12 Leading Goldendoodle Rescue Shelters for Adoption

Adopting a Goldendoodle can bring endless joy to your home.

These lovable and intelligent dogs make great companions for families and individuals alike.

Many rescues specialize in finding forever homes for Goldendoodles, ensuring they get the care and attention they deserve.

With so many options, you can find a rescue that matches your needs and preferences.

A Goldendoodle rescue provides a second chance for these wonderful dogs, offering them a fresh start with a loving family.

12 Ideal Places for Rescue and Adoption of Goldendoole

Finding the right place to rescue or adopt a Goldendoodle can make all the difference for both you and the pup. These locations prioritize care, compassion, and responsible adoption practices. Explore 12 trusted places to meet your perfect furry companion.

Goldendoodles Rescue Homes in Florida

Poodle and Pooch Rescue of Florida stands out by focusing on dogs that others might overlook, including older dogs or those with medical issues or behavioral problems.

They do not have a physical address, as all dogs are placed in carefully selected foster homes after assessment.

Each foster family is rigorously vetted to ensure they can provide the right environment for the dog’s needs.

Senior dogs or those with impairments are placed with families experienced in handling their specific requirements, such as homes without stairs or pools.

The adoption process begins with an application, followed by a discussion with the foster carer, who knows the dog best.

If everything aligns, a meeting is scheduled, and if successful, the adoption is finalized.

While their focus isn’t solely on Goldendoodles, you may find one on their list.

Texas Goldendoodles Rescue

Doodle Rock Rescue, based in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes abused, neglected, and abandoned Doodles.

Founded in 2017, the nonprofit focuses on southern Texas, where high-kill shelters are common.

In 2019, they launched CHEW (Compassion, Hope, Education, Wellness) to offer veterinary care and educate on responsible pet ownership.

Adoption fees range from $150 to $750, covering vaccinations, microchipping, grooming, and medical care.

Doodle Dandy Rescue, also in Texas, operates with over 500 volunteers across Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio.

They focus on helping Doodles thrive in loving homes, often rescuing dogs in poor condition.

They also run a rehoming service for families unable to care for their pets, particularly after the 2020 lockdowns.

Doodle Dandy Rescue works to prevent dogs from entering shelters, ensuring they receive proper care and find safe homes.

Adopt a Goldendoodle in Ohio

In Ohio, while there aren't any Goldendoodle-specific rescues, The Canine Collective serves as a great option.

This no-kill shelter cares for a variety of breeds, rescuing dogs from high-risk situations like hoarding cases and high-kill shelters.

Their mission is to give these dogs a fresh start by finding them loving, permanent homes.

To adopt, submit an application that remains valid for six months, simplifying future adoption processes.

Keep in mind that some dogs might receive multiple applications, so you may not always secure your first pick.

Goldendoodles for Adoption in Georgia

Georgia Poodle Rescue, located in Alpharetta, GA, accepts Poodle mixes, so you may find a Goldendoodle available for adoption.

Unlike many rescues, they only adopt to Georgia residents.

They also help other animals besides Poodles and mixed breeds, with a strong focus on educating the public about responsible, cost-effective pet care.

This mission helps reduce shelter populations and supports animals in need.

The rescue emphasizes quality over quantity, taking its time to ensure each dog is properly trained and matched with the right family.

Every dog undergoes obedience training, potty training, leash training, and socialization before being placed in its new home.

Adoptive families receive ongoing support and guidance throughout their dog’s life.

Adoption begins with a $20 application fee, which covers a review of your lifestyle and pet experience.

If approved, a meet-and-greet is scheduled with all household members present.

Adoption fees typically range up to $500, depending on the dog.

Additionally, they do not adopt to families with children under 10 for safety reasons.

California Goldendoodle Rescue Groups

NorCal Poodle Rescue, established in 1985, works with various Poodle mixes, including Labradoodles and Bernedoodles, though it is not dedicated solely to Goldendoodles.

The rescue was founded by Patty Moulthrop, a Standard Poodle breeder who stopped breeding dogs after realizing the many in shelters needed help.

Unlike many others, NorCal has kennel space for some of its dogs, a necessity due to challenges in finding suitable foster homes and local limits on the number of pets per household.

This allows the rescue to offer more specialized care.

Every dog is spayed/neutered and microchipped, and Standard Poodles receive a gastropexy procedure to prevent bloat, a serious risk for large, deep-chested dogs.

Adoption fees range from $100 for senior dogs to $700 for those that have had the gastropexy procedure, demonstrating their commitment to the well-being of their animals.

Goldendoodle Shelters in Arizona

Arizona Small Dog Rescue (AZSDR) is a no-kill nonprofit shelter focused on finding loving homes for abandoned, neglected, and abused dogs, including Mini Goldendoodles.

The organization prioritizes four core values: integrity, excellence, education, and compassion.

In addition to rescuing dogs, they work to reunite lost pets with their owners and educate the public on responsible pet ownership.

AZSDR offers a microchipping service for $25, with lifetime registration included.

Each dog is fully vetted, treated medically if needed, and provided with a detailed file on its behavior and health history.

The adoption process ensures that dogs are a good fit for their new families, with AZSDR offering continuous support.

Adoption fees range from $160 to $260.

Find a Goldendoodle in Colorado

Located in Denver, CO, 2 Blondes All Breed Rescue is committed to a no-kill philosophy, working tirelessly to save dogs from high-kill shelters.

Since its establishment in 2015, the organization has rescued and found homes for over 10,500 dogs, with a dedicated team of volunteers, veterinarians, and trainers supporting the cause.

The rescue operates within a specific region, having cultivated trusted partnerships with local vets and volunteers.

Adoption fees vary by age: puppies under 12 months cost $575, older puppies (13-24 months) are $375, and adults over two years are $325.

These fees cover necessary vaccinations, microchipping, and deworming treatments.

Goldendoodles Looking for Homes in Illinois

As Good As Gold Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois focuses on Golden Retrievers and Golden Retriever mixes, providing crucial services for these breeds, including potential Goldendoodles.

In addition to rescuing dogs, the organization works to educate the public on the importance of spaying, neutering, proper training, and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Their program emphasizes humane treatment and aims to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership.

To ensure quality care, the rescue follows a strict code of ethics for its staff and volunteers.

Adoption fees range from $200 to $550, with dogs rescued from China costing $1,000.

Like most rescues, specific conditions apply during the adoption process.

Indiana Goldendoodle Rescue Options

Lucky Dog Retreat Rescue, Inc., located in Indianapolis, is not specifically a Goldendoodle rescue, but they care for dogs of all breeds, giving every abandoned or neglected dog a chance at a better life.

They are deeply involved in both rescuing dogs and organizing fundraisers to support their efforts.

The dogs are allowed to socialize in a playroom during the day, and they are crated at night to eat and sleep.

Their website blends uplifting stories with some heartbreaking images of dogs rescued from puppy mills, showing their transformation after receiving the care they need.

All dogs are vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed/neutered, with adoption fees set at $150 or $100 for senior dogs.

To adopt, you must complete an application, which will be reviewed by the adoption coordinator, who will reach out if you're a good match for one of their dogs.

Goldendoodle Rescues in New Jersey

Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue (DVGRR), serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland, rescues Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Doodles, and mixes.

Since 1993, they’ve rehomed over 6,000 dogs, with a 95.6% rehoming rate in 2020, qualifying them as a ‘no-kill’ shelter.

DVGRR takes a thoughtful approach to euthanasia, only considering it for dogs with no chance of recovery or extreme aggression.

Their website offers helpful resources and an online shop.

The rescue provides comprehensive care, including vaccinations, behavior evaluations, dental cleaning, and optional medical tests.

Adoption fees range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the dog's care.

Adoptable Goldendoodles in Michigan

Founded in 1953, the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL) is one of the oldest Goldendoodle rescues.

It stands out for its impressive facility, where both cats and dogs receive exceptional care.

Unlike many rescues, MARL employs staff alongside dedicated volunteers.

Their mission is to provide the highest quality of life for rescued animals, offering medical care, socialization, and behavioral support while they await adoption.

Some animals stay in loving foster homes until they find permanent families.

MARL also educates the public on animal welfare to reduce pet abandonment.

Adoption fees are $225, and the process begins by viewing available dogs and submitting an application.

The rescue’s website and positive atmosphere instill confidence in prospective adopters.

Wisconsin Goldendoodle Shelters

Fetch WI Rescue, based in Verona, Wisconsin, is a community-oriented group focused on rescuing abandoned dogs locally.

Since 2013, they’ve saved over 3,000 dogs, operating as a nonprofit entirely run by volunteers.

Despite being volunteer-driven, the rescue’s website exudes professionalism and provides clear, easy-to-understand advice, including a helpful FAQ section.

Every dog in foster care undergoes thorough assessment, addressing medical and behavioral needs.

With a maximum of two dogs per foster home, each animal receives personalized care.

Adoption fees are $400 for puppies, $350 for adults, and $200 for seniors, with additional support like a free training lesson for adopters.

More Places to Rescue Goldendoodles

In addition to the Goldendoodle rescues listed above, several online resources can help you find a rescue dog.

Petfinder is an easy-to-use website that connects you with local rescues, but it’s up to you to research the rescue group further.

IDOG Rescue is a nonprofit organization that partners with shelters nationwide to rescue Doodles and provide them with foster care, ensuring dogs are microchipped, vaccinated, and treated before adoption.

Adoption fees range from $100 to $750.

Doodle Rescue Collective Inc, endorsed by the Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA), has been helping Doodles since 2008 through a network of 800+ volunteers across the country.

They also offer educational resources for Doodle owners.

Note: Be cautious of adopting through private individuals on social media or platforms like Craigslist.

Established, reputable organizations are always the safest choice.

Do Shelters Have Goldendoodles

Since their debut in the 1990s, Doodles, particularly the Goldendoodle, have captured hearts, often due to their adorable, teddy bear-like look.

Despite their popularity, these loving dogs occasionally end up in shelters or rescue centers.

Dogs are surrendered for many reasons, like financial struggles, illness, family changes, or even being lost and picked up by animal control.

Some are given up because their energy is too much for older owners, while others are abandoned after owners discover they’re not truly hypoallergenic.

Sadly, many people don’t realize the amount of care a dog needs, and once the puppy grows, they feel overwhelmed by the responsibility.

Dogs are not toys to discard when they become less convenient; they deserve lasting commitment.

The Humane Society reports that around 1.2 million dogs are euthanized annually in the U.S.

When adopting, be open to different coat colors, types, and even the dog’s sex, as specific preferences may make the process longer.

Closing Thoughts on Goldendoodle Rescues

There are many reputable breeders in North America, but also around 10,000 puppy mills contributing to the overpopulation problem.

Pet stores often source puppies from these mills.

To help, avoid pet stores and puppy mills, and ensure your dogs are spayed or neutered.

Good breeders often include spay/neuter clauses in their contracts, with heavy penalties for violations.

They also require you to return the dog if you can no longer care for it.

Some breeders even encourage adopting from shelters, showing they care about the dogs rather than profits.

Always consider rescuing a dog, even a puppy, as it could be your new best friend.

Spread awareness about puppy mills and irresponsible breeders, and remember that buying from them only supports their business, not saving lives.