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