Dogs are the canine companions who have shared our lives for millennia. Ranging from tiny Chihuahuas to enormous Great Danes and every breed and magnificent mutt in between. Dogs are an incredibly diverse species.

The dog is a domesticated descendant of the wolf called the domestic dog. It is derived from an ancient, extinct wolf, and the modern wolf is the dog's nearest living relative. The dog was the first species to be domesticated, by hunter-gatherers over 15,000 years ago, before the development of agriculture.

There are at least 800 breeds (kinds) of dogs. Dogs whose parents were the same breed will also be that breed: these dogs are called purebred or pure pedigree dogs. Dogs with parents from different breeds no longer belong to one breed: they are called mutts, mixed-breed dogs, hybrids, or mongrels.

Dogs are known to help relieve stress and anxiety and improve health and wellbeing in people. Around 40% of US households are estimated to have one or more dogs.

Popular dog breeds include Beagles, Black Labs, Boxers, Border Collies, Bulldogs, Chihuhuas, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepards, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Labradoodles, Pitbulls, Pomeranians, Poodles, Pugs, Rotterweilers, Shih Tzus, Siberian Huskies and Yorkshire Terriers.

The Pros and Cons of Buying Dogs Online

Pros:

1. Access to Reputable Breeders Nationwide: You can find reputable breeders beyond your local area, opening up a broader range of breeds and choices.
2. Convenience: The process can often be faster and easier, with more immediate access to listings, detailed descriptions, and communication options.
3. Direct Communication with Breeders: Many breeders provide extensive background information and photos of the puppies’ parents and living conditions.

Cons:

1. Risk of Scams: Unfortunately, fraudulent listings are common online. Without in-person contact, it can be harder to verify legitimacy.
2. Health and Welfare Concerns: Some online sellers do not prioritize animal health and may operate puppy mills or unsafe breeding practices.
3. Lack of Bonding: Adopting a pet online limits the in-person bonding experience before making your decision.

Tips for Buying Dogs Online Responsibly

1. Research Reputable Breeders and Sellers

   • Look for breeders affiliated with recognized organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) or local kennel clubs. These breeders follow ethical guidelines for animal care and breeding practices.
   • Avoid breeders who have frequent litters or who sell multiple breeds without clear details about their practices. Responsible breeders focus on the health, temperament, and care of their dogs.

2. Request Detailed Health and Lineage Information

   • A reputable breeder will provide health records, vaccination details, and any genetic testing results. They should also share information about the puppy’s parents, including their health history.
   • Some breeders offer guarantees for the puppy’s health for a certain period, which shows a commitment to the pet’s welfare.

3. Ask to See Photos and Videos of the Puppy’s Environment

   • Reputable breeders are transparent about the dog’s living conditions. They should provide photos or videos showing the space where the puppies and parents live, ensuring it’s clean and spacious.
   • Avoid sellers who only offer generic photos or who seem reluctant to show the environment; this can be a red flag for puppy mills.

4. Avoid “Too-Good-To-Be-True” Prices

   • Purebred or specialized breeds generally come at a premium cost. Extremely low prices can indicate a scam or a poorly maintained breeding operation. Prices that seem suspiciously low often come with hidden risks, such as lack of medical care or neglect.

5. Check for Verified Reviews and References

   • Look for reviews on third-party websites or ask the breeder for references from past clients. Speaking with previous buyers can give you an idea of the breeder’s reputation, the health of their dogs, and their overall experience.

6. Understand Shipping and Transportation Policies

   • While many breeders offer to ship dogs, it’s important to understand the details. Airlines typically have strict guidelines for pet travel, so make sure the breeder complies with these standards.
   • Some breeders also offer personal delivery or meet-and-greet options, which allow you to see the puppy before fully committing.

7. Meet in Person If Possible

   • Even if you initiate the process online, meeting the puppy and breeder in person is ideal. This provides the opportunity to observe the puppy’s behavior, temperament, and health firsthand.
   • If distance is an issue, consider arranging a video call to observe the puppy’s interactions with the breeder and environment.

Avoiding Common Scams in Online Dog Purchases

Buying dogs online can come with risks of scams. Here are a few common warning signs:

1. Lack of Transparency: Sellers who avoid providing detailed information about the puppy’s health, location, or living conditions should be avoided.
2. Requests for Unusual Payment Methods: Be wary of breeders who ask for payment through wire transfers or untraceable methods. Secure payment methods offer more security and recourse in case of fraud.
3. Stock Photos or Generic Descriptions: Fraudulent sellers often use stock photos or duplicate listings across various websites. Reverse-image search tools can help identify if a photo is widely used online.
4. High-Pressure Tactics: Legitimate breeders are invested in finding suitable homes and should allow you time to make your decision. Be cautious if the seller pressures you into immediate payment.

Choosing Between Buying and Adopting Dogs Online

Adopting a dog online is another excellent option, especially if you’re open to mixed breeds or older dogs. Many shelters and rescue organizations have online profiles and detailed descriptions of adoptable dogs, often including medical records and temperament details. When adopting from a shelter, you’re also giving a dog in need a loving home.

If adoption appeals to you, consider using reputable sites like:

• Petfinder: A comprehensive database for adoptable pets, including photos, health details, and shelter information.
• The Shelter Pet Project: A collaborative platform connecting potential adopters with local shelters and rescues.

Questions to Ask the Breeder or Seller

When buying a dog online, a few key questions can help you gauge the breeder’s practices and the puppy’s health:

1. What is the puppy’s vaccination and health checkup history?
2. How are the parents’ health and temperament?
3. Are there any known genetic issues in the lineage?
4. How are the puppies socialized and cared for in their early weeks?
5. What is the breeder’s policy on returning the puppy if there are health or behavior issues?

Final Thoughts

Buying a dog online can be a convenient and rewarding experience when done responsibly. Taking the time to research breeders, ask thorough questions, and verify information will help ensure that you’re choosing a healthy, happy puppy from a reputable source. A responsible breeder or rescue organization will appreciate your care in making this important decision, as they share your goal of finding the best possible home for each dog.

Approaching the online dog-buying process thoughtfully helps protect against scams and supports responsible breeders while helping you find a loyal, loving companion for years to come.