12 Red Flags You Should Watch Out For in a Dog Breeder

Dogs are not just pets; they are family members, and finding the right breeder is vital to ensure you adopt a healthy and happy dog. A reputable breeder should provide not only high-quality puppies but also exceptional customer service. Unfortunately, not all breeders meet these criteria, and some unscrupulous breeders are only interested in making money. In this article, we will discuss 12 red flags that you should watch out for when looking for a dog breeder.

1. Poor Kennel Conditions 

The first thing you should look for when visiting a breeder is the living conditions of the dogs. If the kennel is dirty, smelly, and overcrowded, it's a clear sign that the breeder is not taking proper care of their dogs.

2. Lack of Health Testing

Reputable breeders will always conduct health tests on their dogs to ensure they're free of any genetic disorders or diseases that could be passed on to their offspring. If the breeder can't provide evidence of health testing, it's best to look elsewhere.

3. No Health Guarantees

A good breeder will provide a health guarantee for their puppies, offering to cover any costs associated with genetic disorders or other health issues that may arise. If a breeder doesn't offer a health guarantee, it's a red flag that they don't stand behind their breeding practices.

4. Lack of Socialisation

Puppies need to be socialised from a young age to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adult dogs. If the breeder doesn't take the time to socialise their puppies, they may be difficult to train and have behaviour issues down the line.

5. No Pedigree Information

Reputable breeders will have pedigree information for their dogs, including information on their lineage and health history. If a breeder can't provide pedigree information, it's a sign that they may not be breeding purebred dogs.

6. Refusal to Show the Parents

When visiting a breeder, it's important to see the puppies' parents to get an idea of their temperament and health. If the breeder refuses to show you the parents, it's a red flag that they may be hiding something.

7. Lack of Transparency

A good breeder will be open and transparent about their breeding practices, including their methods for socialisation, training, and healthcare. If a breeder is evasive or refuses to answer your questions, it's best to look elsewhere.

8. Selling Puppies Too Young

Puppies should not be separated from their mother until they are at least 8 weeks old. If a breeder is selling puppies before this age, it's a sign that they're more concerned with making a profit than the welfare of the puppies.

9. Unwilling to Let You Visit

A reputable breeder will always allow potential buyers to visit their kennel and meet their dogs. If a breeder is unwilling to let you visit or insists on meeting in a public place, it's a red flag that they may not be running a legitimate operation.

10. Lack of Vaccinations

Puppies should receive their first set of vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age. If a breeder can't provide proof of vaccinations or tells you that they're not necessary, it's a sign that they're not taking proper care of their puppies.

11. Too Many Breeds

A good breeder will specialise in one or two breeds, allowing them to focus on breeding healthy and well-adjusted puppies. If a breeder has multiple breeds available, it's a sign that they may be more concerned with making a profit than breeding quality dogs

12. Pushy Sales Tactics

A reputable breeder will never pressure you into buying a puppy or use high-pressure sales tactics. If a breeder is trying to rush you into a decision or making promises that seem more interested in making money than ensuring the well-being of their puppies, it's a red flag.