How to spot a puppy dealer?
Erik Gaylord
2025-08-09 09:40:02
Count answers
: 22
If you're unsure about a breeder, don't buy. If you have any reservations about a breeder then it is best to trust your instincts and walk away. The breeder should give you the opportunity to see and handle all of the puppies in the litter, rather than just the puppy you’re thinking of buying. The breeder should not be selling puppies that are unwell or show signs of illness. The breeder should be willing and able to show you the puppy interacting with its mother and siblings. If you are not able to see the puppies’ mother you should consider walking away, even if an apparently good reason has been provided. The breeder should be happy to provide you with details of their vet, so you can check on the health of their puppies and breeding dogs. Any breeder that pressurises you into buying a puppy may be looking to make a quick profit and should be avoided at all costs.
Emanuel Erdman
2025-08-09 09:08:17
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: 13
Sellers offering multiple breeds or types of puppies for sale simultaneously.
No formal breed paperwork or certification, or suspicious use of Kennel Club papers without genuine registration.
Premises with many outbuildings, caravans, or isolated rooms housing dogs.
Being shown puppies singly, often without the mother or siblings present.
Young dams with little knowledge or bond to the puppies or the seller.
The seller is uninterested in assessing your suitability as a new pet owner.
Puppies caged or crated during viewing.
The seller quickly offering alternative puppies or litters if the one you came to see is unsuitable.
Always view puppies with their dam and littermates at the place where they were raised.
Ask for valid identification and registration documents and verify they correspond to the premises.
Never buy puppies in unsuitable public locations such as pubs, markets or from car boots.
Be prepared to walk away if anything feels suspicious or uncomfortable.
If a breeder cannot provide a valid licence or registration proof, it should be regarded as a red flag, and the breeder avoided.
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