Responsible puppy breeder checks: questions to ask before buying

Do not rush the decision

RSPCA guidance warns buyers not to buy a puppy if they have doubts about the breeder or situation, because buying can fund poor welfare or illegal operations. It is hard to walk away from a puppy, but a pressured sale is itself a warning sign.

Be cautious if the seller wants an immediate deposit, avoids questions, will not let you see where the puppy was raised, or offers to meet in a car park, service station or other neutral location. A responsible seller should want to know about you too.

Questions to ask

• Can I see the puppy with its mother?
• Where has the puppy been living and socialising?
• What age will the puppy be before leaving?
• What vaccinations, vet checks, worming, flea treatment and microchip details are available?
• What health tests are relevant for the breed or crossbreed?
• What food is the puppy currently eating?
• What support is available after the puppy comes home?
• Can I see written information and a contract before paying?
• Is the seller happy for me to take time to decide?

Use The Puppy Contract

The Puppy Contract is a free toolkit developed by the Animal Welfare Foundation and RSPCA, and supported by animal welfare and veterinary bodies. It is designed to help buyers find a healthy, happy puppy from a responsible source.

BVA, AWF and RSPCA have encouraged puppy buyers to use The Puppy Contract and ask important questions before buying. It gives structure to a conversation that can otherwise become emotional and rushed.

Warning signs

Be prepared to pause or walk away if you see several of these signs:

• The seller will not let you see the puppy with its mother.
• The puppy seems unusually quiet, unwell, dirty, frightened or underweight.
• The seller has multiple litters or breeds available with little explanation.
• The story changes between calls, messages and visits.
• Paperwork is missing, vague or only promised after payment.
• The seller pressures you to pay quickly or says other buyers are waiting.
• The puppy is offered for collection or delivery somewhere away from the home environment.

Health, microchipping and paperwork

GOV.UK says dogs must be microchipped and registered by 8 weeks old. Ask how the microchip will be transferred and confirm the details after collection.

Also ask about vet checks, vaccination records, worming, flea treatment, food, insurance cover provided by the breeder if any, and what happens if a health problem appears soon after purchase. A responsible breeder should not resent sensible questions.