Buying anything online can be risky, and when it comes to dogs, the dangers can be even greater – from scams and illegal puppy farms to situations that could put both you and the animals at risk. It’s hard to keep an objective mind when looking into the eyes of a cute puppy, but you shouldn’t let your heart take over from your head when making a decision. Our comprehensive guide will help you avoid the most common pitfalls and protect yourself when purchasing a dog.
Important
Never ignore red flags or proceed with a purchase if something doesn't feel right. Scammers and illegal puppy mills rely on buyers who are too eager or trusting. Your safety and the welfare of dogs depend on vigilant, informed purchasing decisions. When in doubt, it may be best to find another breeder.
Major Red Flags to Watch For
Immediate Deal Breakers:
- Won't let you see the mother: Legitimate breeders will show you the mother with her puppies
- Wants to meet at public places: Insisting on meeting at petrol stations, car parks, or other public locations
- No microchip certificate: Cannot or won't provide original microchip documentation
- Refuses ID verification: Won't show you their identification when asked
- No veterinary history: Cannot provide name of their vet or vaccination records
- Pressure tactics: Rushing you to make a decision or demanding immediate payment
- Last-minute address changes: Frequently changing meeting locations or addresses
- Different phone numbers: using multiple phone numbers without a reason
Essential Verification Steps
1. Microchip Certificate Verification
- Demand to see the original certificate: Not a photocopy or phone image
- Check the microchip number: Verify it matches the chip scanner reading if possible
- Confirm the address: The registered address should match where you're visiting
- Verify the owner name: Should match the seller's identification
- Check registration date: Should be consistent with the dog's age
2. Meeting Location Requirements
Always insist on meeting at the seller's home where the puppies are being raised:
- See the living conditions: Observe where the mother and puppies are kept
- Meet the mother: She should be present and comfortable with the puppies
- Check for multiple litters: Be wary of too many different breeds or litters
- Assess the environment: Should be clean and appropriate for raising puppies
- Never accept public meeting places: Legitimate breeders have nothing to hide
3. Seller Identification and Background
Always Ask For and Record:
- Photo ID: Driver's license or passport
- Full name and address: Write down all details
- Phone number: Verify it's working and not a disposable number
- Veterinary contact: Name and phone number of their vet
- Breeding license: If they're a licensed breeder, see the documentation
4. Veterinary Background Check
This is a crucial step that many buyers skip:
- Call the vet practice: Verify the seller is a genuine client
- Ask about health history: Confirm the dog's vaccination record
- Inquire about the breeding operation: Professional vets know their clients' activities
- Check for red flags: Vets can often spot illegal puppy mill operations
- Document the conversation: Keep notes of what the vet tells you
Personal Safety Measures
Never Go Alone
- Bring someone with you: Never visit a seller's home alone
- Tell others your plans: Share address, time, and expected return
- Keep your phone charged: Ensure you can call for help if needed
- Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, leave immediately
- Stay alert: Be aware of your surroundings at all times
Warning Signs During Visits
- Reluctance to let you see certain areas of the property
- Excessive barking or distressed sounds from other areas
- Strong odours or unsanitary conditions
- Aggressive or nervous behaviour from the seller
- Attempts to rush you through the viewing
- Other people acting suspiciously on the property
Cash Handling Safety
Protect Yourself Financially:
- Never bring cash to the initial viewing: Leave money secured in your car or at home
- Use the ATM trip as thinking time: Go to get money after you've decided to purchase
- Don't carry large amounts: Only bring what you've agreed to pay
- Bring exact change: Avoid having the seller "make change"
- Get a receipt: Always get written proof of payment
- Consider electronic payment: Bank transfers provide better records
Benefits of Delaying Payment
Going to get money after viewing gives you:
- Time to process what you've seen
- Opportunity to discuss with your companion
- Chance to research further if needed
- Ability to walk away if you have doubts
- Time to verify information with the vet
Contract and Documentation Requirements
Before You Leave, You Must Have:
- Original microchip certificate: With transfer of ownership completed
- Complete vaccination records: Showing all vaccinations and dates
- Health check documentation: Recent veterinary examination
- Signed sales contract: Including all agreed terms
- Breeder's contact information: Full details recorded
- Feeding and care instructions: What food, schedule, etc.
Essential Contract Elements
Your contract should include:
- Full details of both buyer and seller
- Complete description of the dog (breed, age, sex, markings)
- Microchip number and registration details
- Health guarantee and known conditions
- Purchase price and payment method
- Return policy if problems arise
- Spay/neuter agreements (if applicable)
Licensed Breeder Verification
Dog Breeding Establishment Rules
Some breeders must be licensed under the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. If they claim to be licensed:
- Ask to see the license: Should be current and valid
- Verify the registration number: Check with your local authority
- Check the conditions: Licensed premises must meet welfare standards
- Report unlicensed operations: If they should be licensed but aren't
When and How to Report Concerns
Contact the Gardaí If You Suspect:
- Dog theft: Dogs that seem stolen or distressed
- Illegal puppy farming: Large-scale commercial breeding operations
- Fraud: Fake documentation or identity
- Animal cruelty: Poor conditions or mistreatment
- Illegal importation: Undocumented dogs from abroad
- Threats or intimidation: If you feel unsafe
- Cropped ears: Illegal in Ireland since 2013
What Information to Provide
- Full name and address of the seller
- Phone numbers and contact details
- Description of the property and conditions
- Photos or videos (if safe to take)
- Vehicle registration numbers
- Details of any suspicious behaviour
Address Changes and Late Alterations
Be Extremely Wary Of:
- Last-minute location changes: Changing meeting address close to appointment
- Vague directions: "I'll call you when you're close"
- Multiple addresses: Different addresses for different communications
- Temporary locations: Claims about "visiting family" or "temporary housing"
- No fixed address: Unable to provide a permanent address
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Legitimate breeders will never pressure you. Be suspicious of:
- "This is the last puppy": Creating false urgency
- "Someone else is coming tonight": Pressure to decide immediately
- "Special price today only": Artificial discounts
- "You can't leave without him": Emotional manipulation
- "Cash only, right now": Demands for immediate payment
- "You'll regret it if you don't buy now": Guilt tactics
Additional Safety Resources
If Problems Arise
- Contact your local Garda station
- Report to the ISPCA if animal welfare is at risk (DSPCA in Dublin)
- Seek legal advice if you've been defrauded
- Contact your local authority about unlicensed breeders
The Right Way to Buy
What Legitimate Sellers Will Do:
- Welcome you to their home: Proud to show you their setup
- Introduce you to the mother: She'll be comfortable and well-cared for
- Provide all documentation: Health records, microchip certificates, etc.
- Answer all questions: Knowledgeable about their breed and dogs
- Give you time to decide: Never pressure you to buy immediately
- Offer ongoing support: Available for questions after purchase
- Have references: Previous buyers or veterinary contacts
Final Safety Reminders
Remember:
- Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is
- Don't be rushed: Take time to make an informed decision
- Verify everything: Check all claims and documentation
- Prioritise safety: Your wellbeing comes before getting a dog
- Don't ignore red flags: Even one major concern should stop the purchase
- Get everything in writing: Verbal promises are worthless
- Know you can walk away: There are always other dogs available
Remember, a reputable breeder or seller will understand and respect your caution. Anyone who becomes defensive, evasive, or angry about your safety measures is not someone you should be buying from. Your safety and the welfare of dogs depend on buyers making informed, careful decisions.
