Dogs for Adoption in St. Joseph County, MI: 30 Dogs Looking for a Home
By Dogs of the Day · Updated

56 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 3 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of the middle of St. Joseph County. Here are 30 of the newest arrivals, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of St. Joseph County, 2 puppies, 14 young dogs, 36 adults and 4 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are American Staffordshire Terrier, Terrier and Labrador Retriever, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in St. Joseph County? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Zena
Adult · Female · Affenpinscher



Hi, I'm Zena and my care takers describe me as loving with lots of energy. I have a very high prey drive and will go after small animals so no cats or small animals in the home will be best. I was also dog tested with a larger dog and didn't seem to mind the larger dog (I seem to know when I have met my match) but they will definitely require a meet and greet to make sure I'm going to be nice. If I could make a request, I would love a home that has lots of toys for me to play with especially rope toys! If you are ready for a spit fire in a tiny body stop out and see me! I have lots of love to give and can't wait for my family to find me.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- No cats
2. Culver-in a foster home
Young · Male · Chihuahua / Beagle / Mixed


Meet Culver! This wonderful little guy is friendly, loving, and ready to be your very best friend. He loves playing fetch and spending time with his favorite people. Culver is a Chihuahua/Beagle mix with the most beautiful, soulful eyes and a heart full of love.According to his foster mom, Culver is housebroken and appears to get along well with other dogs. He would do well with older children, and his compatibility with cats has not yet been determined. His foster mom would prefer a home with a fenced yard where he can safely enjoy his outdoor time and play.Simply put, Culver is a terrific little guy who has so much love to give.
Read more about Culver-in a foster home
Could he be the perfect addition to your family?DOB 12/16/25 Pounds 12I'm waiting for a home to call my own. email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.
3. Kai
Adult · Male · Terrier / Mixed




Hi there! My name is Kai and I am 7 years old. I am a sweet, friendly boy that can be a little shy when meeting new people at first. However, when I get to know you, I hope you are prepared for all the CUDDLES! I love attention, love and snuggles. You might have noticed that I only have three legs. Unfortunately I was hit by a vehicle two years ago and had to have my leg amputated, but I am a happy, healthy boy now. Being a tripod does not slow me down! I still love my walks, I still like to play ball and I can still hop on the furniture for some top tier cuddles. In my previous home, I successfully lived with older children, dogs and cats.
Read more about Kai
However, my family felt it was best to rehome me because I was really nervous around the younger kids (less than 4 years of age). Loud noises in general are pretty scary to me, so I am looking for a quieter home. I am housetrained and I sit at the door to signal when I need to go. Please come take a chance on me!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
4. Henna
Young · Female · Labrador Retriever / Shepherd / Mixed (short coat)




Henna is a 1.5-year-old, 50 lb sweetheart who loves nothing more than being close to her people. She is extremely affectionate and happiest when she’s cuddled up next to you — she truly wants to be the center of your world. If you’re looking for a dog who will actually laugh at your jokes (or at least wag her tail while you tell them), meet Henna!Henna’s Highlights:• Spayed, microchipped & fully vetted• Crate trained• Potty trained• Loves fetch & tug-of-war• Enjoys lounging in the pool, the beach, & playing in the water• Good with kids (just needs reminders not to jump up!)Henna can be a bit shy at first, but once she warms up, her loving and playful personality shines.
Read more about Henna
She gets along great with her foster siblings and enjoys playing, but she does best with proper, slow introductions to new dogs. We’re not sure how she is with cats.She is truly such a sweet, playful pup who just needs a home willing to give her love, structure, and patience while she continues to blossom.Her adoption fee is $300.00. If you would like more information about Henna, please email us at projecthoperescue@gmail.com. To apply to adopt, visit our website at www.projecthoperescue.org.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
5. Sandy
Adult · Female · Shepherd / Mixed (short coat)




Meet Sandy a 6 year old 33 pound Shepard mix. Sandy was in a kill shelter in Texas with a injured leg, Project Hope pulled her and when we took her to the vet the x-ray showed she had been shot. Her leg had to be amputated. Sandy is all healed up and being a tripod doesn't slow her down. She loves to run around the yard and when time for a nap she will cuddle up on the couch.
Sandy is a little shy and takes a little time to get to know you, but after that she loves to be with you! She gets along with other dogs and would love a playmate. She gets along with cats, but might try to play with them.
Read more about Sandy
Since she is shy older kids that are respectful is the best! A fenced in yard is required, Sandy is house-trained. She doesn't like to be crated, but if you put her in a crate she is quiet in it, but she is okay not being crated. Sandy is up to date on vaccines, microchipped and spayed. Her adoption fee is $300.00
If you have any questions not answered in this bio, email us at projecthoperescue@gmail.com or to fill out an app for this sweet girl who likes to smile, go to our website at www.projecthoperescue.org
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Special needs
6. Roger
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier




Hi there! My name is Roger and I am 1 years old! I am a sweet, friendly guy that came into the shelter terrified of life and a little thin... but look at me now! While I still may be a little shy to warm up to new friends and new environments, I am doing so much better each and every day! I love to play fetch! I am a pretty good mix of playful and chill! I can play and play if you'd like but also I would love to flop onto the couch with you and watch a movie. Lets be the best of friends! I have done well with other dogs and once I warm up to their presence (people are more fun to me at first), I would love to play! I was found as a stray and unfortunately no one stepped forward to claim me, so staff is not sure if I am housetrained.
Read more about Roger
While I show good signs of being housetrained, I may need a few reminders at home while I adjust to your routine!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
7. Ginger
Adult · Female · Husky




Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
8. Loki
Adult · Male · German Shepherd Dog / Husky / Mixed




Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
9. Penny
Young · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Hi friends! My name is Penny and I am 10 months old. I am a super sweet puppy that is pretty energetic! I would do best in a home with a fenced in yard where I can zoom out my energy! I am playful, affectionate, friendly and so much fun! As long as I have toys to play with, I can entertain myself by throwing them in the air and chasing after them. It's a trick I taught myself!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
10. Waylon
Young · Male · Affenpinscher




Howdy! I'm Waylon and I am estimated to be 1 years old. I am a shy but friendly boy that likes to play! I really enjoy squeaky toys and I can play tug of war too. I walk pretty well on the leash!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
11. Oakley
Adult · Female · Coonhound




Hi there! I'm Oakley and I am 4.5 years old. I am sweet girl that can't wait to have a large yard where I can run, run, run! I am just like my breed: independent, tireless and ready to work but also mellow, affectionate and a couch potato at home! I am a food motivated girly and family friendly!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
12. Banjo
Adult · Male · American Bulldog / Mixed


Meet Banjo! This handsome guy is 4 1/2 making him the perfect age! Why!? Because at this age he is still full of life and has plenty of it to live and knows how to chill when its time. Banjo is a handsome man who isn't fond of young children or sharing his living space with another dog. Banjo is fine on neutral territory with female dogs he just doesn't want to live with another dog. Banjo has lived with cats so if you have a cat Banjo can still go home with you! Banjo is potty trained and knows how to sit and laydown when told. Come meet Banjo and see if he could fit into your family.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
13. Gus
Adult · Male · Affenpinscher


Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
14. Panda
Adult · Female · Australian Shepherd / Mixed


Meet Panda a sweet 5 1/2 year old aussie mix who is looking for a soft bed to land on. I'm sweet and listen well. Panda was adopted from us once before but came back due to her owner having health issues. We are told that she is potty trained, likes golf cart rides and being with her people. Panda is the definition of lazy, this big girl doesn't want to help you get in shape or be your walking partner. She would like nothing more than short walks to the kitchen for a snack and into the backyard to use the restroom. While loving on Panda you may notice a lump on her back, when the last owner had it checked by a vet they said it isn't anything that will affect her.
Read more about Panda
Come meet Panda and see if she could be your perfect couch partner.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Only dog
- No cats
- House-trained
15. Dixon
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Meet Dixon our 1 year old staffy mix. This blue eyed guy is looking for his perfect match! Are you looking for a handsome young man to join your family? Maybe you are cold and need a cuddle buddy, or maybe you have a dog that would love a friend! Or maybe you are looking for that perfect match that will play with the kids and join you on your long walks. Look no further than Dixon! He is all of that and more. This handsome guy has a heart of gold and gives the best hugs. His dream is to one day have a family of his very own, and no worries if you have a family he will slide right in and make himself at home on the couch.
Read more about Dixon
He loves love and exercise, so if a nice long walk or hike on the weekend is your idea of a good time, take him home today! There is nothing more than this guy loves then spending time with his people. Come meet Dixon and you wont want to look any further!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
16. Mitch
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Hello, hello! My name is Mitch and I am a 10 month old cutie patootie!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
17. Buzz
Adult · Male · Chihuahua / Terrier / Mixed




Buzz came to us through no fault of his own after a change in his household. This boy may take a little time to warm up to new people, but once he feels comfortable, he becomes a devoted and loving companion.Buzz would thrive in a quiet, peaceful home where he can settle in at his own pace. He is not comfortable with children and prefers to be the only pet in the household, as he is not a fan of other dogs or cats.Buzz enjoys going for walks and snuggling in his cozy bed close to his favorite person. He is looking for someone who will be patient as he adjusts and give him the time he needs to feel safe and loved.If you're looking for a loyal companion who will reward your patience with a lifetime of love, Buzz might just be the perfect friend for you!DOB 7-10-201920.6 poundsI'm waiting for a home to call my own.
Read more about Buzz
email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.
18. Bijou
Senior · Male · Pomeranian



Precious as they come, our senior boy Bijou is quite the charmer! This sweet gentleman is friendly, loving, and gets along wonderfully with the small dogs in his foster home. Bijou has a heart condition that requires lifelong medication, but you would never know it from his happy face and bright, cheerful disposition. He will also need regular grooming to keep him looking and feeling his best.Bijou is looking for a loving home where he can enjoy his golden years surrounded by comfort, kindness, and affection. He is available for adoption, or if you are unable to adopt, you can help support his care by sponsoring him through the Special Needs page on our website.This little charmer has so much love to give and is sure to bring joy to the lucky person who opens their heart and home to him!DOB 3-9-201317 PoundsI'm waiting for a home to call my own.
Read more about Bijou
email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.
19. Lua
Adult · Female · Anatolian Shepherd (short coat)




Who wants to adopt Lua who thinks taking naps are her job?Lua is a 3yo (estimated) Anatolian Shepherd @ 73 lbs who is spayed, UTD on vaccines, fully vetted, and completely housetrained. She has been an absolute joy to have in our family. She is very friendly, quiet (rarely barks), calm, and easy going. She does well in the crate and prefers it when left alone and sometimes when she just wants to chill in it. She loves naps and bedtime and sleeps like it’s her job! She likes chew toys and treats and giving love licks to anyone willing to accept. Lua LOVES toys and plays fetch with herself or anyone wanting to join in.
Read more about Lua
She knows “sit” and is working on other commands. She is doing well on the leash and loves to sniff her way around the neighborhood as we walk. She does much better in the car now that she’s more familiar with riding and on her last trip to the vet sat quietly looking out the window. We don’t have other pets, but she did well in playgroup at the shelter and recently at another foster’s home with medium and large dogs. She very much enjoyed playing and spending time with them. She enjoys wandering around the yard so a fenced yard is needed. Lua is an amazing dog who will make a wonderful, calm, loyal family member.She is spayed, up to date on vaccines and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $300.00. If you would like more information about Lua, please email us at projecthoperescue@gmail.com. To apply to adopt, please visit our website at www.projecthoperescue.org.
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
20. Glock
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Hello! My name is Glock and I am 5.5 years old. I am a sweet, friendly boy that is quite chunky! I am 73 lbs of pure love. I am a highly food motivated boy that will gobble treats all day long if I could. I also love to play with toys and can win any game of tug of war. I was surrendered to the shelter due to not getting along well with other dogs, so I do need a dog free home!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Only dog
21. Bentley
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Labrador Retriever / Mixed




Hi there! My name is Bentley and I am 2.5 years old. I am a sweet, playful boy that is back here at the shelter; I was adopted last year and have returned due to there being a baby in the household. I am a friendly, affectionate boy that is pretty high energy! I like to be a lap dog when I want to be though and can provide some great snuggles! I am friendly with strangers and visitors too and want to play with them! I do well with other doggos, including large and small dogs, and I have lived successfully with cats too! I am crated when I am left alone in the home and I do pretty well... but I do like to tear up my stuffed animals.
Read more about Bentley
Who doesn't love free fluffing? I like to play with tennis balls, bones, kongs, squeaky toys and rope toys! Anyways, I know how to sit, leave it, off and come, but I can pull quite hard on the leash so a fenced in yard would be recommended for me unless you're up for some leash training! I do have some facial scarring from my past, but I think it only adds to my unique and lovable look! I hope you will come visit me soon!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
22. Anna
Adult · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heeler / Mixed




I'm Anna and I'm 5 years old! I am full of life! I'm such a fun, loving, happy girl. I don't have too much interest in toys, but I would love a fenced in yard where I can run! I also just love to be loved on, so if you're looking for a cuddle bug, sign me up! I love my walks and any and all attention. Come see me and you are sure to fall in love with my bubbly personality!I am in need of a cat free home, and I can be a bit picky on my doggy friends, BUT I am a good girl that can't wait to find the family that is right for me!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- No cats
- House-trained
23. Blake-in a foster home
Adult · Male · Shepherd / Terrier / Mixed




Meet Blake — a very special boy with an even more special heart. ❤️Blake is an amazing dog. His story may pull at your heartstrings, but one look at his loving, happy face and you would never know all that he has been through.Blake was originally rescued from another shelter after being abandoned in an unoccupied home. When he came to us and had his initial veterinary examination, we discovered that he had a severe heart murmur. After further evaluation, it was determined that Blake would need surgery in order to survive.Blake was referred to a specialized veterinary hospital, where he underwent a Balloon Valvuloplasty to treat his heart condition.
Read more about Blake-in a foster home
He came through the procedure beautifully and is now enjoying life with his wonderful, loving personality shining through.Because of his heart condition, Blake will need lifelong heart medication, including Atenolol, as well as continued cardiac monitoring. He loves going for walks, but his activity must be limited and he should not participate in vigorous exercise.Despite everything he has been through, Blake is simply a sweet, happy boy who loves life and the people around him. He is truly special and deserves a family who will treasure his beautiful nature, provide the care he needs, and give him the loving home he has always deserved.If you have room in your heart for a very special dog, Blake may be the boy you've been waiting for.Due to his medical cost at this time, Blake is available to be sponsored also.DOB 9-24-2453 poundsI'm waiting for a home to call my own. email webmaster@petrefuge.com to learn more about me or fill out an application at https://www.petrefuge.com/adoptPet Refuge was formed in 1978 to help with cats and dogs in need of homes. We are a limited admission shelter that supports our local animals control facilities by helping take in the overflow of cats and dogs from their facilities. We also take in owner surrenders as space allows.Pet Refuge is a volunteer based shelter, learn more about us on our website - petrefuge.com or send an email to webmaster@petrefuge.com or leave a message at 574-231-1122.We are always recruiting new volunteers. Our volunteers work hard and also have family and jobs away from Pet Refuge, we ask for your patience in correspondence.
24. Maximus
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Hi! I'm Maximus and I am 4 years old! I am a short, stocky boy that thinks I am over 100 pounds. I am a powerhouse, wrecking ball of fun! I love to play, I love to eat, I love pig ears, I love to play with other dogs (even if they don't want to play with me), and I love life.Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- No cats
25. Dodger
Young · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Meet Dodger, a happy go lucky guy who at just 1 year still has a lot of life let in him. Dodger came to AWL as a stray and we cant help but notice how much he looks like Rodger! They also seem to have similar temperaments but still very much each their own. Dodger has been around some of the staffs kids and absolutely had a good time, he also likes to play with other dogs. He may not be every dogs cup of tea as he like to get on top of other dogs and is very vocal while playing so some dogs may not enjoy that. We do require a meet and greet to make sure the dogs personalities align. Dodger also we tested with cats and he did great! He saw the cats run across the floor but he could have cared less about the cats.
Read more about Dodger
Dodger loves his squeak toys and enjoys a frozen peanut butter Kong in the evenings. Dodger would make a great dog for a home who is ready to teach him some basic manners and give him opportunities to get his energy out. Come meet Dodger and see if he is the dog for you and if he isn't ask about our other dogs! We have tons of amazing dogs looking for their next chance to have a family!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
26. Silna
Senior · Female · Staffordshire Bull Terrier / Mixed




Hello, my name is Silna. I am a sweet and quiet girl. My fur is so warm and soft, would you like to pet me? I'd love to be petted and cuddled. I also like to go for walks. My dream is to find a loving family that will let me watch tv with them and comfy bed where I can nap. Come visit me today!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
27. Kilo
Adult · Male · American Staffordshire Terrier / Mixed




Hi there! I'm Kilo and I am 5 years old. I am a good boy that was recently surrendered to the shelter due to no fault of my own. My mom loved me very, very much and giving up my fur sister and I was very hard on her. She gave the shelter all kinds of information on me, so lets talk about it! I have successfully lived with Maelin (my fur sister who is also available for adoption), cats and kittens and an infant and I have done amazing with them. I cuddle with all of them! I am a good boy that listens very well and I know how to sit, stay, come and shake. I am loyal and protective and sometimes that means that I am weary of strange men.
Read more about Kilo
I can be a little shy when meeting new people, but throw a ball for me and I'll warm right up! I am housetrained and I ring the potty bells when I have to go potty! I was not crated when my mom left the house, and I did very well left alone by myself. I love toys of all kinds: balls, squeaky toys, stuffed toys and even a basketball that I deflated and love to carry around like its my personal emotional support friend. I may pull on the leash a bit so keep a tight hold on me for walks because I do have a prey drive for little critters, including cats, that are not my friends. For my future owner, I do not enjoy the vet or my nails being trimmed, so I am used to taking trazadone and sedatives for my anxiety when it comes to medical things; this is an extra expense whenever it is vet time so please keep that in mind! I am used to eating Iams large breed dog food (chicken and whole grain) and have done very well on that brand! If you have read this far and are looking for a cuddle bug to lay under the blankets with you, cuddle in bed and greet you warmly when you come home, I am the perfect guy for you!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
28. Goose
Young · Female · Chesapeake Bay Retriever / Mixed




Meet Goose, a 1 year old Chesapeake bay retriever. Not a breed we see much here at AWL and getting know her personality has been fun and interesting! Goose found her self as a stray and her owners chose not to reclaim her. Goose will need an active family (she is a breed of hunting dog!) Goose is not good with cats. She does enjoy playing with other dogs but she would do best in a home without them because she resource guards food and door ways from other dogs. As much as she enjoys playing with other dogs she just hasn't proven that she is safe to live with another dog. Goose does enjoy to play ball and is good with people including children.
Read more about Goose
Goose's ideal home would have a fenced in yard although not mandatory it would help her get her zoomies out! Goose just wants a family of her own where her breed is understood. She is potty trained and crate trained! Come meet Goose and take her on a walk, she is ready to get out of here and have a home of her own!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- No cats
- House-trained
29. Buster
Adult · Male · Coonhound / Mixed




Hi there! I'm Buster and I am 2 years old! I am your typical hound: loud when I want to be, happy go lucky and super friendly!Give the shelter a call at (574) 267-3008 or email them at info@awlwarsaw.com if you have any questions about me! If not, stop by the shelter at 1048 S 325 E in Pierceton, IN 46562 to look at me! No appointments necessary!
- Good with kids
- No cats
30. Elle
Adult · Female · Great Pyrenees / Mixed (short coat)




MEET ELLEElle is a sweet, hesitant Great Pyrenees mix who is learning what it means to feel safe in the domestic world. She was originally rescued as a stray alongside her litter of puppies, and while her past may be a mystery, it’s clear that life as a beloved household pet is still very new to her.Elle is nervous and unsure, and she needs a patient, gentle adopter who is willing to let her navigate new experiences at her own pace. She isn’t a dog who will immediately walk into a new home and know exactly what is expected of her. She’ll need kindness, consistency, gentle handling, and someone willing to help build her confidence as she learns that people, routines, and everyday household life can be safe.Her ideal home:• Patient, gentle and willing to give her time to adjust• No other dogs• No children recommended• Cats are unknown• A quieter, predictable home would likely suit her best* Fenced yardElle would greatly benefit from formal in-home training lessons with her new family.
Read more about Elle
This would not only help her continue learning how to navigate the domestic world, but also help establish trust, communication, and structure with the people she’ll be learning to call her own.Elle isn’t looking for someone to rush her. She’s looking for someone willing to meet her where she is and show her, little by little, what being someone’s beloved dog can look like.She is fully vetted including spay, microchip & vaccines. Elle is 2-3 years old and about 65 lbs.Her adoption fee is $300. If you have questions about her not covered in this bio, please email us at projecthoperescue@gmail.com. To apply to adopt, visit our website at www.projecthoperescue.org.
- No young kids
- Only dog
Rescues and shelters near St. Joseph County
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 50 miles of the middle of St. Joseph County.
- Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko CountyPierceton , IN · 30 dogs
How to adopt from Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County
we have a fee that varies depending on the type of animal and a contract that the adopter must fill out and sign.
- Pet RefugeSouth Bend, IN · 22 dogs
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
- Project Hope Animal RescueColdwater, MI · 4 dogs
How to adopt from Project Hope Animal Rescue
Signed Adoption Agreement, $175 Adoption Fee
Cities and towns in St. Joseph County
Adopting a dog in St. Joseph County
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 St. Joseph County
How many dogs are up for adoption in St. Joseph County?
As of November 4, 2026, 56 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of St. Joseph County, Michigan, by 3 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in St. Joseph County?
The rescues with the most dogs near St. Joseph County right now are Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County (Pierceton , IN), Pet Refuge (South Bend, IN) and Project Hope Animal Rescue (Coldwater, MI). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in St. Joseph County?
Yes. 2 puppys are up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of St. Joseph County.
How do I adopt a dog in St. Joseph County?
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.