Online Puppy Shopping

Online Puppy Shopping

Sometimes it’s the only way to find rare dogs.

Maybe you always wanted a Bergamesco or Alaskan Klee Kai or another rare pup breed. If that’s you, you can probably find a breeder online. But buyer beware! DogWatch has compiled ways to help ensure you’re making the right choice. 

Research the seller

Try to get a personal recommendation from someone with a puppy from the same breeder or rescue facility. An online search of the seller’s name can dig up all sorts of positive and negative reviews for you to investigate, but go beyond the page! Take ratings with a grain of salt but if there are many many bad reviews … Beware.

Pick up the phone and dial

Talk to the seller or rescue staff. Ask questions about the care of the puppies, how they are being raised (in a kennel or in a home). The person answering the phone should consider you as an opportunity to find a good home for a pup not an inconvenience, pay attention to how they speak with you. If they sound hurried or rude or like you’re bothering them … Beware.

Expect questions 

Good breeders and rescues want their pups to go to good homes so expect questions about your home, other pets, your veterinarian and plans for your pup. Have references ready. If they are ready to give you the pup without questioning you … Beware.

Veterinary records

Any pup should come with a veterinary record of vaccines and dewormings. Ask to have those provided and find out if you can speak with the Vet or staff directly. If you get the run around … Beware.

Puppy age

No puppy should be separated from its mother before 8 weeks of age, and most toy breeds not before 12 weeks. Any breeder selling puppies less than 7 weeks of age should be avoided. If you can ask about the parents (no rescues) ask. Request video of the puppy and it’s parents or at least mom and litter-mates. They should be happy and relaxed not showing signs of anxiety or aggression. A relaxed dog pants with his mouth open and has a soft posture. 

Contract

Once you’ve chosen a puppy and spoken to the breeder or rescue a contract should be signed. If the payment is requested up front consider an escrow account, which ensures that the money has been paid but is not available until the dog has arrived safely.

Shipping

Driving to get your pup yourself is always the best method. Remember if you must ship, any dog being transported across state or country lines must have an official USDA health certificate. This certificate must be acquired by the breeder or rescue prior to shipping. If the pup must fly, remember that animals traveling alone or above a certain weight myst be in the cargo hold and may not be shipped certain times of the year due to unsafe temperatures. 

(Source: DOGWatch)