A dog/puppy bill of sale is given to someone who buys a dog after the sale has been finalized. The form is similar to a receipt or an adoption contract, and makes it so the buyer can confirm they are the rightful owner of the dog should it come up. Even if the dog was a gift or was adopted, a bill of sale should be completed to record that a change of ownership occurred.

Contents How to Sell or Gift a Dog Step 1 – Prepare the Dog Step 2 – Reach Out to Friends & Family Step 3 – Advertise Step 4 – Complete the Bill of Sale Sample Dog Bill of Sale

How to Sell or Gift a Dog

There are a number of reasons why one might be looking to give up or sell their dog, such as moving or the dog doesn’t get along with other pets in the house. If the dog is aggressive or has another behavioral issue, it should not be given up or sold unless the buyer is equipped to train a dog with behavioral issues.

Step 1 – Prepare the Dog

Groom the dog and bring him or her to a vet for a checkup. If the dog was never spayed or neutered, it is highly suggested that this be done to increase buyer interest.

Note on dogs from breeders: If the dog was purchased from a reputable breeder, a contract was most likely signed that requires the owner to return the dog if it cannot be cared for. There are several reasons for this, but mainly the breeder wants to ensure the dog ends up in a safe and loving home. If this is the case, the selling process ends here.

Step 2 – Reach Out to Friends & Family

The benefit of giving a dog to a friend or family member is knowing that their lifestyle and personality would make a good fit. Having said that, make sure to question any potential adoptee to ensure they understand the responsibilities and obligations that are involved with dog ownership. This applies especially if the dog has other needs in addition to the regular care a dog requires.

Step 3 – Advertise

Be wary of listing a dog on the internet blindly. A seller must make sure that any potential buyers know there will be an in-person meeting prior to the sale. Reach out to the local vet to see if they have a bulletin board for listing pets. The following online listing platforms can be used to get in contact with potential adoptees:

• Rehome (by Adopt-a-pet)
• NextDayPets
• Facebook Marketplace (free)

Step 4 – Complete the Bill of Sale

Once a suitable buyer has been properly vetted and the parties are ready to finalize the transaction, the bill of sale can be completed. Typically, the money should be received prior to filling out the form, but this is less consequential if the price is low or if the dog is being gifted/adopted. Make sure the following information is readily available prior to filling in the form:

• Names and addresses of the buyer and seller
• Purchase price (if applicable)
• Dog info:
  • Name
  • Breed
  • Date of birth
  • Sex
  • Color
  • Registration number (if any)

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Sample Dog Bill of Sale

Download: PDF, Word (.docx), OpenDocument