Thinking of Buying a Puppy Online? Here’s Why You Need to Do Your Own Research
The convenience of online puppy shopping has made it easier than ever to find a new furry companion. However, beneath the appealing listings and well-crafted promises, not all platforms operate with transparency. If you’re considering purchasing a puppy online, exercising extreme caution and conducting independent research is absolutely essential. In fact, we never recommend buying a puppy from a website.
The Risks of Relying Solely on Online Platforms
Many websites claim to thoroughly vet their breeders, but in reality, their standards may be unclear. Without firsthand verification, prospective buyers risk unknowingly supporting commercial breeders who prioritize profit over the well-being of their dogs. Puppies bred in these conditions may suffer from poor health, lack of proper socialization, and have genetic issues—leading to heartbreaking consequences for the buyer and lifelong struggles for the dog.
Steps to Ensure a Responsible Puppy Purchase
Before committing to a puppy purchase, follow these critical steps to safeguard yourself and the animal:
- Visit the Breeder – Seeing where the puppies are born and raised allows you to assess cleanliness, living conditions, and overall care.
- Meet the Parent Dogs – This helps you evaluate temperament and health while ensuring they’re not living in substandard conditions.
- Be Wary of Red Flags – A breeder who refuses visits, has an excessive number of litters available, or has multiple breeds and mixes available should raise immediate concern.
Advocating for Ethical Pet Ownership
Choosing a responsible breeder not only protects the health and happiness of your future pet but also discourages unethical breeding practices. By taking the time to research thoroughly, prospective buyers play a crucial role in ensuring better lives for dogs and promoting responsible pet acquisition.
Always remember—a healthy, well-cared-for puppy begins with a responsible breeder.
How to Avoid Puppy Scams & Unethical Breeders Online
Buying a puppy online? Don’t trust the website alone. Many platforms claim to vet breeders, but in reality, they often list commercial breeding operations that put profit before a puppy’s health and well-being. If you don’t do your own research, you could unknowingly support unethical breeders or end up with a sick puppy.
Warning Signs of Online Breeders
- No facility visits allowed – Reputable breeders will let you see where the puppies are raised.
- No parent dogs on-site – If they can’t show the mother, chances are they’re selling third party puppies and are essentially acting as a broker.
- Too many puppies available – Breeders who always have multiple litters and many different breeds and mixes available are likely breeding for profit.
How to Protect Yourself & Your Future Puppy
- Visit the breeder in person – Never rely solely on photos, video chats, facetimes or claims from the website.
- Meet the parent dogs – This ensures they’re healthy and living in good conditions.
- Verify health certifications – Demand proof of genetic testing, vaccinations, and veterinary care and call the vet clinic to verify.
Don’t Fall for Online Puppy Mills
Online puppy brokers make buying a puppy easy—but convenience shouldn’t come at the expense of the puppy or it’s parent’s welfare. If a breeder refuses basic transparency, they likely have something to hide. Always take the time to research, ask questions, and visit before committing money to a puppy purchase.
