When buying from a breeder, it’s important to ensure they are ethical and reputable to avoid supporting unhealthy breeding practices or puppy mills.

Here are some key signs of a legitimate breeder and red flags to watch out for…

How to Identify a Legit Breeder

Allows Visits to the Facility or Home

• Legit breeders will encourage you to visit and see where the puppies are raised.
• You should see a clean, safe environment with well-cared-for animals, not cramped cages.
• The puppies should be socialized (used to human contact) and appear healthy and active.

Red Flag – The breeder refuses to let you visit or insists on meeting at a neutral location (like a parking lot).

Breeds Only One or a Few Breeds

• Ethical breeders specialize in one or two breeds, focusing on quality, health, and proper traits.
• They have a strong understanding of the breed’s personality, health issues, and care requirements.

Red Flag – The breeder offers multiple breeds, especially rare or “designer” breeds, without sufficient knowledge.

Provides Health Screenings and Documentation

• Legit breeders conduct health tests to rule out common genetic disorders (e.g., hip dysplasia, eye conditions).
• They provide vet records and vaccination history for the puppy.
• Look for certifications from organizations like OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or CERF (Canine Eye Registry Foundation).

Red Flag – No health tests are performed, or the breeder cannot provide health certificates or vet documentation.

Requires a Buyer Screening Process

• Responsible breeders care about where their puppies end up and will ask you questions about your home, experience with dogs, and lifestyle.
• Some may have a waitlist or refuse to sell if they believe your home isn’t suitable.

Red Flag – The breeder sells puppies without asking any questions about your readiness or living situation.

Offers a Contract and Health Guarantee

• Legit breeders provide a purchase contract with conditions on health guarantees, return policies, and spay/neuter agreements.
• Many will insist that if you can’t keep the dog, it must be returned to them.

Red Flag – No contract is offered, or the breeder has no policies on returns or health issues.

Puppies Stay with Mom Until at Least 8 Weeks

• Ethical breeders do not separate puppies from their mothers before they are 8–10 weeks old. This ensures they learn proper social behaviors from their mom and littermates.

Red Flag: Puppies are sold earlier than 8 weeks, which can lead to behavioral and health issues.

Affiliated with Breed Clubs or Registries

• A legitimate breeder will often be a member of breed-specific clubs (like the AKC, UKC, or breed-specific organizations).
• Look for pedigree papers and proper registration documentation if buying a purebred puppy.

Red Flag: The breeder claims the dogs are “purebred” without providing registration or pedigree information.

Positive Reviews or References

• Good breeders will have positive testimonials or references from previous buyers and veterinary professionals.
• You can also search for online reviews or check if they are listed with breed organizations.

Red Flag: There are no reviews, or the breeder has complaints about unethical practices.

A legitimate breeder prioritizes the health, well-being, and future care of their puppies over profit. Take your time to research and ask questions—don’t feel pressured to buy on the spot. If anything feels off, it may be better to walk away and explore other breeders or consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.