Responsible Ownership
How to Choose a Responsible Dog Breeder
The right start matters. Here's what to look for, what to ask and which licences to check before you commit to a puppy.
By the Pawjoy team ·
Where your puppy comes from shapes its first weeks of life — and often its confidence and wellbeing for years after. A responsible breeder or seller will welcome your questions and want to know that their puppy is going to the right home.
Check the licences
In Singapore, AVS licenses commercial breeding of pet animals, and premises that keep or display pets for sale need an AVS pet shop licence. AVS also states that dogs aged nine weeks and above intended for sale by pet breeding establishments must be licensed under a retail group pet licence, and that the licence is transferred to you when you buy. Ask which licence the seller holds and how the licence transfer will be handled.
Questions worth asking
- Can I meet the puppy's mother (and father, if possible)?
- How has the puppy been socialised — sounds, people, handling?
- What has the puppy been eating, and what's its daily routine?
- What vet care has the puppy received so far? Can I see the records?
- What happens if I can no longer keep the dog in future?
Signs of a good start
- Clean, calm living areas and puppies that are curious and comfortable being handled.
- Honest answers, including about the breed's challenges.
- No pressure to pay or decide on the spot.
- Clear paperwork that you can take home and read.
Be cautious if…
- You can't see where the puppy was raised or meet the mother.
- Records are vague, missing or inconsistent.
- You're encouraged to take a very young puppy home immediately.
Take your time. The right puppy is worth waiting for, and a good seller will understand that.
