Photo courtesy Hill's Pet Nutrition The 2026 State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report from Hill's Pet Nutrition draws on a survey of 2,000 Americans and data from Shelter Animals Count, a program of the ASPCA. In 2025, 2.8 million dogs entered U.S. shelters; large dogs comprised 26 percent of intakes but had the longest stays and lowest adoption share. Findings suggest adoption hesitancy is strongly linked to low owner confidence, perceived costs, and housing constraints. While 35 percent of respondents expressed interest in adopting large dogs, confidence dropped sharply among those unlikely to adopt. Financial support—such as reduced fees and access to training—was identified as the most effective lever to increase adoption. The report underscores the need for targeted interventions, including client education, behavior support, and policy changes addressing housing restrictions.
