How to Become a Puppy Foster: A Step by Step Guide
So, you’re thinking about fostering puppies? Amazing! Not only will you be helping puppies get a great start in life, but you’ll also be making a huge impact in the rescue world. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry - I’ve got you covered. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a puppy foster and start changing lives (including your own)!
1. Find a Rescue or Shelter That Needs Fosters
The first step is to connect with a reputable rescue or animal shelter. Almost all shelters and rescues rely on foster homes, especially for young puppies who need extra care. Here’s how to find the right fit:
✔️ Search online for local rescues or shelters in your area. Try looking up “puppy fostering near me” or checking out websites like Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet.
✔️ Check social media. Many rescues post foster needs on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok.
✔️ Reach out directly. If you have a favorite rescue, send them a quick email or message asking if they need fosters. They probably do!
2. Apply to Be a Foster
Once you’ve found a rescue or shelter you’d like to work with, you’ll need to fill out a foster application. This usually includes questions about:
✔️ Your experience with dogs
✔️ Your home setup (house, apartment, fenced yard, etc.)
✔️ Other pets in your home
✔️ How much time you can dedicate to fostering
Don’t stress if you’re new to fostering; most rescues welcome beginners and provide plenty of support!
3. Complete a Home Check (If Required)
Some rescues do a quick home visit or virtual check to make sure your space is safe for puppies. They might look for:
✔️Secure areas where puppies can play
✔️No dangerous items (toxic plants, exposed cords, small choking hazards)
✔️ A plan for potty training and safe setup (like a puppy playpen or baby gates)
It’s not about judging your home; it’s just to make sure the puppies will be safe and comfortable.
4. Get Matched with a Puppy
Once you’re approved, the fun part begins—you’ll be matched with a foster puppy. The rescue will typically consider:
✔️Your experience level (new fosters may get older puppies first)
✔️ Your schedule and lifestyle
✔️ Whether you can take one pup or a pair/siblings. I typically find two puppies easier than one - siblings are built in playmates.
Rescues are great about making sure you’re comfortable with your foster placement. If you’re nervous, just let them know and they’ll guide you through it.
5. Prepare Your Home for Your Foster Puppy
Before your foster pup arrives, you’ll need to set up a safe space for them. Here’s a basic checklist:
✔️ Cozy sleeping area – A puppy playpen, crate, or gated-off space
✔️ Food & bowls – The rescue may provide food, or they’ll tell you what to get
✔️ Toys & chew items – Puppies LOVE to chew, so have safe options ready. I recommend getting some cucumbers and carrots and putting them in the freezer. Puppies go through teething just like babies do, and the cold veggies are a healthy way to soothe their painful teething period.
✔️ Cleaning supplies – Accidents happen. Puppy pads, enzymatic cleaner, and paper towels are lifesavers. Make sure it’s a pet-safe cleaner.
✔️ Any needed meds/supplies – Some fosters need extra care, like formula for bottle babies or medicine for mild illnesses
Worried about the temperature of the space you have available for fostering? A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself if a child could sleep in the space overnight and be comfortable. If the answer is yes, then a puppy would likely also be comfortable.
Make sure to puppy-proof your space! Put away anything chewable, secure trash cans, and block off any dangerous spots.
6. Welcome Your Foster Puppy Home!
When you bring your foster puppy home, keep things calm and let them explore at their own pace. Puppies can be nervous in a new environment, so give them plenty of time to settle in.
✔️ Stick to a routine – Feed them at the same times each day and start a potty training schedule right away.
✔️ Introduce them slowly – If you have other pets, do slow supervised introductions.
✔️ Give them love, but not overwhelm them – Let them approach you for snuggles instead of forcing attention.
Every puppy adjusts differently, so be patient and let them build confidence.
7. Care for Your Foster Until Adoption
Your job as a foster is to help your puppy grow into a happy, well-adjusted dog that’s ready for adoption. That means:
✔️ Basic training: Potty training, crate training, and basic manners
✔️ Socialization: Exposure to new people, sounds, and gentle playtime
✔️ Health monitoring: Watching for signs of illness and keeping up with vet visits (which the rescue usually covers)
✔️ Lots of love: The more positive experiences they have with you, the better!
Some fosters stay for a few weeks, while others need more time. Your rescue will give you a rough timeline based on the puppy’s needs.
8. Help Your Puppy Find Their Forever Home
This is the bittersweet part, but also the most rewarding. When it’s time for your foster puppy to find their forever family, you may be asked to:
✔️ Take cute adoption photos and write a short bio about their personality
✔️ Bring them to adoption events or meet potential adopters
✔️ Give insight on the best home for them (since you know them best)
It can be hard to say goodbye, but your foster pup is getting the amazing home they deserve, thanks to you. And once they’re adopted, you can help another puppy in need.
And hey, if you fall in love and want to adopt, that’s totally okay too - welcome to the foster win club!
Final Thoughts: You Can Do This!
Becoming a foster is one of the best things you can do for puppies in need. It may feel overwhelming at first, but rescues and shelters provide tons of support, and the rewards are absolutely worth it.
If you’ve been thinking about fostering, why not take the first step today? You never know - you might just change a puppy’s life (and yours too)!
Thinking about fostering? Already a seasoned foster? Drop a comment below. I’d love to hear about your experience!
