Are you thinking of getting a new puppy? If so, you may be wondering where the best place to find a free puppy is.
You can get a free puppy by emailing individuals or organizations with firsthand information on free puppies, such as dog shelters and rescues, kennel clubs, or dog breeders. You can also ask your neighbor if their dog has had a new litter of puppies, or search Facebook groups with a ‘free dog adoption’ handle.
We will discuss some of the best options for finding free puppies as well as what you need to know before taking one home. So, whether you are looking for a new furry friend or are just curious about where to find free puppies, keep reading!
11. Local Dog Shelters
Dog shelters, which can be found in most communities in the USA, are mostly government-owned establishments that care for homeless dogs. These pups are either lost, abandoned, or given up by owners who can no longer take care of them.
Because they have a large number of dogs in their facilities, dog shelters will readily give potential and qualified adopters dogs for free in a bid to curb their overpopulation problem.
Dog shelters ensure that puppies have all the vaccinations and required vet care before handing them to you.
Here’s a comprehensive list of dog shelters in all 50 states: https://www.dogloversdigest.com/adoption/state-list-of-shelters-and-rescue-organizations/
10. Adoption Forums
Pet adoption forums are usually online communities comprising rescue shelters and organizations, adopters, fosters, volunteers, professionals, and dog lovers who seek or want to share information about dogs.
You can join a pet forum and ask about adopting a puppy for free or search for posts on free adoption offers. Most forums have free membership with community regulations to abide by. A good example is Maddie’s Pet Forum which sustains animal welfare conversations 24/7.
9. Local Breeders
Going through dog breeders in your neighborhood is one of the rare ways to find a free puppy. Most breeders would have puppies for sale.
Once in a while, however, a breeder may be trying to rehome a litter of puppies that have not found buyers or they may be closing shop and want to find a home for their last litter.
Beware of unscrupulous breeders who may practice unethical breeding and are looking to offload free puppies that are not up to their desired breed‘s standard.
8. Reddit
Reddit is a collection of forums that make subreddits based on any topic. Literally any topic. It is no surprise to find subreddits dedicated to sharing information and news about puppy adoption.
See this post, for example. Someone who says they can’t afford the adoption fee enquires about “anyone giving away free puppies in Philadelphia or near.” A respondent informs them about “some free kittens at my friend’s place.”
7. Craigslist
This online forum allows people to place classified ads to rehome (not sell) pets. You can peruse dog adoption ads in the “community” section to see pictures and information about your potential puppy’s physical looks, age, temperament, and health.
Once decided, you can proceed to engage the owner directly on Craigslist, by phone, or by email and get more info about your potential puppy before you and the owner make the final decision.
6. Newspaper Ads
Local newspapers usually have information about people trying to rehome their puppies. You can find ads on pets with a “Free to a good home” caption in the classifieds section, plus other information on how to contact the owner.
You will not find images or lots of information about the dog in a newspaper ad since every inch of space costs. Instead, you can engage the owner through the contact details included in the ad.
5. Instagram Breeders
Instagram is a raging social network platform that can connect with like-minded individuals easily, especially with the advent of the use of hashtags.
Searching the hashtag #dogforfree on Instagram yields plenty of options. while “Instagram breeder feeds” yield even more. So do “free pups for adoption.”
While it’s easy to find a free puppy on Instagram, it’s important to get all the information about the dog before closing a deal. Animal rights organizations have raised the alarm over unethical pet deals on Instagram, with some describing the social platform as a puppy mill advertiser.
4. Local Dog Rescues
Dog rescues are private organizations caring for dogs rescued from abusive or deplorable home conditions or streets. They work with foster parents who take temporary responsibility until the dogs are successfully rehomed.
Rescues rely on donors and may require a minimal adoption fee to cover vaccines and other food and vet expenses. Stay alert for adoption events at dog rescues, as you can get an adoption fee waiver on such occasions.
3. Facebook Groups
A quick search for “Facebook groups for dog adoption” returns innumerable results. Some of these groups, such as Rehoming-916, have been created to help rehome lost and found pets or to simply divulge information about pets that need rehoming.
You’ll find plenty of posts offering “give away puppies” and adult dogs for free, with the advantage that you can immediately express interest by messaging the pet owner and following up on the adoption process.
2. Neighbors
When a dog with an unexpected pregnancy, the typical thing a dog owner might do is ask their neighbors if they want a puppy once they are born. This is because it assures them that the puppy is going into trusted hands.
You could also take the initiative and ask for a free puppy if you notice that your neighbor’s dog is expectant or has just given birth. Neighbors could also be your link to their friends and family rehoming puppies, as well as information sharing when it comes to taking care of your new canine family member.
1. Email For Referrals
The fastest way of getting a free puppy is by being proactive. You can do that by writing a message, “looking for a free puppy,” and emailing it to persons or organizations with firsthand information for referrals on giveaway puppies. They include:
- Breeders
- Rescues and shelters
- National and local kennel clubs
- Animal rights organizations
- Neighbors
Your email could also be a response to invitations such as “Waiving Adoption Fees at the ASPCA’s Adoption Center.”
Related Questions
Are There Paperwork Required To Get a Free Puppy?
There is no specific paperwork required to get a free puppy, but you may need to provide proof of income, residency, and other general information to the organization or individual giving away the puppy. Additionally, some organizations may require you to fill out an application and/or meet certain criteria in order to be eligible to receive a free puppy.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Free Puppy?
This can vary based on a number of factors, including the specific breed of puppy you’re interested in, where you adopt from, and more. However, in general, it’s important to be prepared for a long wait if you’re hoping to adopt a free puppy – often, there can be significant demand for these animals, and shelters or rescue organizations may have long waiting lists.
Should You Buy Or Adopt A Puppy?
There are pros and cons to both adopting a puppy from a shelter and buying one from a breeder. Adopting a puppy from a shelter is usually cheaper than buying one from a breeder, and you may be able to find a mixed-breed dog that is right for you. However, puppies in shelters may have come from abusive or neglectful homes and may need extra care and training.
