When Finding a Puppy Turns Into a Scam

Searching for a new puppy should be a joyful experience and not a financial trap. But for too many eager pet seekers, it’s become a heartbreaking lesson in online fraud. One moment you’re exchanging messages with a breeder promising the perfect pup; the next, your money is gone, and the "seller" has vanished.

 

So how can you make sure the breeder you're dealing with is real, and not just a scammer with stock puppy photos and a shady payment method?

 

Let’s walk through what smart, safe pet purchasing looks like in today’s scam-filled digital world.

Searching for a new puppy should be a joyful experience and not a financial trap. (iStock)

Sniff Out the Red Flags Before You Pay

One of the biggest mistakes hopeful pet owners make? Sending money before verifying that the puppy (and the seller) actually exist.

Here are the red flags that scream “scam”:

  • No in-person meetings or live video calls: If the seller refuses to meet you or even FaceTime to show you the puppy, it’s likely because the puppy doesn’t exist.
  • Requests for risky payment methods: Scammers often ask for payment via wire transfer, Cash App, Zelle, or prepaid gift cards. These methods leave you with no recourse if things go wrong.
  • Prices that seem too good to be true: Purebred puppies typically come at a premium. If someone offers you a designer dog for a bargain, your guard should go up.

Instead, protect yourself by using a credit card when possible. It offers more fraud protection and a better chance at recovering your funds if the seller turns out to be illegitimate.

Don’t Skip the Homework: Research and Reassurance

A legitimate breeder will welcome your questions and offer reassurance, not resistance.

 

Before committing to any transaction:

  • Search for reviews and reputation: Google the breeder’s name, phone number, and email. Check breeder registries or forums to see if they’re known.
  • Ask for references and vet records: A real breeder will be able to provide background on the litter, including vet visits, vaccinations, and parentage.
  • Verify photos and videos: Do a reverse image search of the puppy photos. If they show up on multiple unrelated websites, that’s a red flag.

Still not sure? Reach out to local breed clubs or veterinary offices. They often know who’s reputable and who to avoid.

Consider Adoption: Safe, Local, and Heartwarming

While buying from a breeder might be your initial plan, don’t overlook shelters or rescues. Many local shelters have puppies available and go to great lengths to match them with good homes. Plus, adopting locally eliminates the risk of online scams, and gives a deserving animal a second chance.

 

Bonus: adoption fees are typically more affordable and often include vetting, vaccines, and even microchipping.

Adopting a shelter dog eliminates the risk of online scams, and gives a deserving animal a second chance. (iStock)

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut and Protect Your Wallet

If something feels off about the interaction, it probably is. You deserve to find your new best friend without losing money in the process. So stay cautious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to walk away.