Red Flags VS Green Flags in Dog Breeders

How to Spot Red Flags and Find a Breeder You Can Trust

Choosing a dog breeder can feel overwhelming — especially with the number of backyard breeders who may appear reputable at first glance. It’s important to know how to distinguish between someone who breeds with purpose and ethics, and someone who is simply in it for profit, often at the expense of the dogs’ health and well-being.

Understanding AKC Registration

When searching for a reputable breeder, many people assume that AKC registration means quality — but it’s important to understand what it actually represents:

• Pedigree Information: AKC registration confirms that a dog is purebred and provides a record of its lineage.

• Basic Breed Standards: While it shows that a dog belongs to a recognized breed, it does not guarantee health, temperament, or responsible breeding practices.

In short, AKC papers are just one small piece of the puzzle — not a quality guarantee.

The Key Distinction: Purpose Behind Breeding

❌ Backyard Breeders

Backyard breeders are primarily motivated by profit. They often:

• Cut corners on health testing

• Skip proper care or enrichment

• Lack knowledge of the breed

• Contribute to long-term health and behavior problems in dogs

✅ Responsible Breeders

Responsible breeders are committed to improving the breed. They:

• Conduct thorough health testing

• Follow strict breeding standards

• Socialize and assess puppies

• Work with breed clubs and training programs

• Often lose money doing what’s right for the dogs

🚦 Red Flags vs. Green Flags When Choosing a Breeder

🚩 Red Flag #1

The breeder doesn’t do specific health testing.

Backyard breeders may say the dogs are “vet checked,” but that’s not enough to assess genetic health or breeding suitability.

✅ Green Flag #1

The breeder performs health testing like OFA, PennHIP, and genetic panels — and readily provides proof (often verifiable on OFA.org).

🚩 Red Flag #2

No temperament testing is done. Puppies are placed with anyone without consideration of their behavior or needs.

✅ Green Flag #2

Puppies are temperament tested (usually around 7 weeks), and matched to homes based on lifestyle, experience, and compatibility.

🚩 Red Flag #3

The breeder is uninvolved in the dog world. No training, shows, titles, or breed club participation.

✅ Green Flag #3

The breeder is active in dog sports or shows, and the pedigree includes dogs with working titles or show achievements.

🚩 Red Flag #4

No interview or contract is required. These breeders often don’t care what happens after the sale.

✅ Green Flag #4

The breeder interviews all buyers, requires a signed contract, and states the puppy must be returned to them if rehoming is needed. They’ll also guide you with training, food, and vet care recommendations.

🚩 Red Flag #5

Puppies are sold under 8 weeks old. This is illegal in many states and leads to socialization and behavior issues.

✅ Green Flag #5

Puppies stay until at least 8 weeks and are started on socialization, crate training, exposure to various sounds, textures, and basic potty habits.

🚩 Red Flag #6

Open-door visitation policy at any age with no biosecurity.

✅ Green Flag #6

Strict visitation rules apply. You may not meet puppies before 4 weeks and will be asked to sanitize hands/shoes. The breeder should be transparent about the facility and introduce you to the dam (and sire if onsite).

🚩 Red Flag #7

The breeder allows buyers to take two puppies home from the same litter.

✅ Green Flag #7

A responsible breeder does not allow littermates to go home together due to the high risk of Littermate Syndrome (co-dependence, anxiety, and behavioral issues).

🚩 Red Flag #8

Puppies are sold at pet stores, flea markets, roadside stands, or from car trunks.

✅ Green Flag #8

Puppies are placed through a structured and professional process. Advertising is minimal or professional — and often not needed due to word of mouth and waiting lists.

🚩 Red Flag #9

Pricing varies by coat color, eye color, or markings. “Discount” or “rare” pricing is a red flag.

✅ Green Flag #9

Pricing is consistent. Reputable breeders do not charge extra for colors or markings. They may charge more for additional training or extended stays.

⚠️ Additional Green Flags to Look For

• ✅ Breeder keeps dogs in clean, well-maintained environments — not in cages or unsanitary spaces.

  
  

• ✅ Breeder limits the number of litters per year and doesn’t breed dogs back-to-back.

  
  

In Conclusion

Choosing a responsible breeder requires patience, research, and asking the right questions. Don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off. A responsible breeder will welcome your questions, provide transparent documentation, and be just as interested in you as you are in their puppies.

By taking the time to find a breeder who prioritizes health, ethics, education, and the long-term welfare of their dogs, you’re setting the foundation for a happy, healthy relationship with your future best friend.

Looking for guidance or need help evaluating a breeder?

Willow Creek Dog Training is here to help you navigate this journey — with your dog’s best interest in mind. 🐾