Madison, WI

Adult Dogs for Adoption in Madison, WI: 30 Grown-Up Dogs Looking for a Home

Adult Dogs up for adoption near Madison, WI

Rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Madison have 172 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. Milly

Young (2 years) · Female · Cocker Spaniel / Poodle (unknown type) / Mixed (short coat) · 81 mi from Madison

I weigh 18 lbs, and I am seeking my forever home!

Adoption Donation $550

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

Read more about Milly

Appointments are recommended. All applications are considered general. Specific animals are NOT put on hold for adoption. When you visit, our adoption counselors will be able to make suggestions based on the type of pet you are looking for and help you find the best fit for your family.

Animal House Shelter cannot guarantee the breeds of the adoptable animals. The animals are posted on the website as the breed or breed mix based on their physical characteristics they most resemble. We also cannot guarantee the ages of our adoptable animals or how large puppies will be when fully grown.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Link to the Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Animal House Shelter
13005 Ernesti Road
Huntley IL, 60142

847-961-5541 phone
847-961-5537 fax

Open:

Sunday-Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM
Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM

Connect With Us:

Like Us On Facebook !
Watch Us On YouTube !
Follow Us On Twitter !

Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Adopt a Pet: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/

Directions to Shelter: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/visit/

Adoptable Dogs: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/dogs/

Adoptable Cats: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/cats

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Milly fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Nov 4

2. Nacho

Young (5 years) · Male · Pomeranian (short coat) · 81 mi from Madison

I am bonded with my best friend Bella; we have to be adopted together

I am seeking my forever home!

Adoption Donation $500

All dogs are microchipped, neutered, current on all vaccines, heartworm tested (if age appropriate), and up-to-date on preventatives at the time of adoption.

All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present to be able to adopt. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption.

Read more about Nacho

Appointments are recommended. All applications are considered general. Specific animals are NOT put on hold for adoption. When you visit, our adoption counselors will be able to make suggestions based on the type of pet you are looking for and help you find the best fit for your family.

Animal House Shelter cannot guarantee the breeds of the adoptable animals. The animals are posted on the website as the breed or breed mix based on their physical characteristics they most resemble. We also cannot guarantee the ages of our adoptable animals or how large puppies will be when fully grown.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Link to the Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Animal House Shelter
13005 Ernesti Road
Huntley IL, 60142

847-961-5541 phone
847-961-5537 fax

Open:

Sunday-Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM
Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM

Connect With Us:

Like Us On Facebook !
Watch Us On YouTube !
Follow Us On Twitter !

Adoption Application: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/adoption-application/

Adopt a Pet: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/adopt/

Directions to Shelter: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/visit/

Adoptable Dogs: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/dogs/

Adoptable Cats: https://www.animalhouseshelter.com/cats

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Nacho fromAnimal House Shelter, Inc.Huntley, IL · listed Nov 4

3. Lily

Adult · Female · Labrador Retriever / Great Pyrenees / Mixed · 93 mi from Madison

_________________________________________________________________________Adoption Donation for Lily is $ 525.00WANT TO MEET LilyThe first step would be for you to go to our website at www.aear.org and then to the “Adopting a Pet” page to read about our Adoption Process which will answer many of your questions and then to fill out an Adoption Application.Also, please visit our very active Facebook Page for updates on Lily and our other adoptable pets with AEAR - www.facebook.com/aear.org

Adopt Lily fromAnimal Education and RescueLibertyville, IL · listed Nov 4

4. Loco

Adult · Male · Dachshund / Mixed · 92 mi from Madison

This is Loco! He really doesn't even need a bio because his name says it all. He is full of energy and has so much love to give. He loves to be up on your lap and in your space. Loco doesn't mind the dogs here at the shelter but seems a little too interested in the cats. He would be an excellent family dog. We believe he is a long-haired dachshund! Loco is a clingy guy, so he would love a family that could give him a lot of attention! If you are interested in adopting Loco, please fill out an application at www.hspcwi.org/adopt. Loco is up to date on his vaccines, neutered, heartworm negative, and microchipped. His adoption fee is $300+ tax. If you are a resident of Portage County a dog license will be issued at the time of adoption!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats

5. Tortilla

Adult · Female · Boxer / Mixed · 92 mi from Madison

This interesting looking girl is Tortilla. Lovingly named after her tortilla chip shaped ears. She could be in the running for the world record of "Smallest Ears on a Dog". We really don't know what breed she is, but she has the body of a boxer and the face of a greyhound. She is long, leggy, smooth, sleek, and looks great in a sweater. On top of her good looks, she has quite the personality. She loves to run, play and receive attention. Tortilla would be a great dog to take out on the trail to do some hiking or playing fetch in the back yard. When she is all done with that, she would like to fall asleep on the couch with a bunch of blankets.

Read more about Tortilla

Tortilla is 37lbs and ready to go home! She is a little nervous, so we don't recommend small children for her. She would do better with older children that are respectful of boundaries. She seems to do well with male dogs and does not seem to mind cats. Tortilla's adoption fee is $200 + tax. She is fully vaccinated, spayed, microchipped, and heartworm negative. If you are interested in adopting this house noodle, you can fill out an application on our website!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
Adopt Tortilla fromHumane Society of Portage CountyPlover, WI · listed Nov 3

6. Aiden

Adult · Male · White German Shepherd / Mixed (long coat) · 98 mi from Madison

BIO
Hello! My name is Aiden. I am currently being treated for heartworm. My heartworm treatment will be completed, and I can go home with my family the middle of December 2026. I am housetrained. I am not crate trained. I have been fine when left unsupervised. When meeting strangers I go right up to them without barking and enjoy getting pet. I have been friendly to everyone I meet.I have met other dogs; however, I prefer female dogs about the same size as me. I really love to play with the female dog here at my foster home. I have not met any cats, so I do not know how I feel about them. I don’t really care about toys. I like going for car rides. I walk well on a leash with no reactivity. I know a few commands, but maybe you could teach me more. I love being brushed. Look how handsome I am.I would like to find a home with someone active. Someone who likes hiking and going on adventures. We could go to some obedience classes where I could learn lots of things. I can be an only dog. It would be nice to find a friend and have some play dates to help keep up my social skills since I do enjoy running around and playing. Do you know anyone with a female dog who would like to play with me?
Follow me on Facebook: #EchoDogAiden
For more information, please contact adoptions@echodogs.org.

Read more about Aiden

Echo Dogs fosters dogs in many states. Visit www.echodogs.org/available-dogs to see more of our dogs. Transportation for the adopted dog IS available. Remember, we are an all-volunteer foster rescue organization - we DO NOT have a physical shelter to visit. Our minimum adoption donation is $350. All dogs are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations and micro-chipped. Puppies under 6 months old may not be spayed/neutered. This would be the responsibility of the adopter at their own expense. Proof of spay/neuter will be required!
To review our adoption procedure and submit an online application, visit: www.echodogs.org/procedure

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • No cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Aiden fromEcho Dogs White Shepherd RescueHoffman Estates, IL · listed Nov 3

7. Laverne

Adult · Female · Terrier / Mixed (medium coat) · 97 mi from Madison

Name: LAVERNE

Age: 4years

Breed: Terrier mix

Gender: Female

Weight: 7lbs

Good with kids: Yes Respectful Ones

Good with dogs: Yes

Good with cats: Not fostered with

Current on vaccinations: Yes

Fixed: Yes

Adoption also includes Certified Vet Inspection, and Prior vetting paperwork.

Foster location: Appleton

Application & Website: https://www.ourpackanimalrescue.com/adoption.html

Bio:

Meet Laverne

This sweet girl came to us from MADACC in Milwaukee. We don't know much about her past but her future is going to be great!!

Read more about Laverne

Her first day in foster she was already comfortable with the other dogs. She is all about walks and being outside if the weather is nice. Where does see sleep? Well, we tried the kennel but she wasn't a fan. Instead Laverne used the doggie steps and found her way to foster mom's bed. She is so sweet and snuggly we don't mind at all.

We never have to ask where is Laverne because she is always right by your side or near your feet. She's doing great with potty training and she's a good little eater.

Let's talk about her cutest feature those ears. Man she tells stories with them. One time there both up. Sometimes one is high and one is low. So adorable!!!

Apply for Laverne today. You will be glad you did!!! She's the total package!!

Our Pack Animal Rescue, Inc. Is an all foster based 501c3 rescue. License #487823.

Meet and greets are arranged after an application has been approved. An approved application does not mean you must adopt the dog of interest, if it isn't a good fit.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Laverne fromOur Pack Animal Rescue, Inc.New London, WI · listed Nov 3

19. Charlie

Adult · Male · Yorkshire Terrier Yorkie / Mixed (long coat) · 77 mi from Madison

Updated: 11/1/26
Dog Name: Charlie
Sex: Male
Estimated Breed: Yorkie Mix
Approximate Age: 3 years
Approximate Weight: 9lbs
Spay/Neuter Status: Not yet
Adoption Fee: $650
Description:
This handsome little guy is ready to find a family who will give him all the love and attention he deserves! Charlie is a 3-year-old Yorkie Terrier mix who is as sweet as they come. He’s up to date on all his vaccines and is potty trained. He gets along with kids, dogs, and cats, making him a wonderful addition to a variety of families!
Charlie is a pretty laid-back guy. He loves car rides and is happy just hanging out with his people.

Read more about Charlie

When meeting new dogs, he appreciates a slow introduction to warm up, but once he’s comfortable, he does just fine! His previous family had young children, another dog, and a cat, but unfortunately, life got too busy for them to give Charlie the time and attention he deserves. Now, this sweet boy is looking for a fresh start with a family who can make him a priority.
If you're looking for a loving, low-key little companion to add to your family, Charlie might just be your guy!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Charlie fromTail Waggers 911Grafton, WI · listed Nov 2

20. Pugsly

Young · Male · Pug (medium coat) · 53 mi from Madison

Please go to our website,
http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application.
MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!!
Once your application is approved, the WI manager will call you to discuss adoption, answer questions and set up a private meet and greet if you are interested.
This process can take up to 7 days.
WE DO WEEKLY APPOINTMENTS FOR ADOPTIONS AFTER APPLICATION APPROVAL!
OUR LOCATION: S47 W30760 HWY 59, NORTH PRAIRIE, WI (corner of 59 and 83)
CALL 262-968-3858 FOR INFORMATION
EVERY DOG IS UP TO DATE ON VACCINES FOR THEIR AGE. RABIES VACCINE IF OLD ENOUGH.
SPAYED OR NEUTERED (regardless of age)
HEARTWORM and FLEA/TICK PREVENTATIVE
MICROCHIPPED
CERTIFIED VETERINARIAN INSPECTION CERTIFICATE
WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ADOPTIONS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

Read more about Pugsly

Name: Pugsly
Age: 1yr old
Breed: Pug
Gender: male
Weight: 21 lbs

Meet Mr Personality! Pugsly came to us from Oklahoma where he was picked up lost. No one ever stepped forward to claim him, which is surprising as he is the friendliest dog you will meet.

House trained: Doing good
Crate trained: Yes
Social Skills: Great with all ages
Dog Friendly: Yes
Cat Friendly: Unknown

Personality
Pugsly is ready to manage your social calendar. There isn't a person or dog he wants to be best friends with. His happy go lucky demeanor puts a smile on everyone's face. He adores kids, is a rock star in doggy play groups and wins the gold star for cuteness. According to Pugsly, every day is a ray of sunshine. He enjoys going for walks, chasing grasshoppers and exploring new scents. He will make a great addition to any style family. Did we mention he likes car rides as well?

Ideal Home:
Pugsly is a great size for those looking for a smaller breed dog. He does love to romp and play but does not require a lot of exercise. This boy is ready to be your partner in crime and cuddle bug all in the same day.

We are located at S47 W30760 State Road 59, North Prairie, WI

As always, we never guarantee the breed OR the size they'll be as an adult.
MY ADOPTION FEE is $500.00
We thank you for ADOPTING A HOOVERS HAUSE RESCUE DOG..... every dog adopted allows us to open our homes to save another!
WI DATCP license number 468162

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Pugsly fromHoovers Hause All Dog RescueGenesee, WI · listed Nov 2

21. Woody

Young · Male · Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever / Mixed (medium coat) · 53 mi from Madison

Please go to our website,
http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application.
MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!!
Once your application is approved, the WI manager will call you to discuss adoption, answer questions and set up a private meet and greet if you are interested.
This process can take up to 7 days.
WE DO WEEKLY APPOINTMENTS FOR ADOPTIONS AFTER APPLICATION APPROVAL!
OUR LOCATION: S47 W30760 HWY 59, NORTH PRAIRIE, WI (corner of 59 and 83)
CALL 262-968-3858 FOR INFORMATION
EVERY DOG IS UP TO DATE ON VACCINES FOR THEIR AGE. RABIES VACCINE IF OLD ENOUGH.
SPAYED OR NEUTERED (regardless of age)
HEARTWORM and FLEA/TICK PREVENTATIVE
MICROCHIPPED
CERTIFIED VETERINARIAN INSPECTION CERTIFICATE
WE ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ADOPTIONS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

Read more about Woody

Name: Woody
Age: 2yr old
Breed: Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever mix
Gender: male
Weight: 48 lbs

This handsome boy came to us from Oklahoma where he was in a foster home and doing great.

Training and Manners
House trained: Housebroken
Crate trained: Yes
Social Skills: Great with all ages
Dog Friendly: Yes, but prefers calmer dogs that won't jump at him.
Cat Friendly: Unknown, but no interest in the foster family chickens

Personality
Woody is an outstanding boy that is ready to show love and affection to a new forever family. He is a complete gentleman on walks, is up for belly rubs and content to chew on his bone on his dog bed. Woody is good with kids and enjoys dog play groups with the "less hyper" type dogs. Woody is definitely a people pleaser boy and enjoys the company of his humans. He will make a great camping, hiking partner. He is up for some adventures and on warm days, he is up for a visit at the lake.

Ideal Home:
Woody is a happy boy looking for a happy, loving home. He knows his house manners and is eager to please, so any additional training will be a breeze. Woody is not high energy so he will be perfect for a chill family.

We are located at S47 W30760 State Road 59, North Prairie, WI

As always, we never guarantee the breed OR the size they'll be as an adult.
MY ADOPTION FEE is $500.00
We thank you for ADOPTING A HOOVERS HAUSE RESCUE DOG..... every dog adopted allows us to open our homes to save another!
WI DATCP license number 468162

  • Good with kids
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Woody fromHoovers Hause All Dog RescueGenesee, WI · listed Nov 1

Why adopt an adult dog in Madison

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 Madison

Questions about adopting adult dogs in Madison

How many adult dogs are up for adoption in Madison?

As of November 4, 2026, rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Madison, Wisconsin, have 172 adult dogs up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt an adult dog in Madison?

The rescues with the most adult dogs near Madison right now are Tail Waggers 911 (Grafton, WI), Animal House Shelter, Inc. (Huntley, IL) and Humane Society of Portage County (Plover, WI). 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.