Thinking Of Adopting A Puppy Bowl Dog? There's A Twist

Every year, millions of shelter animals in the United States face uncertain futures, with over 6 million entering shelters annually and nearly 920,000 euthanized, per the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). During the pandemic, pet adoptions surged as families sought companionship, but post-pandemic realities, including rising costs, have caused these numbers to decline. This makes the Puppy Bowl — a heartwarming tradition featuring adoptable shelter dogs — not just fun entertainment but a vital reminder of the importance of giving these animals a second chance.

The Puppy Bowl, airing on Discovery+ and Animal Planet on February 9, 2025, will feature 142 adorable puppies from 80 shelters across 40 states and two countries. It exists for a greater purpose than showcasing cute animals — it's a celebration of pet adoption and an urgent call to action. The Puppy Bowl spotlights shelters and rescue organizations, spreading awareness about how to find a furry friend in need.

However, this premise comes with a twist: Unlike many of your favorite sporting events, the Puppy Bowl is pre-recorded months in advance. "It's three months of preparation because it's two full days of shooting. Plus it's 21 cameras on the field. So that's a lot of footage to edit and turn into a two-hour show," explained "rufferee" Dan Schachner in a 2019 interview with Mental Floss."By the time the Puppy Bowl actually airs, most of these puppies have already found their forever homes."

For those interested in the Puppy Bowl dogs, the official website makes a great starting point. It lists the participating shelters and rescues involved in the event. Contacting these organizations can help you learn about other animals currently in need of homes. Even if your favorite Puppy Bowl star is no longer available, many shelters have similar dogs with comparable breeds, personalities, or energy levels that could make a perfect match.

Adopting any shelter animal typically involves several steps. Usually, prospective adopters will first browse online listings or visit the shelter to meet the available pets. Next, they will submit an application, often followed by a meet-and-greet to assess compatibility. Finally, many shelters require a home visit and the completion of additional paperwork before finalizing the adoption. This process ensures pups are placed in safe and loving environments. If you're new to dog adoption, our step-by-step guide can help you navigate the journey.

Whether you're inspired by the Puppy Bowl or a quiet weekend visit to a shelter, adopting a pup is an act of love that transforms lives — both theirs and yours. The Puppy Bowl happens once per year, but the need for loving homes remains constant. Shelters operate year-round, caring for millions of pets waiting for their second chance. Adopting outside of the Puppy Bowl can be just as rewarding, and it often comes with fewer challenges than during high-demand events.

During quieter times, shelters may offer reduced fees or special promotions to encourage adoptions. With less competition, adopters have more time to find the right match. This helps alleviate overcrowding and allows shelters to provide better care for the animals who remain.

To determine if you're ready to adopt a dog, start by assessing your lifestyle and commitment, bearing in mind that up to an estimated 20% of owners return their pets to their original shelters within 6 months (via a 2020 study published in the journal Animals). Once you bring a pet home, transitioning them into your family with patience and care is key. You can set yourself up for success by following a few best practices during your first week with your new dog.