11/09/2025
Even with coming from a rescue background - I stand by this statement still.
If youâve decided a puppy is right for your lifestyle, the next step is one of the most important youâll ever take: finding an ethical breeder.
The rise of puppy farming, backyard breeding, and online puppy sales has made it harder than ever to separate the good from the bad. But with the right knowledge, you can make sure your new companion comes from a breeder who truly puts welfare first.
At Chase Canines, weâre passionate about guiding owners to make responsible choices. Hereâs what to look for when finding the right ethical breeder.
1. Start with Research â Not Instagram
We know millennials love a good scroll through cute puppy content, but flashy photos donât equal good welfare. Ethical breeders often donât advertise on third-party selling sites or social media marketplaces. Instead, theyâre usually registered with breed clubs, the Kennel Clubâs Assured Breeder Scheme, or recommended by vets and trainers.
2. Meet the Parents
A responsible breeder will always let you meet the mother, and sometimes the father too. This isnât just a box to tickâit shows you the conditions the pups are raised in and allows you to see mumâs temperament. If the breeder makes excuses (âmumâs at the groomerâ or âsheâs shyâ), thatâs a red flag.
3. Health Testing Is Non-Negotiable
Every breed has potential health issues. Ethical breeders donât just âsayâ their dogs are healthyâthey prove it with up-to-date, vet-certified health tests. Ask to see certificates for hip/elbow scores, eye tests, or genetic screening relevant to that breed. A good breeder will be proud to show you.
4. Puppies Raised in a Home Environment
Puppies learn so much in their first 8 weeks. A breeder who raises pups in a family home ensures theyâre used to everyday sights and soundsâlike the hoover, visitors, and children. This gives them the best start in life and reduces the risk of behavioural problems later on.
5. No Rushing, No Pressure
Ethical breeders care more about finding the right homes than making quick sales. Expect to answer questions about your lifestyle, work hours, and experience with dogs. If someone is willing to hand over a pup with no questions asked, walk away.
6. Contracts and Support
A good breeder will provide a contract of sale, insurance for the first few weeks, and a lifetime of advice. Many will insist you return the dog to them if your circumstances ever changeâthey want to guarantee their dogs never end up in rescue.
7. Gut Feeling Matters
Sometimes itâs about intuition. Did you feel comfortable in the breederâs home? Did the dogs look happy and relaxed? Did the breeder come across as open, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the breed? Trust your instincts.
8. Consider Adoption where applicable
As a business rooted in animal welfare, we always encourage people to look at rescue centres first. Many loving dogs are waiting for homes, and some may be young puppies so if you don't want all the health checks, the price tag, the background history rather than funding a frankly, sh*tty person, support a rescue instead.
Bringing a puppy into your life is a huge commitment. By doing your homework and choosing an ethical breeder, youâre setting yourself and your new companion up for success. Remember: the right breeder isnât just selling you a puppy, theyâre giving you a family member.
At Chase Canines, weâre here to support you at every step, from choosing the right breeder to training your dog for a happy, fulfilling life together. If anyone would ever like to us to vet a breeder, or a rescue, on your behalf this is something we're more than happy to do for a nominal fee đ
