How adoption works

A thoughtful path to the right home

Heartland reviews every application personally and helps each approved family understand the puppy, policies, and next steps before accepting a deposit.

Start the Application View Available Puppies

No payment: Required to apply
Personal: Application review
$300: Deposit after approval

A Heartland Dachshund enjoying life with family — Every application is reviewed with the puppy’s long-term home in mind.

The adoption process

What to expect

You can ask questions at any point. The application begins the formal process, and no deposit is accepted until approval.

1
Explore the puppies
Review the available puppies and upcoming litter, including each dog’s photos, traits, and current status.
2
Complete the application
Tell Heartland about your household, current pets, experience, and puppy preferences. There is no payment at this stage.
3
Receive a personal review
Heartland reviews the application for a good long-term match. Approval is based on fit rather than who asks first.
4
Reserve and plan pickup
After approval, an available puppy may be held with a $300 non-refundable deposit. Heartland will stay in touch about final payment and pickup or delivery arrangements.

After approval

Clear expectations before commitment

Approved families receive the details they need before sending a deposit or bringing a puppy home.

Reservation

Deposit and final price

The $300 deposit is applied to the purchase price. Confirm the puppy’s final price, registration, tax, and payment instructions directly with Heartland.

Going home

Pickup or delivery

Puppies leave no sooner than 8 weeks old. Pickup is based in Mount Vernon, Illinois; ask about airport meeting or delivery options and any additional cost.

Protection

Contract and support

Each puppy comes with a signed agreement and one-year guarantee for covered congenital conditions. Heartland also offers ongoing breeder support and a lifetime return policy.

Before you apply

A few helpful things to review

Pricing & policiesDeposits, payments, pickup, and return terms Adoption documentsHealth guarantee and sales contract Frequently asked questionsTiming, care, pickup, and support

Puppy application

Tell us about your home

Complete every required field so Heartland can understand your household and the dachshund you hope to welcome.

About You

First Name Last Name

Your Address Street Address Street Address Line 2

City State / Region Postal / ZIP Code Country

Your Home & Puppy Preferences 1. Please tell us about the current pets in your home. 2. What type of home environment will the puppy be coming to? Rural, apartment, etc. 3. Will the puppy have extra attention during the first 3–5 transition days? 4. Are you familiar with house training a puppy or dog? 5. Which sex, coat type, color, or pattern are you hoping for? 6. Are you interested in breeding this dog? Comments

No payment is required with this application. Heartland reviews every application before accepting a deposit.

By sending this application, you allow Heartland to use and store the information above to review your application and contact you about adoption.

Questions before applying?

Heartland is happy to help

If you are unsure about availability, timing, travel, or a policy, reach out before submitting the application.

Contact Heartland Read the FAQ