How to Spot a Puppy Scam or Backyard Breeder in Texas

Puppy scams and careless breeders are common, and they hurt families. Here's how to protect yourself when searching for a Labradoodle in Houston or anywhere in Texas.

Red flags of an online puppy scam

• The price is far too low. A cheap price for a well-bred puppy should make you suspicious.
• They only communicate by text or email and won't talk by phone or video.
• You can't visit or see the puppies live.
• They ask for payment through gift cards, wire transfers or crypto.
• Photos look stolen. Do a reverse image search on the puppy pictures.
• They offer to ship a puppy right away and add fees for "insurance" or "special crates."
• The story keeps changing.

If any of these happen, stop and walk away.

Signs of a backyard breeder

• Several breeds and litters available all the time
• No health testing for the parents
• No contract and no health guarantee
• Puppies sold before 8 weeks
• No interest in where the puppy is going
• Won't let you see the mother or the home

What a good breeder does

A good breeder is open, patient and asks you questions too. Expect them to:

• Show you the parents and the home where puppies are raised
• Provide health testing results
• Offer a written contract and a health guarantee
• Keep puppies until at least 8 weeks
• Provide vaccination and vet records
• Support you for the life of the dog

Questions to ask any breeder

1. Where are the puppies born and raised?
2. Can I see the parents?
3. What health tests have been done?
4. What does the guarantee cover?
5. What age do puppies go home?
6. What happens if I can't keep the dog?
7. Can I see the contract before I pay?

Safe ways to pay

Use traceable methods and pay only after you've talked to the breeder and reviewed the contract. We accept cash, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, credit and debit cards, cashier's checks, and financing. Whatever the method, get a written receipt.

Check reviews and reputation

Look at Google reviews and ask for past families you can talk to. Visit the breeder's physical address on a map and make sure it exists. We're at 17214 Lewis Dr, Cypress, TX 77433, and visits are by appointment.

Texas basics

Check that the breeder has a real business name, phone number and address. If something feels off, trust your gut. You can report suspected scams to the Federal Trade Commission or the Texas Attorney General.

How we work

Every puppy at Doodle's Kennel is born and raised in our home, and you can see the current puppies on our Available Litters page. Read our FAQ, or learn what to look for in how to find a Labradoodle breeder in Houston.

Call or text me any time at 281-923-9266. I'm happy to answer anything before you commit.