Learn How to Adopt Puppy Bowl Dogs

The Puppy Bowl isn’t just about adorable puppies playing football—it’s also about helping shelter dogs find loving homes. Every year, this heartwarming event features rescue puppies from shelters across the country, giving them a chance to be seen by millions of viewers. The best part? Many of these puppies are available for adoption!

If you’ve ever watched the Puppy Bowl and thought, “I would love to bring one of these puppies home!”, you’re not alone. These dogs often get adopted quickly, but even if your favorite pup is already taken, there are plenty of other rescue dogs waiting for a second chance.

Wondering how to adopt Puppy Bowl dogs? Adopting a rescue dog is a wonderful way to give a pet a new life while also supporting animal shelters. In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

✔️ How to find Puppy Bowl dogs available for adoption
✔️ The adoption process and what to expect
✔️ How to prepare for your new furry friend

Let’s get started!

Understanding the Puppy Bowl and Its Mission

The Puppy Bowl is more than just a game, it’s a chance for rescue puppies to find loving homes. But how did it start, and why is it so important? Let’s dive in!

What is the Puppy Bowl?

The Puppy Bowl is a fun event on Super Bowl Sunday where rescue puppies play a cute football game. But it’s more than just fun, it helps shelter dogs find loving homes. Since 2005, it has helped thousands of puppies get adopted.

How Shelters and Rescues Join

The puppies come from shelters all over the country. Here’s how it works:

✔️ Shelters sign up to be part of the event.
✔️ Puppies are picked based on health and playfulness.
✔️ They play in the Puppy Bowl, and people watching can adopt them.

Most puppies find homes fast, but there are always more dogs waiting to be adopted!

Why Adoption Matters

So many dogs are in shelters, hoping for a family. The Puppy Bowl helps people see how great rescue dogs are.

🐶 They need love and care.
🐶 Adopting saves lives.
🐶 You’ll get a loyal best friend.

If you’re thinking about getting a dog, adopting is a wonderful way to find a new furry friend!

How to Find Puppy Bowl Dogs Available for Adoption?

Every year, the Puppy Bowl helps adorable rescue puppies find loving homes. But how can you adopt one of these pups? Let’s explore the steps to bring home your new furry friend!

Where to Look?

Want to adopt a Puppy Bowl dog? Here’s how to find one:

✔️ Check the Official Website – The Animal Planet and Puppy Bowl website list shelters with available puppies.
✔️ Follow Shelters on Social Media – Many rescues post updates about their Puppy Bowl stars and other adoptable dogs.
✔️ Visit Local Shelters – Some shelters near you might have dogs from the event or similar adorable pups waiting for homes.

Even if the exact Puppy Bowl puppies are already adopted, there are many other amazing dogs looking for love!

How to Adopt Puppy Bowl Dogs?

Want to bring home one of the adorable Puppy Bowl pups? Here’s how to find your perfect furry teammate!

Find Participating Shelters

• Check the Puppy Bowl website, Animal Planet, or their social media for a list of shelters involved.
• Many shelters highlight Puppy Bowl puppies on their websites or at special adoption events.
• Contact the shelter early, as these pups tend to get adopted quickly!

Learn About Adoption Requirements

• Most shelters require you to be 18 years or older to adopt.
• Your home should be pet-friendly, this may mean having a fenced yard, landlord approval, or a safe indoor space.
• Adoption is a lifelong commitment, so be ready to provide food, vet care, training, and lots of love.
• Some shelters may conduct home checks or require a meet-and-greet with other pets in your home.

Submit an Adoption Application

• Fill out an application with details about your home, lifestyle, and experience with pets.
• Some shelters require personal references or an interview to ensure you’re a good match.
• Be honest about what you’re looking for, do you want an active, playful pup or a more relaxed companion?

Meet Your Puppy

• Visit the shelter or attend a Puppy Bowl adoption event to meet the dogs in person.
• Spend time playing and interacting to see which puppy’s personality fits you best.
• Ask important questions about the puppy’s health, vaccinations, temperament, and any special needs.

Finalize the Adoption

• Pay the adoption fee, which typically covers vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter services.
• Sign an adoption agreement, promising to provide a responsible, loving home.
• Prepare your home with food, a comfy bed, toys, and essential supplies before bringing your new pup home.

Bonus Tips

• Be patient! Some puppies may need time to adjust to their new home.
• Stay in touch with the shelter, many offer training tips, vet recommendations, and support.
• Consider adopting other rescue dogs if Puppy Bowl pups are already taken, there are always great dogs in need of a home!

Adopting a Puppy Bowl dog means giving a rescue pup a second chance at a happy life. 

Preparing Your Home for a Puppy Bowl Dog

Bringing home a Puppy Bowl pup? Here’s how to get your space ready for your new furry teammate!

Gather Essential Supplies

Make sure you have everything your new pup will need, including:

• Food & Water Bowls – Choose sturdy, non-slip bowls.
• High-Quality Puppy Food – Ask the shelter what your pup has been eating to avoid tummy troubles.
• A Cozy Bed – A soft, comfortable spot where your pup can rest.
• Leash & Collar (or Harness) – Essential for walks and training.
• Crate & Puppy Pads – Helps with potty training and provides a safe space.
• Toys & Chew Items – Keeps your pup entertained and helps with teething.

Puppy-Proof Your Home

• Just like baby-proofing, you need to make your home safe for a curious pup:Secure Electrical Cords – Keep them out of reach to prevent chewing.
• Remove Toxic Plants & Hazardous Items – Many household plants and foods (like chocolate and grapes) are dangerous for dogs.
• Block Off Unsafe Areas – Use baby gates if needed.
• Put Away Small Objects – Puppies love to chew, so keep shoes, remote controls, and other small items out of reach.

Establish a Routine

Dogs thrive on structure! Set up a schedule for:

• Feeding Times – Puppies usually eat 2-3 times a day.
• Potty Breaks & Walks – Regular bathroom breaks help with training.
• Play & Training Sessions – Socialization and basic commands (sit, stay, come) start early!
• Sleep Schedule – Puppies need lots of rest, so establish a bedtime routine.

A little preparation goes a long way in making the transition smooth for your new pup. Get ready for lots of cuddles, tail wags, and fun with your Puppy Bowl MVP! 

Life After Adoption – Caring for Your Puppy Bowl Dog

Bringing your Puppy Bowl pup home is exciting! Here’s how to help them adjust.

Schedule a Vet Visit

• Get a checkup to make sure your puppy is healthy.
• Ask about vaccinations and any boosters they need.
• Talk about flea and tick prevention to keep them safe.

Start Training and Socializing

• Teach simple commands like sit and stay.
• Be consistent with potty training and take them outside often.
• Introduce them to new people and places slowly.
• Use treats and praise to reward good behavior.

Give Love and Patience

• Let them adjust to their new home at their own pace.
• Create a cozy space with a bed and toys.
• Keep them active with daily walks and play.
• Show love and patience as they grow and learn.

With care and patience, your Puppy Bowl pup will settle in and become part of the family.

Alternative Ways to Adopt a Rescue Dog

If you can’t adopt a Puppy Bowl dog, there are still plenty of great options.

Check Local Shelters

• Visit nearby shelters or look online to see available dogs.
• There are lots of loving dogs waiting for a home.

Look Into Breed Rescues

• If you have a favorite breed, check breed-specific rescue groups.
• They help match dogs with the right families.

Try Foster-to-Adopt

• Some shelters let you foster a dog first.
• If it feels right, you can adopt them for good.

No matter how you adopt, you’re giving a dog a second chance at a happy life!

Supporting Animal Shelters and Rescues

Even if you’re not ready to adopt, you can still help rescue dogs in big ways!

Volunteer or Donate

• Help at a shelter by walking dogs, cleaning, or just giving them love.
• Donate food, blankets, or toys, shelters always need supplies.
• If you can, give money to help with vet care and shelter costs.

Spread the Word

• Tell friends and family about adopting rescue dogs.
• Share shelter posts on social media to help dogs find homes.
• Teach others about responsible pet care, like spaying and neutering.

Foster a Dog

• If you can’t adopt, fostering is a great way to help.
• It gives dogs a safe home while they wait for adoption.
• Plus, it frees up space in shelters for more rescues.

Every little effort makes a difference for these dogs.

Conclusion

Adopting a Puppy Bowl dog is a wonderful way to give a rescue pup a loving home. These dogs have been through a lot, and your kindness gives them a fresh start. But even if you don’t adopt from the Puppy Bowl, there are so many other amazing dogs in shelters waiting for a family.

When you adopt, you’re not just saving one life, you’re also helping shelters make space for more rescues. If adoption isn’t possible right now, you can still make a difference by fostering, donating, or volunteering. Even spreading the word about adoption helps more dogs find homes.

Every effort, big or small, gives a rescue dog a better chance at a happy life. And in return, they’ll bring endless love, joy, and loyalty into yours!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bill Ivey

Pet trainer with a passion for helping animals and owners build strong, loving bonds through positive reinforcement and expert care.