Major Red Flags
These are significant warning signs:
No Working Dogs
Parent dogs don't actually work with livestock. They may be on a farm but not actively guarding. If you ask to see them working and the breeder deflects, that's a problem.
Puppies Raised in the House
Puppies raised inside as pets miss critical bonding periods with livestock. This can permanently affect their ability to work.
No Health Testing
No OFA or equivalent testing on parents. Health problems are common in LGD breeds; responsible breeders test.
Multiple Litters Always Available
Puppies always in stock suggests a puppy mill operation prioritizing quantity over quality.
No Return Policy
Reputable breeders stand behind their dogs. "All sales final" with no exceptions is a warning sign.
Won't Answer Questions
Evasive, defensive, or hostile responses to reasonable questions. Knowledgeable breeders welcome discussion.
Scam Indicators
These may indicate outright fraud:
- Payment by wire transfer or crypto only: No recourse if things go wrong
- Significantly below-market prices: Too good to be true usually is
- Stock photos: Images appear elsewhere online or look too polished
- Urgent pressure: "Someone else wants this puppy" or "deposit needed now"
- Won't video chat: Can't or won't show you the actual dogs live
- Shipping from overseas: Complicated international transactions
- No physical address: Just a website or social media presence
- New, sparse online presence: Recently created accounts, no history
Yellow Flags
These aren't automatic disqualifiers but warrant caution:
- No contract: Even casual breeders should have basic agreements
- Breeding very frequently: Same female bred every heat cycle
- Multiple breeds: LGDs, plus herding dogs, plus hunting dogs, etc.
- Focus on appearance: More talk about color/markings than working ability
- Guarantees performance: No ethical breeder promises specific outcomes
- No references: Can't or won't provide previous buyer contacts
- Selling before 8 weeks: Puppies should stay with litter until at least 8 weeks
How to Verify Claims
Don't just take their word for it:
- Ask for health test results: OFA numbers can be verified on the OFA database
- Request references: Actually call previous buyers
- Reverse image search photos: Check if images are stolen
- Visit in person: Nothing replaces seeing the operation yourself
- Search online: Look for reviews, complaints, or discussions
- Ask in breed groups: Experienced owners often know reputations
If You've Been Scammed
If you've sent money and suspect fraud:
- Contact your bank or payment provider immediately
- File a complaint with the FTC (ftc.gov/complaint)
- Report to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov)
- Document all communications
- Warn others in breed groups (with facts, not accusations)
Prevention Matters
The best protection is thorough research before sending any money. Take your time, ask questions, verify claims, and trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, walk away.
American Kennel Club (AKC). (2025). How to Spot a Puppy Scam Online.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC). (2025). Consumer Advice: Pet Scams.
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). (2025). Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) requirements for working breeds.