Where to Adopt a Dog in Minneapolis: 5 Great Local Rescues (and How to Choose)

Minneapolis is a dream for dogs – walkable neighborhoods, trails along the river, and a summer patio scene that turns pups into social butterflies. If you’re ready to add a four-legged friend to life in Nokomis, North Loop, or Bryn Mawr, start with these five trusted rescues.

1) Animal Humane Society (AHS)

AHS consistently has a wide range of dogs – from couch-loving adults to energetic adolescents who’ll thrive on lake loops and park hangs. Their team helps match energy level, training history, and apartment fit. Begin here: Animal Humane Society.

2) The Bond Between (formerly Secondhand Hounds)

Foster-based and volunteer-powered, The Bond Between focuses on thoughtful placements and strong support, so you’re not flying solo on day one. See adoptable dogs: The Bond Between.

3) Midwest Animal Rescue & Services (MARS)

MARS often lists a broad mix – from playful companions for Midtown Greenway runs to mellow adults perfect for WFH days. Check their current roster: Midwest Animal Rescue & Services (MARS).

4) Underdog Rescue MN

A foster-based group with a soft spot for the overlooked, Underdog Rescue MN is great if you’re ready to commit to training and patience. Their adopters’ community is strong – handy during that first week of “Is this normal?” Find them here: Underdog Rescue MN.

5) Saving Shepherds of MN

Love big-brained working breeds? This volunteer-run group focuses on German Shepherds and mixes. If your weekends involve long walks around Theodore Wirth and puzzle-toy sessions, you’ll be a great fit. Learn more: Saving Shepherds of MN.

Minneapolis-Specific Adoption Tips

Winter readiness. Icy sidewalks and road salt happen in Minneapolis. Keep a towel by the door and consider booties for sensitive paws. Indoor enrichment – sniffy mats, frozen Kongs – keeps spirits up when the windchill hits.

Apartment-friendly setups. Crate-training helps with building noise and package deliveries. A white-noise machine can muffle hallway sounds in older Minneapolis buildings.

Parks & routine. Off-leash areas along the river and neighborhood loops around lakes are perfect for daily exercise. Commit to consistent morning and evening walks; it’s the secret to calm evenings in the skyway season.

Training matters. Ask rescues about behavior notes, previous training, and decompression plans. Many foster-based groups (The Bond Between, MARS, Underdog) share detailed home-life notes so you know what to expect on Nicollet Mall or during patio season.

Community helps. Minneapolis has a friendly network of adopters. Lean on rescue alumni groups for advice on everything from best winter coats to rainy-day indoor games.

How to Choose the Right Dog

• Match your mileage. Runners near the Greenway? Look for medium-to-high energy companions. Prefer coffee-shop strolls in Northeast? A mellow adult could be perfect.
• Temperament over looks. Talk about reactivity, handling, and alone time tolerance – important in multi-unit buildings.
• Adopt, then decompress. Give your dog two weeks to settle. Keep introductions slow, stick to predictable routines, and layer in short training sessions.
• Budget smart. Plan for food, training classes, winter gear, and a vet fund. Ask rescues about any known medical considerations.

When you’re ready, meet dogs at AHS, The Bond Between, MARS, Underdog Rescue MN, or Saving Shepherds of MN. Minneapolis is full of trails, patios, and friendly neighbors – your future new best friend is waiting.