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The Best Maine Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Maine. 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.

    Blessed be the Bullies
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/572/e87662edfef6-Logo.jpg
    53 Gayton Rd, Lewiston Maine
    portlandMaineUS
    I have seen her take in the worst cases and find them homes. My Buster came from Mississippi, he was a 4 yr old stray found eating rocks. Not many places would take a chance on such an old dog but BBB did and now he’s all ours ❤️ Katie literally gives these animals her all!!!
  • Blessed be the Bullies Logo

    Blessed be the Bullies

    #75 in United States, #1 in Maine, #1 in Portland

    Portland

    Welcome to our page! We are a 501c3 nonprofit foster based dog rescue located in Maine. We strive to provide more than just a new family member. We provide links to other businesses that support our mission. We provide training tips and how-to on helping your new pet (or even a current one) live their best lives. We have testimonials from some of the wonderful families that we have impacted with our rescue.

    "I have seen her take in the worst cases and find them homes. My Buster came from Mississippi, he was..."

    dianne m.

    Adoptee

    "Dedicated to saving the Bullies! Love the effort and the people here!"

    matthew p.

    Supporter


  • Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/573/eb117c509376-Capture.JPG
    217 Landing Road Westbrook, Maine 04092
    portlandMaineUS
    ARLGP cares so much for every animal that comes their way. Everything from dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, rats, and even mice! They are a wonderful organization, and they even promote humane education and fear free training.
  • Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland Logo

    Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland

    #98 in United States, #2 in Maine, #2 in Portland

    Portland

    The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland nurtures the connection between people and pets to advance animal welfare and improve the quality of life in our community.

    "ARLGP cares so much for every animal that comes their way. Everything from dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, rats,..."

    leah p.

    Volunteer / foster

    "Great folks loving up the pets!"

    jj j.

    Supporter, Fan


  • Rescue Charlie's Friends
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/574/8e5e95c8baad-Capture.JPG
    90 Road BWoolwich, Maine 04579
    portlandMaineUS
    I have adopted three Britney's and am thank for the rescue centers. One came from Texas,another Missouri,and the third Tennessee. American Britney Rescue was involved in two of the adoptions . I could not find them on the list so i voted for a couple local shelters that does great work.
  • Rescue Charlie's Friends Logo

    Rescue Charlie's Friends

    #98 in United States, #2 in Maine, #2 in Portland

    Portland

    Rescue Charlie's Friends was established in 2018 because we love dogs and want them to have the best life possible. Many dogs lost their homes due to fire, floods or hurricanes. Others have been abandoned, neglected or abused. Whatever the cause, our mission is to rescue them and match them with a loving forever family. Most of our dogs come from high-kill shelters. The shelters do the best they can but due to limited facilities, dogs can't stay long. Dogs must be moved out quickly or be put down. These are Charlie's Friends. These are the dogs that we focus on. We stay in touch with shelters and volunteers in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and elsewhere. We bring the dogs to Maine where Fosters care for them until they are adopted. We rescue as many dogs as we can but we always need more help.

    "I have adopted three Britney's and am thank for the rescue centers. One came from Texas,another Missouri,and the third Tennessee...."

    dale l.

    Fan

    "Three Times the Love, Thanks to Rescue Charlie's Friends! I always knew I wanted to open my heart and home to..."

    ashley f.


  • Midcoast Humane
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    portlandMaineUS
    Midcoast Humane is just the BEST.
  • Midcoast Humane Logo

    Midcoast Humane

    #99 in United States, #3 in Maine, #3 in Portland

    Portland

    "Midcoast Humane is just the BEST."

    amy r.

    Adoptee


  • Pope Memorial Humane Society
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/575/11772515e751-Capture.JPG
    25 Buttermilk LaneThomaston, ME
    MaineUS
    Pope Memorial. Human Society is an incredible organization that i am so lucky to have found. They support the community in so many ways, with services for pets, a pet food bank, support with missing and found pets, and many other amazing services. For adopters, they have a prison training service where thy have prisoners at the local prison train dogs in basic skills which helps the pets socialize and get basic training to help them be ready for new homes. They also use a slumber party, where you can get to know your new pet for a week to make sure it’s a great fit, or explain why it wasn’t for future families. We got our dog there a year ago and it was the easiest and most friendly place. We filled out the application, visited and got to spend time with our friend, learned all about him, and got a week to make sure it was a great fit on both sides. They were so amazing through the whole process, and even provided us with food, toys, a blanket, kennel, leash and collar. The best rescue and shelter we have ever come across, and we are now happy supporters for life!
  • Pope Memorial Humane Society Logo

    Pope Memorial Humane Society

    #99 in United States, #3 in Maine

    Pope Memorial Humane Society was founded in 1989 in response to the needs of homeless animals ‚their protection, care, and adoption. With support from many animal lovers and a substantial mortgage, our founders purchased the land between Dexter Street Extension and Buttermilk Lane in Thomaston, Maine, built the shelter, and opened it to the public in November 1991. From these humble beginnings in 1989 to the 10,000-square-foot facility built in 2015, thousands of animals have been lovingly tended, rehabilitated, and adopted.

    "Pope Memorial. Human Society is an incredible organization that i am so lucky to have found. They support the community..."

    nicholas m.

    Adoptee, Fan


  • Almost Home Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/577/e7391b2e520a-ba837c_ed7dc0d804d24fab8e32f6aeafec2b02_mv2.jpg
    71 Airport Road Old Town, ME
    portlandMaineUS
  • Almost Home Rescue Logo

    Almost Home Rescue

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine, #4 in Portland

    Portland

    In 1990, a dedicated group of Old Town/Orono citizens, concerned about the well-being of homeless cats and dogs in their communities, founded The Animal Orphanage. Thousands of lost or abandoned animals have found food, shelter, medical treatment and the comfort of a caring staff at the Orphanage over the years. Every effort is made to reunite the animal with its loving owners or arrange adoption into a new home.


  • Franklin County Animal Shelter
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/580/eda7b7bf17d5-qt_q_95__1_.jpg
    550 Industry Road, Farmington, ME 04938, US
    MaineUS
  • Franklin County Animal Shelter Logo

    Franklin County Animal Shelter

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine

    We are a non-profit animal shelter focused on providing temporary care and shelter to stray, homeless, and abandoned animals within our community. We are a no-kill shelter, which means we never euthanize animals due to a lack of space.


  • Animal Orphanage Old Town Maine
    https://sniffspot.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/placeholder.png
    MaineUS
  • Animal Orphanage Old Town Maine Logo

  • Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/586/d880720c5842-PittiePosseLogoReverse.png
    MaineUS
  • Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary Logo

    Pittie Posse Rescue & Sanctuary

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine

    Pittie Posse Rescue and Sanctuary has three missions: Rescue of animals: from overcrowded shelters in high-kill cities across the country (pulling from locations that are overwhelmed, such as, but not limited to, the South) as well as from owner surrenders, cruelty cases, and criminal seizures of dogs. Rehabilitation and training of rescued dogs in our care so we're adopting out dogs that have already completed basic obedience. Lack of manners and difficulty training this often-stubborn breed is one of the number one reasons adopted dogs get returned. We then carefully place dogs in loving adoptive homes. Our rescue is unique in that we stay in touch with adoptive families‚ we invite them into a private group where they can keep us updated on the dog, ask for training support, get vet questions answered, and share success pictures of their new pup. To make the world a better place for the bully breeds and the rescue workers who run themselves ragged to save them: educate the public on the plight of the breed and model responsible dog ownership: including offering on-site training to the public, video training, spay and neuter support, and advocacy.


  • Give a Dog a Home
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/581/331cc2ef9546-s4660logo20220524062823.jpg
    187 Downs Road, Sebec, Sebec Sebec, ME 04481
    MaineUS
  • Give a Dog a Home Logo

    Give a Dog a Home

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine

    Give a Dog a Home Rescue helps pets in need through sheltering, adoption, education, spay/neuter, and community outreach. Engaging the hearts, hands and minds of our community to promote the humane treatment of animals through humane education, animal protection and community service.


  • Humane Society Waterville Area
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/582/767146d93b78-HSWA_Logo.png
    100 Webb RoadWaterville, ME 04901
    MaineUS
  • Humane Society Waterville Area Logo

    Humane Society Waterville Area

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine

    Since 1970 HSWA has been a safe haven for animals in need. Our guiding principle is always quality of life for the animal. We are a high-adoption, open-admission facility. We don't euthanize animals due to lack of space or poor health. We are proud that we go the extra distance with every animal that comes through our doors. Every life is precious and deserves a fighting chance.


  • PAWS Animal Adoption Center
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/585/1f3b4b7b61fb-Capture.JPG
    123 John Street, Camden, ME 04843
    MaineUS
  • PAWS Animal Adoption Center Logo

    PAWS Animal Adoption Center

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine

    To provide care for homeless dogs and cats until they can be placed in permanent, responsible homes while promoting humane values in our community through outreach and educational programs.


  • 3 Dogs Rescue
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/576/1805df65c74a-IMG_7006_edited.jpg
    P.O Box 228Suite 228Berwick, ME, 03901
    portlandMaineUS
  • 3 Dogs Rescue Logo

    3 Dogs Rescue

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine, #4 in Portland

    Portland

    We believe rescue is traumatic and often an overload on an animal who relies heavily upon their senses. No matter what the dog's origin, the past was their home and was what they knew. Rescue pulls the animal from a familiar place, vets, spays and neuters, puts them in vehicles, crates and kennels, and immediately places them in a new environment. Even in the best of circumstances any human or animal would suffer a sensory shock at all this imposed change. Our ultimate goal is to remain conscious of the senses of the dogs as we move them to a better life.


  • Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Maine
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/584/30836d9a35d9-e06946_dee5e8d13d484312ba9083ea1592ab5c_mv2__1_.jpg
    PO Box 245 Searsmont, Maine 04973
    MaineUS
    German ShepherdGerman Shepherd
  • Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Maine Logo

    Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Maine

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine
    #15 in german Shepherd

    German Shepherd

    Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Maine is a 501(c)3 Non Profit corporation (EIN 82-1137182). Based in Mid-Coast Maine, (Belfast area) we do our best to assist German Shepherd Dogs in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, as well as dogs from the Southern states and California as space permits! Each dog that comes into our program is carefully evaluated and then placed into a foster home. Once we have spent some time getting to know each dog, we make the dog available for adoption.


  • Ellie's Legacy Animal Foundation
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/579/c1af1953f780-ELLIE_2_COLOR_CIRLCE_LOGO.png
    portlandMaineUS
  • Ellie's Legacy Animal Foundation Logo

    Ellie's Legacy Animal Foundation

    #100 in United States, #4 in Maine, #4 in Portland

    Portland

    Ellie's Legacy Animal Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-run, foster- based dog rescue organization based out of Southern Maine. Our ability to help dogs and to continue as an organization relies totally on the generosity of public donations. We are passionate about pet adoption and place our rescued animals in responsible, loving, forever adoptive homes. Our area of focus for helping dogs in need is currently Texas. Yes, there are dogs in need of rescue everywhere, but we are drawn to helping Texas dogs due to the sheer numbers of homeless, abused, and neglected animals located in this state. We have been able to build a wonderful network of local Texas rescuers, fosters, veterinarians, and transporters to aid in our rescue. Our dogs are mostly stray animals found by Texas locals, dogs from Texas shelters, and some owner surrenders. We quarantine our dogs a minimum of 30 days in a Texas foster home and give appropriate veterinary care before they are transported to their Maine adoptive homes. We comply with all the health requirements mandated by the State of Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry.


The Best Portland, ME Dog Rescues & Shelters In 2024

    Blessed be the Bullies
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/572/e87662edfef6-Logo.jpg
    53 Gayton Rd, Lewiston Maine
    portlandMaineUS
    Great organization with a wonderful people.
  • Blessed be the Bullies Logo

    Blessed be the Bullies

    Welcome to our page! We are a 501c3 nonprofit foster based dog rescue located in Maine. We strive to provide more than just a new family member. We provide links to other businesses that support our mission. We provide training tips and how-to on helping your new pet (or even a current one) live their best lives. We have testimonials from some of the wonderful families that we have impacted with our rescue.

    View profile

  • Rescue Charlie's Friends
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/574/8e5e95c8baad-Capture.JPG
    90 Road BWoolwich, Maine 04579
    portlandMaineUS
    I have adopted three Britney's and am thank for the rescue centers. One came from Texas,another Missouri,and the third Tennessee. American Britney Rescue was involved in two of the adoptions . I could not find them on the list so i voted for a couple local shelters that does great work.
  • Rescue Charlie's Friends Logo

    Rescue Charlie's Friends

    Rescue Charlie's Friends was established in 2018 because we love dogs and want them to have the best life possible. Many dogs lost their homes due to fire, floods or hurricanes. Others have been abandoned, neglected or abused. Whatever the cause, our mission is to rescue them and match them with a loving forever family. Most of our dogs come from high-kill shelters. The shelters do the best they can but due to limited facilities, dogs can't stay long. Dogs must be moved out quickly or be put down. These are Charlie's Friends. These are the dogs that we focus on. We stay in touch with shelters and volunteers in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and elsewhere. We bring the dogs to Maine where Fosters care for them until they are adopted. We rescue as many dogs as we can but we always need more help.

    View profile

  • Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
    https://data.sniffspot.com/full-fit-in/768x512/Photos/SeoDogRescue/573/eb117c509376-Capture.JPG
    217 Landing Road Westbrook, Maine 04092
    portlandMaineUS
    ARLGP cares so much for every animal that comes their way. Everything from dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, rats, and even mice! They are a wonderful organization, and they even promote humane education and fear free training.
  • Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland Logo

    Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland

    The Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland nurtures the connection between people and pets to advance animal welfare and improve the quality of life in our community.

    View profile

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

Welcome to the 2024 Maine Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Maine 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 Maine dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.

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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By City In Maine


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See The Best Dog Rescues & Shelters By Specialization


Sniffspot Maine Dog Rescues & Shelters Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog rescues and shelters operate in Maine?

There are 15 in Maine. 7 are located in Portland with 8 are located in other areas of the state.

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

There are many reputable rescues in Maine, the top 3 on our list are: Blessed be the Bullies, Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, Rescue Charlie's Friends

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

The most common specialization for dog rescues and shelters in Maine is German Shepherd with 1 focusing on it.

How can I adopt a rescue dog in Maine?

Using our list of the top dog rescues and shelters, you can find a reputable shelter in Maine. The adoption policies of each shelter varies and you can find information on the shelter profile page. Here is an example adoption policy:
Blessed Be the Bullies certifies that all dogs that have been imported into the State of Maine will have been tested for heartworm, ehrlichia, Lyme, anaplasmosis and intestinal parasites. They will have received vaccines against the following: Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Infectious Tracheobronchitis, Canine Parvo Virus and Rabies. This may not apply to puppies that were not old enough at time of transport to be tested or given all shots. BBTB is not responsible for other diseases or issues that may arise after the quarantine period, as we have no way of foreseeing or controlling those situations. If adopting a puppy, adopters should be aware that they may be responsible for completing series vaccinations or vaccinations that couldn't be given before the time of adoption due to age. All animals are also treated topically for fleas and ticks, but please keep in mind that it can take up to three weeks to take care of any issues that may be present. In the case of puppies, we may not have been able to treat them due to age. We do our best to prevent the spread of fleas and ticks. Also, in the case of puppies, most under the age of 6 months are likely to have parasites, despite being dewormed. It takes regular deworming to eliminate parasites, so the adopter should plan on getting a fecal test done shortly after adoption to see if there are lasting parasites. As for older dogs, they are required to have a fecal test before transport, but they may need another round of testing and dewormer as well, depending on the life cycle of the eggs, as the test only detects active parasites, so it may take another dose to dispel them all. It is the responsibility of the adopter to provide this care and respective treatment if necessary.

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

We do not have any record of breed specific rescues and shelters in Maine, but there are the top breed-specific rescue and shelter types in nearby states, including New Jersey, Utah, Illinois.

Can you recommend any dog rescues in Maine 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 Maine?

Yes! The top rescue and shelter in Portland is Blessed be the Bullies. The top specialized rescue and shelter in Maine is Miracle German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Maine.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

June 25, 2024

Dog Rescues & Shelters

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    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.

  • The Best United States Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best United States Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!

  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.

  • Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US