I'm buying a puppy from an ethical breeder 🐕 What should I expect from inquiry to pickup?

Wouldn't it be nice to understand what a puppy's life is like before they come to you? Getting a puppy from a reputable breeder does just that.

An ethical breeder doesn’t just hand you a puppy — they know your pup’s story, what to expect, and how to care for them. But the relationship goes both ways — a responsible breeder will also want to make sure you're a good fit.

Discover what goes into building a relationship with an ethical breeder — from your first inquiry all the way to the moment you bring your new furry friend home.

When speaking to dog breeders, there are some who may not be genuine and who don't follow the strict code of ethics and health tests that ethical breeders follow. Responsible breeders are invested in the lives of their dogs.

Before reaching out to a breeder:

• Research breeds to match energy level, temperament, and needs to your lifestyle.

• Prepare questions about health testing, socialization practices, and parent dog temperament.

• Talk to vets and trainers for unbiased advice and to prepare for your conversation.

• Consider alternatives like breed-specific rescues or responsible adoption centers if money and time are factors.

Things you'll want to see:

• Health & testing: Expect transparency about health screenings and genetic testing. Reputable breeders provide documentation for tests like OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certifications and CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) results.

• Ongoing support: Good breeders remain a resource for training advice, health concerns, and breed-specific guidance.

The first contact with a breeder sets the tone for your relationship. Responsible breeders respond promptly and professionally.

Potential breeders in the United States usually start off by having you fill out an application, much like shelters and rescues do. This process can vary slightly from country to country.

This ensures that when a litter is available, breeders can help you choose a puppy based on:

• Temperament and behavior

• Compatibility with your lifestyle

• Reviewing health and vaccination records

Once your application is approved, many breeders ask you to put down a deposit and sign a contract. If you're not signing it at this stage, you may ask to review it.

This contract ensures that if you are unable to take care of the dog in the future, you'll reach out to them to return the dog.

Contracts should include:

• Health guarantees and coverage

• Return policies if the puppy cannot stay in the home

• Buyer responsibilities, like what to do in case you're unable to keep the dog

Other documents to expect:

• Parent health testing (hips, elbows, eyes, breed-specific genetic tests)

• Vaccinations and deworming

• Registration papers (AKC or another recognized registry)

Transparency ensures informed decisions and safeguards your puppy’s health.

Red flags to watch out for:

• Pressure to commit quickly without reflection

• Absence of a written contract

When you visit the breeder, look out for:

• Clean, safe environments

• Healthy parent dogs interact normally with puppies

• Early socialization: gentle handling, exposure to household sounds

What you can ask about:

• Breed-specific traits and temperament

• Health testing of parent dogs

• Litter planning and availability

It’s normal for breeders to ask you questions, too. This helps ensure puppies go to safe, prepared homes.

What responsible breeders may ask about:

• A questionnaire about your lifestyle and experience

• Discussion about your home environment

• References from previous pet ownership

This process ensures puppies are matched to homes that can provide proper care. For tips on what breeders typically ask, you can use these resources:

• AKC guide

• Good Dog’s responsible breeder screening guide

• AKC advice on puppy placement

Red flags to watch out for:

• No health documentation or unwillingness to share results.

• Selling puppies too young (<8 weeks) or without vaccinations (for more guidance, see AKC’s advice on spotting puppy scams)

Support you can expect after pickup:

• Guide you on nutrition and training

• Help your puppy adjust to its new home

• Remain available for support after the sale

For tips on transitioning puppies, visit the Continental Kennel Club site an all-dog breed registry.

Red flags to look out for in this step are:

• Dirty, scruffy fur coat

• Dogs or puppies that are aggressive, vicious, anti-social, or overly fearful

• Dogs living in stacked cages, dark outbuildings, garages, or basements

• No shelter from rain, heat, or cold

• Water unavailable, dirty, or frozen

• Too thin, too heavy, or generally unhealthy

• Too many animals to properly care for, exercise, or socialize

Before starting a relationship with a breeder and rushing into getting a puppy, do your homework. Pick a breed that fits your lifestyle, ask the right questions, and keep your eyes open for red flags!

Before reaching out to a breeder: