Guide · Choosing a puppy
Recognising a responsible breeder: questions and red flags
Choosing the breeder matters as much as choosing the puppy. A good breeder is happy to answer questions and asks some too. This list applies to every breeder – including us.
Family breeding: what it means
With a family breeder, puppies grow up inside the home, in everyday life, among sounds, voices and handling. That prepares them well for living with a family.
But “family breeder” alone isn’t a guarantee. What counts is the care and health of the parents, veterinary care, complete documents and openness.
Questions about the parents
- Can I see photos and videos of the parents?
- How big are they, and what are they like?
- Have the parents had genetic tests, and can I see the results?
- How many litters has the mother had?
Questions about rearing
- Where and how are the puppies raised?
- Which vaccinations and treatments do they get before handover?
- Can I see the puppy on a video call, more than once?
- What does it eat, and will I get food for the first days?
- Will you be available for questions after handover?
Questions about paperwork and travel
- Is there a written sale contract?
- Is the puppy microchipped, with a health certificate?
- For a puppy from abroad: does it have an EU pet passport and a valid rabies vaccination?
- Does it travel at 15 weeks at the earliest, with an official health certificate via TRACES?
Answers that should set alarm bells ringing
- “We’ll send the papers on later.”
- “Let’s meet at the motorway services.”
- “The puppy can come to you at 10 weeks.”
- “A video call isn’t possible, sorry.”
- “Pay today or it’s gone.”
Especially when buying from abroad
Getting a puppy from another EU country is nothing unusual – but the rules are strict, and that’s exactly how you spot a trustworthy seller. Anyone who wants to send you a puppy under 15 weeks or without a valid rabies vaccination is not following the law. The correct process is explained in Travel & documents and Puppy from Italy.
Your gut feeling counts too
A good breeder wants to know where their puppy is going. They ask about your home, your time and your experience – and will sometimes say “no” or “better wait”. If the conversation is only about payment and dates, be careful.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ask the breeder about health tests?
Absolutely. A responsible breeder explains which tests were done and shows you the results.
Why do authorities advise seeing the puppy at the breeder’s?
Because dishonest sellers often send only photos. If a visit isn’t possible, insist on detailed video calls and check all documents before paying.
Keep reading
Any questions?
Message Gianni or Aldo directly on WhatsApp. Tell us how you live and what you are looking for.
Our only location is Barletta, Italy.