Dogs for Adoption in Highland Park, IL: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
99 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 9 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Highland Park. 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 25 miles of Highland Park, 35 puppies, 19 young dogs, 27 adults and 7 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Labrador Retriever, White German Shepherd and German Shepherd, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Highland Park? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Hondo
Hondo was recently returned to rescue when his owner was facing a housing crisis. He is currently boarding with our friends at playful pets playtime. Hondo was originally rescued from Chicago Animal Control where he was brought in as a stray. He is about 2-3 years old, neutered, vaccinated, and housebroken. Hondo is dog friendly and attends daycare.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
2. Otto
Otto was rescued from Waukegan Animal Control where he was brought in as a stray. He is estimated to be 3 years old. Otto came into rescue very underweight with long nails and ear infections. He has been in foster care for the last month and is doing well! Otto gets along well with other dogs and is fostered with two other German Shepherds. He is learning to play with toys and loves cuddling his foster mom. Otto is a sweet boy and doesn't show any reactivity towards people or dogs. When his foster siblings bark he likes to join in and howl! Otto loves his crate and sees it as his safe space. He has not been around children but suspect he'd do well with older, respectful kids.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
3. Ivy
Meet Ivy! Ivy is a sweet, approximately one-year-old German Shepherd who was rescued from Will County Animal Control. She can be a little shy when she first meets someone, but once she feels comfortable, her gentle and loving personality shines through.
Ivy does well with other dogs and would enjoy having a canine playmate in her forever home. She is housebroken and does well in her crate. She is still working on her leash skills and basic commands, so her new family should be willing to continue her obedience training and help her build confidence.
Read more about Ivy
Ivy is a young girl with so much potential who is looking for a patient, loving family that will give her the time and guidance she needs to blossom. With a little training and plenty of love, Ivy will make a wonderful companion.
If interested in adopting Ivy, complete an application at www.gsrescue1.org
Please note applicants must be within 2 hours of Chicago.
- Good with dogs
4. Remy
Remy is a gorgeous 4–5-year-old male found as a stray in Park Ridge IL We don't know how such a lovely boy was not reclaimed. He is an active pup who loves people and wants to be a part of whatever his foster family is doing. He will happily come over for pets or offer a gentle nose boop just to let you know he is there. Bring out a toy or toss a ball for a game of fetch, and he is ready to play! If you're going somewhere, Remy loves the car and is always ready for the next adventure.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
5. Jacks
Jacks is an energetic two-year-old male rescue from Chicago Animal Control. He has completed training at Dog Style and in need of a foster or adoptive home. Jacks is very athletic and loves to run, jump, and play fetch. He would be a great dog sport candidate. Jacks is very sweet and affectionate with his people. He is housebroken, crate trained, and knows basic commands. Jacks is a typical GSD that is protective of his home, but does well meeting new people with lots of treats and praise. Jacks does well with other dogs, but needs to be properly introduced. He would do best in a home with no cats or small children.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
6. Hodor
Hodor recently completed heartworm treatment and is ready for his forever home! He is currently fostered with a female GSD and likes to play with her. Hodor is estimated to be 4 years old and weighs 80 lbs. He is more on the submissive side with humans and will cower if you raise your voice or if he thinks he will be hit. Hodor has been friendly to children he has met out on walks. He would benefit from training to help build his confidence and work on obedience skills.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Lily
_________________________________________________________________________Adoption Donation for Lily is $ 525.00WANT TO MEET LilyThe first step would be for you to go to our website at www.aear.org and then to the “Adopting a Pet” page to read about our Adoption Process which will answer many of your questions and then to fill out an Adoption Application.Also, please visit our very active Facebook Page for updates on Lily and our other adoptable pets with AEAR - www.facebook.com/aear.org
8. Halo
Halo must have a guardian angel. This young, sweet German Shepherd mix was rescued from euthanasia in the absolute nick of time, and he is determined to make the most of his second chance! He is currently living in a fun foster home where he is thriving alongside kids and other dogs. Halo is a total social butterfly who absolutely loves meeting new people, balancing his playful energy with a deeply snuggly side. He walks beautifully on a leash and is happily learning what it truly feels like to be part of a loving family. Halo is officially ready to find his forever home—can you put a "woof" over his head?_________________________________________________________________________Adoption Donation for Halo is $ 525.00WANT TO MEET HaloThe first step would be for you to go to our website at www.aear.org and then to the “Adopting a Pet” page to read about our Adoption Process which will answer many of your questions and then to fill out an Adoption Application.Also, please visit our very active Facebook Page for updates on Halo and our other adoptable pets with AEAR - www.facebook.com/aear.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
9. Miss Molly
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
10. Maeve
Meet Maeve! This adorable 6-month-old Aussiedoodle mix is a happy, friendly, and playful girl with a scruffy little look that makes her oh-so-cute! Maeve is full of puppy energy, curiosity, and love. She enjoys playing with toys, romping around with other dogs, going for walks (she walks beautifully on a leash!), and tagging along for car rides. Most of all, she loves being with her people and will happily follow you around all day.Maeve is good with children and other dogs. She is a smart girl who listens well and adapts quickly to new routines. She is spayed and currently working on her potty and crate training.
Read more about Maeve
She's already made wonderful progress with her potty training in just a week!Maeve would thrive with an active person or family who can provide plenty of exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation. She would especially love a playful canine companion with a similar energy level, as she may be a bit overwhelming for smaller or senior dogs. Maeve also prefers having company and doesn't enjoy being left alone, so a home where someone is around often would be ideal.Maeve was surrendered when her previous elderly owner experienced health issues. She's ready for a fresh start with a family who can keep up with her playful spirit, give her lots of love, and include her in all of life's adventures. Could Maeve be the missing piece of your family? Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person. Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
11. Tac
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
12. Tic
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
13. Pistachio
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
14. Seamus
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
15. Wally
Meet Wally, a handsome 4-month-old Lab mix who is just beginning to discover what it means to be a dog! Wally had a tough start in life, coming from a hoarding situation where he lived with 40 other dogs. He’s still learning about the world around him and will need a patient, loving family to help him build confidence and feel safe.Despite his fears, Wally is an affectionate, playful boy who loves attention. He is crate trained and working on his potty training and puppy manners with both people and other dogs. He is food motivated, although he can be a little particular about his treats! The outside world can be scary for Wally right now.
Read more about Wally
He is very fearful of leaving the house and often tries to pull back toward home. He can be hypervigilant outdoors, so he’ll need continued positive reinforcement, training, and plenty of time to learn that the world isn't such a scary place.Wally would do best in a home with a secure, fenced yard and another friendly dog who can be his playmate and help show him the ropes. Most importantly, he needs a family who understands that building trust takes time and is willing to celebrate the little victories along the way. Wally has so much potential, and with patience, consistency, and lots of love, he can grow into the confident, happy pup he deserves to be.Could you be the safe place Wally has been waiting for? Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person. Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
- Good with dogs
16. Louise
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
17. Lucile
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
18. Hana
Meet our soon to be brave hearted girl Hana. This little peanut came to us very fearful from an unknown realm. A mighty small stray that survived long enough by her own sheer will. Hana is a timid, shy yet curious pup. She is currently living with a trainer and learning that the world has some magnificent opportunities to offer. Hana is enjoying her new experiences and has a list of new favorite to dos. Hana loves car rides, long walks, play time with doggy pals and her warm cozy blankets. She feels safest curled up in a warm burrito waiting for her meals. Sure we push her to try new things and slowly she is discovering that life isnt so scary.
Read more about Hana
Hana needs a home with patience, preferably a fenced yard, a willing person that will continue working with her needs as they develop and a dog or two would be great. This lady even does well with cats! Hana is learning obedience, she is crate trained and she walks nicely on a leash as well. For a young dog trying her best the possibilities are endless. Time is the most important factor in determining the timeframe for Hanas courage. As long as she is loved and gently pushed to try new things, she will blossom into an amazing familial addition.
- Good with dogs
- Special needs
19. Monet
This dog is a recent arrival to REACH Rescue. Please check back for more information as their foster family gets to know them!Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person.Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
20. Frito Lay
Frito Lay is an adorable 2-year-old Chihuahua mix who weighs just 8 pounds but has a whole lot of love to give! This sweet little guy loves being around people, spending time with other dogs, playing with toys, and enjoying his favorite thing of all… FOOD! Frito is a friendly, well-mannered boy who listens well and responds to gentle correction. He does well on a leash and gets along with both children and other dogs, making him a wonderful little companion.Frito is crate trained and working on his potty training as he continues to learn his manners. When meeting new people, he can be a little cautious and prefers to be approached from behind for pets while he gets comfortable.
Read more about Frito Lay
He can also be unsure about gates, so having a patient family who will give him time to adjust and build confidence will help him feel safe and secure.With his tiny size, sweet personality, and love for companionship, Frito Lay is ready to find a family who will give him all the love and attention he deserves. Whether it's spending time with his favorite people, playing with toys, or enjoying a tasty treat, this little guy is happiest when he's part of the action. If you're looking for a lovable little sidekick to add some extra sweetness to your life, Frito Lay might just be your perfect match! Stop by our weekly adoption events on Saturdays from 11-3 pm at 372 Townline Road in Mundelein, IL 60060 to meet our adoptable animals in person. Follow us on Facebook for additional updates and sneak peeks of new dogs! https://www.facebook.com/reachrescue
Rescues and shelters near Highland Park
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of Highland Park.
- REACH Rescue, IncMundelein, IL · 27 dogs · 13 mi from Highland Park
How to adopt from REACH Rescue, Inc
If a particular pooch has caught your eye or if you’re searching for a new furry family member, take a few minutes to complete our online adoption application or stop by our Adoption Events to visit with our adoptable pups. Our application review team will contact you as they process your application and check with your references. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, but our primary responsibility is to find the best home for each individual dog and the best match for you and your family regardless of application order. We want to see that every animal and family are well-suited as a forever match. Our adoption fees vary by the animal’s age and specific breed. All adopted dogs will receive vaccinations against distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus, as well as flea/tick treatments and de-worming. Dogs who are too young to be spayed/neutered and vaccinated against rabies will receive vouchers to one of our local veterinary partners. Please contact us with any additional questions! We are available by phone at 847-566-6799, through our website, or through direct messaging on Facebook. We’re happy to answer any questions and work with you as you search for your new family member!
- Magnificent Mutts RescueHillside, IL · 26 dogs · 22 mi from Highland Park
- Fortunate Pooches and Lab RescuePalatine/Kildeer/Buffalo grove, IL · 10 dogs · 12 mi from Highland Park
- Echo Dogs White Shepherd RescueHoffman Estates, IL · 10 dogs · 16 mi from Highland Park
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 · 13 mi from Highland Park
How to adopt from Foster 2 Home
meet all in home, house visit, referrals
- German Shepherd Rescue INCSkokie, IL · 8 dogs · 10 mi from Highland Park
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.
- Redemption Road Rescue Rehab Inc.Wauconda, IL · 4 dogs · 18 mi from Highland Park
How to adopt from Redemption Road Rescue Rehab Inc.
Steps to our adoption process: 1- A phone interview paired with the adoption application and scheduling a meet and greet. 2- Meet and greet where we also talk about how many more visits, if any, are required for a Foster-to-Adopt or Adoption. 3- Home visit for Foster-to-Adopt or Adoption. Requirements, fees and contracts will be explained in further details during phone interview. If you have questions, please email us at info@redemptionroadinc.org.
- Pal's Place FoundationChicago, IL · 3 dogs · 17 mi from Highland Park
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.
- Animal Education and RescueLibertyville, IL · 2 dogs · 10 mi from Highland Park
How to adopt from Animal Education and Rescue
Fill out an adoption application on our website at www.aear.org, we will then contact you and discuss what you are looking for in a pet and match you with the best fit for you lifestyle
Adopting a dog in Highland Park
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 Highland Park
How many dogs are up for adoption in Highland Park?
As of November 4, 2026, 99 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of Highland Park, Illinois, by 9 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Highland Park?
The rescues with the most dogs near Highland Park right now are REACH Rescue, Inc (Mundelein, IL), Magnificent Mutts Rescue (Hillside, IL) and Fortunate Pooches and Lab Rescue (Palatine/Kildeer/Buffalo grove, IL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Highland Park?
Yes. 35 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of Highland Park.
How do I adopt a dog in Highland Park?
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.