Durham, NC

Adult Dogs for Adoption in Durham, NC: 30 Grown-Up Dogs Looking for a Home

Adult Dogs up for adoption near Durham, NC

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Durham have 125 adult dogs up for adoption. Here are the 30 newest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Adult dogs usually wait longer for homes than puppies, but their personalities are already settled, so you know just what you're getting: a couch companion, a running partner or a gentle family dog.

1. Rigby

Young (1 year) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Durham

A Little Honey, A Lot of Love!

Oh, bother! It looks like a little honey bear has wandered out of the Hundred Acre Wood and into our rescue! Meet Rigby!

Rigby is a 1-year-old Yellow Lab/Hound mix with floppy ears, a honey-colored coat, and a heart just as sweet! This handsome boy is a little underweight right now, but with some extra TLC, good meals, and lots of love, he'll be on his way to a happily ever after.

Rigby is neutered, up to date on everything, and has a $300 adoption fee.

All this little Pooh Bear needs is a full belly, a cozy home, and his very own Christopher Robin.

Could that be you? Apply to adopt Rigby today!

2. Bandit

Young · Male · Cattle Dog / Mixed · 16 mi from Durham

Hi there, I'm Bandit! I’m a 1-year-old Cattle Dog mix on a mission to find my ultimate partner-in-crime. If your ideal day involves throwing a tennis ball, playing with a flirt pole, and giving out endless belly rubs, we are going to get along great!I am a high-energy guy who loves to stay busy. I’m already a pro at walking on a leash, I’ve mastered the "sit" command, and I’m currently working on expanding my trick vocabulary. I would do best with a family who understands I am a super smart guy who needs physical and mental stimulation. I'm fully house-trained and completely comfortable in my crate, so I promise to be a very good boy in the house.

Read more about Bandit

(Just make sure you keep me stocked up on hard chew bones—they're my favorite!).I do have a heart murmur, but honestly? It just means my love is extra special. It doesn't affect my energy or my love for life one bit.Here is my dream scenario: I want to be your one and only! I prefer to be the only pet in the house because I like my humans' attention focused entirely on me. I’m a little unsure about how I feel around tiny humans right now, so if you have kiddos, I'd love a home where they know how to give me a little space, read my body language, and practice respectful interactions while we build up our confidence together!Are you looking for a loyal, active, ball-obsessed best bud? Come meet me!

  • Only dog
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Bandit fromPerfectly Imperfect PupsRaleigh, NC · listed Nov 2

3. Biscuit

Adult (1 year) · Male · Shih Tzu (long coat) · 23 mi from Durham

Biscuit is a resilient, affectionate small-breed rescue dog who is fully vetted and ready to transition into a forever home that can accommodate his specific care, space, and family needs. After a rough start on the side of a busy road, he has successfully adjusted to crate training, car rides, and coexisting with other animals.

Quick Profile

· Health Status: Neutered, microchipped, fully vaccinated, and current on all preventative medications.

· Coat Care: Non-shedding; requires professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks.

Read more about Biscuit

· Social Compatibility: Friendly with cats and other dogs; specifically desires a small-breed female canine companion.

Ideal Home Requirements

· Family Dynamic: Adults or families with children aged 10 and older; excellent fit for work-from-home professionals.

· Sleeping Arrangement: Allowed to sleep in the bed with his owners to satisfy his love for cuddling.

· Property Features: A securely fenced yard to support his ongoing house training and provide safe, immediate outdoor access.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Biscuit fromChatham Animal Rescue & EducationPittsboro, NC · listed Nov 1

4. Stefan

Adult (2 years) · Male · Airedale Terrier / Poodle (Standard) / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Hi there! I’m Stefan, a 2-year-old Airedale Terrier, and yes, I’m a tripod. But if you think that’s going to stop me from living my best life, you clearly haven’t met me yet!

I may be missing a leg, but I’m not missing a single bit of that big terrier personality. I’m ready for adventures, fun, and all the love my forever family has to offer. After all, being a tripod is just one little detail about me. It doesn’t define who I am!

My story began in a place no dog should ever have to call home.

I was one of more than 20 dogs rescued from a puppy mill in South Carolina, and when I arrived, I was in heartbreaking shape.

Read more about Stefan

The world is still a scary place for me. I’m learning that people can be kind, that gentle hands can bring comfort, and that life can be so much more than simply surviving. I may be shut down right now, but deep inside, there is a little dog who deserves to feel safe, loved, and cherished.

Thanks to Pawfect Match, I finally have a chance to discover what it means to be a dog. My healing will take time, patience, and understanding, but dogs are remarkably resilient, and I’m proof that even the most wounded hearts can begin to heal. I just need someone willing to give me a chance, meet me where I am, and help me discover the beautiful life I’ve always deserved.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Stefan fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 28

5. Charlie

Adult (7 years) · Male · Dachshund / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Charlie is a sweet little Dachshund mix who came from a breeder surrender, and he’s ready to discover just how wonderful life can be outside that world.

His idea of a perfect day? You, a cozy lap, and a good movie or book. He’s perfectly happy snuggling for hours, as long as he can be close to his favorite human. Honestly, personal space is not really his thing!

Read more about Charlie

Charlie is a quiet, well-mannered little gentleman. He’s non-destructive, sleeps peacefully all night in his crate (as long as it’s in the room with his people), and is an absolute star for grooming. Put his harness on the floor, and he’ll even step right into it like the polite little fellow he is!

He’s learning to explore the big world outside, but for now, he’d much rather keep his walks close to you. He gets along with other dogs with slow, proper introductions, and he has one very important weakness: CHEESE. The way to Charlie’s heart may very well be through the cheese drawer.

Charlie is looking for a loving home where he can be someone’s little shadow, cuddle buddy, and loyal companion. If you’ve been dreaming of a dog who will happily keep your lap warm and your heart full, Charlie might just be your perfect match!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Charlie fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 28

7. Skippert

Young (8 months) · Male · Terrier / Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Hi Im Skippert! I nice foster saved me from the shelter and I've been having a great time learning how to be loved. I am with dogs of all sizes and exposed to farm animals at my foster home along with kids.

I am working on all my basic manners and would love to meet you!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Skippert fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 27

8. Autumn

Adult (6 years) · Female · Terrier / Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Autumn

Autumn is about 4 years old, and despite everything she’s been through, she is just the friendliest, most loving dog. She already knows some basic commands and we’re working on her crate and leash training together. Right now, her full-time job is being the best mom to her puppy, Raine, and together we are working on getting some extra snacks and good meals to get her back to a healthy weight. She’ll be ready for her forever family soon—once her baby is independent and she’s finished with all her vet care.

Read more about Autumn

Autumn is looking for a family who will return the love she has given so freely to her puppy. If you’re looking for a loyal friend who is ready to settle into a relaxed, loving life, Autumn would love to meet you.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Autumn fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 26

9. Zonis

Adult (6 years) · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Australian Shepherd / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

My story began in a place no dog should ever have to call home. I was one of more than 20 dogs rescued from a puppy mill in South Carolina, and when I arrived, I was in heartbreaking shape. The world is still a scary place for me. I’m learning that people can be kind, that gentle hands can bring comfort, and that life can be so much more than simply surviving. I may be shut down right now, but deep inside, there is a little dog who deserves to feel safe, loved, and cherished. Thanks to Pawfect Match, I finally have a chance to discover what it means to be a dog. My healing will take time, patience, and understanding, but dogs are remarkably resilient, and I’m proof that even the most wounded hearts can begin to heal. I just need someone willing to give me a chance, meet me where I am, and help me discover the beautiful life I’ve always deserved.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Zonis fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 25

10. Winnie

Adult (2 years) · Female · Wheaten Terrier / Schnauzer (long coat) · 23 mi from Durham

Winnie has no idea that she’s special — but she is. To her, she’s just a happy, playful dog living her best life. Winnie was born with a cerebellum that didn’t fully develop in utero, a condition believed to be cerebellar hypoplasia. This affects her balance and gives her a uniquely wobbly, slightly unsteady way of walking. It doesn’t cause her pain, and it certainly doesn’t dim her spirit. Winnie is, without question, the happiest dog her foster family has ever met.

Read more about Winnie

For the most part, Winnie is a normal dog: she plays, she explores, she loves her people, and she radiates joy. She simply needs a family willing to love and care for her exactly as she is — wobbles and all.

Winnie would thrive in a home with another gentle dog her size or larger who can play with her, keep her company, and help her feel secure. She adores canine friends and blossoms with companionship.

Winnie is up to date on all vaccines and preventatives, has been spayed, and is microchipped. Any children in the home should be at least 8 years of age. She also requires a fenced in yard, physical fencing attached to the home

Winnie doesn’t know she’s different — she only knows she’s loved. If you’re looking for a dog who will brighten your home with pure happiness and endless heart, Winnie may be the perfect match.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
  • Special needs
Adopt Winnie fromChatham Animal Rescue & EducationPittsboro, NC · listed Oct 24

11. Ernest

Adult (3 years) · Male · Terrier / Dachshund / Mixed (medium coat) · 23 mi from Durham

Ernest is an approximately 3‑year‑old sweetheart with a calm, affectionate nature and a touch of playful confidence. He has an absolutely adorable little underbite that makes him look like he’s smiling all the time, and it suits his gentle, goofy charm perfectly. He can be a bit bossy with dogs who don’t like to listen, but in a home with well‑mannered canine companions, he settles in beautifully.

Read more about Ernest

When Ernest first arrived in foster care, he wanted to be close to his people without actually touching. With patience and reassurance, he has blossomed into a cuddler. He’ll happily stretch out on your chest for a bit before sliding over to relax right beside you. His foster family has loved watching him learn that affection is safe and comforting.

Ernest enjoys playing with the other dogs in his foster home, and he will do best in a home with at least one friendly canine companion. He thrives with dogs who are kind, confident, and not easily pushed around.

Ernest is up to date on all vaccines and preventatives, has been microchipped, and is neutered. Because of his coat type, he will require regular professional grooming, and his ideal family will have experience with maintaining a dog who needs consistent coat care.

Ernest is a gentle, loving boy who’s ready for a family that will continue helping him grow in confidence and enjoy the comfort of companionship. If you’re looking for a sweet dog with a tender heart, a playful spirit, and a smile that never quits, Ernest may be the perfect addition to your home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Ernest fromChatham Animal Rescue & EducationPittsboro, NC · listed Oct 24

12. Gloria

Young (3 months 19 days) · Female · German Shepherd Dog / Shepherd / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Hey i am gloria ! I was wondering if you could help me out and adopt me. I am the last sibling left to be adopted. I am very sweet and gentle but i also get the zoomies. i am very treat motivated. my mom will meet you ask <

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Gloria fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 23

13. Sammie

Adult (4 years) · Male · Dachshund / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

My story began in a place no dog should ever have to call home. I was one of more than 20 dogs rescued from a puppy mill in South Carolina, and when I arrived, I was in heartbreaking shape. The world is still a scary place for me. I’m learning that people can be kind, that gentle hands can bring comfort, and that life can be so much more than simply surviving. I may be shut down right now, but deep inside, there is a little dog who deserves to feel safe, loved, and cherished. Thanks to Pawfect Match, I finally have a chance to discover what it means to be a dog. My healing will take time, patience, and understanding, but dogs are remarkably resilient, and I’m proof that even the most wounded hearts can begin to heal.

Read more about Sammie

I just need someone willing to give me a chance, meet me where I am, and help me discover the beautiful life I’ve always deserved. My story began in a place no dog should ever have to call home. I was one of more than 20 dogs rescued from a puppy mill in South Carolina, and when I arrived, I was in heartbreaking shape. The world is still a scary place for me. I’m learning that people can be kind, that gentle hands can bring comfort, and that life can be so much more than simply surviving. I may be shut down right now, but deep inside, there is a little dog who deserves to feel safe, loved, and cherished. Thanks to Pawfect Match, I finally have a chance to discover what it means to be a dog. My healing will take time, patience, and understanding, but dogs are remarkably resilient, and I’m proof that even the most wounded hearts can begin to heal. I just need someone willing to give me a chance, meet me where I am, and help me discover the beautiful life I’ve always deserved.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Sammie fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 22

14. Blanche

Adult (2 years 2 months) · Female · Terrier / Yellow Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

I am a sweet girl. my foster mom who saved me off the kill list said i was smart and i listen very good/. i love my dog bed, i don't care about cats and i like dogs but i don't need one , i love kids . i just want someone to follow around .

___________________________________________________________________

Read more about Blanche

The adoption fee is $400, which covers vetting, microchip and the spay/neuter surgery performed by a rescue-affiliated vet. All dogs receive a wellness visit and are up to date on shots appropriate for age. Breed and size is Pawfect Match Rescue's best guess and not guaranteed. Please go to https://www.pawfectmatch.org/animals/search? and search on the dog name to see more photos, browse the profile, and complete an application!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Blanche fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 21

15. Poodlie

Adult (5 years) · Female · Poodle (Miniature) / Poodle (Standard) / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Poodlie.

She has lived through the horrors of a puppy mill, and now she is slowly, quietly discovering that the world can be a beautiful place after all.

Little by little, Poodlie is learning what it means to be a dog. She recently discovered one of life’s simple pleasures: sitting next to her human on the couch, watching TV. And she absolutely loves spending time outside, sitting beside her person, taking in the fresh air and quietly contemplating the world around her.

Poodlie isn’t asking for much. Just a safe place, a kind human, and the time she needs to figure out that life can be gentle.

Read more about Poodlie

She will need patience, understanding, and someone who celebrates the little victories. She may not be the dog who runs into your arms on day one, but watching her slowly come out of her shell will be a reward of its own.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Poodlie fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 20

16. SnoCone

Young (10 months) · Female · Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Durham

HERE'S THE SCOOP... MEET SNOCONE!

First up on the menu is Miss SnoCone, and she's one irresistible little treat!

At 10 months old and 29.2 pounds, SnoCone is a little bundle of love! This affectionate girl adores cuddles and will happily soak up all the attention you're willing to give. With a personality this lovable, she's bound to melt a few hearts!

SnoCone also appears to be dog-friendly, so she may be just as happy making four-legged friends as she is snuggling up with her favorite people!

She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations, and on heartworm prevention. Her adoption fee is $300.

Read more about SnoCone

Looking for a little extra sweetness in your life? SnoCone might just be your perfect flavor!

Adopt SnoCone fromMitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue IncRaleigh, NC · listed Oct 20

17. Pippen

Adult (1 year 2 months) · Male · Golden Retriever / Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Pippen! He is about 1 year old and fully trained for all basic commands. This is one awesome dog. If I was able to keep him, I would. He's too big for my house, and keeping him would prevent me from helping other dogs find their furever homes. So, I won't and truly can't keep him. He's a true family dog, and would do just great with an active family who has the time for him. He is full of puppy energy, but he can also chill and sleep calmly for hours on a couch or in his crate. He is the perfect age of 'still puppy but all the hard puppy work has already been taken care of.'

Read more about Pippen

He is fully house trained, and even when he needs to go potty, he holds it until he is let outside. Truth be told, he's shocked me at how he's been able to avoid having accidents in the house.

He is very loyal, obedient, and eager to please his people. He knows his commands and listens to them. Pippen reliably comes on recall, sleeps independently in his crate, and is a very quick learner. We have crate trained Pippen in the time we've had him. Pippen is a very smart boy. He walks well on a leash, and he potties quickly while walking outside. He is great with other dogs of all sizes and plays with them well. He plays with smaller dogs with care and while he's full speed ahead, he is also cautious when playing. He visibly slows himself down when around older dogs who are not quite full of the spunk and drive that he has as a puppy.

Pippen

does well with children

. He loves people and prefers to be close to his family. He does okay alone, however, it’s clear that he really likes to be around others. He rarely barks. If he is making noise, it's worth checking out because something's off. He is a sweet boy and he loves to play fetch with a stick. He also plays tug of war with other dogs or people. When out for a walk, he likes to try and greet other dogs but is redirected easily. This guy is so deserving of a family who will give him as much love as he has to give others. He is a happy ray of sunlight in our lives and I know he'd be that for another family, too. Check him out and adopt him today!

** The adoption fee is $400, which covers food, vetting, microchip and the spay/neuter surgery performed by a rescue-affiliated vet. All dogs receive a wellness visit and are up to date on shots appropriate for age. Breed and size is Pawfect Match Rescue's best guess and not guaranteed. Please go to https://www.pawfectmatch.org/animals/search? and search on the dog name to see more photos, browse the profile, and complete an application.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Pippen fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 19

18. Mama Graham

Young (2 years) · Female · Chocolate Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Mama graham and her 3 young pups were rescued from the loud scary shelter so they can relax and thrive in a foster home. We will update about her personality as we get to know her but the shelter reports she is very very sweet and thankful to be safe.

Her 3 puppies will be available for adoption around 11/08 so keep an eye on our website and social!

_______________________________________________________________________

Read more about Mama Graham

The adoption fee is $400, which covers food, vetting, microchip and the spay/neuter surgery performed by a rescue-affiliated vet. All dogs receive a wellness visit and are up to date on shots appropriate for age. Breed and size is Pawfect Match Rescue's best guess and not guaranteed. Please go to https://www.pawfectmatch.org/animals/search? and search on the dog name to see more photos, browse the profile, and complete an application

Adopt Mama Graham fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 19

19. Bowser

Adult (4 years) · Male · American Bulldog / Bulldog / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Bowser | 4 years old | Male | Good with Kids | Housetrained | Cratetrained |

Hi,

My name is Bowser! My previous owners were reportedly done using me for breeding, and I ended up at the shelter.

I have been an inside dog my whole life so, when I went to the shelter, I was very scared and not happy about being outside most of the day.

Pawfect match rescued me and told me I will be neutered and taken care of from now on.

If interested in meeting me, please fill out an adoption application!

__________________________________________________________________________

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Bowser fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 19

20. Toby

Adult (4 years 11 months) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Toby!

Toby is a lovely Labrador mix who came to Pawfect Match Rescue & Rehabilitation as a stray from Randolph County Animal Services.

He's a sweet, friendly boy with lovely manners who has been doing really well at adoption events. He's responsive, enjoys meeting people and walks nicely on his leash.

Toby is currently living in a foster home with a cat and has generally been well behaved. We're still getting to know him and assessing whether he'd be suited to a home with feline friends.

Toby is currently being fostered in Raleigh, NC, and we'll continue to update his profile as we learn more about his personality and what makes him happy.

Read more about Toby

For now, we know he's a lovely, well-mannered boy who deserves a wonderful home to call his own! ❤️

  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Toby fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 19

21. Addie

Adult (3 years) · Female · Terrier / Poodle (Miniature) / Mixed (medium coat) · 23 mi from Durham

Meet Addie!

She is
a fun, playful, and incredibly dedicated companion who is looking for a family to love her. Found as a stray with very little known about her background, it was obvious she needed immediate medical attention when she entered rescue.
She suffered from a large inguinal hernia with part of her intestines trapped. Luckily, Addie received the life-saving surgery she needed and is now completely healed, healthy, and ready for a long, happy life with her forever humans!

Medical Status

Fully Vetted:
Addie is
spayed, microchipped, and fully vaccinated
.

Read more about Addie

Health Update:
Her
inguinal hernia repair
has given her a brand-new lease on life, and she has no remaining restrictions from her recovery.

Her Ideal Home

Human Companionship:
Thrives when she isn't left alone for long hours. She would make the
absolute best work-from-home coworker ever.

Snuggle Requirements:
Daily
lap time is required
, and nighttime snuggles rank at the very top of her "must-haves" list.

Children:
Best suited for families where all children are
10 years of age or older.

Yard:
Preference will be given to homes with a
fenced-in yard (structured fencing only)
so she can safely enjoy fetch and outdoor exploration.

Other Pets:
Social and sweet, she
makes fast friends with both dogs and cats
and enjoys their company.

Activity & Training:
Loves to race around the yard and enjoy daily strolls. She is still learning not to pull on her leash, so she will need a family willing to help her practice her leash manners.

Addie's ultimate goal is to find humans who will truly include her in all that life has to offer. If your home sounds like the perfect match for this resilient girl, please apply today!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Addie fromChatham Animal Rescue & EducationPittsboro, NC · listed Oct 15

22. Blaze

Adult (4 years) · Male · Chihuahua / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Blaze, your tiny shadow with a BIG personality!

At just 11 lbs, Blaze is a little Chihuahua with a whole lot of love packed into his tiny body! Surrendered to the shelter, this sweet boy is ready to leave that chapter behind and find someone he can call his very own.

Blaze can be a little shy at first, but give him a bit of time and you'll discover the loyal, curious little companion hiding behind those adorable eyes. Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities, devotion to their favorite humans, and their belief that they're MUCH bigger than they actually are. Blaze might be tiny, but his heart is enormous!

Read more about Blaze

He's the perfect mix of playful adventures and cozy cuddles. One minute he's busy investigating the world around him, and the next he's ready to curl up beside his favorite person and soak up all the love.

Blaze is looking for someone who will give him the patience to blossom, the security to feel safe, and the affection he deserves.

Only 11 lbs of fluff, loyalty, and endless potential for love

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Blaze fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 15

23. Teddy Scruff

Adult (1 year 6 months) · Male · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Teddy, your pocket-sized happiness machine!

Teddy was surrendered to the shelter, but this 1.5-year-old boy is already showing the world that his smile is bigger than his past. Now that he’s out, he’s one happy little dude, ready to spread joy wherever he goes.

At just 26 lbs fully grown, Teddy is the perfect pocket-size scruffy man. He’s got the adorable looks, the irresistible smile, and the happy-go-lucky personality that will have you smitten in seconds.

Kids? Love them! Other dogs? Friends waiting to be made! Life? He’s here for ALL of it!

Read more about Teddy Scruff

Teddy is ready to trade shelter life for couch snuggles, family adventures, and a forever home where he can keep that happy tail wagging.

Who needs a little scruffy sunshine in their life? Teddy is ready to meet you!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Teddy Scruff fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 15

24. Ray

Adult (2 years) · Male · Terrier / Labrador Retriever / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Ray is thought to be approx 2 and is a new arrival here at Pawfect Match. A friendly boy, a little shy at the moment as expected. As we get to know him better we will let you know! he i svery shy but warms up quick.. he wants to be close to his person

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Ray fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 14

25. Honey

Adult (9 months) · Female · American Staffordshire Terrier / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Hi, everyone! I'm Honey, and I promise I'm as sweet as my name!

I'm 8 months old, full of energy, and always eager to make my people happy. I love giving and receiving affection, and if there's another dog around who wants to play, even better! Making friends and having a good play session are definitely among my favorite things.

Read more about Honey

My start in life wasn't exactly a walk in the park. After being released from what can only be described as animal hell, I had a lot to learn about this whole house-dog thing. But look at me now! I've discovered the joys of toys, treats, cozy snuggles, and having people who care about me. I'm settling into my new life beautifully, and I'm learning that being a dog can actually be pretty wonderful.

And guess what? I'm HOUSEBROKEN! I had just a few little accidents when I first arrived, which is understandable when you're learning an entirely new way of life. I've come a long way, and I'm pretty proud of myself!

Now I'm ready for my next big adventure: finding a forever family who will keep teaching me, playing with me, loving me, and showing me just how good life can be.

I'm sweet, playful, affectionate, and ready to give my whole heart to my people. Could your home be the one where this Honey finally gets her happily ever after?

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Honey fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 13

26. Joda

Young (4 months 28 days) · Female · Labrador Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 25 mi from Durham

I’m Joda, and my name means PARTY in Spanish! So naturally, I’m here to bring the party wherever I go!

I’m a 5-month-old, 24-pound bundle of pure joy, puppy antics, and nonstop entertainment. I’ve got long legs, a shiny black coat, and enough personality to fill a room. I’m basically a walking celebration with four paws!

Life is exciting, everything is worth investigating, and there’s always time for a little silliness. I’m at that perfect puppy age where I’m ready to learn, explore, make memories, and shower my people with all the love I have to give.

Read more about Joda

All I need now is a forever family ready for puppy adventures, plenty of laughs, and a whole lot of love. So, what do you say?

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Joda fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 13

27. Toby

Adult (4 years 11 months) · Male · Labrador Retriever / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Hi! I'm Toby,

Pawfect Match rescued me just before my time ran out at the shelter. I'm a sweet boy now living in a foster home and as they learn more about me my profile will be updated here!

** The adoption fee is $400, which covers food, vetting, microchip and the spay/neuter surgery performed by a rescue-affiliated vet. All dogs receive a wellness visit and are up to date on shots appropriate for age. Breed and size is Pawfect Match Rescue's best guess and not guaranteed. Please go to https://www.pawfectmatch.org/animals/search? and search on the dog name to see more photos, browse the profile, and complete an application.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Toby fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 12

28. Pebbles

Young (5 months 6 days) · Female · Beagle / Hound / Mixed (short coat) · 23 mi from Durham

Pebbles is a young, spirited beagle girl who doesn’t let anything slow her down — not even the fact that she’s missing her right rear foot. Her veterinarian has confirmed she’s healthy and thriving; she simply needs her leg wrapped or covered with a bootie during play and outdoor time to keep it protected. Pebbles doesn’t mind one bit. She’s far too busy exploring, learning, and having fun.

This sharp little lady loves to play and has a confident, sometimes bossy streak. Because she’s a beagle with a nose that can lead her into mischief, Pebbles requires a securely fenced yard attached to the home to keep her safe during outdoor time.

Read more about Pebbles

Due to her personality, Pebbles also needs a home with one docile, friendly male dog who won’t challenge her.

Pebbles is up to date on all vaccines and preventatives, has been microchipped, and will be spayed when age‑appropriate.

Pebbles is full of potential and joy — she just needs the right home to help her shine. If you’re looking for a clever, lively companion with a whole lot of heart, Pebbles may be your perfect match.

  • Special needs
Adopt Pebbles fromChatham Animal Rescue & EducationPittsboro, NC · listed Oct 10

29. Carly

Adult (3 years 7 months) · Female · Husky / Terrier / Mixed (short coat) · 25 mi from Durham

Meet Carly!

Carly is a sweet, medium-sized white Husky mix who came to Pawfect Match with her six adorable puppies. She has done an amazing job raising her babies, and now that they’re getting ready to find forever homes, it’s Carly’s turn to find a family of her own.

She’s a wonderful mama, but there’s so much more to Carly than being a mom. She’s ready for a life filled with love, attention, adventures, and all the things she may have missed while caring for her puppies.

Read more about Carly

Carly would love a forever family who will give her the time, patience, and affection she deserves. After giving her puppies such a great start in life, this sweet girl is more than ready for her own happily ever after!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Carly fromPawfect Match RescueHolly Springs, NC · listed Oct 6

30. Boo

Adult (4 years) · Female · American Bulldog / Mixed (short coat) · 21 mi from Durham

No tricks here — Boo is all treats. This 4-year-old, 26-pound Micro-Bully mix is ready to haunt your house in the best possible way. She’s playful, dog friendly, and always down for a little mischief, whether that means zoomies, playtime, or convincing you she deserves one more treat. She would do best with a dog her size or bigger, but does perfectly fine entertaining herself.

Boo is spayed, up to date on vaccines, and on heart worm prevention, so the only thing missing from her spooky season is a forever family.

Her adoption fee is $300.

Read more about Boo

If your house could use one more little ghost running around this Halloween, Boo might be the perfect addition!

  • Good with dogs

Why adopt an adult dog in Durham

An adult dog's personality is fully formed, so the rescue can tell you how they are with people, other pets and busy households. Many have lived in foster homes and are already house-trained.

Grown dogs need less supervision than puppies and often know the basics, like sitting and walking on a leash, which suits people who work or have young children.

Rescues with adult dogs near Durham

Questions about adopting adult dogs in Durham

How many adult dogs are up for adoption in Durham?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Durham, North Carolina, have 125 adult dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt an adult dog in Durham?

The rescues with the most adult dogs near Durham right now are Pawfect Match Rescue (Holly Springs, NC), Chatham Animal Rescue & Education (Pittsboro, NC) and Mitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue Inc (Raleigh, NC). Each dog above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Should I adopt an adult dog or a puppy?

It depends on your home. An adult dog's personality is already known and they need less supervision; puppies need more time and training but grow up with your family. The rescues can help you find the right match.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a dog may have been adopted since this page was updated.