How to Buy a Puppy Online Safely

By Jody Morse

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

The internet
Common sense

Step 1:
Ask questions about the health of the puppy. Also, be sure to find out information about the parents of the puppy. Keep in mind that the puppy should be at least six weeks of age when you purchase it, and it probably will not be ready to ship out until it is at least eight weeks old. This information, as well as anything else you may be wondering, is very important to know before you agree to purchase the puppy online.
Step 2:
Before you buy a puppy online from a breeder, obtain the breeder's kennel name, telephone number and exact location. This is important. After you have this information, you’ll want to consider finding out if they are legitimate from the Better Business Bureau.
Step 3:
Be sure to find out the exact price, including shipping, upfront. You don’t want to be overcharged for your purchase. Many breeders will advertise a dog for $500, but then throw on an extra $500 for shipping. If you have agreed to purchase the dog without finding out the shipping cost, you will be stuck paying it. The best thing that you can do is ask questions in regards to price.
Step 4:
Do not purchase a puppy online if the breeder does not agree to provide you with a health guarantee. Health guarantees are usually provided for up to one year. Before you buy a puppy online, it’s always important to make sure that this is included in the information or you should ask otherwise.
Step 5:
Make sure that the breeder will also provide you with a health certificate from a veterinarian. This should state that the puppy has received all of its vaccinations and it should include other information about the health of the puppy. Once you have received this certificate, it’s important to contact the veterinarian to make sure that it is legitimate.

Tips & Warnings

If the seller has a lot of other puppies for sale, it’s likely that they are running a puppy mill, and you should not buy from them.
Don’t purchase the puppy if it is offered at an unusually low price.
Never use a money-transfer service for payment. Most breeders accept cashier’s checks or Paypal. This is the type of payment that you should opt for.
If the seller only provides pictures of the puppy’s parents, then a puppy probably doesn't exist. This is only acceptable if the puppies haven't been born and you should wait before you agree to purchase.

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