When dogs get adopted, they are often unsure and scared. After all, it is a process where the animals are removed from a familiar environment and placed somewhere new, with plenty of unfamiliar faces and smells. Nevertheless, some dogs are just really happy when they first meet their new owners, which makes for a really touching moment. It is a good thing that these first meetings are captured on camera and recorded since. These incredibly sweet moments can definitely bring a smile to anyone who sees it!
First Bite!
Don’t you think this take on “I’ve got your nose,” is a little too literal? Well, excitement can end up bringing out the animal in someone, in this case, this cute little pup. His excitement in meeting his new owner is pretty obvious. He couldn’t even stop himself from biting his human’s nose!
Worth Keeping
This woman actually found this cute pup on the sidewalk and decided to drop her off at the local shelter, but upon seeing the lovely dog’s face, the woman changed her mind. She brought this cutie home instead. We can’t blame her because this dog is absolutely adorable!
First Selfie
Clearly, this pup is not camera shy. She immediately grinned ear-to-ear and posed for a selfie. This guy certainly made the right decision adopting her. It is obvious that the pair hit it off right away!
Put Your Hands Up
This adorable pup’s feelings about her adoption are pretty obvious. We can see that the feeling is mutual. Her new family looks as excited to have her as she is excited to be part of them. What a great way to start a life and future together!
Morning Call
While being served breakfast in bed might be a pretty nice experience, a wakeup call from an excited puppy is certainly a million times better! You will surely agree when you look at this cutie’s face. We dare you to tell us that is not better than being woken up with a tray of toast, bacon, eggs, and coffee.
Loving Look
Looks like these two only have eyes for each other! They are likely thinking about their future together, years of adventures and companionship. Well, that or this little doggy is trying to “guilt” this guy into giving him treats.
Happy Smile
This pup certainly has the best that life can offer. What could be better than the sun shining on her face and her owner hugging her? Look at that winning smile! Clearly, this doggy is happy and contented, and would probably look great in a shampoo commercial.
Lovey-Dovey
When adopting a dog, part of the deal is hugs and kisses, and obviously, Tata the pup is really enjoying the lovey-dovey moment. Getting adopted and going home with her new family has surely made the sweet, little pup really happy. Her contagious excitement clearly made her owner happy too!
Cute Christmas Present
For years, this man had asked his wife for a dog every Christmas, and his wife always declined. She didn’t want to have to feed one more mouth in their house. One Christmas, however, she decided to surprise him with this cutie. Someone’s Christmas wish definitely came true. You only have to look at this guy’s face to see that he hadn’t expected this surprise at all but you can also see he feels it is very much welcome.
Puppy Love
A cop surely has a lot of stress while at work. Everyone knows that it is among the world’s toughest jobs. On the outside, cops can look tough but they certainly have a soft spot, most especially for cute and adorable little puppies! You can see this police officer melting as he gives his new puppy a hug.
Rock-a-bye Baby
This woman couldn’t stop herself from cradling her new dog when they met. It is obvious that she adores him, and the pup is clearly enjoying the attention. Just look at that smile! These two will certainly live a life filled with love, and maybe lots of hugs.
A Bear Of A Dog
This Reddit user posted, “I went to adopt a dog and ended up with a bear.” Judging by the look on his face, he feels happy about this. We are pretty sure having this huge dog with him will keep him from getting scared of anyone or anything in the future.
Cute First Photo
When people decide to adopt, they don’t usually go for older dogs. This is mostly because older dogs often have health issues which could cost the new owner a lot of money at the vet. However, this guy clearly didn’t care about this when he decided to adopt this pretty dog. They took this photo outside the shelter where this guy found his new dog, and we think she definitely nailed the lolling tongue look!
Can We Take Him Home?
We’re not exactly sure whether this adorable girl is making the “I love this dog very much,” face or the “Can we keep him?” face. However, whatever her expression means, it’s pretty clear she is expressing both! It is plain to see that she and this doggo definitely love each other.
Perfect Present
When adopting a new pet, it is natural to feel a bit emotional. This guy is definitely showing how touched he was for getting such a lovely surprise from his partner. There are few things that are sweeter than a guy crying because of your gift.
Similar Expressions
Imagine how fun it would be if your pup gamely poses for a photo with you and makes the same face that you do! This guy certainly lucked out when he decided to adopt this new dog. This selfie shows the start of a lifetime of adventure and fun.
Happy Pill
This woman suffered from depression and used to feel her life was hopeless. She adopted this little doggy when she felt a bit better emotionally. This picture shows she was really happy to come home with her new puppy. Now, this cute little bundle can be her very own happy pill.
Staring Contest
What better way to cure a grumpy dad than an adorable little puppy? These two are bonding by doing their own staring contest. Though we aren’t sure who won this round, we’re willing to bet it was the puppy.
Power Nap
The peace and quiet a sleeping child and dog give is almost as good as the happiness their adorable smiling faces bring. This duo surely needs their naps in order to regain their energy. We bet there is more fun and adventure in store for them when they wake up.
Lots of Love
This kid definitely gives his new puppy lots of loving. This picture looks like a scene from a Pixar film or a photo from a pamphlet on dog ownership. This kid’s love for his dog is so palpable it makes us want to give our own doggy a hug.
Dog Kisses
This photo pretty much oozes with enthusiasm. It is plain to see that this cute little puppy loves his new owner seeing as he couldn’t stop himself from licking her nose! One comment on Reddit read, “The camera may have been quick enough to catch this protruding puppy’s tongue, but it still couldn’t capture his fast-flicking tail!”
Mischievous Look
Obviously, this little girl was ecstatic to get such an adorable little bundle for Christmas. You can tell from her mischievous look that she is planning a lot of mischief her new pup!
Bear Hug
This little boy looks so content! The dog seems to be checking if the hug he’s giving is perfect, with just enough squeeze and plenty of kisses. We think these two are going to be best buds forever.
2 Peas In A Pod
It is super exciting to get adopted, and this old guy is showing us just how excited he is! His owner went to the front seat but her new adopted pup wanted more cuddles and hugs. She went back to the backseat for more love prior to finally heading home.
Old & Young
After this elderly woman’s husband passed away, she became pretty lonely. To help with the pain of loss, her son thought of giving her a puppy. This picture was taken right when she learned that the dog was now hers! It’s hard to tell who is more excited!
Grateful
This pup looking at the woman seems to be thanking her new owner for adopting her. We’re sure she’s forever grateful that she doesn’t have to stay at a shelter anymore. Just look at her tearful eyes!
Who’s More Excited?
Adopting a dog is definitely exciting for the whole family, especially the children! When Sarah’s parents brought this pup home, she was shocked that they were keeping him! It seems their new doggy Harley felt just as excited!
“I Wub You Papa”
People that adopt senior citizen dogs must be commended. It looks like this dog is no younger than 12 years old, yet this man still took him home. You can definitely see the kind of heart this man has. Just look at how excited this dog is to finally get adopted! We bet he’s thinking of a new and final adventure!
Just Keep Scratching
“Ooh yes. That’s the right spot, human. Keep scratching. You’re doing great!” We assume this is what this cute guy would say if dogs could talk. He actually just found out that his foster mom decided to adopt him. Looks like he’s more than just okay with that, right?
“I’m Going Home!”
His collar matches her shirt and so do their smiles! It looks like this pup is thrilled to have finally found a good home, but his owner looks more thrilled to have a sidekick named Max. We bet these two will have a life full of happiness together.
Pure Joy
A lot of pet stores hold adoption fairs and they give complimentary toys and food to people who adopt. Sasha has just learned that these nice humans have decided to take her home. She looks like she just saw heaven! Also, that is such a sweet collar!
Eyes, Ears & Mouth Open
When some humans get great news, their mouths, ears, and eyes open in excitement, and sometimes animals have the same reaction too. We guess this little guy got some really awesome news. Either that or he has just seen a bear. Whatever it is, we think he’s really happy to have a new loving home.
Big Hug
Sometimes, the best way to express your excitement or extreme happiness is through a hug. This monster of a dog was obviously excited to get adopted by this nice man. When they arrived home, he realized that he had also gotten a new brother, so hugs were definitely in order! And slobbery kisses, of course!
Nap Time
If dogs are at ease, they usually sleep pretty soundly. This doggy looks very content in his new mommy’s arms. We don’t think even a loud noise would wake him! That is definitely one peaceful sleeping pup. Oh, how nice loving arms feel!
Kisses Galore
Some dogs may resort to hugs but others prefer kisses, that is to say, kissing their owners. This dog came up with the idea of jumping on his owner, licking his head, face, ears, and neck. Now that’s an interesting welcome home present! Well, Tom seems to be taking the kiss-fest quite well.
Jus’ Got Adopted #rescue
This bandana is just so adorable! It brings out this adorable pup’s eye color. Judging by his facial expression, this doggo can’t quite believe that he’s getting adopted. His new owner looks so thrilled that he’s not moving for the picture. Oh, puppies!
So. Flipping. Excited.
There is nothing average about finding a forever home – it’s a very big deal! We’re sure this cutie knows what we’re saying. His new owner also looks like she feels quite blessed, her shirt is evidence! This doggy’s expression is definitely among the best on this list. Don’t you agree?
Tongues Out
Either it’s really hot outside, or this doggo is just very excited to leave the shelter. The latter seems to be more likely. That is one happy dog! His new owner seems pretty satisfied herself. We guess her furry friend’s face is the reason for all the happiness.
Best Friends For Life
This handicap-assist dog has just arrived to be with this special needs teen and help her in daily activities. After waiting for months to meet Peach, this teen is really happy to finally be able to hug him. Peach looks really happy himself, though very calm to be held. This will surely be a special friendship.
Can’t Stop Smiling
While this woman was dealing with the adoption papers, Mika the dog broke into a really wide grin, still smiling until they got home! Isn’t he the sweetest? If we must say, his owner looks super excited herself!
Secret Time
If you have a really big secret, who do you tell? This girl thought her dog Milo is the best choice. Milo seems happy to have heard her secret. It’s possible that the secret was him being adopted by the family! It appears these two immediately formed a bond!
A New Pillow
If your parents adopt one really fluffy Alaskan Malamute, you can’t really do anything but cuddle with and use the doggy as a pillow. Looks like this young girl agrees with what we’re saying! Her big fluffy friend seems to be okay with everything!
Feeling Loved
This is Paws, who was adopted from Dallas’ Paws In The City. Hallie Noble, his new mommy, was really excited to go home with her new baby, and she immediately shared her love with him. It seems that he doesn’t have any problem with that!
Feels So Right
Whoever snapped this incredible moment between Dusty and his new mother deserves to get a prize! Just look at that hug and tell us it didn’t give you the feels. This is how adoption looks like – raw, beautiful, and so right!
Is This Really Happening?
While they were in the elevator at the adoption center of Bideawee in New York, Penny slowly realized that she was getting adopted. The expression on her face is priceless. She starts to understand that her new dad, John Sechrist, is there to take her home.
Yeaaaaah!
Sarah Brown Carter, Roxy’s new mother, says this furball of sunshine keeps them all social, smiling and happy. Just look at that beautiful smile! We are really lucky to have dogs that make our lives extra special!
Home At Last
Before Dan adopted Rex, the pup went through some trauma. Before Rex was taken in, he had severe neck trauma from being forced to wear a shock collar. Look at him now, though. He seems to have left the days of pain behind him and he is living his days filled with love and fun.
All Smiles
Fluke, the name of this little guy seems completely appropriate. Josh Patrick adopted Fluke in November 2017, and they have since grown closer. This picture was their first together, but trust us when we say there were a lot more to follow.
Pure Ecstasy
For those who believe that adoption only does good to the dog, they should listen to what Dax’s mother, Kelsi Keys, had to say: “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.”
Now We’re Family
In case you didn’t know, it can get pretty challenging if you bring a new pet home that is filled with other animals. Understandably, this couple was a bit concerned before they brought Cora home since they already had one dog and three cats. However, they shouldn’t have been worried since Cora fit right in. You can see them in this photo coming home from an event by the BISSELL Pet Foundation in Grand Rapids.
Instant Pals
Terabyte, this adorable cattle dog, was found in a field where she had been abandoned. The family who adopted her found out that she’s deaf. However, she can definitely feel the love that her new family shares with her. This picture shows her climbing into the car together with her new brother. What do you think Terabyte felt?
Picture Perfect
This Husky-mixed-Alsatian is Hazel. She lives in Oakland with her family who is madly in love with her. Her new aunt said, “My family is quite obsessed with her.” Everything just looks perfect in this photo!
What’s Going On?
Jenna Gunselman, Oliver’s mom, talks about what happened when they first brought him home: “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!”
Road To Recovery
Christina Haberkern was looking for a companion for the handicapped Labrador she owned when she met Marty. It’s hard to believe but it was actually their labrador, Zoe, that pulled them to the pen where Marty was. The dogs touched noses and wagged their tales, and everyone could tell they had an instant connection. It was pretty obvious who they were taking home that day.
Before And After
The photo on the left was taken on the day Suki got adopted and the one on the right nine years later. You can see she wasn’t so sure about what was happening on that day many years ago, but look at her now! 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.”
Puppy Eyes
The puppy in this picture is actually named Kodak. A gorgeous labrador/shepherd mix, Kodak was rescued from a case of hoarding. His name perfectly suits him as you can see from his photogenic smile. He has happily plastered this on ever since he was adopted.
Better And Better
This photo shows Bella being picked up by her new mother, Krystal, for the first time. You can also see another photo of this little pup after she was taken in, cleaned up, and cared for. She has definitely become a part of a family and is surrounded by a lot of love in her forever home. Beautiful.
You Are My Savior
Do you see the look this newly-adopted pup is giving her savior? It is quite obvious there was no need to comfort her. It also looks like she didn’t need any explanation. She had a pretty good idea of what was happening and she was happy.
In The Arms Of An Angel
In case you didn’t know, bull terriers are many times neglected at dog shelters. One of the reasons is that many people believe they are intrinsically dangerous, but actually, that isn’t true. Thankfully, there are still good people, such as this woman, who choose to take care of dogs like this little guy.
Best Day Of My Life
“This is definitely the best day ever!” That might be what this ecstatic little pup was thinking when he realized that the car ride was taking him to paradise. It’s hard to deny that he understands they are on their way to his new home.
That Smile
This doggo will not have to stay the shelter anymore because he’s going home. He probably couldn’t believe that he’s actually going home with his new family. He is definitely young and full of love, very much ready to get adopted. Just looking at this beautiful dog makes our hearts melt.
Never Let Go
They’re going home, and this little guy knows that he’s in good hands, literally. This is only the first of numerous photos with their new baby. While he may be small now, he will surely grow a healthy and happy family member.
Everything The Light Touches
This is the first time he is seeing the backyard, and this definitely reminds of the iconic scene in the animated movie Lion King – “Simba, everything the light touches is our kingdom.” Seems like it’s pretty much, “everywhere the grass touches is your playground.”
His First Picnic
A suggestion for what you can do after you adopt a puppy – introduce him to a picnic! Freshly-cut grass, a cozy blanket, sunshine, and lots of treats, of course! It will go down as one of the best, if not the best, days of his life.
Pure Bliss
Everyone knows dogs can’t really see all the colors humans can, but we’re quite sure that this pup is seeing all the rainbow colors. Suddenly, the water is sweeter, the grass is greener, and life is comfortable and safe. Welcome home!
Happy Days From Now On
The excitement is obviously overwhelming and she’s definitely happy. When people say dogs go to heaven, they should also say that dogs must go to the best forever homes. This doggo surely is.
No Words
There’s really no need to tell people about this perfect moment. There are no words that can describe the magical moment of realizing that home is here. Love, security, and care will surely be part of this adorable pup’s daily life. We are so happy, and so is he.
Awww
When it comes to sweet pictures, this one certainly tops the list. We can’t stop ourselves from saying “awww” when we look at this dog’s relaxed and happy expression in his new friend’s arms.
Energizer
If the Fountain of Youth was real, it would surely be a pit full of puppies! This is because little pups can easily make people smile and energize them. This senior citizen certainly knows what we’re talking about because she experienced it when she first met her new companion and friend.