It’s a magical moment when a puppy arrives at your door, wagging its tail and begging for love, eager to become your companion for years to come. Whether you want a playful Cavoodle to curl up on your lap, a bouncy Border Collie to go hiking on weekends, or a mellow Golden Retriever to grow up with your kids, there’s no shortage of ways to welcome your new best friend into your heart – and home – when in Australia.
However, a little not-so-secret secret for responsible pet owners is that there’s more to it than just sourcing your ideal breed. The source from which you acquire a new puppy matters just as much; not only will it affect your family dynamic for years to come, but it impacts the wider Australian animal community. Therefore, you must make ethical and informed choices from the get-go.
That’s where PetsForHomes.com.au comes in. As Australia’s most trusted free pet classifieds website, PetsForHomes connects you with responsible breeders and rescue organisations and other loving pet owners. Whether you’re looking for puppies for adoption or an ethical dog breeder in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and beyond, PetsForHomes.com.au makes the process safer, more transparent, and truly effective.
The Main Options for Adopting a Puppy in Australia
A quick google search of “adopt a puppy in Australia” brings up lots of potential places to choose from, with pros and cons, levels of time commitment and responsibility. The following options can help you break it down so you can see what decision will work best for your family.
Shelters/Rescues
When you adopt a puppy from a shelter or rescue organisation, it’s not so much a matter of adopting a puppy as it is adopting a puppy who needs a home. Each year, countless dogs end up in shelters across Australia. When you adopt from a shelter, you play your part from the get-go to avoid euthanising and give an animal – who truly deserves it – the care and love it needs.
The best rescue organisations rehabilitate and assess animals’ health, getting them into homes sooner rather than later. Most rescue puppies are vaccinated, microchipped and desexed (except for puppies that are too young to be desexed), and health checks are completed.
Pros:
- Supporting animal welfare and rehoming efforts
- Lower adoption fees (typically $200-$500)
- Puppies come health-checked and vaccinated
- Contributing to reducing shelter overcrowding
Cons:
- Limited breed selection
- May have unknown background or health history
- Popular breeds are adopted quickly
- Age and temperament may vary
Want to find puppies for sale online? PetsForHomes is a #1 online marketplace where you can find rescues and puppies that need to be adopted or rehomed without having to go to various shelters. Simply search for your state, the breed you’re looking for, and browse profiles to inquire.
Registered Dog Breeders
Suppose you want a distinct breed with certain characteristics, health history and temperament. In that case, getting a puppy from a registered breeder will assure you of getting a healthy puppy raised in ethical conditions.
Ethical breeders will breed dogs for the right reasons (not for profit), do genetic health testing, socialise the pups with numerous other dogs and people, and have high standards for creating a quality of life for the dog.
Look for breeders that uphold high ethical breeder standards, like Responsible Pet Breeders Australia (RPBA), which requires all its breeders to conform to the most ethical breeding standards possible. They require documentation that checks welfare requirements concerning kennel health and a compassionate approach to breeding intent.
Pros:
- Predictable personality traits and characteristics
- Health testing
- Documented breeding history
- Breeder support post-adoption
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost ($2,000-$5,000+)
- May have to wait if certain breeds are in high demand
- Must vet breeders
- Not all breeds in stock at all times (high demand)
Breeders on PetsForHomes will include their breeder registration numbers in their ads, meaning you can verify they’re on the up and up. In addition, the transparency of the site means you can view credentials, see pictures of puppies before adopting, and have direct access to the breeder through a reputable site that vets all ads on its own.
Important breeder checklist:
- Visit the breeder in person before committing to getting a puppy from them
- Meet the puppy’s parents when possible to see their temperament and health
- Ask about health testing and guarantees
- Request to see registration papers
- Observe the living conditions and socialisation practices of the breeder
Private Rehoming Listings
Life happens. Sometimes a loving family must rehome a puppy when they can no longer keep it. It may be for an unexpected move, growing family, health changes, or financial changes that prevent them from being able to properly care for and keep a puppy. Private rehoming is a great way to get a puppy and help a family transition through a difficult change.
Puppies in this situation might come from a maintained household that has cared for the animal thus far with love and attention and even basic training. In some cases, all belongings are included, making this transition easy for both owner and new puppy.
Pros:
- Lower rehoming fee than from a breeder
- May come with supplies, crate, and toys
- Already acclimated to home life
- Can gain insight into the full history of the puppy from the owner
Cons:
- No formalised documentation required
- Must vet the situation extensively
- Scams run rampant on non-vetted sites
- Health information not always accurate
PetsForHomes takes private rehoming to the next level since it has verified accounts and secure messaging. This way, rehoming families and adopting families can provide and receive transparency about why the puppy is being rehomed, past medical histories, and whether any red flags exist.
What to Look for Before You Adopt
Before you let that puppy dog face get to you and your heart melts, get educated. Educated adoption will shield you, your family and future pup from unfortunate surprises and ensure that the new pup goes to a loving, reputable home. Educated adopting starts with the following:
Papers and Facts
- Vaccination papers – All puppies should be vaccinated up to date (C3 or C5) depending on age.
- Microchip paperwork – It is a legal requirement in Australia for all dogs to be microchipped before re-homing/adoption
- Worming information – Puppies should be wormed and on a worming schedule – and provided with papers that say so.
- Vet check – Puppies should be vet checked in the last few weeks.
- Desexing status: Confirm whether this has been done or is required
Breeder or Shelter Credentials
- Registration numbers: RPBA ID for breeders, charity registration for rescues
- Membership verification: Check membership with recognised breeding associations
- References: Ask for references from previous puppy buyers
- Online presence: Legitimate breeders and shelters have established reputations
Safe Environment Assessment
- In-person visits: Never buy a puppy without meeting them first
- Living conditions: Observe where the puppies are raised
- Parent health: Meet the mother (and father if possible)
- Socialisation: Puppies should be well-adjusted and comfortable with handling
Understanding Adoption Fees
An acceptable adoption fee is a fee that corresponds to:
- Vet check & assessments
- Vaccination & microchipping
- Food and maintenance
- Breeding costs (if they come from a reputable breeder)
Steer clear of adoption fees that are absurdly low. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. More often than not, if it’s very low, it’s from puppy mills, scams or an animal that hasn’t received proper care.
The PetsForHomes Benefit: Each listing on PetsForHomes has a vet info segment, breeder info, pictures and price so you know what you need to know ahead of time without wasting anyone’s time talking to someone who’s just trying to get rid of an animal and not knowing the back story.
Common Questions About Puppy Adoption
How do I find puppies near me in Australia?
Finding puppies for adoption nearby has never been easier with location-based search tools. PetsForHomes allows you to filter listings by state, region, and even postcode, ensuring you discover puppies available in your local area across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and the ACT.
The platform’s search functionality lets you narrow results by breed, age, price range, and whether you’re looking at shelter rescues, registered breeders, or private rehoming situations. This targeted approach saves hours of searching through multiple websites and helps you focus on realistic, nearby options.
Is it better to adopt from a breeder or shelter?
This common question doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer—it depends entirely on your circumstances, preferences, and what you’re looking for in a canine companion.
Choose a shelter or rescue if:
- You’re open to various breeds and mixes
- You want to support animal welfare directly
- Budget is a significant consideration
- You value giving a second chance to a dog in need
- You’re flexible about age and background
Choose a registered breeder if:
- You need a specific breed for lifestyle, allergies, or purpose
- Predictable temperament and size are important (especially with children)
- You want comprehensive health history and genetic testing
- You’re looking for a working dog or specific traits
- You want ongoing breeder support and guidance
The wonderful news? PetsForHomes supports both pathways equally, recognising that ethical adoption comes in different forms. The platform features verified listings from rescue organisations and registered breeders, so you can explore all options in one trusted space.
How much does it cost to adopt a puppy in Australia?
Costs depend on your source and whether or not the puppy is a purebred or purebred with specific qualities.
Shelters charge:
$200-$500 per puppy
Includes:
- Vaccinations
- Microchip
- Desexed
- Health check
Registered breeders charge:
$2,000-$5,000+ per puppy
- More exotic/rare breeds are costlier depending on demand and quality of breeder
- Cavoodles, Groodles generally $3,000-$5,000
- Working puppies and show quality reach the upper end of $5,000+
Private charge:
$0-$1,500 per puppy
- More commonly free or cheaper, however, good-willed people offer rehoming for anywhere from $200-$1,500 for their costs
- May include items (food, bowls, collars, leashes, crates, etc.)
Note that this is the easy part. The long-term costs of food, vet visits, training classes, insurance, supplies and emergencies should be factored in as well.
Top Puppy Breeds Available for Adoption in Australia
While there are many breeds that Australians love, there are a few favourites that Australians especially love. When going through puppy listings on various dog adoption websites available in Australia or other puppy classifieds Australia has to offer, these breeds are commonly found for sale and/or in need of adoption more than others – and for good reason.
Cavoodle (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel x Poodle)
It’s no secret that Cavoodles have become one of Australia’s most loved designer breeds. The affectionate and eager to please breed is not only friendly but also good with children, making it a go-to breed for many Australian families. In addition, as a low-shedding breed (as well as size and temperament – low maintenance), Cavoodles are great for apartment living.
- Size: Small to Medium (5-12kg)
- Temperament: Friendly, gentle, eager to please
- Energy levels: Moderate
- Grooming: Regular brushing; professional grooming every 6-8 weeks
Best suited for: Families with children; first-time dog owners; apartment dwellers; allergy suffers
Cavoodles, from registered breeders, can run from $3,000-$5,000. The current listings of Cavoodles on PetsForHomes.com.au lists ethical breeders and even some rescues across Australia.
It’s no surprise that the reliable loveable Labrador is Australia’s top breed for pure breeds – it’s number one for a reason. Labrador Retrievers are friendly, smart, and adaptable – great around children, as family companions, assistance animals and even working/retrieving dogs.
- Size: Large (25-36kg)
- Temperament: Outgoing; gentle; loyal; trainable
- Energy levels: High (especially as youth)
- Grooming: Weekly brushing (moderate shedding)
Best suited for: Families with children, those with yards; those in need of a trainable dog; active, busy families who enjoy being outdoors
Labradors run $2,000-$3,500 from registered breeders. They’re also commonly found through rescues. Listings on PetsForHomes show the various options for Labradors – breeders and rescues alike.
For the most intelligent and energetic breed possible, seek out a Border Collie. These dogs were bred specifically to herd livestock on massive properties. There’s no dog sport/competition or training Border Collies won’t conquer. However, they need ample mental stimulation and room to roam to get the most out of life – or else they’re more trouble than they’re worth (but let’s face it – that’s true of all breeds – but especially Border Collies).
- Size: Medium (12-20kg)
- Temperament: Highly intelligent; high energy; very task-focused/response-oriented
- Energy levels: Very high
- Grooming: Moderate – regular brushing is recommended but grooming is not necessary unless noted for aesthetics.
Best suited for: Those who are active with large properties; dog sports enthusiasts; experienced dog owners.
Border Collies from working dog breeders/rescue organisations are often listed on PetsForHomes.com.au as they provide great companionship but require patience and adept thinking so they’re not for novice owners.
Groodle (Golden Retriever x Poodle)
Groodles (also known as Goldendoodles) will soon become one of the most popular designer dogs across Australia. With the fun-loving personality of Golden Retrievers combined with the docile intelligence personality and minimal shedding coat of Poodles, this cross makes for an easy-going/gentle and playful breed to add to any family.
- Size: Medium (15-35kg based on Poodle size used)
- Temperament: Friendly; intelligent; gentle; social
- Energy levels: Moderate-high
- Grooming: Regular brushing and professional grooming needed.
Best Suited For: Families with children; allergy suffers; those who live a moderate-high active lifestyle; first-time owners seeking a gentle breed.
From registered breeders Groodles go from $3,500-$5,500. Listings on PetsForHomes.com.au Groodle listings from RPBA registered breeders across Australia so comparisons can be made based on state-specific puppies available.
The French Bulldog is so cute and popular lately – but how come? With its brachycephalic structure and adorably shaped face, French Bulldogs aren’t very high energy and fit well into apartments/living transient situations. They rarely need exercise but families adore their French Bulldogs like none other!
- Size: Small (8-14kg)
- Temperament: Affectionate; playful; alert; adaptable
- Energy levels: Low-moderate
- Grooming: Minimal except face wrinkles must be wiped constantly.
Best Suited For: Those looking for smaller apartment dwelling pets; low exercise needs; singles/couples who don’t want something overly demanding.
Important note: French Bulldogs are brachycephalic and should only be purchased from registered breeders who do health testing to ensure respiratory systems aren’t lacking from appearance purposes over health purposes.
French Bulldogs run $4,000-$8,000 from registered breeders frequently. PetsForHomes has French Bulldog listings available – like Cavoodles, they’re quite sought after so ethical considerations must be made when looking for breeders who care about their health testing over their appearance’s sake.
Golden Retrievers are everything an Australian family could dream of as a loyal companion – its dependable loyalty, friendliness, and patience makes it a reliable family member! Aside from that, their beautiful coats and gentle personalities make them loved by all.
- Size: Large (25-34kg)
- Temperament: Friendly reliable trustworthy gentle
- Energy levels: Moderate-high
- Grooming: Moderate shedding; regular brushing needed.
Best Suited For: Children within families; first-time owners looking for larger breeds; those looking for loyalty; families with yards.
Golden Retrievers run $2,500-$4,000 from registered breeders frequently – they’re also available through breed-specific rescue organisations occasionally, as well. Check out Golden Retriever puppies on PetsForHomes.com.au for reputable listings for both breeders and rescues!
Finding Your Breed
There are a few popular breeds per state on PetsForHomes.com.au, but there are also many other breeds, ranging from Australian Cattle Dogs and Kelpies to Cocker Spaniels and Dachshunds. Use their filter to browse by breed type, read breed information to learn more, and contact verified breeders and rescue organisations directly when you decide on your ideal breed.
How PetsForHomes Makes Adoption Easier
Looking for a puppy should be exciting, not stressful or risky. PetsForHomes.com.au was created to help you avoid the pitfalls of ethical dilemmas during your search and connect you with legitimate sources in a transparent manner.
Verified Breeders and Rescue Listings
Not all puppy listing sites are created equal. PetsForHomes.com.au employs KYC verification measures to shield you from scam puppy farm operators and other unethical breeding concerns. Legitimate breeders will have their RPBA verification number indicated, and charities will show their charity registration. In this way, you can browse in confidence with the knowledge that what you’re looking at comes from a reputable source with responsibility behind it.
Every State and Territory in Australia Covered
Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, or Darwin, PetsforHomes.com.au has access to puppies in every state and territory in Australia. With a geographical filter, you can search the pup closest to home but you can also expand your search to other parts of the country for the breed or bloodline of your dreams.
Secure Contact System
One of the biggest drawbacks to online puppy advertising is scams. Fake listings, fake deposits, fake puppies. PetsForHomes hosts a secure contact system that shields both parties from exposure to criminal activity while finding legitimate sources. You can message breeders, shelters and rehomers without having your personal information available to the public until you’re comfortable sharing it down the line.
Free Listings for Breeders and Shelters
While many reputable puppy listing sites charge hefty fees for reputable people to list their puppies, PetsForHomes allows breeders and rescue shelters to post for free. This means more ethical individuals will choose this site to list their puppies, which gives you access to more reputable options to choose from – without cost passed onto you via higher prices.
Transparency in Pricing and Health Information
Each PetsForHomes advertisement has separate fields for:
- Price (no price bumps post purchase)
- Health records and vaccinations
- Microchip information
- Breeder information
- Temperament and history
- Pictures (more than one, not stock images)
This information makes it easier to objectively assess and compare choices before wasting too much time on in-person meetings or extended conversations. There are no surprises. No small print to be revealed after you’ve already fallen in love.
Educational Resources
Beyond listings, PetsForHomes provides guides, breed information, and adoption advice to help you navigate the entire process. From understanding breed characteristics to preparing your home for a new puppy, the platform supports responsible pet ownership from the very first search.
Community of Responsible Pet Lovers
By choosing PetsForHomes, you’re joining a community that values animal welfare, ethical breeding practices, and responsible rehoming. The platform actively works to raise standards across Australia’s pet industry by promoting verified, accountable sources and educating adopters about what to look for in ethical breeders and rescue organisations.
Ready to Find Your New Best Friend?
Your journey to bringing home a puppy should be filled with excitement, not uncertainty. Whether you’re drawn to the cuddles of a Cavoodle, the loyalty of a Labrador, or the intelligence of a Border Collie, the perfect companion is waiting for you somewhere in Australia right now.
The difference between a wonderful adoption experience and a heartbreaking one often comes down to choosing the right source. By prioritising verified breeders, registered rescue organisations, and transparent private rehomers, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re supporting ethical practices that improve animal welfare across Australia.
Explore hundreds of verified puppy listings on PetsForHomes.com.au—where ethical breeders, dedicated rescues, and responsible pet owners connect to find puppies their perfect forever homes. Search by breed, location, and price to discover your new best friend today.
