Dogs for Adoption in Madison, IL: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
157 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 10 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Madison. 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 Madison, 23 puppies, 37 young dogs, 90 adults and 6 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, Terrier and Labrador Retriever, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Madison? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Tango
What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Tango is a 3‑year‑old Boxer/Pit Bull mix who came to us from a crowded shelter’s euthanasia list. He’s a tall, lean goofball with big boxer energy, very food motivated, and loves people. He’s best buddies with other playful dogs like Linus, but he’s still learning manners and impulse control, so he’ll need a home that can handle his enthusiasm and keep working on his training. Free training is included with your adoption. Fee is $150 What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Sweetie
What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Sweetie is an incredibly affectionate, intelligent, and loyal dog. She loves being close to her people, enjoys cuddling, and settles down nicely in the evenings. Through her training, she has learned a great deal and is kennel trained (and is so quiet in her kennel, you may forget she's in there!), she is fully house trained, and is familiar with commands such as sit, heel, climb, bed (kennel), and does well with loose-leash walking, and several other obedience skills. One thing the trainer has consistently emphasized is just how intelligent and capable Sweetie is.
Read more about Sweetie
In fact, he recently described her as "a dog trainer's dream" and said Sweetie could be great at doing a job, or sport, like agility or dock jumping. She has energy and a vertical leap you wouldn't believe. She genuinely enjoys learning, responds best to structure, and seems happiest when she is being challenged and given opportunities to work, train, and engage with her handler. We believe she would thrive with an adopter who enjoys training dogs and would continue building on the strong foundation she already has. She's happy and... well... sweet. Sweetie gets along best with male dogs. Her adoption fee is $150. She is in a foster home, so contact us for a meet and greet. What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
3. Macho Man
What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Macho Man is a 2-year-old pit bull mix who is full of energy and love. He enjoys playing tug, going for a long sniffy walk and cuddling on the couch with a bone. Macho was rescued as a stray, so we don't know much about his history. Here's what we do know: he is a little afraid during thunderstorms, but he just needs to cuddle up on the couch and have something good to chew on. He seems uncertain about other dogs; he's not overtly aggressive or scared, just showing us mixed signals. We are continuing to socialize with control until we find the personality type that opens him up more.
Read more about Macho Man
We think he could have a house mate if they had the right personality for him. Macho has begun obedience training and knows sit, down, climb, come and we're currently working on heel. He does require exercise during the day but knows how to chill out in the evening and relax. Macho would be a great fit for a semi active household. He has not been cat tested. Older children who are appropriate with dogs would be best for him. What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet
- House-trained
4. Linus
What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Linus is about 2-years-old and 45 lbs. Up to date on everything. He is a very good boy and very smart and best of all --- HE LOVE LOVE LOVES OTHER DOGS!!!! He NEEDS to be in a home with other dogs that he can play with. Linus was found locked in a crate in an abandoned home. Poor boy was skin and bones, covered in urine and feces. He has made a full recovery, but with that kind of trauma comes trust issues. Linus does NOT like people greeting him. He needs people to give him space, feed him some treats and build trust first.
Read more about Linus
It only takes 15 minutes and the new person is now his new best friend. The report from the shelter: Like the gentle, kindhearted Peanuts character he’s named after, Linus is thoughtful, sensitive, and truly good at heart — he just needs someone to believe in him. ✨ Linus’ Best Qualities (because there are so many): • Walks nicely on a leash — thoughtful, not chaotic • Gentle treat taker — soft soul, soft mouth • Moderate energy — not a wild Charlie Brown football scene • Very dog-friendly — he LOVES dog friends and they help him feel brave 🏠 Linus is searching for: A home that can offer patience, consistency, love, and guidance. Somewhere he can exhale, settle, and remember that the world can be kind. If you’ve ever loved an underdog… If you’ve ever believed in second chances… If you’ve ever cheered for Charlie Brown when the world seemed unfair… FREE TRAINING IS INCLUDED for any foster or adopter. For questions, please reach out at rescuers@spencerpetrescue.info or fill out our application at spencerpetrescue.info/application. His fee is $150 What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
5. Dart
What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Energetic and playful pup, Dart thrives when he's running around with his best doggie pals! Cat history is unknown. He could be okay around kids with proper boundaries and training. He loves going for trips to the park and to the LAKE!!! Dart loves to swim and fetch his ball out of the lake. He does great with recall on his long line and has proven to be a reliable and friendly boy. He is crate-trained, house-trained, loves being out with people. Spencer provides continued training support for all of our dogs. Contact us to arrange a meet and greet - rescuers@spencerpetrescue.info. What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
6. Darla
What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet Meet the adorable little rascal whose nickname is Sweet Girl! ❤️ With her soulful eyes, this precious pup is as cute as a button and will charm her way straight into your heart. 💖 She’s devoted to her people and is always ready to tag along for adventures—indoor or outdoor. FOMO? Oh, she has it in spades! Darla is quite the little road trip enthusiast, sitting patiently in her seat or crate, ready for whatever journey lies ahead. 🚗🚙 When it comes to potty time, no problem! This gal is housebroken and crate-trained, making her a wonderful companion for those cozy nights.
Read more about Darla
In fact, she’s a master at snoring too—sometimes soft, sometimes the kind that makes you giggle! 💤 Being bright and eager to learn, Darla shows off her skills with basic commands and will do just about anything for a tasty treat. 🍖 Just teach her and watch the magic happen! However, if you have a feline friend, you might want to reconsider, as she just can’t resist chasing them! So a cat-free home is likely the best fit. On the flip side, Darla is a loving social butterfly when it comes to other dogs. She gets along splendidly with her foster sister—an energetic 2-year-old pittie mix—and even with her grumpy old foster brother, a 13-year-old terrier mix. 🐾 Watch out, though! When wrestling with her sister, she loves to be vocal; her playful spirit truly shines during those moments of fun! Now, let’s talk about her fierce and protective streak—she's got your back! But keep in mind, she may be a little skeptical of strangers initially. However, win her over with patience and repeat visits, and she’ll warm up like the sun! ☀️ It’s important to note that Darla's tough beginnings included a rough past; she was found tied to a pole in a foot of water and had some serious injuries. Fortunately, she has since undergone surgery and is now thriving in a safe environment. ❤️ Isn’t Darla just the shining diamond in need of a forever home? She’s housebroken, crate-trained, and a wonderful companion with other dogs, but she does come with a ‘no cats’ policy and a little ‘stranger danger’ warning. 🦸♂️ Looking for a loving, loyal friend? Sweet Girl is ready to lavish her love upon you! If she’s tugging at your heartstrings, better make a move and apply through the Buddy App right now to bring this sweetheart into your life! What are you waiting for? Apply today! Click here to apply for the pet
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
7. Jael
Jael is a beautiful little 4 month old 20lb terrier/lab mix that has lots of puppy energy.
She loves to run, jump, play, and chew on her many toys! She absolutely loves to snuggle and love on her people. The more brother and sister dogs the better! She would do well in a home with an older dog sibling to show her the ropes.
Jael is house-trained with regular outdoor breaks. Her puppy enthusiasm can sometimes lead to jumping or playful nipping, so she may thrive with older children who can gently reinforce good behavior. Any family would be fortunate to welcome her home!
Read more about Jael
If interested, please
complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Our $295 adoption fee includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
8. Barney
Barney
Dog friendly
LOVESSSS people and absolutely thrives on attention
Not a jumper — no surprise tackles
Very treat motivated (the way to this boy's heart is through his stomach!)
Loves car rides
Crate trained
cats are unknown
Barney had a rough start in life. After his owners moved, he was left behind, chained to barrels, and underweight. Thankfully, an amazing Good Samaritan stepped in, took him in, fed him, gave him a safe place to stay, and showed him the love he always deserved.
Read more about Barney
Despite everything he went through, Barney hasn't let his past steal his sweetness. All he wants is love, attention, and a chance to show off that happy tail! This boy is proof that even after people let you down, you can still have a whole lot of love to give.
Barney has already overcome so much. Now he's ready for his next chapter: a forever home where he'll never be left behind again. He deserves a family who will love him, spoil him, and remind him every day that he's finally home.
Who's ready to bring this handsome hunk home?
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Barney’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
9. Franswa
Meet Franswa!
Franswa is an 8-year-old Frenchton, but don't let his age fool you! This boy is still full of life and has plenty of pep in his step! He loves going for walks, taking car rides, and spending time with his favorite people. He's incredibly friendly and happily greets everyone who is willing to give him a little love and attention. He's also good with children!
Franswa does have a history of ear infections that left him with a permanently deformed cauliflower ear with significant scar tissue. But that doesn't stop this sweet boy from enjoying life!
He's ready to find a family to love him forever!
Read more about Franswa
If you are interested, complete the Adoption Application on our website at www.NeedyPaws.org and we will contact you. Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Franswa’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- House-trained
10. Bindi
Meet Bindi: Small Package, BIG Personality!
At 2 years old and 29 pounds, Bindi is the total package! This smart, fun-loving cattle dog mix might just be the most dog-friendly foster we've ever brought home. She loves other dogs and is great with cats, too!
Bindi is potty trained, clever, playful, and full of personality. She's always up for an adventure, but her favorite job might just be professional cuddle buddy.
Once the fun winds down, she's happy to snuggle up close and remind you just how lovable she is.
Read more about Bindi
Bindi has the brains, the charm, and the loving heart to make an amazing addition to her forever family. All she needs now is someone to choose her.
Could Bindi be your missing piece
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Bindi's adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
11. Ivory
Ivory
Bully mix
Approx. 4 y/o
Approx. 45 pounds
Great with dogs/strangers/kids and said to be good with cats
Meet Ivory!
Read more about Ivory
Ivory is one of the best dogs I’ve come across, she’s the best snuggle buddy and loves to snuggle up with you on the couch, she loves to go on walks and always up for an adventure, she’s completely house broke, loves her crate, loves other dogs and would love a play mate that can help show her around her new home. She loves kids (which also means she wants to be very close to them and lick their face) with some boundaries set she will make the best family dog! She also does great with strangers coming in the house. She is said to be good with cats, although I’ve not seen this, I don’t doubt it one bit!
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Ivory’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
12. Demitra
Meet Demitra!
Demitra is a sweet girl hoping to find a family to call her own! She may be a little shy at first, but give her a little love and she’ll warm right up. She’s dog-friendly and would love a fenced yard to run, play, and enjoy life. She’s still learning her kennel, potty, and leash skills and would thrive with a patient family ready to help her grow. Could you be her happily ever after?
If interested, please
complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Read more about Demitra
Our $295 adoption fee includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with dogs
13. Mabel
Mabel is a soft and gentle soul. She is not your typical hound. She is not exuberant or naughty. She is not the class clown. Instead, Mabel is a wallflower, trying her hardest to bloom.
Mabel was originally living as a stray in southern Missouri, periodically showing up on local farms. After months on the run, someone was able to catch her and she was taken in by a kind family. Mabel retreated to their basement, where she stayed for the next 2 years, interacting with them minimally. While they loved her very much, they knew she deserved more than they could give her and they reached out to us.
Read more about Mabel
Mabel currently lives in a home with two other dogs and two young children. It's pretty clear that Mabel has no idea how to be a loved member of the family, though her foster home is working diligently on teaching her. If left to her own devices, Mabel will spend all of her time alone. Her foster family is slowly encouraging Mabel to spend time near everyone else, though it will not happen overnight. Mabel has learned that solitude is safety, so she has a lot of new experiences ahead of her. She does enjoy gentle pets, kind voices and walks (it's when she's her most confident self). She has started wagging her tail more and more, and likes lifting up her paw to ask for pets. She is potty trained and crate trained, though she has never destroyed anything when left out alone. While Mabel is around 70 pounds currently, she has quite a bit to lose and is working hard on slimming down.
Her ideal family would be someone with a quiet home and a bucket full of patience. She'd thrive with someone who will continue to gently push her to be part of the family and not let her isolate one hundred percent of the time. She enjoys the company of other calm dogs and would likely do well with cats. She's gentle with the kids in her foster home, and would do fine with other respectful kiddos. A fenced in yard would be a huge plus, and she'd love a family who will take her on regular walks.
She may take some work, but the reward will be worth it.
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Mable’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
14. Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle has had a rough start in life. She was a stray who was picked up by animal control. She will need a patient family to continue her progress
Honey is approximately 6 months old. While she’s still wary of situations, food will overcome her fear. She’s very food motivated and will sit in your lap if she thinks she can look pitiful enough for you to give her a bite
She’s still unsure in new situations. She’s hasn’t had much socialization.
Honey will require a securely fenced yard. Another confident dog in the home is required to help her figure out how to be a dog
Read more about Honeysuckle
Honey has not been crate trained but she is housebroken and is fine to leave in the house. She doesn’t chew or destroy anything but if you leave a plate of food unattended it won’t be there when you get back!
Do you have room in your heart and home for a special girl?
If interested, please
complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Our $295 adoption fee includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
15. Chowy
Chowy is a 13-week-old male Lab, Chow, and Retriever mix puppy with a gorgeous light brown coat and a heart full of curiosity. Weighing around 20 lbs, this handsome little boy is friendly, playful, and loves spending time outdoors.
He is currently working on his house-training and basic puppy obedience, showing great enthusiasm for learning and exploring. He loves to play with little kids and enjoy playing with small/big dogs.
If interested, please
complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Read more about Chowy
Our $295 adoption fee includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
16. Loui
Very playfull
Loves outside
Great with dogs and little kids
If interested, please
complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Our $295 adoption fee includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
17. Brent
This is Brent and he's exactly who you think he is based on his name. Brent is an all-American dude with a love for football, beer and finance (probably). Brent is blissfully clueless that his two braincells are working overtime, and that's exactly how he likes it.
Brent originally came into the local animal control as a stray and quickly became a volunteer favorite. As time went on, Brent became more and more stressed and landed himself on the euthanasia list. Luckily for him, he had plenty of people who adored him and advocated for him. He caught his fosters eye and the rest is history.
Read more about Brent
Brent currently lives in a foster home with two female dogs and two young children. We think he'd love a dog to play with, but his canine foster siblings aren't the playing type, so he's great at coexisting with them. He's loving with his human foster siblings, and absolutely ADORES cuddling. If it was up to Brent, he'd spend his whole life snuggling with his people. Brent is a happy guy and exudes joy.
Brent can usually be found playing with toys, pretending he's a beagle and looking for food, or snuggling with his foster family. He knows "sit", "lay down" and is potty and crate trained (though admittedly he is not a fan of being crated long periods). Brent very much enjoys walks and would love to explore the outdoors with his new family. Brent has never met a stranger he didn't like (though periodically they've wished he was less enthusiastic about meeting them).
In Brent's ideal home, he'd have a fenced-in yard, be allowed on the furniture (see: cuddling), have parents that are home more than not, have someone who enjoys daily walks and have a family who is ok continuing his training. He'd be happy with or without another dog and with or without kids.
Whoever ends up with his guy is one lucky family.
Please note that Brent has recently been through heartworm treatment. He has to be kept on restricted activity until November 20 (which basically just means he has to keep his heartrate down). His foster mom is more than happy to tell you more about what this requires!
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Brent’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
18. Sicily
Sicily is a sweet female german shepherd mix and weighs around 60 lbs. She is 3 - 5 years old.
She is crate trained but doesn't need to be crated.
She is housebroke and walks well on a leash.
She was owned at one time but was kicked out of the home because she kept getting pregnant and the man got another dog, so she was left outside and had her last litter which we took in and we spayed her and as soon as we had a foster for her, she came into our rescue.
Read more about Sicily
She was very shy at first but now she wants belly rubs and likes laying on the couch. She is even starting to play. She seems to like female dogs better than males that get in her face. She is going to be a great family pet, not sure about little kids though.
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Sicily’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
19. Ceela
Meet Ceela!
A very sweet and affectionate little girl. At 18 months she still has puppy energy. She loves her toys and is very food motivated .
Ceela is heartworm positive and undergoing treatment currently. Her prognosis is very good she just needs some quiet to to recuperate
All HW treatments are covered by us.
This sweet heart is looking for her forever family. Could that be you?
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Read more about Ceela
Ceela’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
20. Pablo
Meet Pablo!
Pablo is a very sweet Boxer mix who has already come a long way. He was rescued from a heartbreaking situation with more than 190 dogs, and his skin was in rough shape. Thankfully, with love and care, his skin has cleared up beautifully!
Pablo is very shy, especially in new situations, and he may not be the dog who immediately wins you over when you first meet him. But underneath that nervous exterior is a gentle, loving boy just waiting to feel safe.
Read more about Pablo
Pablo needs an adopter with an extra-big heart, patience, and a willingness to let him blossom at his own pace. He would do best in a calm home with another friendly dog to help show him the ropes and give him confidence.
Pablo may take a little time to come out of his shell, but watching him learn to trust and love is going to be incredibly rewarding. He loves to give kisses as he starts to feel
If you are interested, complete the
Adoption Application
on our website at
www.NeedyPaws.org
and we will contact you.
Adopters must live within an hour’s drive of St. Louis, MO.
Pablo’s adoption fee is $295.00, which includes up-to-date vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spay/neuter and microchip.
We are a 100% foster-based rescue and all of our dogs live in approved foster homes. We are dedicated to finding the best Forever Homes, and will perform home visits and conduct veterinarian and reference checks for each potential adopter.
- Good with dogs
Rescues and shelters near Madison
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of Madison.
- Needy Paws RescueSt. Louis, MO · 38 dogs · 15 mi from Madison
How to adopt from Needy Paws Rescue
Adopters will complete an adoption application which is sent to the dog's foster parent. Their personal and veterinarian references will be checked, a home visit conducted, and then the foster parent will set up a meeting where the adopters will meet the dog. If the adoption is approved, the adopter will then complete an Adoption Contract and the dog is theirs! Adoption fees are $275 for most dogs.
- Animal Protective Association of MissouriSt. Louis, MO · 29 dogs · 14 mi from Madison
- Humane Society of MissouriSt Louis, MO · 27 dogs · 10 mi from Madison
- Humane Society of Missouri - Maryland HeightsMaryland, MO · 20 dogs · 19 mi from Madison
- St. Clair County Animal Adoption CenterBelleville, IL · 13 dogs · 12 mi from Madison
- Spencer Pet RescueO'Fallon, IL · 11 dogs · 12 mi from Madison
How to adopt from Spencer Pet Rescue
Multiple meet and greets are conducted to help ensure that the dog is a good fit for the family. Adopters first fill out the foster application to complete a 2-week trial, and then complete the adoption application and pay the fee. Adoption fees are generally $150, but can vary depending on age and working dog program. We conduct home visits and call the vet for current pet records. All current pets must be up-to-date.
- Come Bye Border Collie RescueHighland, IL · 8 dogs · 24 mi from Madison
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.
- 4 Paws 4 RescueFenton, MO · 6 dogs · 23 mi from Madison
How to adopt from 4 Paws 4 Rescue
$250 to cover up to date vaccinations, 4DX, spay/neuter and microchip.
- Hope Animal RescuesGodfrey, IL · 4 dogs · 20 mi from Madison
- Midwest Doberman Rescue of St. LouisSt. Charles, MO · 1 dog · 23 mi from Madison
Adopting a dog in Madison
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 Madison
How many dogs are up for adoption in Madison?
As of November 4, 2026, 157 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of Madison, Illinois, by 10 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Madison?
The rescues with the most dogs near Madison right now are Needy Paws Rescue (St. Louis, MO), Animal Protective Association of Missouri (St. Louis, MO) and Humane Society of Missouri (St Louis, MO). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Madison?
Yes. 23 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of Madison.
How do I adopt a dog in Madison?
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.