This project embodies Dog House Riot's design philosophy: architecture over ornament, logic over decoration, and intentional decisions over default choices.
The Context
Most dog adoption websites assume the user already knows what they want. They present long breed lists, filters, and encyclopedic profiles.
That approach fails most people.
Perfect Pup Match was built to solve uncertainty, not showcase data.
The Problem
Most dog adoption websites overwhelm users with filters, lists, and generic breed descriptions.
They assume people already know what they want.
Most people don't.
This leads to poor matches, abandoned searches, and frustrated outcomes.
The Approach
- Reframed breed discovery as a decision system
- Designed around uncertainty instead of preference
- Reduced choices before introducing detail
- Prioritized clarity and trust over visual softness
- No templates. No 'cute-first' design decisions.
The Build
Primary experience
A question-driven flow that narrows options quickly and decisively.
Breed profiles
Structured, comparable, and readable. Built for scanning and decision-making.
System design
High contrast, disciplined typography, and predictable hierarchy across all screens.
The interface supports the logic.
The logic drives the experience.
Breed-Matching Quiz
A structured, question-driven flow that narrows results quickly and decisively.
Users answer practical questions about:
- Living space
- Activity level
- Experience
- Time commitment
Results are limited, intentional, and explainable.
Breed Profiles
Each breed profile is designed for comparison, not browsing.
- Clear sections
- Consistent hierarchy
- Plain language
- No marketing fluff
Every profile answers the same core question: "Will this dog fit my life?"
Interface & System Design
The visual system stays deliberately restrained.
- High contrast
- Predictable layout
- Clear typography
- Minimal ornamentation
Design choices reinforce confidence and reduce cognitive load.
The system does not compete for attention. It stays out of the way.
The Result
Perfect Pup Match delivers:
- Faster decisions
- Fewer bad fits
- Clearer expectations
Users move from uncertainty to confidence without being overwhelmed.
The design supports the logic. The logic drives the experience.
Why This Worked
- The interface respected user uncertainty
- The system reduced choice instead of inflating it
- The design avoided emotional manipulation
- The experience prioritized usefulness over personality
This was intentional.
What This Project Represents
Perfect Pup Match is not a content site. It is not a directory. It is not a blog.
It is a decision tool.
That distinction guided every design and product choice.