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The Best Maryland Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Maryland. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.

Canine Humane Network
#16 in United States, #1 in Maryland, #1 in Baltimore
Baltimore
Established in 2016, Canine Humane Network is a non-profit dog rescue, shelter, adoption and training organization here in Highland, Howard County, Maryland. We are substantially operated by volunteer staff and many big-hearted volunteer foster families. Here at Canine Humane Network, we are dedicated to saving the lives of homeless dogs and providing a safe haven, humane care, and adoption programs for rescued dogs. We are deeply invested in the lifelong happiness of the dogs and owners we serve. We strive to build a humane environment for animals and people by providing excellent resources and training including humane education and therapy dog programs.
"CHN has led the way in compassion, care, and empathy when it comes to providing dogs with loving families. We..."
— jesse d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Caring volunteers- they give excellent care to their rescues"
— courtney m.
Adoptee

Key to lions heart rescue
#43 in United States, #2 in Maryland, #2 in Baltimore
#2 in puppy
#4 in pit Bull
Pit Bull, Puppy
Baltimore
Key to Lion's Heart Rescue was founded in January 2018 in honor of Lion, a dog who made a tremendous impact on so many lives. Lion was dumped at a very high kill shelter where his time was up. Without knowing his past, he was pulled by a rescue and placed into a home. Lion was then moved nine times over the course of one year in an effort to find the right home. Unfortunately, the second to last move was that one that forever changed his soul. Just like people, dogs have a breaking point, and Lion had reached his. He had been through more in one year than any dog should ever have to go through in a lifetime. His last move was to a home where he was loved and cared for by a handful of people, his advocates for many months. Unfortunately, it was too late. The pain and suffering he had endured in some of his previous places was more than Lion could overcome. The light in his eyes was gone and he was suffering. In the arms of the people who loved him dearly, we whispered our goodbyes and told him how much we loved him. Humans had failed him. As we kissed him goodbye, we promised Lion that we would do our best to ensure no dog would ever have to endure what he had in his last year. At that moment, we dedicated ourselves to unlocking hope for all dogs by giving a little piece of our hearts to every single one that we can save.
"Key to Lion’s Heart is an amazing rescue. They are truly dedicated to finding good homes for so many dogs,..."
— liz m.
Volunteer / foster
"They give every animal they take in every chance at the best life. And they have long timers that they..."
— darlene h.
Volunteer / foster

Reed's Rescue
#43 in United States, #2 in Maryland, #2 in Baltimore
#3 in senior dog
Senior dog
Baltimore
Reeds Rescue is a non-profit volunteer dog rescue organization serving Baltimore County and surrounding areas. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs of senior age or deemed to be terminally ill from area shelters, dogs given up by their owners because of difficult circumstances, and those in danger of decompensating in the shelter environment. Reeds Rescue will provide nurturing foster homes while they await placement in their permanent homes. Reeds Rescue, the board, and the volunteers will strive to work with area shelters, the community, and other rescues to develop a network of supporters to create a better world for the elderly and terminal pets in need.
"I have adopted and fostered dogs and hospice dogs for Reeds Rescue. The group has been very supportive . They..."
— donna h.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"They do great things for great dogs!"
— mike y.
Supporter

Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue
#44 in United States, #3 in Maryland, #1 in Frederick
#4 in senior dog
Senior dog
Frederick
A senior dog rescue working to raise awareness of the dangers of puppy mills and backyard breeding
"We absolutely love seeing all the senior pups that get fostered. It takes angels on earth to save these babies...."
— laura p.
Fan
"I've had the pleasure of supporting this deserving rescue organization since its inception. Simply put, they don't bat an eye..."
— susan z.
Supporter, Fan

Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc.
#82 in United States, #4 in Maryland, #3 in Baltimore
#6 in senior dog
Senior dog
Baltimore
SDS provides a safe haven for senior dogs who cannot be cared for by their owners, are abandoned or abused, or face euthanasia. Our sanctuary has provided a safe, loving home for over 900 dogs since 2016. Our staff and volunteers supply residents with expert-level care and rehabilitation until they are adopted. We also provide long-term homes to seniors who aren't currently adoptable.
"I had the privilege to work here for a short time. The workers and volunteers are great people. The love..."
— jacob o.
Staff member
"Senior Dog Sanctuary is a wonderful place to work. The dogs are treated with love and respect that they deserve..."
— joanne a.
Staff member

SPCA of Anne Arundel County
#87 in United States, #5 in Maryland, #4 in Baltimore
Baltimore
The SPCA of Anne Arundel County is the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in the county.
"I have volunteered at and adopted from the Anne Arundel County SPCA in Annapolis, Maryland. I've been a volunteer..."
— karen b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"My son and I have been volunteering for over 1.5 years. We love it! One of the few places..."
— lee f.
Volunteer / foster

Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS)
#90 in United States, #6 in Maryland, #5 in Baltimore
Baltimore
BARCS is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization operating Maryland's largest animal shelter and pet adoption center. We are an open admission shelter, granting refuge to every abandoned, neglected, abused, lost or surrendered animal that comes through our door. A staggering 30 or more animals are surrendered to BARCS every day. No matter what the circumstance, we do not turn away any animal in need of shelter, food, medical care and a loving touch. Yearly, this equates to 11,000-12,000 dogs, cats, kittens, puppies, and even wildlife and exotic animals that need care and placement. Each year, BARCS is growing, evolving and working to implement new innovative programs that benefit animals in need and the neighborhoods that support them.
"I’ve heard such wonderful things about BARCS!!"
— susan c.
Fan
"I can't say enough about BARCS! My experience has been Fantastic! Family friendly, welcoming and happy to answer any questions..."
— carole s.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan

Keller's Cause
#97 in United States, #7 in Maryland, #6 in Baltimore
Baltimore
We are a small, foster based rescue operating in Maryland and Michigan. We specialize in deaf and blind dogs, specifically double merles.
"Keller’s Cause is an amazing rescue that specializes in blind and/or deaf dogs. Not only do they willingly and selflessly..."
— kelli p.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Keller's Cause is an amazing organization that takes in deaf and/or blind dogs and helps them find their forever homes...."
— laura m.
Adoptee

MID-ATLANTIC GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE
#98 in United States, #8 in Maryland, #7 in Baltimore
#7 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd
Baltimore
We are a non-profit rescue dedicated to German Shepherds and German Shepherd mixes. If you are looking to add a new family member to your loving home in the Mid-Atlantic area
"I have personally visited MAGSR's facility and they truly are a wonderful group of people. Volunteers of some of their..."
— tricia a.
Supporter
"This rescue has wonderful, caring volunteers. We adopted from them in 2014 and had seven wonderful years with our pup..."
— erica b.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan

Knine Rescue Inc.
#98 in United States, #8 in Maryland, #7 in Baltimore
Baltimore
Knine Rescue is a small non-profit 501(c)3 organization, dedicated to animal care and protection. Founded in 2005, we assist shelters and other rescues (both in our local community and beyond) by finding loving forever homes for neglected, abandoned and homeless animals. Our goal is to promote responsible animal ownership by educating the wider public on the importance of spay/neuter, positive training and pet health care. Last year, we helped save more than 600 dogs from euthanasia.
"They never say no to a dog in need and have changed so many lives; humans and animals! They once..."
— gabrielle b.
Volunteer / foster, Staff member, Supporter
"Wonderful rescue with great network of volunteers. They truly care about their dogs"
— valerie c.
Volunteer / foster

LAB. RESCUE. OF LRCP
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #2 in Frederick
Frederick
We are a non-profit volunteer organization that rescues, fosters, and finds forever homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned Labrador Retrievers in the states of Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. We provide our Labs with veterinary care, spay or neuter services, and placement with foster families where they are loved while they await adoption.
"At almost 5 years in existence, Southwest Oasis Lab Rescue (SOLR) has recued over 1100 labradors and lab mixes (and..."
— carol l.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter

Petey and Furends
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #2 in Frederick
Frederick
Petey and Furends is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill animal rescue organization that is dedicated to reducing instances of neglect, abuse, and homelessness in companion animals. To do this, we use research- and evidence-based practices to facilitate a matchmaking experience that will increase the rate of successful adoptions.
"We’ve worked with several rescues and Petey and Furends is such a gem. Their approach to finding the best match..."
— ally b.
Volunteer / foster

Forever Changed Animal Rescue
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #2 in Frederick
Frederick
FCAR is a small, locally-run 501(c)(3) non-profit charity dedicated to saving dogs from high-kill shelters and other dangerous or unhealthy situations. We operate through a network of volunteers and foster homes in the DC Metro area. Our efforts are funded by tax-deductible contributions from compassionate people and organizations who want to make a difference in our community. We can't save every dog, but every dog we save is forever changed.
"I can't say enough good things about this rescue organization and my experience with them has been nothing short of..."
— holly r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster

Maryland SPCA
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #2 in Frederick
Frederick
Our animal shelter works to improve the lives of pets and people in the communities of Baltimore City and the surrounding areas.
"Utilizes only positive reinforcement training methods, provides behavioral help to the animals in their care"
— kathy f.
Fan

Baltimore Humane Society
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #2 in Frederick
Frederick
The Baltimore Humane Society was founded to protect our region's pets and to address and prevent their suffering. Since our first day we've developed a set of tenets that represent our commitments to the pets we care for. All of our efforts are centered around one word ‚'humane'.
"I volunteer walking dogs at Bhs They are always making decisions based solely on the animals. ..."
— rebecca f.
Volunteer / foster

Almost Home Dog Rescue
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #8 in Baltimore
Baltimore
Almost Home Dog Rescue is a non-profit, foster-based, all volunteer rescue organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilating dogs at risk and in danger of an untimely death. We all share the passion of helping these homeless dogs who don't have a voice, who won't have a chance, without organizations such as this one, helping them to a new beginning. It is our mission to seek out dogs where there is need, to bring them to us where they are placed in loving foster homes and prepare them for their forever families. It is also our mission to prepare our adoptive families for a smooth transition and a better outcome. Our community outreach program will offer New Adopter classes whether you adopt from us or not.
"This small rescue goes way above and beyond putting in 1000’s of miles every weekend to make sure doggies have..."
— monica v.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan

Saving Grace Animal Rescue of Maryland
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #8 in Baltimore
Baltimore
We are an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit animal rescue. As a rescue, it is our mission to end the neglect of animals across the east coast by rescuing them and helping find their forever home. We want to save the lives of pets and enhance the lives of people by finding the perfect new fur-baby for each family! We do not have a facility, our fosters accept these rescue dogs and cats into their homes out of their love for animals.
"I discovered the Sanctuary through a friend of mine who has 5 dogs of her own. I was looking for..."
— darlene m.
Supporter, Fan

Pitties and Purrs Rescue
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #8 in Baltimore
Baltimore
Pitties and Purrs Rescue Inc. is a small, foster-based rescue in Baltimore, MD. Our rescue dogs come from all over the country in order to be rehabilitated and to ultimately find their forever homes. Because we are a foster-based rescue, we completely rely on our incredible volunteers to care for & to temporarily welcome the dogs and cats into their homes to prepare them for adoption. All donations are tax deductible as we are a 501c(3) non-profit! You will receive a donation receipt. If you donate to our vet or through Amazon, please drop us a line to let us know so we can thank you!
"Pitties and Purrs!"
— meredith k.
Supporter, Fan

PetConnect Rescue
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #8 in Baltimore
Baltimore
PetConnect Rescue was founded in 2005, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and has evolved into a vibrant animal rescue organization. Our mission is to save the lives of abandoned dogs and cats and place them in loving and permanent homes. Each day, we respond to desperate email and phone pleas to rescue dogs and cats imminently slated for euthanasia. We pull these animals into rescue from over-extended shelters between Maryland and Georgia. PetConnect Rescue is a non-breed-specific organization, and we are committed to stepping forward whenever we can and wherever there is the greatest need. We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
"We adopted Toosie 5 years ago from PetConnect Rescue! Since then, we've been using her doggy powers for the good..."
— tammy m.
Adoptee

All Shepherd Rescue of the United States , Inc
#99 in United States, #9 in Maryland, #8 in Baltimore
#9 in german Shepherd
German Shepherd
Baltimore
All Shepherd Rescue is a group of German Shepherd lovers who work to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused, abandoned, surrendered or other wise homeless German Shepherds and find them forever homes. We are 100% volunteer and rely on fundraisers and donations to fund the Veterinary care and other needs of our dogs, to prepare them for their adoptive families.
"All Shepherd Rescue is a group of dedicated dog lovers devoted to helping rescue homeless , abused, surrendered or stray..."
— candice k.
Volunteer / foster

See More Dog Rescues & Shelters In Maryland

The Best Baltimore, MD Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Canine Humane Network
Established in 2016, Canine Humane Network is a non-profit dog rescue, shelter, adoption and training organization here in Highland, Howard County, Maryland. We are substantially operated by volunteer staff and many big-hearted volunteer foster families. Here at Canine Humane Network, we are dedicated to saving the lives of homeless dogs and providing a safe haven, humane care, and adoption programs for rescued dogs. We are deeply invested in the lifelong happiness of the dogs and owners we serve. We strive to build a humane environment for animals and people by providing excellent resources and training including humane education and therapy dog programs.
View profile

Reed's Rescue
Reeds Rescue is a non-profit volunteer dog rescue organization serving Baltimore County and surrounding areas. We are dedicated to rescuing dogs of senior age or deemed to be terminally ill from area shelters, dogs given up by their owners because of difficult circumstances, and those in danger of decompensating in the shelter environment. Reeds Rescue will provide nurturing foster homes while they await placement in their permanent homes. Reeds Rescue, the board, and the volunteers will strive to work with area shelters, the community, and other rescues to develop a network of supporters to create a better world for the elderly and terminal pets in need.
View profile

Key to lions heart rescue
Key to Lion's Heart Rescue was founded in January 2018 in honor of Lion, a dog who made a tremendous impact on so many lives. Lion was dumped at a very high kill shelter where his time was up. Without knowing his past, he was pulled by a rescue and placed into a home. Lion was then moved nine times over the course of one year in an effort to find the right home. Unfortunately, the second to last move was that one that forever changed his soul. Just like people, dogs have a breaking point, and Lion had reached his. He had been through more in one year than any dog should ever have to go through in a lifetime. His last move was to a home where he was loved and cared for by a handful of people, his advocates for many months. Unfortunately, it was too late. The pain and suffering he had endured in some of his previous places was more than Lion could overcome. The light in his eyes was gone and he was suffering. In the arms of the people who loved him dearly, we whispered our goodbyes and told him how much we loved him. Humans had failed him. As we kissed him goodbye, we promised Lion that we would do our best to ensure no dog would ever have to endure what he had in his last year. At that moment, we dedicated ourselves to unlocking hope for all dogs by giving a little piece of our hearts to every single one that we can save.
View profile

The Best Frederick, MD Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2025

Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue
A senior dog rescue working to raise awareness of the dangers of puppy mills and backyard breeding
View profile

Petey and Furends
Petey and Furends is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit no-kill animal rescue organization that is dedicated to reducing instances of neglect, abuse, and homelessness in companion animals. To do this, we use research- and evidence-based practices to facilitate a matchmaking experience that will increase the rate of successful adoptions.
View profile

LAB. RESCUE. OF LRCP
We are a non-profit volunteer organization that rescues, fosters, and finds forever homes for abused, neglected, and abandoned Labrador Retrievers in the states of Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. We provide our Labs with veterinary care, spay or neuter services, and placement with foster families where they are loved while they await adoption.
View profile

What's the Sniffspot Maryland Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

Welcome to the 2025 Maryland Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Maryland chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.

Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Maryland dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Maryland

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters In Other States

See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization

Sniffspot Maryland Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Maryland?

There are 40 in Maryland. 29 are located in Baltimore with 11 are located in other areas of the state.

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in Maryland?

There are many reputable rescues in Maryland, the top 3 on our list are: Canine Humane Network, Reed's Rescue, Key to lions heart rescue

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Maryland offer?

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Maryland is Australian Shepherd with 1 focusing on it. The second most common specialization is Border Collie with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Maryland?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Maryland. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
An application helps us make sure we're making a good match. We make every effort to communicate to new families the breed and age of their dog as well as any behavior or medical problems that we are aware of, we do not make any representation or guarantee about the behavior, health, breed or age of any rescue dog.Once you complete the application, one of our hard-working volunteers will contact you as soon as possible. Please be patient with us as we are going as fast as we can!

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in Maryland?

Yes! Maryland has all of the following types of breed-specific dog rescues and shelters: Australian Shepherd Border Collie Husky Pit Bull Puppy German Shepherd

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Maryland that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Yes! The top senior dog rescues and shelters in Maryland are: Reed's Rescue, Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue, Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc.

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within Maryland?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Baltimore is Canine Humane Network. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Maryland is Reed's Rescue.

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David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

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The Best Maryland Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2025

Canine Humane Network

Key to lions heart rescue

Reed's Rescue

Miri's Haven Senior Dog Rescue

Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland, Inc.

SPCA of Anne Arundel County

Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS)

Keller's Cause

MID-ATLANTIC GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE

Knine Rescue Inc.

LAB. RESCUE. OF LRCP

Petey and Furends

Forever Changed Animal Rescue

Maryland SPCA

Baltimore Humane Society

Almost Home Dog Rescue

Saving Grace Animal Rescue of Maryland

Pitties and Purrs Rescue

PetConnect Rescue

All Shepherd Rescue of the United States , Inc

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What's the Sniffspot Maryland Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List About?

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Sniffspot Maryland Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Maryland?

What are the most reputable dog rescues and shelters in Maryland?

What specialized services do dog rescues and shelters in Maryland offer?

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Maryland?

Are there any breed-specific dog rescues and shelters in Maryland?

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Maryland that specialize in senior dogs or special needs animals?

Can you recommend any reputable dog rescue organizations that focus on specific regions or communities within Maryland?

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