Illinois

Dogs for Adoption in Crete, IL: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home

Nobu, up for adoption near Crete, IL

196 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 15 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Crete. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of Crete, 47 puppies, 54 young dogs, 82 adults and 11 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, Terrier and German Shepherd, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.

1. Nobu

Young (4 years) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

If you are interested in Nobu please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

Adopt Nobu fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Nov 2

2. Mayonnaise

Young (9 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

If you are interested in Mayonnaise please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
Adopt Mayonnaise fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 26

3. Lady

Adult (7 years 11 months) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 2 mi from Crete

If you are interested in Lady please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

Adopt Lady fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 22

4. Banderita

Young (1 year) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Banderita is a super playful and very happy dog. There is not a mean bone in her body. She gets along well with my other rescue dog Ellie. They are constantly playing so Banderita would probably annoy an older dog that isn’t as into playing. She is about 90% house trained. Walks ok on the leash but she is just over a year old so she is still learning.

Estimated age: 1 year

If you are interested in Banderita please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Banderita fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 6

5. Elaris

Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

She’s a fun loving sleepy girl who loves naps and chew toys.

She’s the best- she has responded well to the training we’ve done.

If you are interested in Elaris please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Elaris fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 5

6. Allegra

Young · Labrador Retriever (medium coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Allegra loves a good walk with lots of smells. She is so happy to be in a home with a family- her tail is always wagging- and she has been excellent with the kids. She loves a belly rub and laying outside in the sun.

She can get enthusiastic with her fetch and play, so older kids may be best. She does not love the crate, but we are working on getting her more comfortable. We have not had her meet many dogs yet, but she was friendly with dogs at CACC.

If you are interested in Allegra please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Allegra fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 5

7. Norm

Young · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Norm is an absolute snuggle bug, he doesn't only want to be next to you, he prefers to be on top of you. He is a couch potato and loves to give and receive all of the love and kisses. He is more reserved when outside but inside is when his real personality shines.

If you are interested in Norm please fill out an adoption application at:

https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Norm fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 1

8. Cholena

Adult (8 years) · Female · Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 2 mi from Crete

She is very sweet she loves to cuddle and play with her toys she will play ball all by herself. She loves to go on walks and be by her person always wagging her tail and happy. She is smart, she knows commands and comes and listens when you call her name. She does not bark unless she is trying to warn you of something. She is a great dog.

If you are interested in Cholena please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Cholena fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Oct 1

9. Vicky

Adult (9 years) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 2 mi from Crete

If you’re looking for a sweet and affectionate doggie aged to perfection, meet Vicky. She is 9 years old and although we might not know much about her past, this sweet girl has a lot of love to give and her personality has been blossoming in her foster home. She is potty trained and will let you know when she needs to go out. She has quickly learned to enjoy car rides and does so good for baths. She is also getting the hang of ‘sit’, who says you can’t teach a senior dog new tricks? Vicky might not be a puppy but she doesn’t know that. She will happily lounge around most of the day but has bursts of energy and loves to play tug with her plushies and finding new hiding spots for her bone. She also enjoys long strolls in the park and a light jog to get the last of her energy out before plopping down to roll around on the grass. Vicky is highly treat motivated and doesn’t usually mind seeing other dogs on walks. She can refocus with the clicker and praise or treats. She absolutely loves people and affection. You’ll know when she’s happy/excited because her tail wags like a little propeller. Her love language is words of affirmation and lots of treats. Vicky is full of love and looking for her forever home.

Read more about Vicky

If you are interested in Vicky please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Vicky fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Sep 21

10. Rocky

Senior (12 years 1 month) · Male · Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Rocky is a big ol' sweetheart. He loves love and just wants to snuggle. Rocky also likes to go for walks and does great on a leash. He is such a good boy, follows directions and listens well. He is chill yet playful. Loves toys especially ones with squeakers. Definitely a couch dog and wants to be right up next to you. He is house trained and can hold it for 4-5 hours when needed.

Read more about Rocky

Rocky does seem to prefer women. He does ok with older men (60's+) but has a hard time with young men seeming scared and barking a lot. There has been improvement with men he has had frequent exposure to. Rocky has some skin issues and does need frequent medicated baths. Rocky is very well mannered and gentle and easily allows caregiving activities.

If you are interested in Rocky please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Rocky fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Sep 8

11. Everest

Young (1 year 1 month) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Everest is a sweet, affectionate pup who loves being close to his favorite people — he’ll happily be your shadow and sidekick and often rests his head in your hands for the ultimate snuggle. He’s steadily building confidence every day and is curious about the world around him, always ready to explore at his own pace.

Everest has plenty of puppy energy and loves to hop around in the backyard like a little bunny. He enjoys his walks, meeting other pups, and playing once he settles in. He’s also very well house-trained and understands “no,” so he balances fun with good manners.

Read more about Everest

Everest is especially fond of calm moments and gentle interaction. He thrives in a loving, patient home where he can feel safe and supported while he grows braver and more adventurous. He enjoys quiet affection, cozy laps, and bonding with someone who will give him the time he needs to shine.

Everest would do best in a home where he can be the center of attention or with other dogs in the family to continue building confidence, since he’s great with his canine friends. If you’re looking for a devoted companion who will fill your heart with warmth and loyalty, Everest just might be your perfect match!

If you are interested in Everest please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Everest fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Aug 25

12. Silly Putty

Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Silly Putty is incredibly sweet and affectionate. She loves to cuddle and go for walks and to play. She very much enjoys playing with the husky in her foster home and is always eager to meet new friends, human or canine. She likes to please, and is very food and praise motivated.

If you are interested in Silly Putty please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Silly Putty fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Aug 24

13. Lucy

Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Lucy is affectionate, silly, and a bit skiddish. Lucy has tons of love to give and once she gets comfortable is a total snuggle buddy. Don't let the cuddly side fool you because she's also always down for some fetch, with a weakness for tennis balls. She will need a slow introduction to other dogs and should probably live in a cat free home. She wants to be everybody's friend and will show that with a toothy smile.

If you are interested in Lucy please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
Adopt Lucy fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Aug 4

14. Shireen

Young (6 years 1 month) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Shireen is an approximately 6 year-old petite pittie with a big personality. Curious, playful, goofy, and confident, she loves being the center of attention and soaking up affection.

She enjoys snuggling, playing fetch, going for car rides, and showing off her impressive toy-destruction skills. Fairly active and easy to please, Shireen walks nicely on leash but is naturally curious about other people, dogs, and four-legged critters.

Read more about Shireen

She’ll thrive in a home that can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation, along with the love and attention she adores. If you’re looking for a fun, affectionate companion who will keep you laughing, Shireen may be your girl!

If you are interested in Shireen please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Shireen fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Jul 27

15. Bluebeard

Young (7 years 2 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Bluebeard is people friendly, kid friendly, and gets along with dogs under the right leadership and structure. Although he is 7 years old, he is up for mini adventures and just relaxing at home. He is a guy that can get easily overstimulated/aroused, so someone who is willing to learn how to give him structure, boundaries, and most importantly have fun with him in a way that is fulfilling to him will help him thrive. He is a great self entertainer, but still needs fulfilling interaction with his human every day. He

Read more about Bluebeard

is currently in a training program with DoveK9 LLC and Every Single Day Dog Training LLC to help with his leash reactivity and sound sensitivity. He has made BIG progress in learning how to handle his emotions when he’s scared, over stimulated, over aroused, or frustrated. He is crate trained, tether trained (to help him settle), exposed to different environments, knows how to self regulate, and obedience trained: sit, down, place, food luring, engagement.

Here are the awesome perks that come with fostering and/or adopting
Bluebeard
:

Foster(s) - Free lessons and guidance while he is in your care. 15% off day training and boarding services.

Adopter(s) - Free lesson package to ensure a seamless home transition. 15% off day training and boarding services.

If you are interested in Bluebeard please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Bluebeard fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Jul 23

16. Bella Donna

Young (4 years 3 months) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Bella Donna is the sweetest girl with the most loving personality. She's completely house trained and has never had an accident in the home. One of her favorite things is carrying around her stuffed toys. She always has a stuffie in her mouth. She also loves running around the yard to let her energy out.

If you are interested in Bella Donna please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Only dog
  • House-trained
Adopt Bella Donna fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Jul 9

17. Nerida

Young (2 years) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Nerida is very sweet puppy who loves people and other dogs. She has a playful personality and loves the chew. She is still working on her potty training.

If you are interested in Nerida please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Nerida fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed Jun 18

18. Anders

Adult (1 year 3 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Anders is a 1 year old pup with a heart of gold. He’s playful and can entertain himself with his toys! He’s a smart cookie too! He is very eager to please and responds quickly to training and correction. He prefers love over treats.
Anders LOVES hanging out in the yard, snuggling in bed, being loved on, other dogs, going for walks, being with his people, and tennis balls! In the house and out in the yard, he comes when called. He’ll play with you, another dog, or just by himself! When corrected, Anders will stop.
He currently lives with 2 dogs. Because of his robust personality and all-out play style, no small children for Anders. Older teens okay.

Read more about Anders

If you are interested in Anders please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Anders fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed May 26

19. Corbin

Young (3 years 2 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 2 mi from Crete

Corbin has some puppy energy, but also has a calm relaxing side. Treat motivated. Thinks he's a lap puppy, big ol goofball. Always has a smile on his face! Loves to play tug of war and fetch. Getting better at giving the ball back when you say drop it. If he gets to excited while playing, tell him easy and he eases up. He's very loving and always wants attention. Very smart and quick learner. Still working on the jumping up on people, but he's getting better with trying to hold his excitement.

Read more about Corbin

He is absolutely amazing with kids. He has barely barked or acted overly excited with other dogs unless he sees they are friendly, then he wants to play.

He does not like hoses!

If you are interested in Corbin please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Corbin fromDogs are DeservingCrete, IL · listed May 12

20. Tank

Adult · Male · Great Dane (short coat) · 28 mi from Crete

Meet Tank!! Tank is a 3 1/2 year old black Great Dane. He loves attention, a little fearful of men but warms up and will not be placed with kids younger than 10 years old. Tank likes other dogs but he does not like cats. He is fully vaccinated, neutered, microchipped, on heartworm preventative and dewormed.

  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Tank fromGiant Paw Prints Inc.Valparaiso, IN · listed Sep 1

Rescues and shelters near Crete

The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of Crete.

  • Starfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · 40 dogs · 33 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Starfish Animal Rescue

    Interested adopters need to complete a pre adoption application. This can be found on our website at www.starfishanimalrescue.com - we schedule meet and greets with approved applications only. We do home visits and vet checks. If you have questions about our adoption process please email us at starfishanimalrescuer@gmail.com

  • Animal Welfare League of Illinois - Chicago RidgeChicago Ridge, IL · 27 dogs · 20 mi from Crete
  • Magnificent Mutts RescueHillside, IL · 26 dogs · 33 mi from Crete
  • Dogs are DeservingCrete, IL · 20 dogs · 2 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Dogs are Deserving

    We have adoption screening forms, overnights, home visits. Fees are a flat adoption fee varying by age of dog.

  • La Porte County Small Animal ShelterLa Porte, IN · 19 dogs · 48 mi from Crete
  • Aurora Animal Care and ControlAurora, IL · 13 dogs · 44 mi from Crete
  • Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)Wheaton, IL · 11 dogs · 38 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)

    Read more about our adoption process on our website at: https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/ Adoption fees depend on the animal. Please see the pet’s biography for information on their adoption fee. Below is an overview of what you can expect during the pet adoption process: Step 1: Submit an online adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ Step 2: Our volunteers will review your application and reach out with a status. This step can take up to five business days. Step 3: If your application is approved you will be invited to meet with the cat or dog you are interested in at a mutually agreed upon time and location. Step 4: We’ll walk you through the benefits of adopting through A.R.F., then complete the adoption paperwork and collect the adoption fee. Then your new best friend is yours! Step 5: Complete required follow-ups such as obedience training or spay/neuter (if delayed due to medical reasons).

  • Echo Dogs White Shepherd RescueHoffman Estates, IL · 10 dogs · 50 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Echo Dogs White Shepherd Rescue

    Adoption Procedure APPLICATION The first step to be considered to adopt a dog through Echo Dogs White Shepherd Rescue is to complete an application. The Application can be found at the Adoption drop-down menu on the navigation bar above or by clicking here: Echo Dogs Application Form The application is sent electronically to our processing team, where references are checked. (Yes, we really do call your references!) REFERENCES We will call and speak with references listed on your application. The information provided to us by your references is kept strictly confidential. We believe that we get honest information by assuring references that we will not disclose to anyone the content of our conversations. You should call your references to let them know that they may be contacted by Echo Dogs. Occasionally, we have encountered some references, such as veterinarians, who are reluctant to speak with us unless they have your permission. It is easier for all of us if you let them know to expect our call. No application can be approved without veterinary and personal references. HOME VISIT After your application has passed through the reference checks, we will work to get a home visit set up. Either an Echo Dogs volunteer or someone who has agreed to help us (usually another rescue group or animal shelter volunteer) will contact you to set up the home visit. We will contact you to let you know who will be working with you to find a mutually-convenient time for con

  • Foster 2 HomeRolling Meadows, IL · 9 dogs · 48 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Foster 2 Home

    meet all in home, house visit, referrals

  • German Shepherd Rescue INCSkokie, IL · 8 dogs · 42 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from German Shepherd Rescue INC

    Adoption/Foster Requirements Applicant must be 21 years of age or older and have consent of all members of the household to foster and/or adopt Must be willing to allow a home inspection from a GSR representative Reside in the Chicagoland area If the applicant rents, they agree to allow GSR to contact their landlord and will need to provide proof of permission to have a German Shepherd Adoption Fees Adoption fees include spay/neuter, age appropriate vaccines, heartworm/ fecal testing and microchip. The adopter will also be provided a leash, collar, name tag, and bag of food if needed. Under 1 year – $400 1 – 5 years – $350 6 – 7 years – $250 8+ – $200 * special adoption fees are available for bonded pairs. Seniors (65+) can adopt a senior GSD for $150. GSR is a partner of Pets for Patriots, which works with veterans to assist in adopting overlooked/special needs dogs.

  • Giant Paw Prints Inc.Valparaiso, IN · 7 dogs · 28 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Giant Paw Prints Inc.

    1. Application 2. Reference, vet and home checks 3. Meet & greet 4. Adoption contract 5. Fee - depends on the dog 6. Follow up

  • Pal's Place FoundationChicago, IL · 3 dogs · 35 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Pal's Place Foundation

    The majority of our dogs are rescued from Hazard County, Kentucky. After rescue, the dogs are placed into foster homes in Chicago. Once in fosters, our dogs are fully vetted. This includes age-appropriate vaccines, microchips, parasite control and testing, heartworm testing and treatment if ncessary and any other care needed prior to adoption. All dogs and puppies are spayed/neutered before placement. Our adoption fees for senior dogs (8+) start at $175, our fee for adult dogs is $375 and our fee for puppies 6 months or younger is $475. An application is required to be considered for adoption and an adoption contract is signed at the time of adoption including a clause that any dog must be returned to Pal's Place for placement at any point if the adopter is unable to care for the dog.

  • Tender Loving Care Animal ShelterHomer Glen, IL · 1 dog · 21 mi from Crete
  • Come Bye Border Collie RescueHighland, IL · 1 dog · 43 mi from Crete
    How to adopt from Come Bye Border Collie Rescue

    Adoption process includes completing an application, having personal references checked, vet checks and home visit by one of our volunteers. Your application and backup information is then presented to the Board/Committee for review. Once your application has been approved, you may then schedule a meeting with the dog(s) in which you are interested. The foster home has the final approval on the adoption of his or her dog.

  • Kane County Animal ControlGeneva, IL · 1 dog · 48 mi from Crete

Adopting a dog in Crete

Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your dog in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.

Senior dogs are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate dog, ask the rescues about their older residents.

Puppies go quickly, so if you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon. Ask how big they're expected to grow, and plan for plenty of house-training and training in the first few months.

Questions about adopting a dog in Crete

How many dogs are up for adoption in Crete?

As of November 4, 2026, 196 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Crete, Illinois, by 15 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a dog in Crete?

The rescues with the most dogs near Crete right now are Starfish Animal Rescue (Plainfield, IL), Animal Welfare League of Illinois - Chicago Ridge (Chicago Ridge, IL) and Magnificent Mutts Rescue (Hillside, IL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are there puppies for adoption in Crete?

Yes. 47 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of Crete.

How do I adopt a dog in Crete?

Pick a dog and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the dog, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.