Writing a listing is the first introduction to the puppy that potential buyers get. This can seem like a daunting task so we’ve created a guide to help you write a puppy ad that grabs the attention of buyers.
Think of the Puppy's Ideal Home
You want to find an excellent match for your puppy, so it’s good to have an idea of who their perfect owner would be. Would they thrive in a family with little kids? Do they need an owner who is frequently home and very active? Imagining the puppy’s best match is a great starting point when writing your listing.
Additionally, put yourself in the buyer’s shoes and ask yourself what questions you would have. What would you want to know about a puppy before buying it? Add to your description any answers and comments that you’d be grateful to have if you were in the buyer’s place.
Fill Out Listing Details
Listing details are essential for reaching potential buyers. You’ll want to make sure you add the puppy’s breed, gender, size, birth date, and registration. Include where the puppy is located and the date they are available.
Potential buyers like to see what the puppies look like and how they act. Instead of just adding one photo, try to include multiple pictures and even a video. For example, you can upload photos and videos of the puppy playing with their brothers and sisters, laying in the grass on a sunny day, or interacting with people. The more, the better!
Additionally, include photos of the puppy’s mother and father. Adding photos of the parent dogs give buyers a better idea of the puppy’s background and breed. People love looking at pictures and videos of puppies, so upload as many good-quality photos and videos as you can.
Write About the Puppy's Personality
Not every puppy is the same so you want different descriptions to show what makes them unique from others in their litter. It can be hard to know a puppy’s full personality when they’re so young, so try to include what you can. For example, you could mention the puppy’s favorite toy and favorite ways to play. Another way to showcase what a puppy will be like is to include a little explanation of the parent dogs’ personalities, breed(s), and sizes. Additionally, you can always fall back on writing about the general temperament and qualities of the puppy’s breed.
Also, it’s good practice to make your listings more accessible by including a description of the puppy. This description could include their markings, coat color(s), weight, and age as you don’t want to just leave this information up for interpretation from the dog’s photo.
Be Positive and Honest
Buyers should know what they can expect from the puppy they’re looking at. Be positive in your listing while still being honest. For example, instead of saying “Rose is not pet-friendly” you could say “Rose prefers a home where she is the only pet to be doted on.” Being honest about a puppy’s preferences will help find the best home for them.
Let Potential Buyers Know What is Included
Write about the puppy’s health status and checkups. Has the puppy had all their vaccinations? Is the puppy microchipped and dewormed? Will the puppy have their vet checkup before going to its new home? These are all great questions to answer so potential buyers know what to expect.
You can also add information about if the puppy has any training, has been desensitized to anything (looking at you vacuums!), or if they’ve been around kids. Additionally, include any extras that come with the puppy. For example, will the dog come with any toys or food? It’s good to add any additional information that helps you stand out as an excellent and trustworthy seller.
Tell Potential Buyers About Next Steps
Let potential buyers know how they can take further steps and which forms of contact you can be reached at. Include a list of payment methods you accept and, if you’re able, give the buyer a brief idea of what your meeting and pickup process is like.
Some people like to write their listings from the puppy’s point of view, while others like to write from their own perspective. No specific way is right or wrong. Do what you enjoy and what helps you be the most descriptive. Above all, remember that you’re helping people find their new furry best friend so have fun and be creative!
