Dogs for Adoption in Linden, NJ: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
153 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 14 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Linden. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the dogs up for adoption within 25 miles of Linden, 46 puppies, 38 young dogs, 55 adults and 8 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Chihuahua, Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in Linden? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. Hope
SHE’S READY FOR A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE — ARE YOU?
Meet Hope, our beautiful Bullmastiff who is fully vetted and ready for her forever family.
If personality came in extra-large, Hope would have plenty to spare. She’s funny, affectionate, easygoing, and has just enough Bullmastiff stubbornness to keep you smiling.
Despite her size, Hope is very easy to manage both on and off leash and is respectful of the things around her. She’s completely house-trained, rarely barks (although she's very alert to her surroundings), grew up around kids, and is currently living in a foster home with two other dogs and doing well.
Read more about Hope
Hope loves her walks, but she’s a lower-energy girl who doesn’t need miles of exercise and prefers walking when it is cooler outside and always enjoys having a sip of water now and then. She’s equally happy playing with you or spending the afternoon snoozing on a pillow or dog bed. On a beautiful day, give her a sunny patch of grass where she can stretch out with the cool grass against her belly and Hope is in heaven.
She also loves being very close to her people often laying right at your feet. Stop petting her too soon and you may get a good nudge reminding you that your job isn’t finished. Put a baby gate between Hope and you and she’ll make it known that she’d prefer full access, thank you very much. Once she gets her way, she’ll happily settle down beside you.
Hope is particular about a few other things, too. A walk is for walking and keeping tabs on her local territory. Bathroom business is a private backyard affair only, and Hope takes selecting the perfect spot very seriously. A fenced in back yard for her to roam and do her business is very important for a successful adoption. She does not use walks for going potty, no matter how much encouragement or distance is provided.
And then there are apples. Start cutting one and Hope will hear it from across the house and come running for her share.
Hope is loyal, loving, wonderfully laid-back, and genuinely easy to have around. She doesn’t ask for much: a comfy bed, a nice walk, some sunshine, plenty of affection, and a family to call her own.
It’s part affection, part Bullmastiff stubbornness, and 100% Hope.
Could Hope be the easygoing companion you’ve been looking for?
ADOPT HOPE AT BFDAAA.COM
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
2. Millie
BIG GIRL. BIG HEART. BIG LOVE TO GIVE.
Please meet Millie — and trust us, this beautiful girl is impossible not to love!
At just about 10 months old, Millie is already a stunning 75-pound American Bully/Akita mix with the sweetest smile and a personality that shines. She is confident, fun, affectionate, and has that special “everyone is my friend” kind of energy.
Read more about Millie
Millie came to us from a local shelter, and we can’t help but wonder what happened that landed this amazing girl there. She seems a little confused about why she lost her home, but she hasn’t lost her ability to love. ❤️ She’s ready to turn the page and find the family who will see what we see — a wonderful dog with so much potential.
This big girl is looking for a family who understands that great dogs need guidance, exercise, and continued training. Millie is young, strong, and full of life, so she’ll thrive with an active family ready to help her become the best version of herself. A home with older children would be the best fit.
Millie has been enjoying pack walks and has been completely unfazed by the other dogs around her. We’re still learning about her dog and cat compatibility, but we’re pretty sure we caught her sneaking a quick “hello kiss” through her kennel door to our resident hunk, Roscoe.
If you’ve been waiting for a big, beautiful, loyal companion with a goofy smile and a heart to match her size… Millie may be your girl.
Let’s help Millie find the forever home she has been waiting for.
Interested in adopting Millie? Apply today at bfdaaa.com at Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption Inc, in Cranford, N. J.
3. Roscoe
Some dogs never stop believing their next chapter will be their best one. ❤️Roscoe is a handsome 3-year-old German Shepherd with a heart as big as his beautiful smile. After losing the person he loved, he's patiently waiting for someone to give him the second chance he deserves.
Read more about Roscoe
This loyal, loving boy is happiest when he's out on a walk or exploring the woods on a hike with his favorite person. He also enjoys having his luxurious coat brushed and spending quiet time by your side. Roscoe is highly intelligent, knows his commands, and walks beautifully on a leash. Like so many German Shepherds, he forms a deep bond with his family and is devoted, protective, and eager to be your faithful companion.
Roscoe is so much more than another dog waiting in a kennel. He's a best friend, an adventure buddy, and a loving companion who's ready to share his heart with the family willing to give him a fresh start.
If you are interested in Roscoe, please go to bfdaaa.com to complete an application. ❤️
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
4. Jody
Meet Jody
Read more about Jody
. Jody is a 2–3-year-old Doodle girl with the sweetest soul and the gentlest heart. She can be a little shy when meeting new people or experiencing new things, but once she feels safe, she melts right into you and happily seeks out affection, reassurance, and snuggles. This lovely girl is still learning that the world is a safe and wonderful place. She’s making progress every day and would thrive with a patient family willing to help build her confidence and show her all of life’s adventures at her own pace. Jody absolutely loves going for walks, soaking up quiet moments, and curling up close with her people. She’s incredibly gentle and does beautifully with everyone she meets. Because she bonds deeply and will benefit from continued guidance and socialization, Jody would do best with a family who has the time to devote to her and include her in everyday life. Older children would be the best fit for her gentle and sensitive personality. If you’re looking for a sweet companion who will reward your patience with endless love and loyal snuggles, Jody may just be your perfect match. Jody is fully vetted and ready to go home. Please apply to adopt Jody at bfdaaa.com, and if your application is a possible match, a volunteer will get back to you shortly. No inquiries, please, without an adoption application.
- Good with kids
- House-trained
5. Klara
KLARA - ALWAYS WITH A SMILE
Age: 2 to 3 Years
Sex: Female
Size: Medium
Good With Dogs: Yes
Good With Cats: No
Good With Children: Older Children
One thing is for sure, Klara always has a smile. No matter how many pictures she took, she was always happy and playful. This fun-loving and happy girl loves people and is playful with dogs her own size. It is hard to believe based on her friendly temperament that Klara was found wandering as a stray. She arrived at Bergen County Shelter prior to coming to Sedona Shepherd, where she’s shown our volunteers what an incredible dog she truly is.
Read more about Klara
Klara has a good balance of playfulness and affection, making her an easy dog to fall in love with. She loves to play ball, enjoys cuddling, and is eager to learn. She’s highly trainable and responds well to positive reinforcement. Her puppy mouthiness has all but disappeared, and with continued basic obedience training, she’ll only continue to gain confidence in new environments.
One of Klara’s most endearing qualities is that she’s on the smaller side for a German Shepherd, making her an excellent fit for someone looking for all the loyalty and intelligence of the breed in a more compact package. Her medium energy level, playful spirit, affectionate nature, and willingness to work with her person will truly make her standout.
If you would like to meet Klara in person, please reach out to us at contact@sedonashepherd.com and fill out an online adoption application.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
6. Archie
Sweet little Archie came into the shelter as a stray and we were certain someone would be missing their guy but he's still with us, so it's time to move on! He will make a great addition to any family and will most definitely appreciate the second chance at being your forever pup!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Tito
Tito is another stray who is ready for a second chance at his true forever family. So far he appears to know some basic commands, can be a bit jumpy for attention and treats and his tail is always wagging! If you think Tito may be your special guy, come on in any day of the week to meet him!
- House-trained
8. Enzo
Enzo is latest stray to enter the shelter. He was guarded at first but seems to be warming up to the staff and volunteers. We will update more about his personality as we get to know this handsome guy! In the mean time, he is hoping for a quick stay and a new forever home for the Fall!
- House-trained
9. Waldo
Waldo is new to the shelter, picked up as a stray. We are still getting to know him but he seems to know some basic commands and can be a little jumpy for treats. He is hoping his shelter stay is brief and that a new forever family will adopt him soon!
- No young kids
- House-trained
10. A Cassandra
Cassandra is available for adoption.
She is 18 months old and weighs 10 lbs.
Her adoption fee is $850.00.
Meet Cassandra a sweet little pup who was found as a stray, searching for someone to love her. Thankfully, she is now safe and receiving the care she deserves, and is ready to find her forever family. Cassiandra is approximately 18 months old and currently weighs about 10 pounds. She is underweight right now, but has a great appetite and is eating very well. Once she reaches a healthy weight, she is expected to weigh around 12–15 pounds.
Read more about A Cassandra
Cassandra is a loving little girl who enjoys cuddling and being close to her people. She walks beautifully on a leash and loves going for walks. She is friendly with other dogs, great with kids, and seems to sleep well through the night. She can be a little shy when meeting new people, but she warms up quickly. Once she trusts you, she happily accepts affection, pets, and all the love you have to give.
Cassandra is still working on potty manners, so her new family will need to be patient and continue helping her learn. She is currently waiting to be spayed and to receive some dental care before being ready for adoption.
After everything this little girl has been through, Cassandra deserves a home where she can finally feel safe, loved, and wanted. She has so much love to give and is simply waiting for someone to give her the forever family she has been searching for.
Cassandra is staying with Jessica in South Orange, NJ.
- Good with dogs
11. A Beckett
Beckett is available for adoption. He is 2 years old and weighs 11 pounds. His adoption fee is $850.00.Hi! I'm Beckett. I was found as a stray in Harrisburg, PA but luckily SAY Rescue pulled me out of the shelter and brought me to my new foster family in Livingston, NJ! I am around 11 lbs and estimated to be around 2 years old.
Read more about A Beckett
My favorite activities are:
1. Cuddling and being close with my foster mom or foster doggy brother
2. Short walks (I'm great on a leash!)
3. Rolling around on my back and digging imaginary holes
4. Sleeping in bed between my foster mommy and daddy
My foster mommy says I'm the cutest thing ever. Just look at me! I'm not a fan of being in my crate but I will tolerate it after some whining. I am learning to play fetch and to ring the bell when I want to go outside. I get along great with my foster brother and love to chase and follow him around the yard. I do like getting all the attention, though. Whenever my foster mommy pets my foster brother, I try to wiggle in to get in on the action. I am very good at doing all my business outside but I occaisionally like to mark my territory so my foster mommy sometimes puts me in a belly band. With some consistent training, I should get over this pretty quickly and am doing much better already.
I am a playful, spunky guy that also enjoys relaxing and cuddling. I love being close and am looking for a forever home to give me all the love and attention I deserve. Could that be you?
Beckett is staying with Maryanne in Livingston, NJ.
- Good with dogs
12. Birdie
Birdie’s report card is in: sleeps through the night, plays nicely with her friends, and may have a slight shoe obsession. Birdie is a GORGEOUS 5 month old, 25 pound Yellow Lab mix is making herself very easy to fall for. She’s living in a foster home with three dogs, has claimed their Great Pyrenees mix as her best play buddy, and is equally happy playing or hanging on the couch with her foster siblings, or cuddling with her humans. Birdie is a very sweet and smart dog, who is going to grow into a wonderful best friend to the family who decides to adopt her and make it official! She sleeps eight quiet hours in her crate, walks nicely on leash, and is making progress with potty training.
Read more about Birdie
She’s very smart, affectionate, and still learning her puppy manners. She has been vetted and spayed, and arrived at our partner shelter very skinny, so has been gaining healthy weight in her foster home. Her foster calls her “a true joy." and she is oh so patiently waiting for someone to call her their forever pup!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
13. Onyx
Meet Onyx! We’re learning more about this sweet 8-month-old, 45lb doodle mix as he settles into his foster home! So far, he’s a happy, friendly puppy who absolutely adores the kids in his foster family. We can’t wait to watch his personality blossom and help him find a loving forever home!Apply to adopt at rescuecity.nyc/adopt.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
14. Toffee
This adorable litter of 2.5 month old Lab mixes is here to make everyone swoon! Meet Toffee, Ginger, and Maple, the girls, and their brother, Cider. They have some paws to grow into, and we’re learning more about their personalities as they settle into their foster homes. They’re working on all things puppy and learning the ropes with help from their foster families. All four have been spayed or neutered and have started their age appropriate vaccines. These sweeties could fit into any home, including those with dogs, cats, or children, with proper who are eager for continued puppy training. They each can’t wait to learn, grow, and make memories with their forever families.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
15. Maple
This adorable litter of 2.5 month old Lab mixes is here to make everyone swoon! Meet Toffee, Ginger, and Maple, the girls, and their brother, Cider. They have some paws to grow into, and we’re learning more about their personalities as they settle into their foster homes. They’re working on all things puppy and learning the ropes with help from their foster families. All four have been spayed or neutered and have started their age appropriate vaccines. These sweeties could fit into any home, including those with dogs, cats, or children, with proper who are eager for continued puppy training. They each can’t wait to learn, grow, and make memories with their forever families.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
16. Cider
Meet Cider, the sweetest little shadow you’ll ever have and the perfect companion to ADOPT this fall! He is an adorable 11 week old Lab mix weighing just 15 lbs, with big puppy paws he’s still growing into and an even BIGGER heart! Cider is a professional cuddler, part time lap dog, and full time best friend in training. He loves his toys, is a quick learner, and has already mastered his puppy pads! He loves playtime, a few treats, and then using your lap as a pillow for a nap. Cider is counting down the days until he finishes his vaccines and can explore the big world outside on those adorable paws!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
17. Dixie
Dixie is a 1 year old, 48 pound Poodle mix who was found alongside the road with her mom, Dani, and littermate, Denver, by a worker from our partner shelter. These are some of the sweetest dogs we have ever met! Dixie is gentle, loving, and happiest getting all the affection and attention from people and other dogs. Dixie’s daily schedule includes walks, politely greeting new friends, and rotating between her favorite napping spots. Outside, she’s curious and eager to explore. At home, she’s a mellow companion who’s always available for a snuggle. Her foster describes her as exceptionally gentle, even her excited hellos and treat-taking are soft and sweet.
Read more about Dixie
She has been friendly with people and dogs she’s met on walks, and she’s quickly picking up “sit.” Dixie enjoys snoozing in her crate and generally sleeps through the night. She’s making good progress with potty training and learning her leash manners, though she’ll need continued guidance as she settles in. Loud city sounds can feel overwhelming, and Dixie sometimes presses close to her person for reassurance. She will blossom with an affectionate family would help her keep building confidence. Watching Dixie come out of her shell has been her foster’s favorite part of knowing her. Now this sweet girl is ready for a family who will keep showing her how good life can be. Apply to adopt Dixie at rescuecity.nyc.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
18. Ginger
This adorable litter of 2.5 month old Lab mixes is here to make everyone swoon! Meet Toffee, Ginger, and Maple, the girls, and their brother, Cider. They have some paws to grow into, and we’re learning more about their personalities as they settle into their foster homes. They’re working on all things puppy and learning the ropes with help from their foster families. All four have been spayed or neutered and have started their age appropriate vaccines. These sweeties could fit into any home, including those with dogs, cats, or children, with proper who are eager for continued puppy training. They each can’t wait to learn, grow, and make memories with their forever families.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
19. Winnie
Winnie is the cutest, perfect sized mix breed pup! She’s a 6 month old, 27 pound Husky/Chihuahua/Lab Mix who is smart, sweet and goofy! She loves kids, giving kisses, cuddling, playing with other dogs and adventures, she loves to play but also crashes for nap time. She is housebroken, knows commands and loves treats. She’s working on her leash manners, puppy habits and enjoying her crate. She is smart and very affectionate and is super friendly with all dogs and people, and was in a home with young kids who she ADORES! She was almost adopted, but the older dog in the house was not a fan of puppy energy and it’s effecting their every day life, now she is in need of a foster or even better a foster to adopt home to welcome her in as soon as possible!
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
- House-trained
20. Rubirosa
Mama Rubirosa is ready for a little mothering of her own. 1 Year Old, 39lb - This sweet girl has a playful spirit and one favorite place to be: wherever you are. She’ll follow you around the house, join you for a walk, then settle in close for cuddles. Rubirosa loves a good chew, has plenty of energy, and would thrive with someone who enjoys an active dog and can give her consistent attention, structure, and training. She’s house trained and working on leash manners, getting comfortable in her crate, and keeping her excitement from turning into nibbling. She may enjoy a similarly playful dog companion with a thoughtful introduction; her enthusiasm was a little much for her foster’s dog, who preferred more space.
Read more about Rubirosa
A home with older children or adults would be the best fit as she learns! If you’re looking for an affectionate little shadow with a big appetite for life and snacks, Rubirosa would love to meet you.
- Good with kids
- Good with dogs
- Good with cats
Rescues and shelters near Linden
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of Linden.
- Rescue Dogs Rock, IncNew York, NY · 46 dogs · 18 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Rescue Dogs Rock, Inc
Application , Reference check, interview, home inspection All animals spay/ neutered and UTD 375$- 125$ depending on age Adoption contracts are issued
- Husky HouseMatawan, NJ · 22 dogs · 15 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Husky House
application interview, ref check, vet check, homevisit husky pups will require previous husky exp fees are 200-400 all pets are spayed/neutered and microchipped.. including puppies. all chips remain registered to HH for the dogs safety
- Rescue CityBrooklyn, NY · 18 dogs · 13 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Rescue City
Step One Complete and submit an adoption application and non-refundable $10 Application Fee. Since all of our dogs are in foster homes, we set up meet and greets only once there is an approved application on file. 2 Step Two The adoptions team will review your completed application. We will contact your references, landlord and/or veterinarian (if any). 3 Step Three Approved applicants will be will be contacted for a phone interview/virtual home visit. 4 Step Four Meet and greet with your potential new dog! All members of the household (and resident dogs) must be able to travel to NYC for the interaction. We currently approve adoptions in the states of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. We approve adoptions in other nearby states on a case by case basis. 5 Step Five Sign your adoption agreement and take your new family member home!
- Rescue Haven FoundationCaldwell, NJ · 11 dogs · 16 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Rescue Haven Foundation
Application (free) Adoption- Adult (Altered) $300 Adoption- Puppy (Un-Altered) $350
- Zani's Furry FriendsNyc, NY · 11 dogs · 18 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Zani's Furry Friends
Adopters are asked to complete an application and spend time with their prospective companion animals. All adopters are carefully screened via vet and personal references, and a home visit is conducted. A donation in an amount agreeable to all parties is requested to help defray our expenses (medical, transport, training, pet supplies, etc). We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and are always in need of donations. That donation can be in the form of healthy treats, quality pet food, crates, blankets, new leashes and collars, toys, gift certificates to pet supply stores, kitty litter, etc. -all are gratefully accepted! Kittens can be adopted ONLY in pairs or to an age appropriate home. Resident cats must have proof of having been tested for FIV/FeLV.
- 3 Hearts 4 Paws Animal RescueMorganville, NJ · 9 dogs · 19 mi from Linden
How to adopt from 3 Hearts 4 Paws Animal Rescue
potential adopters fill out an application incuding vet and personal references. All references are verified and if application is approved, a meet and greet is scheduled, sometimes more than 1 meet and greet. If it's a good fit, we do a home visit. As long as the home visit is approved, we proceed with contract. Fees range from $200-350
- Northstar Pet RescueBoonton, NJ · 9 dogs · 23 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Northstar Pet Rescue
Potential adopters will submit an adoption application. The adopters information will be screened including veterinary and personal references. After the first round of screening they will get the chance to meet the pet. If it is a good match, as deemed by NSPR volunteers, the adopter will complete an adoption contract and pay the fee of 375.00. All animals will be spayed/neutered and fully vetted prior to adoption. The only exception would be small puppies in which case the adopter will submit an additional deposit refundable upon proof of spay/neuter. In the event an animal is no longer wanted, the adoption contract will stipulate that the animal always gets returned to us, and is never sold, given away, or surrendered to another rescue or shelter.
- Castle of Dreams Animal RescueCliffwood, NJ · 7 dogs · 13 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Castle of Dreams Animal Rescue
All potential adopters are required to complete an application for adoption. We verify personal and veterinary references as well as an home visit and a meet and greet with our rescued dogs. We do not have a physical location. Meet and greets can be scheduled at local adoption events, potential adopters home or foster home.
- Sammy's Hope, IncSayreville, NJ, NJ · 7 dogs · 13 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Sammy's Hope, Inc
Adopters can meet our animals 7 days per week at our Sayreville, NJ facility. All adopters are asked to fill out an adoption application survey to find their perfect match. Surveys can be filled out in person at the shelter, or through our online form. All pets are spayed/neutered and receive age-appropriate vaccinations before going home. Adoption fees are $125 for cats and $250 for dogs. Adopters are asked to fill out an adoption contract upon taking their pet home.
- Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption IncCranford, NJ · 4 dogs · 4 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption Inc
We schedule meetings once application has been approved, references checked, etc.. If all goes well we do a second meeting/home visit.. If everyone feels it is a good fit we do an adoption agreement.
- Perth Amboy Animal ShelterPerth Amboy, NJ · 4 dogs · 8 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Perth Amboy Animal Shelter
Adoption fees include spay/neuter, vaccinations and microchipping. Prospective adopters must complete and adoption application that requires staff review and vet reference checks prior to approval.
- Save A Yorkie Rescue, Inc.Allentown,, PA · 2 dogs · 9 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Save A Yorkie Rescue, Inc.
We ask for a $25 processing fee. We require people to have a vet history, dog experience, and time to work with a dog.
- Twenty Paws RescueBrooklyn, NY · 2 dogs · 13 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Twenty Paws Rescue
All dogs age appropriate are fully vetted, shots, alter, and chipped. The process in order is 1. Adoption application and review 2.Skype visit 3. Home visit 3. Adoption Contract (if home visit passes) and adoption donation 4. Transport of dog, or pick up of dog!
- Sedona Shepherd SanctuaryMillburn, NJ · 1 dog · 7 mi from Linden
How to adopt from Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary
Adoption Application Interview Home Visit Contract
Adopting a dog in Linden
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 Linden
How many dogs are up for adoption in Linden?
As of November 4, 2026, 153 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of Linden, New Jersey, by 14 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in Linden?
The rescues with the most dogs near Linden right now are Rescue Dogs Rock, Inc (New York, NY), Husky House (Matawan, NJ) and Rescue City (Brooklyn, NY). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there puppies for adoption in Linden?
Yes. 46 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of Linden.
How do I adopt a dog in Linden?
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.