Finding a puppy on Puppies.com is an exciting and rewarding experience. Bringing your new puppy home marks the start of a lifelong bond—but it also comes with big responsibilities. Whether you’re adopting your first puppy or adding another furry friend to the family, Puppies.com’s Puppy Adoption 101 Guide is your trusted resource for everything from choosing the right breed and finding a responsible breeder to preparing your home and understanding puppy care basics. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure a safe, happy, and successful adoption journey.
Why Start Your Puppy Adoption Journey on Puppies.com?
Since 2003, Puppies.com has been the trusted, go-to resource for finding puppies from responsible breeders across the U.S. We’ve helped thousands of puppies find loving homes, and our community continues to grow as happy puppy parents share their stories. Many come back again and again—because finding a puppy on Puppies.com is safe, joyful, and reliable.
Creating a free Puppies.com account is the first step toward finding the perfect puppy for you or your family. It unlocks a safe, seamless, and enjoyable puppy adoption experience—from browsing verified breeders to saving your favorite listings. Here’s why thousands of puppy seekers trust Puppies.com to help them find their next best friend:
- Hundreds of listings updated daily – find immediately available puppies that match your preferences by breed, location, age, and price. Say goodbye to reaching out about a puppy, only to discover it is no longer available.
- Secure messaging with verified breeders – connect safely without sharing personal contact information until you’re ready. Private message breeders from the safety of our platform.
- Save your favorite puppies and searches – stay organized as you explore hundreds of adorable options. Keep everything organized in your personal dashboard to make your puppy search fun, fast, and easy.
- Custom alerts for new matches – be the first to discover puppies that meet your criteria, from hypoallergenic companions to family-friendly pups. You set the alerts to your unique preferences. Be the first to know about a new puppy listing matching your criteria.
With these tools, Puppies.com makes it easy, safe, and fun to find your perfect puppy—without the stress or guesswork.
Ready to find your new best friend? Create your free Puppies.com account today and start your puppy adoption journey with confidence.
Step 1: Decide on the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle
Before you start your search on Puppies.com, take time to think about which dog breed best fits your lifestyle. Factors like your living space, activity level, family members, and budget all play a major role in finding the perfect match.
Choosing the right breed from the start sets the foundation for a happy, healthy, and long-term relationship with your new puppy. Selecting a breed that aligns with your daily routine and personality helps ensure both you and your pup thrive together.
Ask yourself:
- How much daily exercise can I commit to?
- Are there children, elderly adults, other pets, or frequent visitors at home? Learn more about bringing home a puppy when other adults live in the household.
- Do I prefer a low-shedding or hypoallergenic breed?
- How much time am I willing to spend on training and obedience classes?
- Do I have the necessary space for my dog’s breed?
- What budget makes sense for my puppy’s initial and ongoing care?
To make this process easier, Puppies.com’s Breed Matchmaker tool helps you find breeds suited to your lifestyle, energy level, allergies, and family dynamics. You can also explore our Dog Breed page for detailed profiles from A-Z, including temperament, training, exercise requirements, grooming needs, and even typical costs for different breeds.
Pup Tip: Take your time choosing a breed. A thoughtful match now ensures years of joy and companionship for both you and your puppy.
Step 2: Search For Puppies With Confidence
Once you’ve chosen the right breed, it’s time to start your search! Puppies.com makes it easy to explore hundreds of listings while keeping your experience safe and straightforward.
Tips for a smooth search:
- Use regular and advanced filters to narrow down your search by breed, age, size, or location (you can set the radius you are willing to travel, for instance)
- Look for ID, phone, and email Verified Badges on breeder profiles (newer breeders are automatically verified for extra peace of mind)
- Review breeder profiles carefully, including photos, health details, and testimonials.
- Some breeders include descriptions about each puppy’s socialization, training, and more. Be sure to ask if you don’t see something, or have additional questions!
With Puppies.com, you can message breeders directly through a private, secure platform and save your favorite listings and searches for easy reference.
“I loved that we could interact with the breeder and be anonymous until we didn’t need to. No restrictions on sharing contact info. No sign-up fee. It was an easy site to use.” – Mindy L.
“Puppies.com was simply amazing in helping me/my family find our forever puppy! I really liked the site’s puppy finder setup/questions. State, Puppy Age, Breed, Cost, etc. Everything was easy to complete. I highly recommend Puppies.com! 5 Stars⭐” – Carolyn Z.
Step 3: Save Favorites & Connect With Breeders
As you browse Puppies.com, you can “heart” your favorite puppies to save them for easy reference later. This makes it simple to compare options and keep track of the puppies that catch your eye.
Additionally, from your free account’s dashboard, you can set your preferences and notifications if you aren’t quite ready to adopt yet or don’t immediately see a puppy that meets your search criteria.
When you’re ready, connect with breeders directly through our secure messaging platform—no need to share your personal email until you’re comfortable. Puppies.com keeps your communication safe while making it easy to ask questions and get updates.
Helpful tips when reaching out to breeders:
- Ask for live video calls or in-person visits to meet the puppy
- Request health records, vaccination certificates, and registration information, if applicable
- Confirm shipping or pick-up arrangements in advance
Pup Tip: Responsible breeders are happy to answer questions and provide proof of their puppies’ health and background. Clear communication now ensures a smoother adoption process later.
Step 4: Prepare Your Home
Preparing your home for your new puppy is important for their safety and well-being.
Bringing a new puppy home is exciting—but a little preparation goes a long way in keeping everyone safe, happy, and stress-free. With the right setup, you can help your puppy settle in comfortably and start building a strong bond from day one.
Puppy-Proof Your Space
Curious puppies explore everything, so it’s important to remove hazards before your new friend arrives.
- Electrical cords, wires, and cables – tuck them away or use cord protectors.
- Toxic plants, cleaning supplies, and small objects – keep them out of reach.
- Trash cans and chewable household items – secure lids or relocate.
- Loose tassels or cords – check pillows, rugs, and window blinds for potential chewing hazards.
Pup Tip: Get down on all fours and see your home from a puppy’s perspective. What can you remove, secure, or block to prevent accidents?
Create a Safe Puppy Area
A dedicated space helps your puppy feel secure and makes training easier.
- Crate or pen: A cozy crate provides a safe haven and supports potty training.
- Play area: Keep toys and safe chew items within reach.
- Bed and blankets: Soft, washable bedding helps your puppy feel at home.
Pro Tip: Cover part of the crate with a blanket to create a den-like atmosphere that encourages calm rest.
Stock Up on Essentials
Before your puppy arrives, make sure you have all the necessary supplies to keep them comfortable, healthy, and entertained.
- Food and water bowls (non-slip recommended)
- Age-appropriate, high-quality puppy food
- Collar, leash, and ID tags
- Variety of chew toys, fetch toys, and mental stimulation items
- Visit our Puppies.com/Store to save money and get started on all your essential needs!
Pup Tip: Rotate toys weekly to keep your puppy engaged and prevent boredom. Check out our guide, New Puppy Essentials, for everything you’ll need to prepare for your new puppy.
Prepare for Training and Socialization
A structured routine and early socialization are key to raising a well-adjusted puppy.
- Feeding and potty schedule: Consistency helps your puppy learn quickly.
- Playtime and exercise: Short, frequent sessions keep energy levels manageable.
- Introduce new experiences: Gradually expose your puppy to people, pets, and environments.
Check out our guides: Set Your Puppy Up for Success: A Guide to Socialization] and Bringing Home a Puppy to a Household With Children or Adult Family Members. Check out our guide: Set Your Puppy Up for Success: A Guide to Socialization for tips on introducing your puppy to people, other pets, and new experiences to help them settle in.
Pro Tip: Use positive reinforcement—treats, praise, and play—over punishment.
Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but a little preparation goes a long way to keep everyone safe and happy!
Step 5: Adoption Day and Beyond
You’ve waited, prepared, and now it’s finally time! Learn what to expect on adoption day—and how to help your new puppy settle in comfortably once you’re home.
Bringing your puppy home is both exciting and emotional — the culmination of research, preparation, and love. But this is just the beginning of your lifelong bond.
Adoption Day: What to Expect and How to Prepare for Your New Puppy
- Safe transition: Pick up your puppy in person whenever possible, or arrange transport only through trusted, reputable providers. This ensures your new companion’s safety and comfort.
Pup Tip: When picking up a puppy in person, it’s helpful to have a friend drive you so you can swaddle your new puppy and ensure a comfortable ride home. If not possible, bring a secure crate or padded box to ensure the safe, secure, and comfortable transport to your home. - Settling in: Give your puppy time to explore their new environment at their own pace. A calm and welcoming atmosphere fosters trust and eases the transition.
Pup Tip: If you plan to introduce Crate Training, start early for best results. Many new puppy parents like to keep their puppy close at night (in a safe, secure area), especially during the first few nights. - Establishing structure: Begin routines right away — feeding times, potty training, and gentle play sessions. Puppies thrive on consistency and clear guidance. Learn more about helping your puppy master independence while understanding their developmental needs at each age.
Pup Tip: After feeding your puppy, take your puppy outdoors to help jump-start outdoor potty training.
Beyond Adoption Day: What to Do After You Bring Home Your New Puppy
- Health and security: Review your adoption agreement carefully. This is where health guarantees, vaccination records, and microchip details should be clearly documented — all part of protecting your puppy’s wellbeing.
- Schedule a visit with your Veterinarian early, and make sure your puppy is up-to-date on all vaccinations, including dewormers, and more. Discuss the recommended vaccination schedule with them and discuss the best timing for spaying or neutering your pet.
- Trust and support: A reputable rescue or breeder will remain available to answer questions, provide training advice, and guide you through challenges. Lean on this support — it’s a partnership.
- Authority through knowledge: Keep learning. Read training guides, stay updated on puppy care best practices, and join trusted communities where you can share experiences.
- Seek outside training resources when needed. Many independent trainers and animal behavioralists can help.
- Commitment for life: Puppies are not just pets — they’re family. Nurture your relationship with patience, love, and respect.
💡 Pro Tip: Stay connected to Puppies.com to receive expert training resources, step-by-step puppy care tips, and ongoing support straight to your inbox. Together, we’ll make sure your puppy grows into a happy, healthy, and confident dog.
FAQs: Puppy Adoption 101
Q: Do I have to pay to create an account?
A: No — creating a Puppies.com account is entirely free and gives you access to tools that make your search safer, easier, and more secure. With an account, you can save favorites, message breeders directly through our platform, and set alerts for new puppies that match your preferences.
Q: What are the prices of puppies on Puppies.com?
A: The cost of adopting or purchasing a puppy is determined by each individual breeder — not by Puppies.com. Prices can vary widely depending on several factors, including breed, age, pedigree, health screenings, breeder reputation, and rarity.
A higher price often reflects extensive health testing or champion bloodlines, while more affordable options may come from adult dogs, rehoming situations, or less rare breeds.
You can easily search by price range using the filters available on Puppies.com to find listings that fit your budget. Many puppies and dogs are priced under $100, while others — especially purebreds or rare breeds — may cost $500 or more.
💡 Pup Tip: Always review what’s included in the adoption price — such as vaccination records, microchipping, or health guarantees — so you can compare breeders fairly and make an informed decision.
Q: It appears I can search for puppies without an account?
A: Yes — you can browse all available puppies on Puppies.com without signing up. However, creating a free account unlocks the full experience and helps keep our community safe and secure. With an account, you can:
- Contact breeders safely and directly. (Some breeders only accept messages through our secure platform for privacy and safety reasons.)
- Save your favorite listings and easily track updates.
- Set notifications about puppies you are interested in finding, based on your unique criteria.
- Access exclusive details about puppies, their parents, and littermates — including extra photos and health information.
- Use built-in safety tools and our full FAQ library.
- View breeder profiles and history, including how long they’ve been part of the Puppies.com community.
- Tap into our library of puppy and dog tips, articles, and resources from our animal behavioralist.
- …and more!
Creating an account not only protects your privacy but also ensures you connect with breeders in a safe, trusted way. 👉 Sign up for your free Puppies.com account now
Q: How can I be sure the breeder is trustworthy?
A: At Puppies.com, trust and security come first. When browsing listings, look for breeders who are ID-verified, email-verified, and/or phone-verified. Take time to review each breeder’s profile, history on Puppies.com, and customer reviews to get a clear picture of their reputation.
Our platform also makes it easy to communicate safely — from asking questions and requesting references to scheduling live video chats — all before meeting in person. These tools help ensure you connect only with verified, responsible breeders who care about their puppies as much as you do.
Q: What paperwork should I expect on adoption day?
A: Paperwork can vary from breeder to breeder, but you can typically expect some or all of the following:
- A signed adoption or purchase agreement
- Vaccination and deworming records
- Microchip information, if applicable
- Any health guarantees or veterinary certificates
Always review all documents carefully before finalizing the adoption to protect your puppy’s health — and your peace of mind.
Q: How can I help my puppy adjust once we get home?
A: The first few days are all about helping your puppy feel safe and secure. Keep things calm and structured as your new companion settles in.
- Create a quiet, designated space where your puppy can rest and feel comfortable.
- Establish consistent routines for meals, potty breaks, and bedtime — predictability builds trust.
- Introduce new people and experiences gradually to encourage healthy socialization and confidence.
- Start basic training early to reinforce good habits and strengthen your bond.
Remember, bonding with your puppy is a vital part of their development — and the foundation for a happy, lifelong relationship.
👉 See our Puppy Behavioral Development Stages Guide to learn all about the various development stages from our Puppies.com animal behavioralist.
Making Your Puppy Adoption Successful
Finding the perfect puppy is a journey built on research, patience, and love. With Puppies.com, you’re never alone in that journey — our platform gives you access to verified breeders, secure communication tools, and a supportive community of dog lovers. From your first search to life after adoption, we’re here to help you raise a happy, healthy companion.
✨ Start your journey today — Create Your Free Account at Puppies.com and find your perfect match.
Puppies.com — Your Trusted Puppy Resource
Want step-by-step help with training, health, and care? Visit the Puppies.com Blog — your go-to resource for expert puppy guides and ongoing support.
Related Articles
- How to Get Started on the Puppy Search Journey: Creating a Free Account on Puppies.com
- Bringing Home a Puppy to Household with Children or Older Adult Family Members
- New Puppy Essentials Product checklist to review “before” you bring home your new puppy!
- Puppy Behavioral Development Stages
- Mastering Puppy Independence
- The Puppies.com blog contains many additional support articles on everything from bathing your new puppy, nail trimming, immunization schedules, bone safety, crate and clicker training, and much more!
Puppies.com is your trusted puppy platform for Paws-itive Puppy Love! Since 2003, Puppies.com has helped millions of puppies find their fur-ever homes from sellers nationwide. Finding your perfect pup is free and easy–and signing up only takes a few minutes.
Add a little wiggle to your life!®
