I’m a dog trainer – 10 red flags you shouldn’t buy from that breeder and why it’s bad if they let you pick the puppy
A DOG expert has issued a list of warnings for pet lovers who are looking to welcome a new addition to their home directly from a breeder.
Maddie (@social_work_therapy_dog) shares fun videos of her dog Jovie and educational content for canine owners with over 16,000 followers on TikTok.
She shared a list of red flags to be aware of as she hopes to encourage people to buy a dog from an ethical breeder.
Maddie began to countdown from 10, saying: “Sends puppy home before eight weeks old.
“Nine – ‘vet checked.’
“Eight – different prices for different colors.
“Seven – no OFA testing.
“Six – sells dogs to literally everyone.
“Five – let’s the buyer pick the puppy.
“Four – doesn’t let you meet the parents/where puppies live.
“Three – won’t take the puppy back.
“Two – doesn’t breed to the breed standard.
“One – breeds poodle mixes (doodled).”
Maddie told commenters that she has one shelter dog and a poodle mix, which she didn’t realize was unethical at the time of purchase.
She explained why she doesn’t recommend doodles, saying: “They can’t really develop a breed standard since the mix means unpredictable off spring characteristics.”
The dog trainer also claimed that buyers often focus more on looks when choosing a dog than their lifestyle.
“The reason for letting the breeder pick is because they know the puppies best, so they can fit them to the traits you’re looking for,” Maddie said.
Speaking about being “vet checked”, she added: “It’s a red flag when it’s the only thing being done since it’s the bare minimum! So if that’s the only thing they are advertising it’s an issue.”
The video racked up thousands of views with many people adding to the list of red flags dog buyers should be wary of.
“Makes you pay more for the pup to be registered. Huge red flag!!” one commented.
“I got my puppy just UNDER six weeks, such a red flag looking back now but I’ve been loving her ever since (five years this year),” another wrote.
“[Red flag emoji] if they require spray and neuter prior to growth plates closing/ pediatric S/N,” a third said.