Dogs for Adoption in South Amboy, NJ: 20 Dogs Looking for a Home
147 dogs and puppies are waiting for homes at 11 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of South Amboy. 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 South Amboy, 48 puppies, 46 young dogs, 48 adults and 3 seniors. The breeds you'll see most are Labrador Retriever, American Pit Bull Terrier and Siberian Husky, along with plenty of one-of-a-kind mixes.
Not in South Amboy? Find dogs near your zip code.
1. 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
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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
5. Sakki
Sakki, also known as Socks, is a mixed breed puppy believed to have been born on 5/25/26. She is a blend of dachshund, chihuahua and probably labrador retriever as well. Sakki is playful and sweet and has the most adorable white "socks" on her paws. She is looking for a forever home to call her own. Sakki is spayed, microchipped and up to date on vaccines.
If you are interested in adopting from Castle-of-Dreams Animal Rescue, please complete an Adoption Application
Read more about Sakki
We are a 100% volunteer organization and have several opportunities available in fundraising, fostering, dog care, events and lots more! To join our winning team, please complete a Volunteer Application
A healthy pet is a happy pet! Protect your pet's health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and save up to 90% on your vet bills. Visit Healthy Paws or your free quote (use code CODAR for a special discount) and learn how your protected pet helps save more homeless pets!
- Good with dogs
6. Daisy
Meet Daisy, a 6 year old goldendoodle looking for a new home. She is a very friendly girl who loves everyone she meets almost as much as she loves playing fetch. Daisy is 75 lbs of sweetness who wants to be by your side and get the attention she deserves. She comes from a home where she was one of 6 other pets and is looking for some TLC in a new home. Daisy is spayed and up to date on vaccines. She will make a great addition to your family.
If you are interested in adopting from Castle-of-Dreams Animal Rescue, please complete an Adoption Application
Read more about Daisy
We are a 100% volunteer organization and have several opportunities available in fundraising, fostering, dog care, events and lots more! To join our winning team, please complete a Volunteer Application
A healthy pet is a happy pet! Protect your pet's health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and save up to 90% on your vet bills. Visit Healthy Paws or your free quote (use code CODAR for a special discount) and learn how your protected pet helps save more homeless pets!
- Good with dogs
7. Magenta
Meet Magenta, a sweet 5 yr old Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix with lots of love to give. Magenta takes treats gently, knows basic commands such as sit, come and paw. She is crate trained, respects boundaries and rides well in the car. Magenta is people friendly but would prefer to be the only dog in your household. She has not been tested in a home with cats or young children so would be best with older children. Magenta is spayed, microchipped and up to date on vaccines. If you are looking for 62 lbs of pure love, Magenta is your girl. If you are interested in adopting from Castle-of-Dreams Animal Rescue, please complete an Adoption Application
Read more about Magenta
We are a 100% volunteer organization and have several opportunities available in fundraising, fostering, dog care, events and lots more! To join our winning team, please complete a Volunteer Application
A healthy pet is a happy pet! Protect your pet's health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and save up to 90% on your vet bills. Visit Healthy Paws or your free quote (use code CODAR for a special discount) and learn how your protected pet helps save more homeless pets!
- Only dog
8. V
V is a lab/hound mix believed to have been born in early May 2026, and she is one fun little puppy!
V is equal parts play and napping. She'll happily romp around, play tug, boss her foster siblings around a little, and then find somewhere -- literally anywhere -- to curl up for a nap. V's energetic, and playful, but just as happy to settle in for some cuddles and puppy kisses.
Read more about V
V is great with other dogs, especially older dogs who don't mind her puppy antics, and she'd also be perfectly happy as your one and only. She is affectionate with everyone she meets and has a sweet, feisty, goofy personality that makes her a really fun puppy to have around.
V has picked up an important foster brother habit --hoarding things in her crate. Socks, shoes, muddy stuffies -- if it fits, it goes in. Apparently a puppy needs a well-stocked collection of treasures!
V is spayed, microchipped and up to date on her vaccines. She is ready to find a family who will give her plenty of play time, plenty of love, continued training and a cozy place to nap when she's worn herself out.
If you are interested in adopting from Castle-of-Dreams Animal Rescue, please complete an Adoption Application
We are a 100% volunteer organization and have several opportunities available in fundraising, fostering, dog care, events and lots more! To join our winning team, please complete a Volunteer Application
A healthy pet is a happy pet! Protect your pet's health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and save up to 90% on your vet bills. Visit Healthy Paws or your free quote (use code CODAR for a special discount) and learn how your protected pet helps save more homeless pets!
- Good with dogs
9. Riley
Riley is a lab/hound mix believed to have been born in early May 2026. She is a playful, affectionate puppy who loves spending time with people and other dogs. Riley is a great fit for a home with a canine companion as she loves to play with other dogs yet she would also be happy on her own as long as she gets lots of time with her humans.
Read more about Riley
Riley's foster family says she loves body contact and is happiest when she can be close to her humans. When not playing, Riley likes to watch her foster family through the windows when they're outside. She is a fun-loving puppy who is continuing to show more of her personality every day. Riley is spayed, microchipped and up to date on vaccines. She would do well in a home where she can continue to get plenty of playtime, affection and opportunities to learn and grow.
If you are interested in adopting from Castle-of-Dreams Animal Rescue, please complete an Adoption Application
We are a 100% volunteer organization and have several opportunities available in fundraising, fostering, dog care, events and lots more! To join our winning team, please complete a Volunteer Application
A healthy pet is a happy pet! Protect your pet's health with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and save up to 90% on your vet bills. Visit Healthy Paws or your free quote (use code CODAR for a special discount) and learn how your protected pet helps save more homeless pets!
- Good with dogs
10. Vader
This is a courtesy post for the owner of this dog. You will not be adopting from Castle of Dreams Animal Rescue. Please contact the owner directly through the contact info provided below.
Meet Vader, a German shepherd mix male puppy born on April 2, 2026. This is what his owner has to say...
Vader was the smallest puppy of his litter at birth but by the end of the first month, he had become the largest. This remarkable turnaround reflected his healthy development and exceptional growth.
Read more about Vader
Vader is quite honestly one of the most beautiful puppies I've ever seen. His jet black coat, bright white blaze, tan markings and piercing blue eyes make him impossible to overlook. People who meet him almost always comment on his eyes first.
As handsome as he is, it's his personality that really stands out. Vader is confident without being pushy, playful without being wild and affectionate without being demanding. He's happy to run and wrestle with the pack, but he is just as content relaxing beside you. He gets along exceptionally well with his siblings and adult dogs and he has a calm, easygoing temperament that makes him a pleasure to be around.
Watching him grow has been incredible. He began life as the smallest puppy in the litter but quickly caught up, eventually becoming the largest by the end of his first month. That determination combined with his gentle personality has mad him one of the favorites.
Finding Vader the right family won't be easy, not because he won't make an amazing companion, but because saying goodbye to him is going to be one of the hardest parts of raising this litter. He deserves a family that will love him every bit as much as we have.
Vader is up to date on age appropriate vaccines including rabies and will be neutered prior to adoption. If you are interested in meeting Vader, please contact paleozoic1@hotmail.com
- Good with dogs
11. Jelly Roll
This is a courtesy post for the owner of this dog. You will not be adopting from Castle of Dreams Animal Rescue. Please contact the owner directly through the contact info provided below.
Meet Jelly!
Jelly is a handsome Great Pyrenees/Boxer mix who turns 3 in November, and he’s looking for his forever home.
This boy is a smiler. Offer him a pet and you’ll get a wiggly wag and a big goofy grin. He loves a good romp at the dog park, and when the playing is done, there’s nothing he likes more than a long nap on the couch.
Read more about Jelly Roll
Jelly is also a fiercely protective guy who takes his job very seriously. That loyalty is one of the best things about him, and it means he’ll thrive with the right person. He would do best in a calm, low-stimulation home where kids aren’t coming and going. A quieter household will help him feel confident and settled.
He is house trained, neutered and fully up to date on all vaccinations, so he’s ready to go home with you.
Jelly’s ideal home:
A patient, dedicated adopter who is committed to consistent training
A calm environment without frequent visitors or lots of kid traffic
Someone who understands guardian breeds and respects his protective nature
A person ready to put in the time to help him become his best self
If you have the patience, structure, and love to give a loyal, goofy, couch-loving boy the guidance he needs, Jelly will give you a devoted best friend in return.
Interested in meeting Jelly? Message us to set up an introduction at rbkelly84@gmail.com or call Rob at 732-720-9627 or Michael at 908-601-4349.
- Good with dogs
12. Boo Boo
Looking for a pint-sized sidekick who believes there is no such thing as being too close to his people? Meet Boo-Boo! This charming 2-year-old terrier-poodle mix weighs just 15 pounds, but his personality is much bigger than his size.Boo-Boo is a friendly, affectionate little guy who loves human attention. In fact, don't be surprised if he suddenly appears in your lap. He's a talented jumper and seems convinced that every lap was made just for him! Whether you're sitting on a bench, a couch, or a chair, Boo-Boo is always ready to be your cuddly companion.When it's time for a walk, Boo-Boo is happy to hit the trails.
Read more about Boo Boo
He walks nicely on a leash, though he likes to add a little excitement with some zig-zagging as he explores the world around him. His curious nature makes every outing an adventure.Boo-Boo has also shown promising social skills with other dogs. He has done well on parallel walks with the shelter's smaller dogs and has shown positive interest in some larger canine friends, too. As with all adoptions, any resident dogs will need to participate in a meet-and-greet to help ensure a good match for everyone.With his scruffy good looks, bright eyes, and lovable "lap-first, introductions-second" attitude, Boo-Boo is ready to bring plenty of fun, companionship, and affection to his forever home.Boo-Boo may be small, but he's got enough love and personality packed into those 15 pounds to keep your lap full and your heart even fuller. ❤️If you are interested in meeting Boo Boo, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
13. Yogi
Meet Yogi!With his adorable scruffy face and soulful eyes, Yogi is sure to steal your heart. This handsome 15-month-old, ginger and white, Border/Norfolk Terrier mix weighs 24 pounds and is the perfect size for just about any adventure.Yogi can be a little shy or cautious when meeting new people or encountering fast movements, but give him a little time and patience, and you'll quickly discover what a sweetheart he is. Once he feels comfortable, Yogi loves attention and enjoys soaking up affection from his favorite people.This charming young pup walks nicely on a leash and enjoys getting out to explore the world at a comfortable pace.
Read more about Yogi
He's also done well on parallel walks with another smaller-sized shelter dog, showing positive social skills while respecting his canine companion's space.Yogi is looking for a family that will help build his confidence and continue showing him that the world is a safe and happy place. In return, he'll reward you with loyalty, companionship, and plenty of terrier charm.As with all adoptions, a meet-and-greet with any resident dogs is required to ensure a good match.Yogi is ready to find a loving home where he can blossom into the wonderful companion he's meant to be. Could that home be yours? If you are interested in meeting Yogi, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
14. Tony
Tony is a handsome tan American Staffordshire Terrier mix weighing 52 pounds and just over a year old. Although he's still a young dog, Tony has a wonderfully calm demeanor and an old-soul personality that makes him stand out from the crowd.This easy-going boy has quickly become a shelter volunteer favorite thanks to his gentle, affectionate nature. Tony walks well on a leash, is already working on basic obedience skills, and takes treats very gently, making training both easy and enjoyable. For a young dog, Tony has an impressive level of maturity and is happiest simply hanging out with his favorite humans.Tony has greeted other shelter dogs in a positive manner.
Read more about Tony
As with all adoptions, a meet-and-greet with any resident dogs is required to ensure a good fit.If you're looking for a loyal, mellow companion with a heart of gold, Tony is ready to meet you. ❤️If you are interested in meeting Tony, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
15. Carrie
Meet Carrie (Bradshaw)!Carrie is a 2 year-old, 43-pound American Staffordshire Terrier mix with a zest for life that's impossible to miss. This fun-loving girl is full of energy and personality, and when she gets excited, she bounces around like a bunny, bringing smiles wherever she goes.Playtime is one of Carrie's favorite activities. Whether she's chasing a toy, carrying one around proudly, or inviting you to join in the fun, she knows how to make every day more entertaining. Her playful spirit is matched by her intelligence, and she's always eager to learn something new.Carrie is highly food motivated, which has made training both enjoyable and rewarding.
Read more about Carrie
She's a smart pup who catches on quickly and loves earning treats and praise for a job well done. With continued positive reinforcement, she's sure to keep impressing her future family.At the shelter, Carrie has already made a few canine friends and enjoys spending time with both dogs and people. She's social, affectionate, and always ready to be part of the action.Because every dog friendship is unique, any resident dog in her future home will need to meet Carrie before adoption to ensure a good match.Carrie is looking for an active family that will embrace her playful nature, continue her training, and include her in life's adventures. In return, she'll bring endless enthusiasm, lots of laughs, and unwavering companionship.If you're searching for a smart, spirited best friend who lives life to the fullest, Carrie (Bradshaw) may be the perfect addition to your family!If you are interested in meeting Carrie, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
16. Tigris
Tigris is a confident, outgoing 5 year old American Staffordshire Terrier mix, possibly with a touch of Shepherd, weighing 51 lbs. She’s a beautiful brindle girl who arrived at Sammy’s Hope alongside Angelo, and from the moment she stepped in, she made it clear she’s a dog who loves people and thrives on attention.Tigris is the type of dog who instantly makes friends — warm, social, and eager to greet anyone who comes her way. Her steady confidence and affectionate nature make her a favorite among volunteers. On hot days, she’s happiest splashing around in a kiddie pool filled with water, enjoying every moment of cooling off and playing.She is very friendly with Angelo, but she can be selective with other dogs.
Read more about Tigris
A meet and greet with any resident dogs is required to ensure a comfortable and compatible match.Tigris is a bright, loving, people focused dog who will flourish in a home that appreciates her confident personality, her playful spirit, and her desire to bond deeply with her humans. She’s ready to bring joy, companionship, and a whole lot of heart to her forever family.If you are interested in meeting Tigris, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
- Good with dogs
17. Angelo
Angelo is a 2 year old French Pitbull (French Bulldog and American Pitbull mix) weighing 43 lbs, and he is a gentle soul who has already overcome more than most dogs his age. Before arriving at Sammy’s Hope, Angelo spent time recovering with a rescue group after experiencing neglect. Thanks to their care, he has begun to heal — but he is still learning that new people and new environments can be safe.Understandably, Angelo is cautious when meeting someone for the first time. He needs a little patience and a calm, reassuring presence. With that, he warms up beautifully. Once he feels comfortable, his bond with his person grows strong and steady, and his affectionate nature truly shines.Angelo will benefit from sharing his home with a calm, confident companion dog who can help him continue building trust.
Read more about Angelo
As with all adoptions, a meet and greet with any resident dogs is required to ensure a good match.This sweet, gentle fellow deserves a second chance with people who will show him kindness, stability, and love. For the right adopter, Angelo will be a deeply rewarding companion — one whose trust, once earned, becomes something truly special.If you are interested in meeting Angelo, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
- Good with dogs
18. Snickers
Snickers – Sweet, Snuggly, and Ready to ShineMeet Snickers, a stunning brindle and white American Staffordshire Terrier mix who’s about 2 years old and full of heart. She’s friendly, affectionate, and strong — the kind of dog who greets her favorite people with joyful wiggles, gentle jumps for hugs, and plenty of enthusiastic kisses.Snickers loves to play and spend time outside, whether she’s exploring the yard, trotting around with a toy, or simply soaking up the sunshine. She’s also working on her leash walking skills, and with a patient, encouraging human by her side, she’s making steady progress.She does have a sensitive side.
Read more about Snickers
Unexpected movements and sudden noises can make her feel unsure, and in those moments, she may become a bit shy or apprehensive. With calm reassurance, patience, and a predictable environment, she quickly remembers she’s safe and returns to her affectionate, wiggly self.Snickers is looking for someone who will appreciate her loving nature, enjoy her playful spirit, and help her continue building confidence at her own pace. If you’re ready for a devoted companion who gives her whole heart, Snickers is eager to meet you.If you are interested in meeting Snickers, please complete an Interest Form. An adoption counselor will contact you to schedule an appointment.
- No cats
- House-trained
19. Rosalyn
Hardcore For Pits
Rosalyn has been with us for just over a year. Her temporary spot was just that, temporary. We stretched it to a year and we can stretch no further.
If a foster home is not found she will be going into a kennel. We have given her a quiet, stress free environment and trained her with compassion and grace. We fear that all of the progress we have made with her will be lost.
Read more about Rosalyn
Rosalyn is smart, affectionate and playful. The one thing we have learned is that she is fearful. If you follow us you know that we have had and still have many fearful dogs and we get them where they need to be. We never rush things! She will take a bit of time to settle in but once she trusts you,
she is yours. Her favorite volunteer walker can do anything to her!
Rosalyn will need a foster or forever home with someone who will not push and just wait, an extremely hard thing to do.A dog like her is indeed special and we hope to find a person that will see her for who she is and take her home. If you have any interest please reach out to njshpetrescue@gmail.com with questions.
20. Daisy
Rescuing Miss Daisy!! This tiny Pomsky was completely stressed out at the shelter which landed her labeled rescue only. Follow us for updates on her progress. Interested in adopting Daisy? Visit www.huskyhouse.org today to fill out an application.
Rescues and shelters near South Amboy
The rescues with the most dogs listed within 25 miles of South Amboy.
- Wag On Inn RescueOakhurst, NJ · 71 dogs · 21 mi from South Amboy
- Husky HouseMatawan, NJ · 22 dogs · 5 mi from South Amboy
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 · 17 mi from South Amboy
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!
- 3 Hearts 4 Paws Animal RescueMorganville, NJ · 9 dogs · 9 mi from South Amboy
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
- Castle of Dreams Animal RescueCliffwood, NJ · 7 dogs · 4 mi from South Amboy
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 · 4 mi from South Amboy
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.
- Perth Amboy Animal ShelterPerth Amboy, NJ · 4 dogs · 2 mi from South Amboy
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.
- Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption IncCranford, NJ · 4 dogs · 12 mi from South Amboy
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.
- Twenty Paws RescueBrooklyn, NY · 2 dogs · 17 mi from South Amboy
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!
- Save A Yorkie Rescue, Inc.Allentown,, PA · 2 dogs · 18 mi from South Amboy
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.
- Sedona Shepherd SanctuaryMillburn, NJ · 1 dog · 16 mi from South Amboy
How to adopt from Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary
Adoption Application Interview Home Visit Contract
Adopting a dog in South Amboy
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 South Amboy
How many dogs are up for adoption in South Amboy?
As of November 4, 2026, 147 dogs and puppies are listed for adoption within 25 miles of South Amboy, New Jersey, by 11 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a dog in South Amboy?
The rescues with the most dogs near South Amboy right now are Wag On Inn Rescue (Oakhurst, NJ), 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 South Amboy?
Yes. 48 puppys are up for adoption within 25 miles of South Amboy.
How do I adopt a dog in South Amboy?
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.
