Finding trustworthy sources for puppies is crucial to ensure you are supporting ethical practices and bringing home a healthy, well-adjusted pet.

Here are the best options to find reliable sources…

Reputable Breeders

• How to Find
  • National Kennel Clubs – Organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), or The Kennel Club (UK) maintain directories of reputable breeders.
  • Breed Clubs – Many specific breeds have dedicated clubs with breeder directories that follow ethical guidelines.
  • Veterinarians or Trainers – Professionals in the pet industry often know trustworthy breeders.
• Why This is Trustworthy
  • Breeders affiliated with recognized organizations follow strict codes of ethics.
  • Puppies come from healthy parent dogs tested for genetic issues.

Breed-Specific Rescue Organizations

• How to Find
  • Search for local or national rescue groups focused on the breed you’re interested in.
  • Use online platforms like Petfinder or the ASPCA website, which connect you to breed-specific rescues.
• Why This is Trustworthy
  • These groups prioritize the welfare of dogs and ensure proper rehoming procedures.
  • Adoption fees are often lower than buying from breeders, and dogs often receive necessary medical care before rehoming.

General Animal Shelters

• How to Find
  • Visit local shelters, humane societies, or municipal animal control facilities.
  • Use online resources like
    • Petfinder – A national database of pets available for adoption.
    • Adopt-a-Pet – Connects you to animals in shelters across the country.
• Why This is Trustworthy
  • Shelters prioritize the health and well-being of animals.
  • Adopting from a shelter can save a life and is generally less expensive than purchasing.

Trusted Friends, Family, or Community Recommendations

• How to Find
  • Ask for referrals from trusted friends or family who have obtained puppies from responsible sources.
  • Attend local dog events or meet-ups to network with responsible breeders or rescue organizations.
• Why This is Trustworthy
  • You can verify the source’s practices firsthand through someone you trust.

Online Sources (With Caution)

• How to Find
  • Use verified breeder networks like the AKC Marketplace or breed-club listings.
  • Check review sites and forums to vet breeders who have an online presence.
• Why This is Trustworthy
  • Official marketplaces verify breeders to ensure compliance with ethical practices.
• Important Note
  • Avoid unregulated online marketplaces or classified ads (e.g., Craigslist) that may be linked to puppy mills.

Local Dog Shows and Events

• How to Find
  • Attend events sanctioned by the AKC, CKC, or other kennel clubs where breeders showcase their dogs.
  • Talk to exhibitors, judges, or breed representatives to find breeder recommendations.
• Why This is Trustworthy
  • Breeders at these events are usually passionate about their dogs and prioritize breeding for health, temperament, and adherence to breed standards.

What to Look for in Any Source

• Transparency
  • The source provides access to health records and proof of vaccinations.
  • They allow you to visit and see where the puppy is raised.
• Health Standards
  • The source screens for genetic issues and provides veterinary care.
• Socialization
  • Puppies are raised in an environment where they interact with people and other animals.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Puppy mills or large-scale commercial breeders.
• Retail pet stores (many source their dogs from mills).
• Sellers unwilling to provide detailed health records or let you see the living conditions.
• “Too-good-to-be-true” deals on online classified platforms.

Choosing a trustworthy source takes time and research, but it ensures you bring home a healthy and happy puppy from an ethical environment.