Help us stop the illegal puppy trade
Since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, puppy sales have increased, along with the cost of buying a puppy. People are spending more time at home, so owning a dog seems easier and more attractive. Sadly, this has led to more illegal breeders, or puppy dealers, operating puppy farms.People who breed and sell dogs as a business must have a license with us. We make sure that they meet certain standards and have checks in place. This is to keep the animals properly looked after and free from preventable disease, distress and suffering.
How you can help
You can help us by:
- knowing what to look out for when buying a dog
- checking if a breeder has a license before buying from them
- reporting any concerns you have about a breeder or advert
RSPCA advice on buying a puppy
Make sure you're buying a healthy, happy puppy and find out how to spot a puppy farm
Dogs Trust puppy buying checklist
Get a puppy buying checklist and read about things to consider before buying a puppy
Advice on safely buying a pet
The government's Petfished Campaign includes a step by step guide on buying or adopting a pet
About the illegal puppy trade
Read about the illegal trade, puppy farms, and what Four Paws is doing to help put a stop to it
The Puppy Contract for buyers
Get a free legally binding contract of sale
The Puppy Contract for breeders
Show that you are a responsible breeder