 yr
Stratford, ON
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats,
Story
Meet Bourbon – Your Next Outdoor Adventure Buddy! Bourbon is a vocal, large-breed adventurer who lives for the outdoors. If he could move outside full-time, he probably would! This energetic guy thrives on scent work and is looking for an active family who can keep up with his love for tracking, trailing, and chasing games.He’ll need lots of enrichment to keep his nose and brain busy—think outdoor adventures, scent trails, and hide-and-seek. Bourbon is best suited for a home that can meet his physical and mental needs. His ideal match will be outdoorsy, energetic, and ready to work with his enthusiastic (and sometimes loud) personality. Although, he’s can be couch potato at times—he’s a trail companion, a scent detective, and a loyal buddy with a big voice and an even bigger heart.If you`re ready for an active companion and can offer Bourbon the engaging lifestyle he craves, he just might be your perfect match.IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:53 lbs.HOME TYPE:House, can be vocal when left alone.CHILDREN:Teenaged - he is a large dog that lacks manners and can be mouthy/jumpy when frustrated, so he would need his new home to consist of all adults or adults and near adult age children with previous large dog experience.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Unknown - cats potentially compatible with slow proper introduction.OTHER DOGS:Yes- Dogs potentially compatible. Does best with other large high energy dogs.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:First time dog owner possible.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:Two in-person training to work on socialization, manners, basic training and touch desensitization.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social, he loves being around people once comfortable.FAVOURITE THINGS:He is very treat motivated and enjoys play once comfortable! He loves working; whether it`s the place game, practicing heeling, or agility.FIELD TRIP INSIDER INFO:CAR MANNERS:It takes some time for Bourbon to settle in the car. He moves around a lot at first.LEASH MANNERS/ON WALK MANNERS:Bourbon walks on leash pretty well, and he likes to explore with his nose.**For more information on any behaviours stated above, please check out our behaviour fact sheet: https://kwsphumane.ca/BehavioursandDefinition
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Photo of Miller-Stratford

Miller-Stratford

Mixed Breed (Medium)

Male, 1 yr 6 mos
Stratford, ON
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids, Not good with dogs, Not good with cats,
Story
Meet Miller – Your New Adventure Buddy!Miller is a young, large breed mix with a big love for the outdoors and an even bigger heart. He’s looking for an active home where he can go on long walks, explore, and spend time with his people. He’s a talker and loves to “chat,” especially when he’s excited.Miller is still learning his basics—like leash manners, sit, and not jumping up—but he’s eager to learn and thrives with consistent guidance. If you’re looking for a fun, energetic companion who’s always up for an adventure, Miller might just be your perfect match!IN-SHELTER NOTES & IDEAL HOMESIZE:47 lbs.(Tall but slender breed)HOME TYPE:House Ideally - Can be fairly vocal when left alone or excited.CHILDREN:Teenaged - he is a large dog that lacks manners and can be mouthy/jumpy.CATS & SMALL ANIMALS:Unknown OTHER DOGS:Yes- Dogs potentially compatible. Does best with other large high energy dogs.ACTIVITY/ENERGY LEVEL:High; will need a lot of daily exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation.HUMAN COMPATIBILTY:First time dog owner possible.TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/NEEDS:One in-person training to work on socialization, manners, basic training, separation anxiety and touch desensitization or a Goodpup scholarship.HUMAN SOCIAL IN SHELTER:Very human social, he loves being around people once comfortable.FAVOURITE THINGS:Laying in the sun shine, long walks, or playing with doggy friends.**For more information on any behaviours stated above, please check out our behaviour fact sheet: https://kwsphumane.ca/BehavioursandDefinitions**Please remember that animals are coming back from foster care to the centres for their meet and greets. They will be experiencing a new environment and meeting new people, which means they may not exhibit the same behaviours they did in their foster videos or while in foster care.If you are viewing this through 24PetConnect by PetPlace or Adopt-A-Pet, please visit our website https://kwsphumane.ca/adopt/process to submit an application. Any applications submitted outside of www.kwsphumane.ca may not be received.

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Dog shelters and rescues in Stratford, Ontario

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Shelter

Stratford Perth Humane Society

125 Griffith Rd, Stratford, ON N5A 6S4

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

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Rescue

Kismutt Small Dog Rescue

R.R. #4 - Rd. 88 - 882702, St. Marys, ON N4X 1C7

Pet Types: dogs

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Oxford County Animal Rescue

789 Dundas Street, Woodstock, ON N4S 1E1

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

Ontario Britts Rescue

Waterloo, ON N2V 2J2

Pet Types: dogs

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Pound Dog Rescue

P.O. Box 261, Drumbo, ON N0J 1G0

Pet Types: dogs

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Standard Poodles In Need, Rescue - Kitchener

Kitchener, ON N2M 3R3

Pet Types: dogs

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Hobo Haven Pet Rescue

St Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0

Pet Types: dogs

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DIBS Rescue - Kitchener

Kitchener, ON N2G 4G7

Pet Types: dogs

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DIBS Rescue - Waterloo

Waterloo, ON N2J 4A8

Pet Types: dogs

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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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