Bringing a puppy into your home should be a joyful experience, but unfortunately, not all breeders are trustworthy. Puppy scams and unethical breeders are a growing problem, so it’s critical to know how to tell if a breeder is scamming you. Let’s dive into the warning signs to watch for and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
Common Signs of a Puppy Scam
- No In-Person Meetings or Video Calls Allowed
A legitimate breeder will want to meet you, either in person or through a video call, to ensure that their puppies are going to good homes. If the breeder refuses to allow any in-person meetings or video calls, this could be a red flag. Scammers often use this tactic to avoid showing you the actual conditions where the puppies are kept or to hide the fact that they don’t even have the puppies they claim to be selling. - Too-Good-to-Be-True Prices
If the price for the puppy seems unbelievably low, there’s likely a catch. While not all breeders charge high prices, extremely low costs are often used by scammers to attract unsuspecting buyers. A reputable breeder will charge a price that reflects the expenses involved in breeding, health testing, and caring for the puppies. - Requests for Payment via Untraceable Methods
Be wary if the breeder requests payment through services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or gift cards. These payment methods are difficult to trace and offer no buyer protection. Reputable breeders typically accept safer payment methods, such as credit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers. - High-Pressure Tactics
Scammers often use high-pressure tactics to rush you into making a payment, such as claiming there is a long list of interested buyers or that the puppy is “in high demand.” A genuine breeder will allow you the time to make an informed decision and won’t push you to pay immediately. - No Health Guarantees or Medical Records
A reputable breeder will provide health guarantees, vaccination records, and documentation of any medical treatments the puppy has received. If the breeder cannot supply these records, it could indicate that they aren’t being honest about the puppy’s health or that they aren’t following proper breeding practices.
How to Avoid Getting Scammed
- Visit the Breeder’s Facility or Home
Whenever possible, visit the breeder’s facility or home to see the conditions in which the puppies are raised. Observe the cleanliness, the puppies’ interactions with their mother, and their overall well-being. A reputable breeder will encourage you to visit and meet the puppies. - Check References and Reviews
Research the breeder online and look for reviews, references, or testimonials from previous buyers. Ask the breeder if you can speak to other pet parents who have purchased puppies from them. This can provide insight into the breeder’s practices and the quality of their puppies. - Verify Registration and Certifications
If the breeder claims that the puppies are registered with a kennel club, ask for the registration details. You can contact the kennel club to confirm the breeder’s status and verify that the litter is indeed registered. - Get Everything in Writing
A reputable breeder will provide a written contract that outlines the terms of the sale, health guarantees, and return policies. If the breeder refuses to offer a contract or provides a vague one, this could be a sign of a scam.
Additional Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Stock Photos or Reused Images
Scammers often use the same photos repeatedly across multiple listings or websites. If you see the same photos on different sites, this could indicate that the images are stolen and that the puppies don’t exist. - Grammar and Spelling Errors in Communications
While not always a definitive sign of a scam, poorly written emails or website content can indicate that you’re dealing with a less-than-professional operation. Scammers may not invest much effort into creating professional-looking communications. - Unwillingness to Answer Questions
A legitimate breeder will gladly answer any questions you have about the puppy, their breeding program, or their policies. If the breeder becomes defensive, evasive, or irritated when you ask questions, it’s a red flag.
What to Do If You Suspect a Puppy Scam
- Report the Scam
If you believe you’ve encountered a scammer, report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Better Business Bureau (BBB), or your local consumer protection agency. This can help prevent others from falling victim. - Share Your Experience
Leave a review on social media or pet forums to warn others about the scam. The more people share their experiences, the harder it becomes for scammers to operate. - Contact Your Bank or Payment Provider
If you’ve already made a payment, contact your bank or payment provider immediately. You may be able to reverse the charge, especially if you use a credit card or PayPal.
Finding the perfect puppy should be an exciting and rewarding experience. By learning how to spot the signs of a scam, you can avoid the heartbreak of being deceived. Take the time to research, verify, and choose a breeder who is reputable and ethical. A little caution now can save a lot of trouble down the road.
