Please see all active adoption listings under “Adoptable Dogs“

Welcoming a puppy into your home is exciting—and a serious commitment. These puppies were born in our care, and as with all dogs in our program, we prioritize thoughtful placement and clear expectations to support a successful transition into their new home. These puppies are a Shepherd / St. Bernard mix and are expected to reach an adult size of ~80–110+ lbs.

We are not just placing puppies, we are building lifelong matches! These dogs will grow into large, intelligent, emotionally connected companions, and we are looking for adopters who are ready to grow with them.

🐾 Meet the Puppies (DOB: 3/2/26)

  • Scooter (Male) – First born; back dewclaw intact; white stripe down his face
  • Daisy Duke (Female) – Second born; dark toes; dark patches of fur near lower belly
  • Ruckus (Male) – Third born; white-tipped toes
  • Willow (Female) – Last born; back dewclaws intact

Foster-to-Adopt Model (Preferred Path)

We are prioritizing foster-to-adopt homes to ensure the best match.

As a Foster, You Agree To:

  • Complete ASPCA Foster Training (1–2 hours, online)
  • Attend scheduled vet appointments (vaccines, checkups) at HOPE-approved facilities
  • Stay in regular contact with HOPE
  • Provide updates and photos
  • Attend at least two 30–60 minute HOPE training/socialization sessions
     (All sessions are free while puppies are in foster status)

👉 Once puppies have completed their third round of vaccines, fosters will have the opportunity to finalize adoption.


What’s Included in Adoption ($425 Fee)

Your puppy’s adoption fee supports early medical care and includes:

  • Deworming every 2 weeks (2–10 weeks of age)
  • DAPP vaccine series (3 total doses)
  • Rabies vaccination
  • Microchip
  • Bordetella vaccine
  • Spay/neuter procedure*

*Spay/neuter is completed at approximately 6 months of age

By moving forward with adoption, you agree to:

  • Provide early training, leash skills, and structure
  • Continue socialization efforts
     (No rescue can guarantee future temperament, health, or behavior)
  • Commit to humane, compassionate care
  • Provide ongoing training, structure, and enrichment
  • Meet all potty training and scheduling needs (see section below)
  • Spay/neuter by 6 months of age (see full details below) 

Expectations:
Once a puppy is placed in your home, we will provide additional guidance and support to help you care for and integrate your new furry family member.

Timeline 

  • Puppies go home as fosters first (7–8 weeks; late April)
  • Adoption decisions follow initial placement (see adoption agreement)
  • HOPE will coordinate spay/neuter scheduling (~August 2026)

*Spay/Neuter Requirement (NYS-Compliant)

In accordance with NYS regulations:

  • Puppies must be spayed or neutered by 6 months of age
  • HOPE will cover the cost if completed at:
    • ADK Spay & Neuter
    • A HOPE-approved veterinary partner
  • Microchipping will be completed at the time of spay/neuter
  • If completed elsewhere, the adopter assumes full cost
  • Proof of surgery must be submitted to HOPE by 6 months of age

👉 Important: Ownership is conditional upon compliance with this requirement.

Potty Training & Daily Schedule

Potty training is one of the most important—and time-intensive—parts of raising a puppy. Puppies are not born with bladder control; it is a learned skill that develops over time with consistency and structure.

  • Young puppies need frequent bathroom breaks throughout the day
  • Reward success immediately
  • General guidelines:
    • 8–12 weeks: every 1–2 hours
    • 3–4 months: every 2–3 hours
  • Puppies should be taken out:
    • Immediately after waking
    • After eating or drinking
    • After play or excitement

👉 Most puppies are not fully house-trained until 4–6 months of age.
 This may require additional support, such as a dog walker or puppy sitter, for adopters who are away from home for extended periods. Accidents are normal and expected during this stage.

Building a Routine

  • Maintain a consistent daily schedule (meals, naps, potty breaks)
  • Use the same potty location and cues
  • Provide close supervision or safe confinement when unsupervised
  • Most puppies will require 1–2 potty breaks overnight initially
  • Sleeping through the night develops gradually