What to Ask When Adopting a Puppy in the USA: A Complete Guide

Adopting a puppy is an exciting experience, but choosing the right puppy involves more than falling in love with a cute photo. Before bringing a new puppy home, it is important to ask the right questions about the puppy’s health, temperament, background, care, documentation, and living arrangements.

Whether you are adopting locally in the United States or arranging to have a puppy transported to another country, asking detailed questions can help you make an informed decision and prepare properly for your new companion.

This guide explains what to ask before adopting a puppy in the USA and what information you should have before making a commitment.

1. How Old Is the Puppy?

Start with the puppy’s exact age and date of birth.

Knowing the puppy’s age helps you understand its current stage of development, vaccination schedule, feeding needs, training progress, and readiness to leave its current home.

Ask:

• What is the puppy’s date of birth?
• How old is the puppy now?
• When will the puppy be ready to go home?
• Has the puppy already started basic training?
• Is the puppy eating solid food independently?

A responsible puppy provider should be able to give you clear information about the puppy’s age and development.

2. Has the Puppy Been Examined by a Veterinarian?

A veterinary examination is one of the most important things to ask about before adopting a puppy.

Ask when the puppy was last examined and whether the veterinarian identified any health concerns.

You can ask:

• Has the puppy received a complete veterinary examination?
• When was the most recent examination?
• Did the veterinarian identify any health concerns?
• Can I receive a copy of the veterinary records?
• Has the puppy been tested or examined for any breed-specific concerns?

If you are adopting from a rescue organization, shelter, breeder, or puppy placement provider, ask what medical records are available before making arrangements.

3. Which Vaccinations Has the Puppy Received?

Vaccinations are an important part of puppy care. Ask for the puppy’s vaccination history rather than simply accepting a general statement that the puppy is vaccinated.

Ask:

• Which vaccinations has the puppy received?
• What dates were the vaccinations given?
• When is the next vaccination due?
• Can I receive written vaccination records?
• Has the puppy received any other preventive treatments?

Your veterinarian can then review the records and recommend the next steps after the puppy arrives.

4. Has the Puppy Been Dewormed or Treated for Parasites?

Puppies commonly receive parasite prevention as part of their early veterinary care.

Ask whether the puppy has been dewormed and whether the provider has records showing the treatment dates.

Questions can include:

• Has the puppy been dewormed?
• What medication was used?
• When was the most recent treatment?
• Has the puppy received flea or tick prevention?
• Has the puppy been tested for intestinal parasites?

Keeping accurate records makes it easier for your veterinarian to continue the puppy’s preventive-care schedule.

5. Can I See the Puppy’s Health Records?

Do not rely only on verbal descriptions. Ask to review the documents associated with the puppy.

Depending on the provider and the puppy’s circumstances, records may include vaccination information, veterinary examination records, identification information, treatment records, and other relevant documents.

Ask the provider to explain anything you do not understand before completing the adoption or purchase process.

6. What Is the Puppy’s Temperament Like?

A puppy’s appearance is only one part of choosing the right companion. Temperament can be just as important.

Ask how the puppy behaves around people and other animals.

For example:

• Is the puppy playful or more relaxed?
• Does the puppy enjoy being handled?
• How does the puppy respond to unfamiliar people?
• Has the puppy been around children?
• Has the puppy been around other dogs or pets?
• Does the puppy show signs of being particularly shy or nervous?
• What activities does the puppy enjoy?

These questions can help you determine whether the puppy’s personality fits your household.

7. What Does the Puppy Eat?

Changing a puppy’s food suddenly can cause digestive problems. Before bringing the puppy home, ask what food the puppy currently eats.

Find out:

• What brand and type of food does the puppy eat?
• How many times a day is the puppy fed?
• What portion size does the puppy receive?
• Does the puppy have any known food sensitivities?
• What treats does the puppy currently receive?

If you plan to change the puppy’s diet, discuss the transition with your veterinarian.

8. What Training Has the Puppy Started?

Ask about the puppy’s current training rather than assuming it is fully trained.

A young puppy may have started learning basic behaviors but still require considerable training after arriving in its new home.

Ask whether the puppy has been introduced to:

• Potty training
• Crate training
• Basic commands
• Leash walking
• Handling and grooming
• Household routines
• Socialization with people and other animals

Understanding the puppy’s current level of training allows you to continue the process consistently.

9. What Is Included With the Adoption?

Before making arrangements, ask exactly what you will receive with the puppy.

Depending on the organization or provider, this may include medical records, identification information, food, a blanket, toys, or other supplies.

You should receive a clear explanation of what is included and whether any additional costs apply.

If registration or pedigree documents are advertised, ask what organization issued them and what the documents actually represent.

10. What Is the Adoption or Purchase Process?

Every organization or provider may have a different process.

Ask:

• What steps are required to reserve the puppy?
• Is an application required?
• Is there an adoption fee or purchase price?
• Are deposits refundable or non-refundable?
• When is the remaining balance due?
• What paperwork must be completed?
• When can the puppy leave?
• What happens if the adoption cannot proceed?

Understanding the complete process beforehand can prevent misunderstandings later.

11. Can I Verify the Puppy and the Provider?

Before sending money, take reasonable steps to verify who you are dealing with and confirm that the puppy actually exists and is available.

Ask for current information about the puppy and request appropriate documentation.

When possible, use live video communication to see the puppy and observe its environment. You can also ask questions that demonstrate whether the provider knows the puppy’s history, daily routine, health records, and care needs.

Be cautious when someone refuses reasonable verification, provides inconsistent information, or creates unusual pressure to send money immediately.

12. What Is the Puppy’s Current Location?

Knowing the puppy’s exact current location is especially important when you are arranging transportation.

Ask:

• What city and state is the puppy currently in?
• Can I arrange pickup?
• Is transportation available?
• Who will handle the transportation?
• How will I receive updates during the journey?

If you are located outside the United States, also ask whether the provider has experience arranging international pet transportation.

13. What Transportation Options Are Available?

If the puppy needs to travel a significant distance, ask how transportation will be handled.

A responsible transportation plan should clearly explain the method of travel, timing, required documentation, and who is responsible for each part of the process.

For international travel, do not assume that a standard domestic shipping process will meet the requirements of your destination country.

USDA APHIS explains that every destination country establishes its own requirements for pets traveling from the United States. These requirements can include specific vaccinations, tests, treatments, and health certificates.

14. What Documents Are Needed for International Travel?

If you are adopting a puppy in the USA and taking the puppy to another country, discuss the travel requirements before completing the transaction.

Ask:

• What health certificate will be required?
• Does the destination country require an import permit?
• Are specific vaccinations required?
• Is a microchip required?
• Are laboratory tests required?
• Does the health certificate need USDA endorsement?
• What deadlines apply to the veterinary paperwork?

USDA APHIS recommends contacting a USDA-accredited veterinarian as soon as possible because international pet requirements vary by destination and the preparation process can take weeks or even months.

The destination country’s requirements should always be checked before travel because rules can change.

15. What Is the Puppy’s Expected Adult Size?

If you are choosing a small breed puppy, ask about expected adult size.

This is particularly useful for families living in apartments or homes with limited space.

For families considering a Chihuahua, you can explore available Chihuahua puppies and compare individual puppy information before making a decision.

Ask:

• What is the puppy’s current weight?
• What are the parents’ sizes?
• What is the expected adult weight?
• Is the puppy considered a toy, miniature, or standard size?
• Are there any factors that could affect its expected adult size?

Remember that adult size estimates are not guarantees. Genetics, nutrition, health, and other factors can influence growth.

16. Are the Puppy’s Parents Available to Meet?

When appropriate, ask whether you can see the puppy’s parents.

Seeing the parents can provide useful information about their appearance, temperament, and general condition. It can also give you a better understanding of the puppy’s family background.

If the parents are not available, ask why and request whatever reliable background information is available.

17. What Is the Puppy’s Socialization History?

Early experiences can influence how a puppy responds to people, animals, sounds, handling, and new environments.

Ask what the puppy has experienced so far.

For example:

• Has the puppy spent time around adults?
• Has the puppy been around children?
• Has the puppy interacted with other dogs?
• Has the puppy experienced normal household sounds?
• Has the puppy been handled regularly?
• Has the puppy traveled in a vehicle?

A puppy that has experienced appropriate socialization may have an easier transition into a new household, although continued socialization remains important.

18. Is There a Health Guarantee or Return Policy?

If the provider offers a health guarantee, read the terms carefully before agreeing to anything.

Do not rely solely on the phrase “health guarantee.” Ask what it actually covers and how long it lasts.

Also ask:

• What health conditions are covered?
• What veterinary examination is required after arrival?
• What happens if a veterinarian discovers a covered condition?
• Are there specific deadlines for reporting a health issue?
• Is there a return or rehoming policy?

Keep a copy of the agreement and all related documents.

19. What Should I Prepare Before the Puppy Arrives?

Once you have chosen a puppy, prepare your home before the arrival date.

Basic preparations may include:

• Food appropriate for the puppy’s age
• Food and water bowls
• A comfortable sleeping area
• A crate or safe enclosure
• Puppy-safe toys
• Collar and identification
• Leash
• Cleaning supplies
• Appropriate grooming supplies
• A plan for veterinary care

You should also puppy-proof areas where the new dog will spend time.

20. What Should I Ask My Veterinarian After Adoption?

Schedule veterinary care soon after your puppy arrives and bring all available records to the appointment.

Your veterinarian can review the puppy’s vaccination history, discuss parasite prevention, assess general health, and help establish an appropriate care schedule.

If the puppy has traveled internationally, bring the travel and health documentation with you.

For international travel, USDA APHIS notes that the destination country’s requirements determine which health certificates, vaccinations, tests, or treatments may be necessary.

Choosing the Right Breed for Your Family

The questions you ask should also reflect the breed you are considering. Different small breeds can have different grooming needs, activity levels, temperaments, and care requirements.

For example, families interested in a Maltese puppy may want to ask additional questions about coat care and grooming. Someone considering a Pomeranian puppy may want to learn more about grooming and daily activity needs.

Families considering a Yorkie puppy, Maltipoo puppy, or Morkie puppy can also compare individual puppy information and consider which characteristics fit their household.

Other families may prefer a Dachshund puppy or Poodle puppy. Regardless of breed, asking detailed questions before making a commitment can help you understand what to expect.

Questions to Ask Before Adopting a Puppy: Quick Checklist

Before making a final decision, make sure you have answers to these important questions:

1. How old is the puppy?
2. What is the puppy’s date of birth?
3. Has the puppy been examined by a veterinarian?
4. Which vaccinations has the puppy received?
5. Has the puppy been dewormed?
6. Are the veterinary records available?
7. What is the puppy’s temperament?
8. Has the puppy been socialized?
9. What food does the puppy eat?
10. What training has the puppy started?
11. What is the puppy’s expected adult size?
12. What documents are included?
13. What is the adoption or purchase process?
14. What are the payment and refund terms?
15. Where is the puppy currently located?
16. How will transportation be arranged?
17. What happens if the puppy is traveling internationally?
18. What health certificate or other documents are required?
19. Does the provider offer a written health guarantee?
20. What should you prepare before the puppy arrives?

Final Thoughts

Adopting a puppy should be an exciting experience, but taking the time to ask questions can help you make a more informed decision. Learn about the puppy’s health, temperament, background, training, diet, documentation, and transportation arrangements before making a commitment.

For families adopting a puppy in the United States and arranging international travel, documentation deserves particular attention. Requirements differ by destination, so prospective owners should confirm the current requirements that apply to their specific destination before making travel arrangements.

The right questions also help you prepare your home and your family for the puppy’s arrival. Whether you are looking for a Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian, Yorkie, Maltipoo, Morkie, Dachshund, Poodle, or another small breed, focus on finding a puppy whose health, temperament, care needs, and lifestyle fit your household.

Most importantly, do not rush the decision. Gather the information you need, review the documentation carefully, and make sure you understand the responsibilities involved before welcoming your new puppy home.