Adult Dogs for Adoption in Gary, IN: 30 Grown-Up Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

Rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Gary have 123 adult dogs up for adoption. Here are the 30 newest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Adult dogs usually wait longer for homes than puppies, but their personalities are already settled, so you know just what you're getting: a couch companion, a running partner or a gentle family dog.
Not in Gary? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Oliver bonded with Cookie
Adult (5 years) · Male · Pomeranian / Mixed (medium coat) · 45 mi from Gary



A Cookie and a little bear cub. Your home might be missing both.
Meet Cookie (F) and Olly (M), a bonded pair of little fluffballs, estimated to be 5–7 years old, looking for their furever home—together.
These two follow each other everywhere. Wherever one goes, the other is never far behind.
Cookie is the playful girl who gives hugs with her paws. Yes, actual little Cookie cuddles. Good luck getting anything done when she’s offering those.
Read more about Oliver bonded with Cookie
Olly is like a tame little bear cub. I’m convinced there’s some Corgi in there somewhere, although that is purely my very unofficial foster-mum assessment. He’s just such a happy boy—and Cookie is a happy girl, too.
They’re good with kids, okay with cats, and fine with other dogs. Very easy pups who would make wonderful city companions. You don’t need a sprawling estate for this double act—just room in your home and heart for both.
They just need their own people, their own sofa, and a lifetime of staying side by side
If you are interested in adopting/meeting this pup, please complete our online adoption application that you can find here: https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/dog-adoption-application. Our team will review your application, and if it is a good fit, we will be in touch!
The $600 adoption fee includes spay/neuter, microchip, age-appropriate/required vaccinations, heartworm treatment, and any other necessary medical care to ensure a healthy new pup for your family.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Although we do our best to describe the breed, since our pups all come from shelters, we can not and will not make any guarantee on breed or size. We can tell you that they are 100% RESCUED! And that is the BEST breed! *Please note that we are a foster home-based rescue, and we do home visits as part of the adoption process - we are unable to adopt to families who live outside of Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Thank you for your understanding.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Nobu
Young (4 years) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Gary








If you are interested in Nobu please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
3. Rayna
Adult · Female · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 43 mi from Gary





Rayna is a 3 year old female German Shepherd who weighs in at 73 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $400. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Rayna is a very loved dog! She lost her home when the human child became very allergic. She is housebroken, crate trained, walks great on a leash, and knows basic commands. She is good with kids and other dogs. In fact, she lived with another dog. She has not been tested with cats. Rayna loves car rides, going for a walk, and running in the yard. Her favorite thing is playing ball.
Read more about Rayna
Rayna is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, housebroken, and spayed. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Lucy GSD
Adult · Female · Husky / German Shepherd Dog / Mixed · 34 mi from Gary


Welcome Lucy GSD! Abandon in an apartment in the city when her family moved she was turned into the local AC.
She is a "pocket" husky/shepherd mix (probably more husky than shep!) at only 31 lbs. Lucy could use a few extra snacks to help her fill out a bit more. She is a very sweet girl who is just looking for a best friend or family who won't let her down like her previous one did.
If you have love and room in your hear for this pretty girl apply today!
Lucy would excel even more with training - We recommend training for all our dogs!
Read more about Lucy GSD
**Breed or size (once fully grown) is a 'best guess' and is not guaranteed since they arrived into rescue without either parent.
**Magnificent Mutts is an all foster home based rescue and meets are held by appointment with the entire family in attendance. Please ensure your current pets are up to date with vetting, have landlord/HOA approval and are prepared to take your new family member home at the adoption appointment. Thank you for your interest!
If you are interested in adoption, please complete the "Application to Adopt" which can be accessed from this link: (
www.magnificentmutts.org ) No phone calls please, emails only.
Adoption donations range between $360-$400 (cash only), unless otherwise noted.
Prices are subject to change, please contact for specific adoption donation.
5. Pearl
Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees / Mixed · 46 mi from Gary



Pearl is a gentle Great Pyrenees mix, 70 lbs and approximately 1–2 years old. She has the classic Pyrenees guardian nature, protective of their home and family, aware of their surroundings, and will alert with barking when she notices something outside. Although she loves Opal, she will do fine in a separate home. Pearl thrives with another friendly dog for companionship and confidence. Pearl will chase cats. She is house trained, good with other dogs, rides well in the car, and has no food or toy issues. She loves the comforts of home, settling into her bed like a true Pyrenees who appreciates calm, cozy spaces.She is spayed, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and current on preventatives.Adoption Criteria:- Fencedin backyard required- Adult who is home more during the day- Children 7+ (younger casebycase)Adoption Fee: $300 if you would like to adopt Pearl and Opal the fee is $500 for bothPearl is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
6. Opal
Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees / Mixed · 46 mi from Gary




Opal is a gentle Great Pyrenees , 70 lbs and approximately 1–2 years old. She has the classic Pyrenees guardian nature, protective of their home and family, aware of their surroundings, and will alert with barking when she notices something outside. Their barking is normal GP guardian behavior.Although she loves Pearl, she will do fine in a separate home. Opal thrives with another friendly dog for companionship and confidence. She will just cats, so not recommended. She is house trained, good with other dogs, rides well in the car, and has no food or toy issues.She loves the comforts of home, settling into her bed like a true Pyrenees who appreciates calm, cozy spaces.She is spayed, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and current on preventatives.Adoption Criteria:- Fencedin backyard required- Adult who is home more during the day- Children 7+ (younger casebycase)Adoption Fee: $300.Each .
Read more about Opal
If you wish to adopt Pearl and Opal the adoption fee is $500Opal is being fostered in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
7. Mayonnaise
Young (9 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Gary







If you are interested in Mayonnaise please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with kids
8. Skip
Young (2 years 5 months) · Male · Beagle / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 45 mi from Gary





At just 22 pounds, Skip is full of love and affection! He loves to cuddle and be close to his humans so much that he would live under your skin if he could! Whether you're relaxing on the couch or going about your day, Skip wants to be right by your side. There’s never a dull moment with this sweet guy!
Skip can be a little anxious when meeting new people, but once he feels safe, his loving personality shines through. He is potty trained, knows “sit” and “stay,” and walks on a leash once he has a few minutes to adjust. We believe he is a Jack Russell Terrier mix, and despite his terrier roots, he rarely barks!
Finding the Right Home
Read more about Skip
Skip currently lives with two dogs of different sizes and a toddler. However, finding the right home is especially important because Skip was involved in an incident that resulted in the death of a cat. He needs a home without cats or other small animals. His compatibility with other dogs and children should be carefully assessed to ensure everyone's safety.
Skip will thrive with a patient adopter who understands his anxiety, gives him time to adjust, and helps him feel safe and secure.
A Note About His Health
Skip is currently heartworm positive and receiving ongoing treatment. If you're looking for an affectionate little companion and can provide Skip with the safe, loving environment he needs, he may be your perfect match!
If you are interested in adopting/meeting this pup , please complete our online adoption application that you can find here: https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/dog-adoption-application . Your application will be reviewed by our team and if it is a good fit, we will send to the foster family to set up a meet!
The adoption fee of $200 will include spay/neuter, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations, treatment for heartworm and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new pup for your family. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Although we do our best to describe breed, since our pups all come from shelters we can not and will not make any guarantee on breed or size. We can tell you that they are 100% RESCUED! And that is the BEST breed!
*please note that we are a foster home based rescue and we do home visits as part of the adoption process - we are unable to adopt to families who live outside of the Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Thank you for your understanding.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
9. Hondo
Young · Male · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 38 mi from Gary





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
10. Moose
Adult · Male · Rottweiler (short coat) · 43 mi from Gary




Moose is a 3-4 year old male German Rottweiler who weighs in at approximately 100 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $500. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Read more about Moose
Moose was released from a puppy mill and he is amazing! His personality couldn’t be better. He is approximately 100 pounds, but looks smaller than that. He loves to roam around in the back yard—sniffing everything or just laying in a sunny spot. He really wants to be with his foster family. He loves being petted, butt scratched, ears massaged—he is relishing all the attention he is getting from his foster family. He is very good (and patient) with his 3 and 5 yr old house humans. He is good with other dogs from 7# to 140#. You just can’t ask for better. He crates well at night or if you are leaving the house. He is picking up housebreaking quickly. He is available for adoption. Don’t wait—he will be adopted quickly!
Moose is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations and neutered. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
11. Lady
Adult (7 years 11 months) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 17 mi from Gary



If you are interested in Lady please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
12. Sammy Stings
Young (5 months 27 days) · Male · Hound / Mixed (medium coat) · 45 mi from Gary



Meet your new best friend!
If you are interested in adopting/meeting this pup, please complete our online adoption application that you can find here: https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/dog-adoption-application. Our team will review your application, and if it is a good fit, we will be in touch!
At just 5–6 months old and already 45 pounds, this handsome boy is a big bundle of love with one of the sweetest personalities I’ve ever seen in a puppy.
Read more about Sammy Stings
What makes him so special isn’t just his adorable face or oversized paws, but his incredibly gentle, easygoing nature. He’s an old soul in a puppy’s body. While he certainly enjoys playing, exploring, and having his puppy moments, he’s just as happy relaxing beside his people and soaking up their company.
And for being such a young puppy, he’s already got some pretty impressive manners!
Potty trained and doing wonderfully with his house manners!
Crate trained and sleeps through the entire night like a champ!
Walks beautifully on a leash and genuinely enjoys spending time with his people.
Great with other dogs and loves having canine friends!
A friend to everyone! Every person he’s met so far has been greeted with nothing but sweetness.
One of my favorite things about him is how content he is just being part of the family. He doesn’t need constant entertainment or excitement. Sometimes all he wants is to lie down near you, chew on a favorite toy, or quietly watch the world go by.
He’s still a puppy, so he has plenty of growing and learning ahead of him, but he already has such a wonderful foundation. I truly believe he’s going to grow into an incredible companion for someone lucky enough to call him theirs.
Homes with kids 8 and older are preferred - as is a fenced in yard or an active family
The adoption fee of $500 will include spay/neuter, microchip,
age-appropriate/required vaccinations, treatment for heartworm, and any other necessary medical treatment to ensure
a healthy new pup for your family. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Although we do our best to describe the breed, since our pups all come from shelters, we can not and will not make any guarantee on breed or size. We can tell you that they are 100% RESCUED! And that is the BEST breed!
*Please note that we are a foster home-based rescue and we do home visits as part of the adoption process - we are unable to adopt to families who live outside of the Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Thank you for your understanding.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Pugsley
Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Shih Tzu / Mixed (medium coat) · 43 mi from Gary





Pugsley is a 2 year old male Chihuahua Shih Tzu mix who weighs in at 10 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $400. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Here is what Pugsley and Radar would like you to know about them:
Radar and Pugsley are brothers who came to ARF together. Although they are biological brothers, they are not bonded. Both boys are quick to bond with new people and will likely do best split up. (Radar can be a bit bossy with Pugsley).
They are learning to walk on leash and sleep in a crate. They have mastered going outside to pee. They are looking forward to their next chapter with a loving home and family!
Read more about Pugsley
Pugsley is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, housebroken, and neutered. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
14. Radar
Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Shih Tzu / Mixed (medium coat) · 43 mi from Gary





XXX is a 2 year old male Chihuahua Shih Tzu mix who weighs in at 10 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $400. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Here is what Pugsley and Radar would like you to know about them:
Radar and Pugsley are brothers who came to ARF together. Although they are biological brothers, they are not bonded. Both boys are quick to bond with new people and will likely do best split up. (Radar can be a bit bossy with Pugsley).
They are learning to walk on leash and sleep in a crate. They have mastered going outside to pee. They are looking forward to their next chapter with a loving home and family!
Read more about Radar
XXX is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, housebroken, and neutered. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
15. Ella
Adult · Female · Poodle (Miniature) (medium coat) · 43 mi from Gary








Ella is a 3 year old female blue poodle who weighs in at 16 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $450. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Meet Ella!
Ella is a sweet, curious girl with a heart full of love and a happy little spirit. She enjoys exploring the world around her and absolutely lights up whenever she sees another dog. Big or small, she loves them all!
Read more about Ella
Ella is settling into her routine beautifully. She is eating her meals well and has enjoyed some tasty treats, too! She sleeps quietly through the night, and during the day, she often chooses to retreat to her open crate for a peaceful nap. She seems to appreciate having a cozy space of her own where she can relax and recharge.
Ella is a gentle girl and she will likely be good with children, however, her foster does not have young children. She does enjoy cuddling on her foster mom's lap!
Ella is now potty trained, walks very well on a leash, and enjoys going to the park.
One of Ella’s most endearing qualities is her love for other dogs. She truly lights up when she sees them, and she would do best in a home with another friendly canine companion. Whether her new friend is big or small, having a dog buddy to share her world with would bring Ella so much happiness.
With her gentle nature, curious personality, and sweet disposition, Ella has so much love to give. She is looking for a loving forever home where she can continue to learn, feel safe, and enjoy the companionship of both her people and a special dog friend.
Could Ella be the little companion your heart has been waiting for?
Ella is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, housetrained, and spayed. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
16. Esther
Young (1 year 5 months) · Female · English Coonhound / Mixed (short coat) · 45 mi from Gary



Meet Esther!
Esther is a petite lemon beagle/foxhound mix with a heart as soft as her coloring. At about 35 lbs. and roughly 1 to 2 years old, this sweet girl is ready to find the family who will help her blossom.
Esther is quite shy. The world still feels big and uncertain to her, and new people, places, and sounds can be a lot for her to take in. But underneath that shyness is an incredibly sweet, people-loving dog. Once she feels safe, her affectionate nature shines through, and she'll quietly win your heart.
Read more about Esther
Esther needs a patient family who will let her move at her own pace and gently show her that the world isn't such a scary place after all. With time, consistency, and kindness, she'll gain the confidence she needs to truly thrive.
Another dog makes all the difference for Esther. She takes comfort and cues from canine friends, so she'll need a playful resident dog in the home to help show her the ropes. As a beagle/foxhound mix, she also has a hound's nose and instincts, so a securely fenced-in yard is a must.
Esther's ideal home:
A patient, understanding family willing to let her adjust at her own pace
Another playful dog in the home
A securely fenced-in yard
If you have the patience and love to help a shy girl discover how good life can be, Esther may be the perfect addition to your family. Submit an application today!
If you are interested in adopting/meeting this pup , please complete our online adoption application that you can find here: https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/dog-adoption-application . Your application will be reviewed by our team and if it is a good fit, we will be in touch!
The adoption fee of $400 will include spay/neuter, microchip,
age-appropriate/required vaccinations, treatment for heartworm, and any other necessary medical treatment to ensure
a healthy new pup for your family. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Although we do our best to describe the breed, since our pups all come from shelters, we can not and will not make any guarantee on breed or size. We can tell you that they are 100% RESCUED! And that is the BEST breed!
*Please note that we are a foster home-based rescue and we do home visits as part of the adoption process - we are unable to adopt to families who live outside of the Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Thank you for your understanding.
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
17. Lilee
Young · Female · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Gary



Lilee is an absolute doll and definitely a foster favorite! She is a young girl that hasn't met a person she doesn't like! She will love being your bestie and always up for belly rubs, pets, scratches and happy to accept all you can give!
She is estimated to be about a year old and weighs approximately 11-12lbs!
Kids should be older (no toddlers) and Chihuahua personality 'savvy'!
Check back soon for more information as she gets settled into her foster home!
We recommend training for all our dogs!
**Breed or size (once fully grown) is a 'best guess' and is not guaranteed since they arrived into rescue without either parent.
Read more about Lilee
**Magnificent Mutts is an all foster home based rescue and meets are held by appointment with the entire family in attendance. Please ensure your current pets are up to date with vetting, have landlord/HOA approval and are prepared to take your new family member home at the adoption appointment. Thank you for your interest!
If you are interested in adoption, please complete the "Application to Adopt" which can be accessed from this link: (
www.magnificentmutts.org ) No phone calls please, emails only.
Adoption donations range between $400-$450 (cash only), unless otherwise noted.
Prices are subject to change, please contact for specific adoption donation.
- Good with kids
18. Banderita
Young (1 year) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Gary








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
19. Elaris
Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Gary






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
20. Allegra
Young · Labrador Retriever (medium coat) · 17 mi from Gary







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
21. Hazel
Adult · Female · Pomeranian / Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 43 mi from Gary




Hazel is a 6 year old female Pomski who weighs in at 25 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $450. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Read more about Hazel
Hazel is a beauty. She is an even tempered friendly girl. She is not too energetic, but no couch potato either. She likes looking out the window. She barks every now and then, but it never lasts long. Hazel knows her name, will come when called and will "sit" on command. She walks nicely on a leash. Hazel gets along with everyone. She plays nicely with the resident dog in her foster home. She has a beautiful tan coat that will require brushing. She settles into her bed at night by herself. Hazel is a pleasure to have as a companion to both human and dog.
Hazel is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations and spayed. She is mostly housetrained with the occasional accident. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
22. Norm
Young · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Gary



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
23. Cholena
Adult (8 years) · Female · Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 17 mi from Gary










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
24. Rupert
Young · Male · Belgian Shepherd Malinois / Mixed (short coat) · 34 mi from Gary





Rupert is a sweet, young boy that is new to Mag Mutts and is happy to be here.
He is estimated to be about 10-12 months old and weighs between 65-70lbs and still has some growing and filling out to do. Rupert would do well with a fenced yard and an adopter who knows working breeds.
If you watch the video on the Mag Mutts Facebook page, you can clearly see what a good boy he is and that he loves people attention!
Rupert's adoption fee is: $300
Since he just arrived, please check back for more information as he gets settled into his foster home!
We strongly recommend training for all our dogs to help them become the best version of themselves!
Read more about Rupert
**Breed or size (once fully grown) is a 'best guess' and is not guaranteed since they arrived into rescue without either parent.
**Magnificent Mutts is an all foster home based rescue and meets are held by appointment with the entire family in attendance. Please ensure your current pets are up to date with vetting, have landlord/HOA approval and are prepared to take your new family member home at the adoption appointment. Thank you for your interest!
If you are interested in adoption, please complete the "Application to Adopt" which can be accessed from this link: (
www.magnificentmutts.org ) No phone calls please, emails only.
Adoption donations range between $400-$450 (cash only), unless otherwise noted.
Prices are subject to change, please contact for specific adoption donation.
25. Vicky
Adult (9 years) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 17 mi from Gary










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
26. Blinky
Young · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 43 mi from Gary




Blinky is a 1.5-2 y/o old female Lab mix who weighs in at 40 pounds. This dog's adoption fee is $400. If you are still interested, please read more below.
Now that Blinky is comfortable in her foster home, her goofy and fun loving personality is coming out!! Blinky absolutely loves to play with her foster family's dogs, loves to shake toys as hard as she can, and enjoys sprinting around the backyard at top speed. She will take any opportunity to crawl in your lap and smooch your face, and although she prefers to sleep in her crate, Blinky is happy to snooze on the couch cuddled up to you.
Read more about Blinky
Blinky is a sweet, gentle girl who is looking for a patient, loving home. Once she feels safe, Blinky is affectionate and loves being petted and staying close to her people.
Blinky is a sensitive girl who can be nervous in new spaces, around loud noises, and when getting into the car. Her crate is her safe place, and she does best when given time and patience to build confidence. She settles well in the car once she’s comfortable.
Blinky slowly learned to make friends with other dogs. She was very nervous at first, but she has made great progress with her foster family’s two dogs and learned how to play and interact without being scared.
Blinky loves going outside and walks well on a leash! She is now potty trained, after very few initial accidents. She will do best with someone who will let her take things at her own pace and give her the reassurance she needs to blossom. She would do great as an only dog but would also be okay with other dogs once she gets comfortable with them. Blinky has not yet been tested with cats or children. Given her nervous tendencies, a home with older/respectful children would be best, if children are present.
Blinky is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, housetrained, and spayed. This dog's family will be required to complete a basic obedience course of their choosing. A meeting will not be scheduled until you have an approved application, so if you are interested in adopting this dog, fill out an Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will contact you to arrange a meeting.
- House-trained
27. Otto
Adult (3 years 1 month) · Male · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 38 mi from Gary






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
28. Stanley
Young (1 year 5 months) · Male · Shepherd / Husky / Mixed (short coat) · 31 mi from Gary




Charming, sweet, silly, engaging, and exceptionally loyal are just a few words to describe Stanley, a wonderful pup searching for his forever family. His soulful, expressive eyes suggest a pup wise beyond his years and draw you in, and his observant, perceptive, loyal, and loving demeanor wins over all who meet him; he'll be a phenomenal companion for a lucky home. Stanley was rescued from an overburdened animal control facility in Kentucky with his five littermates when they were just three months old. He is currently 9 months old and is a middleweight champ at 55 pounds. DNA test revealed that 3/4 of his lineage is close to being equally divided among three breeds: German Shepherd, Husky, and Bluetick Coonhound, with percentages equaling around 25% of each breed. The remaining 25% of his DNA is made up of smaller percentages (10% or less) of Akita, American Staffordshire Terrier, Collie, Malamute, and Chow. Stanley was adopted by a loving family earlier this year; however, he has recently been returned to Pal's Place for placement with another family. Stan can sometimes be a little reserved and cautiously curious when meeting some new people coming into his home (generally larger men with deeper voices or people with hats/beards, etc). Being the perceptive, sensitive, intelligent fella he is, if he is unsure of someone when he first meets them, he likes to take several minutes to assess his new friends. His assessment process generally involves a bit of barking and skittering around. If we ignore Stanley and his initial chatter. He settles down after a few minutes, gathers some courage to get in closer for a few sniffs of the visitor, and goes back to being the big ol' lovebug he usually is. He's not wary of everyone coming into the home, and we think that with a little more confidence-building and exposure, he'll be confident, calm, and comfortable with every visitor. The household he was living in over the past few months was bustling, with lots of children and new people coming and going all the time. When Stanley reacted with anxious, nervous barking at certain visitors, he sometimes frightened the resident children, visiting children, and some visiting adults, who were startled by his loud bark. Unfortunately, the decision was made to return Stanley to the rescue to prevent further tensions with guests.
Read more about Stanley
Stanley has been back with us for a short time, but his fosters have started building his confidence with new people, and he has already made great progress. His ideal guardians are calm, confident, patient, and dog-experienced or dog-savvy who can work with Stanley to help him nurture and develop a little more self-confidence. He's an exceptionally loyal, devoted, and amenable dog to those he loves and trusts, and he wants so badly to please that we are confident that, with just a little more time, exposure, support, and understanding, he will blossom into the more confident dog we know he wants to be! He's spent most of his life with at least one other dog and is sharing his foster home with several others. Stanley is much more confident overall when other dogs are around, and we think a home with at least one other confident, balanced dog to show him the ropes would be fantastic, but not necessarily a deal breaker in his search for a forever home. As a mix of hunting, herding, and working breeds, Stanley also needs a home committed to exercising him properly and giving him an outlet for his energy and enthusiasm. He'd make a great hiking or running companion and a great candidate for many dog sports, like tracking, nosework, or earth dog trials. Training for these sports, for fun or competitively, would be a great way to grow his confidence and bond with new guardians. He's active, energetic, and athletic, and loves nothing more than a good game of fetch, but he's also one who knows how to settle down and does not need constant entertainment or engagement throughout the day. He's incredibly intelligent and wickedly c
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
29. March
Adult (3 years 1 month) · Male · Boxer / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 45 mi from Gary






Hi, my name is
March
!
I'm a 3.5-year-old 70lb sweetheart looking for my forever family. If you're searching for a loyal best friend and a professional cuddle buddy, I might be your perfect match! I absolutely love being close to my people and will happily soak up all the pets and snuggles you have to offer.
When I'm not cuddling, you'll usually find me playing with my favorite squeaky toys or hanging out outside. Being outdoors is my happy place! I love watching over the yard and keeping an eye on everything going on around me.
Read more about March
I'm a good listener, too. I come when called and know my basic commands. I'm eager to please and enjoy spending time with my humans.
I've worked hard to become the confident boy I am today. New things like hardwood floors, elevators, and loud noises used to make me nervous, but with patience and support, I've learned that those things aren't so scary after all. My journey has helped me grow into a brave and resilient dog who keeps getting better every day.
What I'm really looking for is a family to love. In return, I promise endless cuddles, unwavering loyalty, and lots of happy moments together.
Love,
March
The adoption fee of $350 will include spay/neuter, microchip,
age-appropriate/required vaccinations, treatment for heartworm, and any other necessary medical treatment to ensure
a healthy new pup for your family. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Although we do our best to describe the breed, since our pups all come from shelters, we can not and will not make any guarantee on breed or size. We can tell you that they are 100% RESCUED! And that is the BEST breed!
*Please note that we are a foster home-based rescue and we do home visits as part of the adoption process - we are unable to adopt to families who live outside of the Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Thank you for your understanding.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
30. Ivy
Young (1 year 7 months) · Female · German Shepherd Dog (medium coat) · 38 mi from Gary




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
Why adopt an adult dog in Gary
An adult dog's personality is fully formed, so the rescue can tell you how they are with people, other pets and busy households. Many have lived in foster homes and are already house-trained.
Grown dogs need less supervision than puppies and often know the basics, like sitting and walking on a leash, which suits people who work or have young children.
Rescues with adult dogs near Gary
- Dogs are DeservingCrete, IL · 9 adult dogs above
- Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)Wheaton, IL · 7 adult dogs above
- Starfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · 5 adult dogs above
- Magnificent Mutts RescueHillside, IL · 3 adult dogs above
- German Shepherd Rescue INCSkokie, IL · 3 adult dogs above
- Save A Dog RescueGrovertown, In · 2 adult dogs above
- Pal's Place FoundationChicago, IL · 1 adult dog above
Questions about adopting adult dogs in Gary
How many adult dogs are up for adoption in Gary?
As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Gary, Indiana, have 123 adult dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt an adult dog in Gary?
The rescues with the most adult dogs near Gary right now are Dogs are Deserving (Crete, IL), Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL) (Wheaton, IL) and Starfish Animal Rescue (Plainfield, IL). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Should I adopt an adult dog or a puppy?
It depends on your home. An adult dog's personality is already known and they need less supervision; puppies need more time and training but grow up with your family. The rescues can help you find the right match.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.