Have you ever thought about how dogs must feel during adoption? You might be surprised to hear they are usually unsure and scared. This is not hard to believe when you consider the fact that they are about to be taken to a completely unfamiliar place with strange faces and smells. However, this makes it all the more touching when dogs are thrilled to get to know the people who take them in. Luckily, cameras have made it possible to capture these sweet moments. Take a look at the beginning of these wonderful companionships!
Try Not To Be Moved As You See These Dogs Meeting Their Owners For The First Time
First Bite!
Excitement will occasionally bring out the animal hiding inside of us. Well, perhaps just the dog in the adorable little puppy below. We can easily see how thrilled he is to finally meet his human. He could not help but do this to the lucky fellow! “Got your nose”, he was probably thinking.
First Bite!
Worth Keeping
She found this cutie on the side of the road and knew she had to take her to an animal shelter. However, a look at the pooch’s face was all she needed to change her mind. She decided to take her home instead! Honestly, who can blame her when you are faced with something this cute?
Worth Keeping
First Selfie
Fear of photos? That’s not a problem for this pup! She had no hesitations posing for a selfie and even put on her winning smile. This dude hit the jackpot when he decided to take her in. We bet they get along like a house on fire!
First Selfie
Put Your Hands Up
We have no doubts about the way this doggie feels about the adoption. We are so glad that her new owners look just as thrilled to make her a part of the family! This is such a lovely way to begin their future together.
Put Your Hands Up
Morning Call
Are you a big fan of breakfast in bed? So are we! However, we would still have to say that nothing will ever top a puppy wakeup call. How we would love to wake up to this cute pup’s face every single morning. That would be the ideal way to begin the day!
Morning Call
Loving Look
Clearly, these two are absolutely smitten with one another. If anything, they are likely thinking about all the years of adventures that they will have together. The skeptics might be convinced that this cutie is only “guilting” her new owner into adding more treats to her bowl.
Loving Look
Happy Smile
What more can you ask for if you were this dog? She is basking in the sunshine and being hugged by her owner, so this is the ideal day for her. That smile tells us everything we need to know. She looks so contented and happy that we are a little jealous.
Happy Smile
Lovey-Dovey
When you adopt a dog, we hope you are ready to shower them with all the hugs and kisses you could possibly give. This lovey-dovey photo makes for the perfect example. We can see how much her disposition has improved after she was taken out of the shelter and into her forever home.
Lovey-Dovey
Cute Christmas Present
He had been writing a puppy on top of his Christmas wish list every single year, and she kept telling him ‘no’. After all, it only means additional costs and a messier house. However, she finally conceded this year! Don’t you just love the face he made when he realized that his wish has finally come true?
Cute Christmas Present
Puppy Love
When you go into law enforcement, you must be prepared to endure a lot of stress about work. We daresay police officers have the toughest job out there. Although they might look tough, even they cannot help but dote on adorable pups. This cop practically melted as he cuddled up with his buddy!
Puppy Love
Rock-a-bye Baby
She could not stop herself from cradling her new dog the moment they met. We can see just how much she adores him, and he seems to enjoy it! That smile on his face means he likes being treated like a baby. The two of them are ready for a lifetime together.
Rock-a-bye Baby
A Bear Of A Dog
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. “I went to adopt a dog and ended up with a bear,” said this Redditor. Despite this, he sure looked happy with the huge dog he ended up adopting. We bet he now has nothing to fear with this new friend by his side.
A Bear Of A Dog
Cute First Photo
When adopting dogs, people rarely go for senior dogs. One of the reasons for this is that older dogs have a higher chance of having a health complication that could end up costing them a lot of money. However, we admire that this fella was ready to risk it for this doggie. They took this photo right outside the shelter. Isn’t that lolling tongue expression the cutest?
Cute First Photo
Can We Take Him Home?
Hmm, do you have any idea what this little girl is trying to say with that face? We think it’s either “Can we take him?” or “I love this dog so much”. It could also be possible that she wants to say both! We are sure that this pup is in a lifetime of love. Good for the two of them!
Can We Take Him Home?
Perfect Present
People get naturally emotional when they take in a new pet. Just take a look at this guy. He was clearly touched by the beautiful surprise made by his partner. You can be sure you did the right thing when you leave your man in tears!
Perfect Present
Similar Expressions
For people who love selfies and photos, there is nothing better than a dog who is ready to pose for the camera. He even made the same face as his new owner! This guy definitely got lucky when he picked out his new pet. We want to see more selfies they’ll have in the future!
Similar Expressions
Happy Pill
When you suffer from depression, a great cure would be a lovely companion. She once felt like her life had no meaning, but things changed for the better when she adopted this pup. We can see just how much happier she is now that she has such a wonderful friend living with her! Aww.
Happy Pill
Staring Contest
Even if you have the grumpiest dad in the world, an adorable little dog can instantly make him smile. We are sure these two have a strong bond together! Any idea who ended up winning this staring contest?
Staring Contest
Power Nap
Peace and quiet can be pretty rare if you have a child and a dog in the house. This is what makes this photo so touching – look at the smiles on their faces as they sleep together! Nap times are important for those who are active and playful. We have no doubt they will up to more things as soon as they get up.
Power Nap
Lots of Love
The love this child has for his new puppy is out of this world. This feels like a scene you will see in a Pixar movie or maybe a pamphlet about dog ownership! After seeing this lovely photo, we feel like scooping our pooch into arms and cuddling with them for a little while.
Lots of Love
Dog Kisses
Enthusiasm is simply oozing out of this picture! The pup simply loves his new owner. His preferred love language, however, is licking her on the nose! A Redditor described the moment best: “The camera may have been quick enough to catch this protruding puppy’s tongue, but it still couldn’t capture his fast-flicking tail!”
Dog Kisses
Mischievous Look
The little girl below was so excited about the Christmas present she received. That look on her face is enough to clue us into the mischief she will get up to with the new pup by her side. We are happy the puppy does not seem to mind her plans for the future.
Mischievous Look
Bear Hug
How sweet is it that this boy looks as content as he does? It’s even more charming that the dog is looking at him to ensure he is enjoying the hug. Pup, there is no need to worry at all. Trust us.
Bear Hug
2 Peas In A Pod
When you get adopted, it can be extremely exciting. This old fellow is here to show us how thrilling it can be. His owner was ready to go home but decided it was time to cuddle up first. She headed for the backseat and gave her new friend a lot of loving first!
2 Peas In A Pod
Old & Young
We can all tell how devastating it must be when your spouse passes away. Who can blame this elderly lady for feeling rather lonely? We are glad that her son was a genius and got her a puppy to deal with her grief. She couldn’t believe this dog was all hers!
Old & Young
Grateful
You can tell by the way the puppy is looking at her new human just how thankful she is for the adoption. We are glad she no longer has to face neglect at the shelter where she used to live.
Grateful
Who’s More Excited?
When you adopt the dog, it is going to be an exciting time for the whole family. The kids are especially thrilled when it happens. Sarah’s folks just arrived with their new pup, and she looked like all her dreams finally came true!
Who’s More Excited?
“I Wub You Papa”
There is simply something admirable about the brave and loving people who take in older dogs. Even though this pooch must be older than a decade, this guy could not help but bring him home. Aww, you can tell this dog was excited to get out of the shelter!
“I Wub You Papa”
Just Keep Scratching
We might not know what our dogs are thinking, but we might this pup had this in mind: “Ooh yes, right there. Keep scratching human, you’re doing great”! This was the moment he knew he was about to go into the right hands. He looks so happy.
Just Keep Scratching
“I’m Going Home!”
Isn’t it adorable that his collar matches the shirt she is wearing? You could say the same thing for the smiles on their faces! The pup looks absolutely thrilled to go to a nice home at long last. However, his owner was not about to lose in this contest for happiest face ever.
“I’m Going Home!”
Pure Joy
If you ever go to an adoption fair, you will find many free toys and food to people who chose to adopt. Sasha only found out about how lucky she is. These lovely humans are about to bring her home with them! Oh, she looks positively radiant, doesn’t she?
Pure Joy
Eyes, Ears & Mouth Open
When humans and animals are given great news, you can expect their ears, mouths, and eyes to pop open! It sure seems like that was what was going on with this guy. Well, it could also be that a bear just passed by. No matter the case, it seems like he is about to go to his forever home.
Eyes, Ears & Mouth Open
Big Hug
Hugs are the best way to show how excited or happy you are! This monster – sorry, we meant dog – was over the moon that this sweet man was about to adopt him. Can you just imagine how much happier he was when he found out he had a brother waiting for him as well?
Big Hug
Nap Time
Dogs can only really sleep soundly when they feel right at home. For this fella, home means the arms of this lady! How sweet. We bet he is so deeply asleep that he would not wake up even if she presses the horn. We can only hope for a slumber like this one.
Nap Time
Kisses Galore
Some dogs prefer hugs, others like kisses more. Of course, nothing could ever beat showering their owners with affection! This dog just decided to go for it and jump at his owner. As you can see, a kiss fest ensued. It’s a good thing Tom doesn’t seem bothered at all.
Kisses Galore
Jus’ Got Adopted #rescue
Aww, will you look at that adorable bandana? It certainly looks good on the adorable little puppy. That facial expression lets us know that he cannot believe he is going to be adopted at last. The owner is equally thrilled to have him with them!
Jus’ Got Adopted #rescue
So. Flipping. Excited.
Mind you, finding your forever home is not a regular thing. It’s a great thing, and this fella right here seems to know just how blessed he is. The owner must feel the same way considering that shirt she is wearing. This dog is definitely in the running for the best expression on the list!
So. Flipping. Excited.
Tongues Out
It is either an extremely hot day or this dog was just way too excited to leave the shelter. The chances are in favor of the latter. That sure looks like a happy dog to us! Meanwhile, this lady seems to be just as glad to call herself his new owner.
Tongues Out
Best Friends For Life
There is also something incredible about dogs helping out those in need. The special needs teenager below waited for months before she got to meet Peach, and it seems like the meeting was successful. He looks happy to be held by the young woman. We are sure they will form bonds like no other!
Best Friends For Life
Can’t Stop Smiling
She was still in the middle of signing the paperwork, but Mika could not help but smile at his good fortune. Apparently, he let loose as soon as they arrived home. Isn’t this the sweetest thing you have ever seen? It’s also incredible that she looks very excited!
Can’t Stop Smiling
Secret Time
When someone entrusts you with their secret, it is of utmost importance that you keep your mouth shut. However, this girl knows that she could tell Milo anything. We are sure he is one trustworthy little dog! Do you think the secret she is sharing is about how they will take him home?
Secret Time
A New Pillow
When you see an Alaskan Malamute this fluffy, it is only natural to want to cuddle him and even turn him into your very own pillow. The young girl here seems to agree with what we just said. This is so cute!
A New Pillow
Feeling Loved
We want you to meet Paws, who came from Paws in the City. Hallie Noble, his new mom, was thrilled to take her home. However, she could not wait before she started showering the pooch with affection. Luckily, he did not mind all the love she gave him, no sir.
Feeling Loved
Feels So Right
Oh, don’t you just love this snapshot of Dusty and his mother locked in an embrace? We daresay that this perfectly captures what adoption should be like. What a beautiful photo! Not only is it a great moment, but you can also feel the emotions coming from it.
Feels So Right
Is This Really Happening?
Penny found out that she was about to be taken to her forever home as she and her new father was inside the elevator of the Bideawee adoption center. You can see how her face lit up after the realization that she will finally have a good life with this man.
Is This Really Happening?
Yeaaaaah!
Sarah Brown Carter, Roxy’s new mother, has said that this little ray of sunshine keeps the family happy at all times. We do not dare doubt her words because that great smile is enough to convince us. We are glad dogs exist in this universe!
Yeaaaaah
Home At Last
It is tragic to hear that Rex suffered physical and mental trauma before his adoption. Before Dan chose him, he actually experienced severe neck trauma. We are glad to see he has come a long way from then. There will be no more pain in the future for you, pup.
Home At Last
All Smiles
Well, we have to say that it seems pretty apt that this little cutie is named Fluke. Josh Patrick decided to adopt in November 2017. It has been some time since then, so we are sure their relationship has only gotten better! We want to see more pictures of this pair!
All Smiles
Pure Ecstasy
If you think that adoption only ever benefits the animal, you would be completely wrong. Just check out what Kelsi Keys feels about adopting Dax: “Adopting Dax is one of the best decisions I have ever made. He has been there through all of the ups and downs of my life. He is the best adventure partner and cuddle-buddy. I keep him safe and he keeps me wild.”
Pure Ecstasy
Now We’re Family
Some of us probably know that taking a new pet home can be disastrous when you already have a number of pets. Before this lovely couple took Cora in, they already had one dog and three cats under their care. Luckily, the new kid didn’t have any problems fitting in whatsoever!
Now We’re Family
Instant Pals
This cattle dog is charmingly named Terabyte. She was discovered in a field all by herself. After adopting her, the family realized she was deaf. However, that did not stop making them love her whatsoever! Below, you can see what it was like when she joined her new brother in the car.
Instant Pals
Picture Perfect
This Husky and Alsatian mixed breed dog is called Hazel. Now residing in Oakland, her entire family adores everything about her. “My family is quite obsessed with her,” admitted her new aunt. We can see why. Don’t you just love everything about this picture?
Picture Perfect
What’s Going On?
Jenna Gunselman is Oliver’s new mommy. She has talked about adopting him in this manner: “The first time we took Oliver on a car ride, he was shaking and crying (we assume because the only time he had ever been in a car before was to take him to the shelter). Now he loves car rides because he knows he’s going to get to see a new friend or go play somewhere!”
What’s Going On
Road To Recovery
Christina Haberkern had been looking for a friend for her handicapped Labrador. That was the moment they found Marty. Apparently, Zoe herself took them to the pen Marty was in! The pooches touched noses and wagged their tails together. It was love at first sight!
Road To Recovery
Before And After
This is a before and after photo of Suki. The one on the left shows us on her adoption day, and the one on the right was taken nine years later! She seems a little confused in the first photo, but she has come a long way from then. Her mother explained, “Suki has been a major support for me, especially for my mood disorders. Suki has been with me since freshman year of high school.”
Before And After
Puppy Eyes
Can you believe how cute the puppy in the picture is? He has yet another quirky name: Kodak. The shepherd and Labrador mix was apparently the victim of a hoarding case. Here, he flashes us one of his photogenic smiles on the day his parents adopted him!
Puppy Eyes
Better And Better
This is a photo of Bella when she was picked up by her new mommy for the very first time. Beside it is a picture of her after she was properly cared for and then welcomed to the household by her family. We love hearing beautiful transformations like this one.
Better And Better
You Are My Savior
Just look at the way the freshly adopted doggie was staring at her one and only savior. It seems like she was perfectly happy with the way things are going for her. Without a doubt, this is one smart cookie who knew exactly what was going on.
You Are My Savior
In The Arms Of An Angel
Apparently, bull terriers face neglect inside shelters for a variety of reasons. The most important would be the fact that people are under the impression that they are intrinsically dangerous. There is no truth to this, however. We are glad there are people, such as this lady, who love them!
In The Arms Of An Angel
Best Day Of My Life
We can practically hear what this excited pup was thinking on that day: “This is officially the best day of my life!” He must have known that the car would take him away from the shelter forever. We do not doubt that he will be happy in his forever home.
Best Day Of My Life
That Smile
You have it right, love. No longer will you live in the shelter because you have been discovered by the right human. “You mean I’m actually coming home with you guys???” he must be thinking. Come on, who would not have thought to take this beautiful creature in?
That Smile
Never Let Go
They were about to go home, and he knew that he is now in good hands. We are sure this was not the last of the pictures they have together! He might be a tiny pup at the time, but he must be big and strong by now!
Never Let Go
Everything The Light Touches
This was the first time he saw the backyard, and he was mightily impressed. It kind of reminds us of that one scene from Lion King. Remember when Mufasa told his son, “Simba, everything the light touches is our kingdom.” For this pup, the version went like this: “Everywhere the grass touches is your playground.”
Everything The Light Touches
His First Picnic
What would be the first thing to do after you adopt a puppy? It would probably be to take him to a picnic! What could possibly be a better combination than a blanket, sunshine, grass, and treats? This is definitely a strong contender for the best day ever.
His First Picnic
Pure Bliss
Now, it is true that dogs are unable to see each color that we could. However, it is still pretty fitting to say that this one sees all the colors of the rainbow at the moment. This is what happens when you are finally home sweet home.
Pure Bliss
Happy Days From Now On
Pup, you should know that life will only get better from now on! The excitement must have been overwhelming, but we are sure she is happy. In our opinion, every dog deserves the right to go to a great forever home. Good luck in the future, pooch!
Happy Days From Now On
No Words
Now, we are sure you can figure out what was happening here. Words do not seem to do justice to the magical moment in this photo. We are happy to report that this cutie has since been showered with care, love, and security. What could possibly be better than that?
No Words
Awww
All right, we have seen many sweet pictures on the list but this one might take the crown. We can’t help but blurt “awww” as soon as we saw how relaxed and happy he was. They go so well together!
Awww
Energizer
Perhaps the Fountain of Youth is simply a pit full of puppies! There is a good chance that this senior citizen will attest to that. After all, she gets her energy and youthfulness from her pooch. It must be the secret to happiness and a long life
Energizer