To determine if a breeder is reputable, it’s essential to look for signs of responsible breeding practices that prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision:

Signs of a Reputable Breeder

Provides a Clean, Safe Environment

• Good breeders raise puppies in their homes or well-maintained facilities, not in cramped or dirty spaces.
• Puppies should be socialized with people and other dogs, showing curiosity and playfulness.
• You should be able to see the mother (and sometimes the father) with the litter to observe their behavior and health.

Red Flag – The breeder refuses to let you visit or offers to meet somewhere other than their home/facility.

Performs Health Screenings and Genetic Testing

• A reputable breeder conducts genetic tests on the parents to avoid passing down hereditary conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia or heart problems).
• Ask for certifications from organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).

Red Flag – No evidence of health screenings, or the breeder dismisses genetic concerns by saying their dogs are “healthy without testing.”

Follows Ethical Breeding Practices

• Limited Breeding – They don’t overbreed their dogs or produce more litter than they can responsibly care for.
• They avoid breeding for extreme traits that compromise the dogs’ health (like extremely flat-faced breeds prone to breathing issues).

Red Flag – The breeder has puppies available all year round or offers “designer breeds” without proper knowledge.

4. Keeps Puppies Until 8-12 Weeks Old

• Puppies should stay with their littermates and mother until at least 8 weeks old to ensure proper social development.

Red Flag – The breeder offers to send the puppy home before it is 8 weeks old, which can lead to behavioral and social problems.

Provides Veterinary Care and Health Records

• Vaccinations and Deworming: Puppies should come with a health record showing vaccinations, deworming, and any vet visits.
• A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee and offer to take the puppy back if any health issues arise.

Red Flag – No health records or vaccinations are provided, and the breeder avoids offering a health guarantee.

Offers a Purchase Contract

• Contracts often include health guarantees, spay/neuter agreements, and a clause to return the puppy if the buyer can no longer care for it.
• This shows that the breeder cares about the long-term well-being of the dog.

Red Flag – No contract, or the breeder has no policies for returns or health guarantees.

Asks You Questions

• A reputable breeder cares where their puppies go and will ask you questions about your home, family, and lifestyle to ensure you are a good fit.
• They may have a waitlist to carefully match puppies with the right homes.

Red Flag – The breeder doesn’t ask questions and seems eager to sell the puppy without concern for your situation.

Has a Strong Reputation and References

• Look for online reviews, testimonials from previous buyers, and references from veterinarians or breed organizations.
• Many reputable breeders are involved in breed clubs (like AKC or UKC) and follow their guidelines.

Red Flag – The breeder has poor reviews or can’t provide any references.

Registered with a Breed Club or Registry

• Responsible breeders often register their puppies with organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or other reputable registries.
• They’ll also provide pedigree papers if the puppy is purebred.

Red Flag – The breeder claims the dog is purebred but can’t provide pedigree or registration papers.

Maintains a Lifelong Commitment

• Reputable breeders often offer ongoing support and are available for questions throughout the dog’s life.
• Some breeders will even request that if you ever need to rehome the dog, it must be returned to them.

Red Flag – The breeder shows no interest after the sale and offers no future support.

A reputable breeder will prioritize the health, temperament, and long-term well-being of their dogs. Take your time researching and asking questions—don’t feel pressured to buy on the spot. If anything seems suspicious, it may be better to walk away and consider other breeders or adoption options.

If you’re ever unsure, consult with breed-specific rescues, veterinarians, or breed clubs for guidance.