Search dogs across Adelaide

Adelaide offers plenty of coast, urban life and forest trails. Think about the type of lifestyle you want and then you can decide what breed will work best for your lifestyle.

• Apartment or courtyard living: Look for relatively small, low-shedding breeds with calmer temperaments.
• Family homes with yards: You can opt for more playful, active breeds.
• Beach lovers: Look for dogs that are comfortable in the water with good social skills.
• Hills hikers: Find active breeds with steady endurance that are easy to train and good manners.
• Heat and summer sun: Shorter coat breeds will help dogs stay comfortable in the warmer seasons.

Unsure where to start? On PetsForHomes, we have filters for size, coat, activity level, and breed group. Shortlist a few options, then speak with each breeder about day-to-day needs.

Common Questions to Ask your Dog Breeder

Can I meet the parents?

Meeting the dam gives you a little glimpse into what your puppy could potentially be like. Look out for the temperament and body condition of the parent dog. Calm, healthy parents usually lead to well-adjusted pups. If the full litter is present, watch out for their size, energy and how they interact. Check each puppy out to gauge their energy and curiosity.

How do you socialise your puppies?

A good breeder will give puppies the best care possible for before 8 weeks of age, which are crucial times. This means gentle handling, gentle exposure to sounds and experiences, and safe play. Check if basic crate time, name recognition, or simple cues have begun. Early social skills reduce stress when your pup comes home.

Have the parents been examined for genetic conditions?

Each breed faces known health risks. Ask for screening results for hips, elbows, eyes, heart, or DNA tests relevant to that breed. Request the parents’ certificates and the puppy’s health file. Clear, dated paperwork is a sign of a responsible breeder.

What kind of food can I feed the puppy?

Keep the same diet for the first few days. Sudden changes can upset young stomachs. Ask for a diet sheet that lists brand, portion size, and feeding times. When you plan a switch, transition in small steps over a week.

Is the puppy up to date on vaccinations and parasite control?

Ask which vaccines the puppy has received, the dates of each, and what they need next. Find out the next worming and flea schedules. You can also ask for their recommended clinic name, vet visits to date, and any treatments given. Keep this record handy for your first Adelaide vet appointment.

Do you offer a health guarantee and a sales contract?

A careful breeder provides a written contract. Look for:

• Puppy health records
• Copies of parents’ health certificates
• Microchip details and registration info
• Desexing guidance or agreements (if relevant)
• Guarantee terms and any return policy
• Breeder contact details for future support

Buying with confidence on PetsForHomes

• Verified listings: Check profiles, photos, and litter details before you reach out.
• Direct chat: Message breeders to confirm availability, visit times, and paperwork.
• Helpful filters: You can filter listings by breed, size, age, and location across Adelaide and regional SA.
• Education hub: Learn from our helpful guides on training, grooming, and first-week setup.

Preparing for pickup day

Set your home up before your puppy arrives.

• Safe space: A crate or pen, a bed, and chew-safe toys.
• Essentials: Collar, lead, ID tag, bowls, and the same food the breeder uses.
• Toilet plan: Pee pads or a clear yard routine from day one.
• First vet visit: Book a check-up in Adelaide within the first week to settle vaccines and a long-term care plan.

Red flags to avoid

• No sight of the dam
• Vague or missing health records
• Reluctance to discuss screens for breed-specific conditions
• Pressure to pay a deposit without a clear contract
• Puppies offered before eight weeks of age