Dogs for Adoption in Portage, IN: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

154 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 11 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Portage. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of Portage, 38 puppies, 40 young dogs, 67 adults and 8 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Pit Bull Terrier, Labrador Retriever and Terrier, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Portage? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Tank
Adult · Male · Great Dane (short coat) · 9 mi from Portage


Meet Tank!! Tank is a 3 1/2 year old black Great Dane. He loves attention, a little fearful of men but warms up and will not be placed with kids younger than 10 years old. Tank likes other dogs but he does not like cats. He is fully vaccinated, neutered, microchipped, on heartworm preventative and dewormed.
- Good with dogs
- No cats
- House-trained
2. JuJu
Adult · Female · Mastiff (short coat) · 9 mi from Portage


Meet Juju, a part of a dynamic duo who are looking for their forever home together! Juju was born with one eye. Their owner was tragically killed in an accident and they had no place to go. Juju is a female dog with a bubbly personality and a heart of gold. With her playful and affectionate nature, she's the perfect companion. The epitome of affection and friendliness. With a heart as big as his personality, he'll shower you with kisses and love. Buster is a true gentleman, always gentle and dignified, but with a playful side that will keep you on your toes. He's incredibly smart and loyal, and his bond with Juju is unbreakable — they are a package deal! Juju is a female dog with a bubbly personality and a heart of gold.
Read more about JuJu
With her playful and affectionate nature, she's the perfect companion. Both Buster and Juju are gentle souls who are a little bit unsure about other dogs, but they are a devoted pair and will be the best friends you could ever ask for. They are a loving team ready to bring happiness and companionship to their new family. Could it be you?
3. Buster
Adult · Male · Mastiff (short coat) · 9 mi from Portage


Meet Buster and Juju, a dynamic duo who are looking for their forever home together! Their owner was tragically killed in an accident and they had no place to go. Buster, a male dog, is the epitome of affection and friendliness. With a heart as big as his personality, he'll shower you with kisses and love. Buster is a true gentleman, always gentle and dignified, but with a playful side that will keep you on your toes. He's incredibly smart and loyal, and his bond with Juju is unbreakable — they are a package deal! Juju is a female dog with a bubbly personality and a heart of gold. With her playful and affectionate nature, she's the perfect companion.
Read more about Buster
Both Buster and Juju are gentle souls who are a little bit unsure about other dogs, but they are a devoted pair and will be the best friends you could ever ask for. They are a loving team ready to bring happiness and companionship to their new family. Could it be you?
- House-trained
4. Tana
Young (9 months) · Female · Border Collie / Australian Shepherd / Mixed (short coat) · 17 mi from Portage










Tana — A Gentle Girl with a Playful Heart
With her beautiful markings, warm eyes, perky ears, and little spots on her neck, Tana is full of charm. This sweet Border Collie–Australian Shepherd mix loves chin rubs and stretches out her long, elegant legs when she’s relaxing.
Tana enjoys other dogs, loves chasing the water hose, and settles beautifully in her crate. She takes a little time to feel comfortable, but her playful, affectionate side shines as her confidence grows.
A calm home, a predictable routine, and gentle, positive training will help her blossom. She would love a patient adopter and ideally another friendly dog to share her days.Tana was brought to a Southern IN shelter as a stray but the shelter is pretty sure that it was indeed her owner that brought her in.
Tana is being fostered in Long Beach, IN
Please contact anitaremijas@gmail.com if you have any questions about Tana. You can complete an application to adopt Tana or any of the dogs on our website at www.comebyebcrescue.org
Read more about Tana
*** The potential adoptor will get a refund on the Application Fee if it’s determined by the Foster Parent that it’s not a good match for the dog and the dog for them, if we do not process their application
- Good with dogs
- No cats
5. Nobu
Young (4 years) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage








If you are interested in Nobu please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
6. Mayonnaise
Young (9 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage







If you are interested in Mayonnaise please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with kids
7. Lady
Adult (7 years 11 months) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 24 mi from Portage



If you are interested in Lady please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
8. Banderita
Young (1 year) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage








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
9. Elaris
Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage






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
10. Allegra
Young · Labrador Retriever (medium coat) · 24 mi from Portage







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
11. Norm
Young · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage



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
12. Cholena
Adult (8 years) · Female · Husky / Mixed (medium coat) · 24 mi from Portage










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
13. Vicky
Adult (9 years) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed · 24 mi from Portage










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
14. Rocky
Senior (12 years 1 month) · Male · Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage









Rocky is a big ol' sweetheart. He loves love and just wants to snuggle. Rocky also likes to go for walks and does great on a leash. He is such a good boy, follows directions and listens well. He is chill yet playful. Loves toys especially ones with squeakers. Definitely a couch dog and wants to be right up next to you. He is house trained and can hold it for 4-5 hours when needed.
Read more about Rocky
Rocky does seem to prefer women. He does ok with older men (60's+) but has a hard time with young men seeming scared and barking a lot. There has been improvement with men he has had frequent exposure to. Rocky has some skin issues and does need frequent medicated baths. Rocky is very well mannered and gentle and easily allows caregiving activities.
If you are interested in Rocky please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
15. Everest
Young (1 year 1 month) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage










Everest is a sweet, affectionate pup who loves being close to his favorite people — he’ll happily be your shadow and sidekick and often rests his head in your hands for the ultimate snuggle. He’s steadily building confidence every day and is curious about the world around him, always ready to explore at his own pace.
Everest has plenty of puppy energy and loves to hop around in the backyard like a little bunny. He enjoys his walks, meeting other pups, and playing once he settles in. He’s also very well house-trained and understands “no,” so he balances fun with good manners.
Read more about Everest
Everest is especially fond of calm moments and gentle interaction. He thrives in a loving, patient home where he can feel safe and supported while he grows braver and more adventurous. He enjoys quiet affection, cozy laps, and bonding with someone who will give him the time he needs to shine.
Everest would do best in a home where he can be the center of attention or with other dogs in the family to continue building confidence, since he’s great with his canine friends. If you’re looking for a devoted companion who will fill your heart with warmth and loyalty, Everest just might be your perfect match!
If you are interested in Everest please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
16. Silly Putty
Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage






Silly Putty is incredibly sweet and affectionate. She loves to cuddle and go for walks and to play. She very much enjoys playing with the husky in her foster home and is always eager to meet new friends, human or canine. She likes to please, and is very food and praise motivated.
If you are interested in Silly Putty please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
17. Lucy
Young · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage










Lucy is affectionate, silly, and a bit skiddish. Lucy has tons of love to give and once she gets comfortable is a total snuggle buddy. Don't let the cuddly side fool you because she's also always down for some fetch, with a weakness for tennis balls. She will need a slow introduction to other dogs and should probably live in a cat free home. She wants to be everybody's friend and will show that with a toothy smile.
If you are interested in Lucy please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with dogs
- No cats
18. Shireen
Young (6 years 1 month) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage










Shireen is an approximately 6 year-old petite pittie with a big personality. Curious, playful, goofy, and confident, she loves being the center of attention and soaking up affection.
She enjoys snuggling, playing fetch, going for car rides, and showing off her impressive toy-destruction skills. Fairly active and easy to please, Shireen walks nicely on leash but is naturally curious about other people, dogs, and four-legged critters.
Read more about Shireen
She’ll thrive in a home that can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation, along with the love and attention she adores. If you’re looking for a fun, affectionate companion who will keep you laughing, Shireen may be your girl!
If you are interested in Shireen please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
19. Bluebeard
Young (7 years 2 months) · Male · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage







Bluebeard is people friendly, kid friendly, and gets along with dogs under the right leadership and structure. Although he is 7 years old, he is up for mini adventures and just relaxing at home. He is a guy that can get easily overstimulated/aroused, so someone who is willing to learn how to give him structure, boundaries, and most importantly have fun with him in a way that is fulfilling to him will help him thrive. He is a great self entertainer, but still needs fulfilling interaction with his human every day. He
Read more about Bluebeard
is currently in a training program with DoveK9 LLC and Every Single Day Dog Training LLC to help with his leash reactivity and sound sensitivity. He has made BIG progress in learning how to handle his emotions when he’s scared, over stimulated, over aroused, or frustrated. He is crate trained, tether trained (to help him settle), exposed to different environments, knows how to self regulate, and obedience trained: sit, down, place, food luring, engagement.
Here are the awesome perks that come with fostering and/or adopting
Bluebeard
:
Foster(s) - Free lessons and guidance while he is in your care. 15% off day training and boarding services.
Adopter(s) - Free lesson package to ensure a seamless home transition. 15% off day training and boarding services.
If you are interested in Bluebeard please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
20. Bella Donna
Young (4 years 3 months) · Female · Pit Bull Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 24 mi from Portage










Bella Donna is the sweetest girl with the most loving personality. She's completely house trained and has never had an accident in the home. One of her favorite things is carrying around her stuffed toys. She always has a stuffie in her mouth. She also loves running around the yard to let her energy out.
If you are interested in Bella Donna please fill out an adoption application at: https://www.dogsaredeservingrescue.com/adopt
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- House-trained
Rescues and shelters near Portage
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of Portage.
- Animal Welfare League of Illinois - Chicago RidgeChicago Ridge, IL · 27 dogs · 32 mi from Portage
- Magnificent Mutts RescueHillside, IL · 26 dogs · 42 mi from Portage
- Pet RefugeSouth Bend, IN · 22 dogs · 47 mi from Portage
How to adopt from Pet Refuge
Fill out an application, meet the animal, application is reviewed including vet and other references, when approved counseled at time of adoption. Kittens: $100 Adult Cats (Ages 1-6): $75 Senior Cats (Ages 7+): $50 Special Needs Cats: $50 Puppies (under 1 year old): $300 Adult Dogs (1-6 years old): $200 Senior Dogs (7+ years old): $75
- Dogs are DeservingCrete, IL · 20 dogs · 24 mi from Portage
How to adopt from Dogs are Deserving
We have adoption screening forms, overnights, home visits. Fees are a flat adoption fee varying by age of dog.
- Save A Dog RescueGrovertown, In · 20 dogs · 38 mi from Portage
How to adopt from Save A Dog Rescue
Everything is online at our website www.indianasaveadog.com
- La Porte County Small Animal ShelterLa Porte, IN · 19 dogs · 24 mi from Portage
- German Shepherd Rescue INCSkokie, IL · 8 dogs · 43 mi from Portage
How to adopt from German Shepherd Rescue INC
Adoption/Foster Requirements Applicant must be 21 years of age or older and have consent of all members of the household to foster and/or adopt Must be willing to allow a home inspection from a GSR representative Reside in the Chicagoland area If the applicant rents, they agree to allow GSR to contact their landlord and will need to provide proof of permission to have a German Shepherd Adoption Fees Adoption fees include spay/neuter, age appropriate vaccines, heartworm/ fecal testing and microchip. The adopter will also be provided a leash, collar, name tag, and bag of food if needed. Under 1 year – $400 1 – 5 years – $350 6 – 7 years – $250 8+ – $200 * special adoption fees are available for bonded pairs. Seniors (65+) can adopt a senior GSD for $150. GSR is a partner of Pets for Patriots, which works with veterans to assist in adopting overlooked/special needs dogs.
- Giant Paw Prints Inc.Valparaiso, IN · 7 dogs · 9 mi from Portage
How to adopt from Giant Paw Prints Inc.
1. Application 2. Reference, vet and home checks 3. Meet & greet 4. Adoption contract 5. Fee - depends on the dog 6. Follow up
- Pal's Place FoundationChicago, IL · 3 dogs · 37 mi from Portage
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.
- Come Bye Border Collie RescueHighland, IL · 1 dog · 17 mi from Portage
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.
- Tender Loving Care Animal ShelterHomer Glen, IL · 1 dog · 40 mi from Portage
Adopting a dog in Portage
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 Portage
How many dogs are up for adoption in Portage?
As of November 4, 2026, 154 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Portage, Indiana, by 11 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Portage?
The rescues with the most dogs near Portage right now are Animal Welfare League of Illinois - Chicago Ridge (Chicago Ridge, IL), Magnificent Mutts Rescue (Hillside, IL) and Pet Refuge (South Bend, IN). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Portage?
Yes. 38 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of Portage.
How do I adopt a dog in Portage?
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.