Charlotte Dog & Puppy Adoption

When you choose to adopt a dog in Charlotte, you save a life. But you also greatly improve your own by adding a fun and loveable companion to your family. Stop by the shelter to discuss what you’re looking for in a furry friend. Our Charlotte dog adoption team will pair you up with the right canine. You can find our hours of operation here. You can shop for all the essentials you need for your new addition to the family in our Retail Center- from collars and leashes to preventative medications.

Thank you to our 2026 Shelter Sponsors:

Jump Ahead

• Available Dogs in Charlotte
• Our Charlotte Dog Adoption Process
• Charlotte Dog Adoption Fees
• What To Expect After Adopting a Dog
• How to Train Your New Dog
• Charlotte Dog Adoption FAQs

Available Puppies and Dogs for Adoption in Charlotte

From doe-eyed couch potatoes to floppy-eared hiking buds, the Humane Society of Charlotte has all sorts of dogs waiting for their new homes. You can view our available puppies and dogs below. Our website updates throughout the day with the latest information on our adoptable animals. All adoptions are handled on a first come, first served basis. For more about our adoption process, click here.

________________________________________________________________________

Humane Society of Charlotte Dog Adoption Process

At the Humane Society of Charlotte, our goal is to match you up with the perfect canine companion. To help prospective pet parents find the right fit, we have developed a multi-step animal adoption process, helping fur babies and pet parents fall in love.

Step 1: Look for “the one”

Whether you’re looking for a scruffy movie date or a wet-nosed walking partner, we suggest you first peruse our listing of available dogs. Think about what expectations you have for your pup (e.g. energetic, potty-trained, good with kids). Then, read each pooch’s personality description.

Step 2: Come for a visit

If you find a pup you’re interested in meeting, come by the Animal Resource Center- hours of operation here. Our Adoption Counselors will chat with you about your lifestyle, prior experience with pets, breed concerns, and more.

To adopt a puppy or dog, you must be 18 or older and have a valid form of identification. You will also need a valid form of payment.

Step 3: Fall in love

After chatting, the Adoption Counselor will take you to the adoption play yard to meet the dog(s) you’re interested in. If you fall in love and are ready to adopt, you’ll just need to fill out some paperwork and pay an adoption fee.

Step 4: Live happily ever after

Congratulations on adding a four-legged companion to your family! Our Customer Service team will follow up via email in the coming days to make sure your pup is adjusting to his or her new home.

We’re Here For You! The Humane Society of Charlotte believes in creating long-term healthy families where both pets and people thrive. Whatever your needs are post-adoption, we can help. We offer vaccinations, spay and neuter services, behavior training, and community programs.

Charlotte Dog Adoption Fees

Adoption fees at the Humane Society of Charlotte are based on factors like breed, size, age, and temperament. Our variable fee structure ensures that we provide vital, life-saving care to animals who need it most.

You will find each animal’s adoption fee listed in their profile.

Learn More

What To Expect After Adopting a Dog or Puppy

Adopting a dog or puppy in Charlotte is a new beginning – both for the pup and for you. However, sometimes new beginnings can be a little scary.

When you first bring your dog home, give him or her time to acclimate to the new space. It’s common for pups to feel overwhelmed at first. They may exhibit odd behavior like yawning, panting, or even cowering. Though you may be eager to cuddle your pup or take them on a run, just remain patient and let the dog adjust on their own time.

To help your canine friend settle in, set up a “doggie den” – a safe, cozy crate or small room where they can quietly decompress. Provide them with a bed, appropriate toys, and a water bowl. Also be sure to avoid excessive excitement (e.g. dog parks, outdoor dining, walks downtown) for the first few weeks.

Read More Post-Adoption Tips

How To Train Your New Dog

Though you want to be gentle and patient with your new pup, you also want to start training immediately.

If they aren’t already housebroken, establish a routine and reinforce when they potty outside. You can also begin teaching basic commands like sit and stay and establish boundaries for what they can and cannot do in the house.

At the Humane Society of Charlotte, we want to do everything we can to ensure your puppy or dog remains part of your family for years to come. That’s why our experienced behavioral team offers low-cost training support.

Learn About Our Dog Training Services

Charlotte Dog Adoption FAQs

I have fallen in love with an adoptable puppy. Can I place a hold on him/her?

No. All animals are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can anyone adopt a dog from the Humane Society of Charlotte?

To adopt an puppy or dog, you must be at least 18 years of age.

What should I bring to my adoption appointment?

Please bring a valid form of identification and payment.

Do I have to schedule an adoption appointment?

No, we are open for adoptions Sunday – Thursday – 11AM – 5PM and Friday and Saturday – 11AM – 6PM.

I didn’t find a dog to adopt. Now what?

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find your paw-fect match right away. Instead, continue to check our website daily. As a community resource committed to the pets and people in Charlotte, we also encourage you to visit adopt-a-pet.com to learn more about pets looking to be rehomed in our community.

I adopted a puppy but am having trouble training it. What should I do?

At the Humane Society of Charlotte, we offer training sessions with dog behavior experts.

I adopted a dog in Charlotte but I’m worried the dog isn’t the best fit for my family. What do I do?

You are not alone. Adding a pet to your family is a big adjustment. Contact our behavior team for support by emailing training@humanecharlotte.org or calling the shelter at 704.377.0534.