How to Spot an Ethical Dog Breeder
How to Spot an Ethical Dog Breeder
Bringing home a puppy is exciting—choosing the right breeder makes all the difference. Use this practical, vet-friendly checklist to feel confident, avoid scams, and support excellent canine welfare.
Green flags: signs you’ve found an ethical breeder
Amber flags: worth a second look
Unusually fast availability
Ethical breeders typically have waitlists. Immediate collection can be fine, but probe why.
Vague test claims
“Parents health checked” is not the same as official test results. Ask to see the paperwork.
Red flags: walk away
- No home visit offered—seller insists on meeting in a car park or delivery only.
- Multiple litters & breeds advertised constantly with “ready today” language.
- Won’t show mum with the puppies or claims “mum is at the vet/friend’s house”.
- No contract, no receipts, cash only, or pressure to pay a deposit immediately.
- Dirty or crowded conditions, puppies seem fearful or unwell.
Key questions to ask a breeder
- Which health tests have both parents completed? Can I see the official results and IDs?
- How are puppies socialised week-by-week? What’s your daily routine?
- Can I meet mum with the litter in your home? (Video only is not enough.)
- What does your contract cover, and what’s your rehome/return policy?
- How do you match puppies to families and lifestyle?
FAQs
What separates an ethical breeder from a puppy farm?
Ethical breeders plan small, health-tested litters, raise puppies in-home, match families carefully, and provide lifetime support with a written contract. Puppy farms focus on volume, secrecy, and profit.
Which health tests should I ask for?
Ask for official results for your breed’s known issues (e.g., hips/elbows, eye exams, DNA). Results should be from recognised schemes and match the parents’ registered names/microchips.
Is visiting the breeder’s home essential?
Yes. Seeing mum, living conditions, and socialisation setup verifies welfare and authenticity. Avoid sellers who refuse home visits.
Should I sign a contract?
A good contract covers health guarantees, microchipping, vaccinations, returns/rehome policy, and responsibilities of both parties. Read it before paying a deposit.
Are deposits normal?
Reasonable, refundable deposits with a clear contract can be fine. Avoid pressure tactics, cash-only demands, or no paperwork.
Tip: If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts—and be willing to walk away for the sake of the puppy.
