How to choose a breeder you can trust
Choosing a breeder is the single most important decision you will make before bringing a pet home. A good one sets your puppy or kitten up for a healthy, happy life. A poor one can lead to heartache and unexpected vet bills.
Why it matters
How and where an animal spends its first weeks shapes its health and temperament for life. Responsible breeders raise their litters in the home, socialise them early, and plan every mating with the parents’ wellbeing in mind.
Green flags to look for
Good breeders welcome your questions, show you where the animals live, and share health-testing results without being asked. They will ask you as many questions as you ask them, because they care where their puppies and kittens end up.
Red flags to walk away from
Be cautious of anyone who won’t let you visit, always meets in a car park, has litters available all year round, or dodges questions about health testing. Pressure to pay a deposit quickly is another warning sign.
Questions to ask
Can I meet the parents? What health tests have been done? How are the puppies socialised? What support do you offer after I take them home? On RightPaw, every breeder has agreed to our Code of Ethics and completed a review before they appear.
Ready to find your pet?
Explore breeds and available litters from verified breeders.