Meet & Greet Best Practices: Setting Your Foster Puppy Up for Success

Making a Great First Impression

First meetings matter! Potential adopters are looking for a puppy that fits their family and lifestyle, and you want to showcase your foster in the best possible way. Here’s how to set up a calm, positive meet & greet that helps everyone feel comfortable.

1. Choose the Right Location

The environment plays a big role in your foster puppy’s comfort level. Ideally, choose a neutral, low-distraction space where everyone can feel safe. Some options include:

✔️A quiet outdoor area, like a fenced backyard or a Sniffspot

✔️A pet-friendly park with minimal foot traffic

✔️The adoption organization’s facility, if available

Avoid overwhelming places like crowded dog parks, busy streets, or loud pet stores. Too much stimulation can make puppies anxious or excitable. I have also had potential adopters ask to meet at my home. I do not recommend this, and it is okay to say that you’re not comfortable if they suggest this option. Your comfort matters, too.

2. Prep Your Foster Puppy

A little preparation goes a long way! Before the meet-and-greet:
✔️ Exercise first – A short walk or play session helps burn off excess energy.
✔️ Basic grooming – A clean, brushed pup with trimmed nails makes a great impression!
✔️ Enrichment beforehand – Give a puzzle toy or a chew to encourage calmness before heading out.

3. Set Expectations with Potential Adopters

Before the meet-and-greet, ask the adopter some questions to understand their lifestyle and expectations. Share important details about your foster puppy, such as:
✔️ Energy level & play style
✔️ Socialization experience (with kids, other pets, etc.)
✔️ Any training progress or needs
✔️ Special considerations (e.g., nervous around new people, working on leash manners)

4. Let the Puppy Take the Lead

When introducing your foster puppy to potential adopters:
✔️ Let the puppy approach first – Avoid forcing interactions.
✔️ Encourage slow, calm movements – Have adopters crouch down and let the puppy sniff them.
✔️ Look for body language cues – Wagging tails and loose bodies = good! Tucked tails or backing away = give them time.

5. Guide Interactions & Answer Questions

Potential adopters will likely have questions—be open and honest! Encourage them to:
✔️ Offer treats to build trust
✔️ Take a short walk together
✔️ Try a quick game with the puppy’s favorite toy

If the meet and greet is going well, you can discuss the next steps for adoption!

6. End on a Positive Note

Even if the match isn’t the right fit, always keep things positive. Thank the adopters for their time and encourage them to stay in touch if they have further questions.

Pro Tip: If an adopter isn’t sure yet, suggest speaking with the rescue to arrange a follow-up meeting or trial period to see how the puppy adjusts to their home.

Final Thoughts

Meet and greets are an exciting part of the adoption process! By preparing your foster puppy, guiding interactions, and setting clear expectations, you’ll help set them up for success in their future home.

Want to make meet-and-greets easier? Download our printable checklist from our free guides to keep track of key details and ensure every introduction goes smoothly!