People talk about buying a puppy like it is a simple weekend errand. In the United States it rarely is. The market is crowded with backyard breeders, unlicensed sellers, and puppy mills hiding behind polished photos. If you are not careful, you can spend a lot of money and end up with a dog that struggles with health issues from day one.
This guide is the kind you usually wish someone gave you earlier. Think of it as advice from a friend who has seen the good and the ugly sides of dog buying and wants you to avoid the mistakes most new owners make.
Before You Look at Breeders, Look at Shelters
Most Americans do not start this way, but they should. Shelters and rescue groups here are full of dogs who did nothing wrong. Some are purebred, some are mixed, and many are surprisingly well trained.
A lot of people imagine shelters as loud, chaotic places filled with difficult dogs. Visit a few and you will see something different. You will find volunteers who know each dog personally. You will find pets who were surrendered simply because someone moved or could not afford veterinary bills. You will find dogs who are vaccinated, checked by veterinarians, and sometimes more social than puppies from a breeder.
Even if you know you want a young puppy, it is worth taking a look. You might be surprised.
Never Trust a Breeder Who Will Not Let You Visit
A responsible breeder has nothing to hide. They want you to see where the puppies grow up. When a seller starts saying things like “pickup only,” or “we do not allow visitors,” or “the parents are not here,” that is your first sign to step back.
A home visit tells you everything. You see how clean the place is. You see whether the adult dogs are relaxed or nervous. You see whether the puppies have room to play or if they are kept in one corner.
If a breeder avoids this step, assume they are hiding something and move on.
Always Meet the Mother
The mother is the heart of any litter. Her personality often shows up in her puppies. When you meet her, notice how she reacts to new people. Pay attention to whether she seems confident, gentle, playful, or stressed.
A good breeder is proud to show the mother. A bad one finds excuses. When the mother is missing, you can safely assume the puppies were not raised in that home. That is never a good sign.
Do Not Accept a Puppy Before Eight Weeks
This is something new dog owners often overlook. Puppies are cute at five or six weeks, so some people think earlier is better. In reality, early separation creates long term problems. Puppies need time with their mother and littermates for emotional and behavioral development.
When breeders try to hand off puppies early, it usually means they want quick money or they do not understand proper canine development. Neither is good for you or the dog.
Pay Attention to the Environment
When you visit, do not focus only on the puppies. Look around the home. Look at the floor, the bowls, the bedding, and any toys. Are the puppies confident or skittish. Does the place smell clean. Do the adult dogs look healthy.
Well raised puppies usually act curious. They come close to sniff you. They move around freely. When you see a litter that acts fearful or frozen, it often indicates they were not properly socialized.
Ask for Real Veterinary Records
Many breeders say the puppies have been checked by a vet. Do not accept that without proof. Ask for written documentation that includes vaccine dates, the name of the veterinarian, microchip information, and any health screenings performed on the parents.
In the United States it is common for responsible breeders to use OFA health testing for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart conditions depending on the breed. When you ask for these records and the breeder tries to avoid the question, that is your answer.
A Breeder Who Cares Will Ask About You Too
It may feel odd the first time, but good breeders will ask questions. They want to know how long you are gone during the day, whether you have children or other pets, how much space you have, and how prepared you are for the breed’s energy level.
If a breeder never asks anything and only talks about payment and pickup, think carefully. That is not someone committed to the future of their puppies.
Learn the Health Risks That Come With Each Breed
Every breed has its strengths and weaknesses. Golden Retrievers often struggle with cancer. French Bulldogs have severe breathing issues. German Shepherds are prone to hip problems. Dachshunds have spinal risks. Cavaliers frequently develop heart disease.
A responsible breeder will openly discuss these concerns. Someone who tries to pretend the breed has no issues at all is not being honest.
Ask About Their Return Policy
Good breeders do not want their dogs ending up in shelters. They will tell you that if life changes and you cannot keep the dog, you can return the dog to them. That is a sign of responsibility.
When a breeder refuses to take a puppy back under any circumstance, it shows their interest ends the moment the sale is complete.
Watch the Puppy’s Behavior
A healthy, well raised puppy behaves in a certain way. They approach you with interest. They look around the room. They interact with their siblings. They let you touch them without panicking.
Puppies who hide in corners or avoid eye contact for long periods often come from environments with poor socialization. It does not mean they cannot improve, but it is important to know what you are getting into.
Choosing a dog is not a moment of impulse. It is a decision that follows you for a decade or more. A well chosen puppy becomes a companion who brings joy and stability. A poorly chosen one can struggle with fear, illness, and daily stress.
Walk into this process informed. Ask questions. See the environment. Meet the mother. Demand records. And most importantly, trust what you observe rather than what you are told.
Good dogs come from good beginnings. Your job is to make sure you are supporting the right kind of beginning.
