To ensure a puppy is legitimately bred and healthy, it’s important to do some research and carefully assess the seller and the puppy. Whether you’re buying from a breeder or adopting from a shelter or rescue, here’s a checklist to guide you:

How to Know if a Puppy is Legit

Health Records and Veterinary Care

• A legitimate puppy will come with health records, including vaccinations, deworming, and any vet visits.
• Ask for proof of the puppy’s vaccination schedule and whether the puppy has been checked for common health issues.
• Responsible breeders may also offer a health guarantee for a certain period (often 1 to 2 years).

Red Flag – No records or vague excuses about missing vet documents.

The Breeder or Seller Allows Visits

• You should be able to meet the puppy in person and see the conditions where it was raised. A healthy puppy should come from a clean, safe, and caring environment.
• Look for socialization cues—puppies raised around people should be curious and friendly, not overly fearful.

Red Flag – The seller insists on meeting in a random location or refuses home visits.

You Can Meet the Puppy’s Parents

• Seeing the mother (and ideally the father) gives you an idea of the puppy’s size, temperament, and health. The parents should look healthy and well cared for.

Red Flag – The breeder claims the parents are unavailable or won’t let you meet them.

The Puppy is At Least 8 Weeks Old

• Puppies should stay with their mother and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old to learn crucial social behaviors. Some small breeds need to stay with the breeder for 10-12 weeks.

Red Flag – The puppy is offered to you younger than 8 weeks.

Check for Registration or Pedigree (for Purebreds)

• If you’re buying a purebred puppy, ask for registration papers from a reputable organization (e.g., AKC, UKC). Pedigree documentation proves the puppy comes from properly bred lines.
• Be wary of words like “papers pending” or “will be mailed later.”

Red Flag – No registration or pedigree information provided for purebred claims.

Ask for References or Reviews

• Ask for references from previous buyers or look for online reviews. Legit breeders often have positive testimonials and may be well-regarded by local veterinarians.

Red Flag – No references or the breeder has negative reviews for unethical practices.

Observe the Puppy’s Behavior and Appearance

• A healthy, well-cared-for puppy should:
  • Be active, curious, and playful (though they may nap a lot too!).
  • Have clear eyes, a clean coat, and no signs of illness (like coughing or diarrhea).
  • Respond positively to gentle handling.

Red Flag – The puppy appears lethargic, fearful or has visible signs of illness (runny nose, swollen belly, or dull coat).

Verify the Seller’s Identity and Practices

• A legitimate breeder or rescue will provide contact information and be transparent about their operations. You can verify breeders through breed clubs or kennel clubs.

Red Flag – The seller seems elusive, provides vague answers, or doesn’t have a website or social media presence.

No Pressure to Buy Quickly

• Ethical breeders want their puppies to go to good homes and won’t rush you into a sale. They may have a waitlist and will take time to assess your suitability.

Red Flag – The seller pressures you to buy the puppy immediately or offers a “discount” if you decide quickly.

Purchase Contract and Return Policy

• Legit breeders and rescues provide a contract with terms such as health guarantees, spay/neuter agreements, and a return policy if you can’t keep the puppy.
• Some breeders even require that the puppy be returned to them if rehoming becomes necessary.

Red Flag – No contract or return policy is offered.

To ensure a puppy is legit, look for transparency from the breeder or seller, health records, and behavior that matches a well-cared-for puppy. Avoid deals that seem rushed or suspicious, and always trust your instincts. If anything feels off, it’s better to walk away and find a more reputable breeder or adoption source.