Red Flags When Choosing a Breeder
Red Flags When Choosing a Breeder
Finding a responsible breeder is crucial when bringing a new puppy into your home. Unfortunately, not all breeders have the best interests of their dogs at heart. Knowing the red flags when choosing a breeder can help you avoid unethical practices, poor breeding conditions, and potential health issues in your future pet.
In this article, we’ll highlight the biggest warning signs to watch for when selecting a breeder.
Top Red Flags to Watch For
1. No Health Testing or Screening
- Ethical breeders conduct genetic and health tests to ensure their puppies are free of hereditary diseases.
- Red flag: The breeder dismisses health testing as unnecessary or refuses to provide documentation.
2. No Questions Asked About You
- A responsible breeder will ask questions about your lifestyle, experience, and home setup to ensure their puppies go to the right homes.
- Red flag: The breeder is willing to sell to anyone with no screening process.
3. Puppies Always Available
- Quality breeders have limited litters, planned with care and purpose.
- Red flag: The breeder always has puppies available or multiple litters at once.
4. No Contract or Health Guarantee
- Ethical breeders provide contracts that include health guarantees, spay/neuter agreements, and return policies.
- Red flag: The breeder does not offer a written contract or health guarantee.
5. Poor Living Conditions
- Puppies should be raised in a clean, enriched environment with proper socialization.
- Red flag: The breeder does not allow visits or the facility appears unsanitary or overcrowded.
6. No Proof of Vaccinations or Veterinary Care
- Puppies should receive age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, and veterinary checkups.
- Red flag: The breeder cannot provide veterinary records or avoids discussing medical care.
7. Selling on Classifieds Like Kijiji or Craigslist
- Responsible breeders do not advertise on Kijiji, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.
- Red flag: The breeder lists puppies on these platforms instead of having a website or referrals.
8. No Involvement in Breed Clubs or Organizations
- Ethical breeders are members of recognized breed clubs and follow ethical breeding guidelines.
- Red flag: The breeder is not affiliated with any reputable breed organization.
9. Pushy Sales Tactics
- A good breeder wants to find the right fit and will never pressure buyers.
- Red flag: The breeder insists on immediate payment or rushes you into a decision.
10. Breeding Rare or Designer Colors
- Concern should be when it is different prices for different colors.
11. Over-Breeding of Their Dogs
Red flag: The breeder breeds their dogs excessively; dogs should have a maximum of 5 litters.
Recognizing red flags when choosing a breeder is essential to avoiding unethical breeding practices. A reputable breeder prioritizes health, temperament, and responsible placements over profits. Take the time to research, visit in person, and ask the right questions before committing to a puppy.
By staying vigilant and informed, you can ensure a happy, healthy companion for years to come.
Responsible Breeders of Canada are members of Paw Privileges and follow a strict code of conduct. Read the code of conduct here.
Responsible Breeders of Canada
