Finding a responsible dog breeder is the first step toward bringing home a happy, healthy puppy. Unfortunately, many well-meaning buyers fall into the trap of puppy mills or backyard breeders, leading to costly health and behavioral issues down the road. A good dog breeder does more than just sell puppies—they prioritize health testing, breed standards, and lifetime support for their dogs.
So, how can you tell if a breeder is ethical and reputable? Look for AKC (or breed club) membership, transparent health records, and a genuine passion for the breed. Asking the right questions—about pedigrees, vaccinations, and socialization practices—can help you avoid scams and find a breeder who truly cares.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 8 simple steps to identify a good dog breeder, ensuring your new pup comes from a trustworthy, humane source.
1. Research different dog breeds.
Before contacting breeders, start by researching dog breeds to find the best match for your lifestyle. Not every breed fits every home—factors like energy levels, grooming needs, size, and temperament play a huge role in long-term happiness (for both you and your dog).
Ask yourself:
✔ Do you have an active or relaxed lifestyle? (High-energy breeds like Border Collies need lots of exercise, while Bulldogs prefer lounging.)
✔ How much space do you have? (Large breeds like Great Danes need room, while small dogs adapt well to apartments.)
✔ Are there kids or other pets? (Some breeds, like Golden Retrievers, are famously gentle, while others may be more territorial.)
Pro Tip: Use our index of over 340 different breeds to compare with photos, traits, and care guides. This will help you avoid impulsive decisions and ensure you choose a breed that fits seamlessly into your life.
2. Verify Breeder Credentials Through Reputable Organizations.
A trustworthy dog breeder doesn’t operate in isolation—they’re often affiliated with recognized kennel clubs that enforce ethical breeding standards. Here’s what to look for:
Why Kennel Club Membership Matters
Reputable breeders typically register with:
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – The gold standard for purebred dogs in the U.S.
- United Kennel Club (UKC) – Another respected registry with strict breeder requirements.
- Breed-Specific Clubs (e.g., German Shepherd Dog Club of America) – These often have even stricter guidelines than general kennel clubs.
Red Flag: If a breeder claims their dogs are “AKC-registered” but isn’t an AKC Breeder of Merit or part of a breed club, dig deeper. Registration alone doesn’t guarantee quality.
How to Check a Breeder’s Standing
✔ Search the AKC Marketplace (link above) for vetted breeders.
✔ Verify their membership in parent breed clubs (e.g., via the breed’s national club website).
✔ Avoid breeders who can’t provide registration paperwork or health clearances.
Did You Know? The AKC and UKC are among the 10 largest kennel clubs worldwide—affiliation signals a breeder’s commitment to preserving breed health and standards.
3. Tap Into Trusted Networks for Breeder Referrals.
One of the most reliable ways to find a quality breeder is through word-of-mouth recommendations. Start building your network of trusted sources:
Where to Get the Best Referrals:
- Your Veterinarian: They often know which breeders produce the healthiest puppies
- Breed-Specific Trainers/Groomers: Professionals who work with the breed daily
- Local Dog Show Handlers: These experts know who maintains breed standards
- Satisfied Owners: Happy pet parents are a breeder’s best advertisement
How to Evaluate Referrals:
✔ Ask specific questions: “What was your experience with the breeder’s health guarantees?”
✔ Request to see the referred breeder’s adult dogs – how do they look and behave?
✔ Check if multiple sources recommend the same breeders (a strong positive signal)
4. Check online resources.
While word-of-mouth referrals are valuable, reputable online breeder directories can significantly expand your search—if you know where to look.
Top Verified Online Resources:
- Only lists breeders who comply with the AKC’s Code of Ethics
- Filters for health testing requirements and breeder interviews
- Searchable list of 145+ official American dog breed clubs.
- Direct links to each club.
Red Flags in Online Listings:
❌ No health clearances publicly posted
❌ “Always available” litters (ethical breeders typically have waitlists)
❌ Prices significantly lower than breed average
5. Schedule an In-Person Visit (The Ultimate Test).
A reputable breeder will always welcome visits—this is your chance to see the truth behind their claims. Never buy a puppy sight unseen.
What to Look For During Your Visit:
Facility Conditions
- Clean, spacious, and odor-free environment
- Puppies raised in the home (not isolated in kennels or outdoor pens)
- Access to fresh water, toys, and socialization areas
Health & Temperament Clues
- Meet the mother (dam)—her condition reflects the breeder’s care
- Puppies should be curious, playful, and comfortable with humans
- No signs of illness (e.g., runny eyes, lethargy, or excessive scratching)
Breeder Behavior
- Asks you questions—good breeders screen buyers too!
- Provides health records (vaccinations, deworming, genetic testing)
- Discusses lifetime support (will they take the dog back if needed?)
Red Flags
❌ Refuses to let you see where puppies are raised
❌ Mother isn’t present (“She’s at the vet/another location”)
❌ Pressures you to pay a deposit on the spot
6. Look for health clearances.
A responsible breeder’s top priority is producing healthy puppies—and they prove it with documented health testing, not just promises.
Key Health Certifications to Require
OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Certifications:
- Hip/Elbow Dysplasia (OFA or PennHIP)
- Cardiac (heart) exams
- Thyroid and eye disease screenings
Breed-Specific Tests (Examples):
- DM (Degenerative Myelopathy) for German Shepherds
- PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) in Golden Retrievers
- vWD (von Willebrand’s Disease) in Dobermans
Embark or Wisdom Panel DNA Tests
- Screens for 200+ genetic conditions
- Reputable breeders share full results
Why OFA Certification Matters
Unlike basic vet checks, OFA certifications:
- Are performed by specialist veterinarians
- Require dogs to meet strict age thresholds (e.g., hips aren’t certified before 2 years)
- Are publicly searchable (verify at OFA.org)
Red Flags:
❌ “My vet says they’re healthy” (general exams ≠ genetic testing)
❌ Only provides “puppy health records” (parents must be tested)
❌ Claims “no issues in my lines” without proof
Pro Tip: Search the OFA database using the parents’ registered names before visiting.
7. Get a written health guarantee.
A reputable breeder’s contract is your strongest safeguard against heartbreak and hidden costs. Never accept verbal promises—always get it in writing.
What a Strong Health Guarantee Includes:
Genetic Health Coverage
- Minimum 2-year guarantee against life-impacting hereditary conditions
- Clear terms for reimbursement/replacement (not just “store credit”)
Return Policy
- Breeder will take the dog back at any age if you can’t keep it
- No “rehoming fees” or penalties
Vaccination/Worming Records
- Signed by their veterinarian with dates
Red Flags in Contracts
❌ “Limited guarantee” that expires before 12 months (many genetic issues appear later)
❌ Requires using specific (often overpriced) vet clinics for claims
❌ No provision for returning the dog
Tip: Ask to see a sample contract before reserving a puppy. Ethical breeders share these upfront.
Real Example:
“Breeder agrees to refund full purchase price if puppy is diagnosed with hip dysplasia before age 3, per OFA certification.”
8. Other Considerations in Choosing a Dog Breeder.
Beyond health tests and contracts, world-class breeders distinguish themselves through their ongoing dedication to their dogs and puppy buyers. Here’s what sets them apart:
The Ethical Breeder Hallmarks
- Lifelong Support: Answers calls/texts years after purchase for advice
- Transparent Practices: Shares pedigrees, show records, or working titles of parent dogs
- Education Focus: Provides puppy care packets and trains buyers on basics
- No Pressure Sales: May refuse buyers who aren’t a good fit
Dealbreaker Red Flags
❌ Rush Tactics: “This puppy will sell fast—deposit today!”
❌ Vague Answers: “Papers come later” or “Health tests aren’t needed for pet-quality”
❌ Isolation: Can’t connect you with past puppy owners
Key Questions to Reveal Their Priorities:
“Can I speak to 2-3 of your past puppy buyers?”
“What do you do with dogs that retire from breeding?”
“How do you socialize puppies before they go home?”
Tip: The best breeders often have waitlists—they’re worth the wait!
Steps to Find a Good Dog Breeder – Final Thoughts
Finding a reputable dog breeder isn’t just about getting a puppy—it’s about securing a thriving companion for years to come. By following these 8 essential steps, you’ve learned how to:
- Research breeds that fit your lifestyle
- Verify breeder credentials through trusted organizations
- Seek referrals from vets, trainers, and breed clubs
- Use verified directories like the AKC Marketplace
- Visit facilities to assess conditions firsthand
- Demand health clearances (OFA, genetic testing, etc.)
- Secure a written contract with a health guarantee
- Evaluate breeder ethics (transparency, lifelong support)
A responsible breeder’s commitment doesn’t end at sale—they’ll be a lifelong resource for you and your dog. While the process takes time, the reward is a well-bred, temperamentally sound puppy with the best start in life.
Your Next Steps:
- Bookmark this guide to reference during your search
- Download our breeder checklist (link) for on-the-go vetting
- Join breed-specific communities to connect with ethical breeders
Remember: Patience pays off. The right breeder is out there—and your future pup is worth the wait.
