Prop Saunders, 22, will add depth to the Bulldogs forward pack during the 2017 season.

A member of Penrith's NSW Cup-winning side in 2014, Saunders also tasted title success in the National Youth Competition 12 months earlier. He was named at prop in the NYC team of the season in 2014, the same year he also played for the Junior Kangaroos.

Penrith supremo Phil Gould wished the 185cm, 105kg front-rower well at Belmore, saying he deserved the chance to press his first-grade claims.

"We're sorry to be losing Andy, but at the same time excited he has been given a wonderful opportunity with another great club," Gould said.

"Andy has been tremendous for the Panthers and his next club have secured themselves a very good man."

Saunders began training with his new teammates earlier in the week.