Choosing a breeder can feel super overwhelming right now, especially because puppy scamming is at an all-time high. In this video I walk you through exactly how I’d find a reputable breeder in my area (and how I found Stella’s breeder), plus the biggest red flags that can save you from getting scammed or accidentally supporting a puppy mill. Quick note: I’m a huge advocate for adoption first—but if you do decide to go the breeder route, I’m all about “adopt or shop responsibly.” I start with where to look: your national/regional breed club or kennel club directory (I use the Canadian Kennel Club), and even breed-specific Facebook groups where people share breeder experiences and call out scams. Then I go into the “research, research, research” phase—checking websites, socials, reviews, Instagram hashtags, and messaging past buyers. After that, I explain what to ask once you contact a breeder: vet records, photos of the parents, proof of where puppies are raised, whether you can visit, and what their contract includes. I also cover common scam signs like prices that are way too low, no history or reviews, pressure to pay in full upfront, and breeders who get annoyed by questions.