If you’ve decided to buy a puppy rather than adopt, choosing a reputable breeder is crucial. A responsible breeder prioritizes the health, wellbeing, and socialisation of their puppies — not just profit. Here’s how to identify ethical breeders and avoid supporting the cruel puppy trade.
What Does a Good Breeder Do?
- Spends time talking with you to understand if you’re ready for a puppy.
- Arranges visits so you can meet the puppies, their mother, and siblings in their home environment.
- Is happy to schedule multiple visits to ensure the puppy is a good match for your household.
- Answers all your questions — and asks you plenty too.
- Shows you their breeding licence if they’re running a commercial breeding business.
- Provides documents including vaccination records, microchip details, and results of any health tests.
Warning Signs of an Irresponsible Breeder
- Refuses to let you meet the puppy’s mother, claiming she’s unavailable.
- Offers to meet you in a public location like a car park.
- Wants to hand over the puppy before it’s 8 weeks old (this is illegal).
- Downplays health issues by saying things like “It’s normal for this breed.”
- Uses Kennel Club registration or other paperwork as the sole proof of quality.
Questions to Ask a Breeder Before Visiting
Before committing to a visit, call the breeder and ask these key questions:
- Did they personally breed the puppies? Avoid third-party sellers.
- Are the puppies still living in the home where they were born?
- How many puppies are in the litter?
- Have the puppies or mother had any health problems?
- Have the puppies been treated for worms?
- Will the puppies receive their first vaccinations before rehoming?
- Have the parents been screened for common inherited diseases?
- Are the puppies microchipped (a legal requirement)?
Asking these questions early helps you avoid wasting time with unethical breeders.
Ensuring the Puppy Matches Your Lifestyle
- Was the puppy raised in a busy home or a quiet environment? This affects their confidence.
- Has the puppy been exposed to household noises, new people, and other dogs?
- Have they been gently handled by children, if you have kids?
- Are they used to regular human contact throughout the day?
Choose a puppy whose upbringing matches the type of home you can offer.
What to Check When Visiting the Breeder
When visiting, take your time and assess the situation carefully.
- Are the puppies and their mother present in the home?
- Can you see evidence they were raised there, like bedding, bowls, and toys?
- Do the puppies appear healthy and curious?
- Does the mother seem relaxed and friendly?
- Avoid puppies that seem overly fearful or withdrawn unless you are an experienced owner prepared for extra socialisation work.
If anything feels off — such as puppies being scared of their surroundings — this could indicate they were moved from their original breeding location.
Health Warning Signs in Puppies
- Visible ribs or potbellies
- Patchy fur or skin sores
- Runny nose or eyes
- Coughing or laboured breathing
- Signs of diarrhoea
- Weakness or trouble standing
- Limping or unusual posture
- Straining to go to the toilet
If you spot any of these symptoms, ask a vet to assess the puppy before committing.
Take Your Time Choosing the Right Puppy
Spend quality time observing the puppies’ behaviour. Look for a confident, curious pup who wants to interact with you and explore their surroundings. Avoid selecting the most timid puppy unless you’re ready for extra socialisation work.
If you’re happy with the breeder and the puppy, plan a follow-up visit to confirm your decision.
Use the Puppy Contract
A responsible breeder will be happy to complete the Puppy Contract, which outlines the puppy’s history, health, and care. This document protects both you and the puppy.
Final Tip
If anything feels suspicious or you’re pressured into buying, walk away and report your concerns to animal welfare authorities. By refusing to support irresponsible breeding, you help protect future puppies from similar harm.