There are several things you can do to find breeders who are caring for pets responsibly. Whether they’re a professional or an amateur first-time breeder, anyone selling or giving away cats and dogs in NSW must share their breeder identification number (BIN), recognised breeder organisation member number, or the pet’s microchip number when they advertise puppies and kittens for sale. You can research breeders using their BIN.
Next, visit the place where the mother and litter are living, and ask the breeder questions. This will help you avoid a breeder who is not following the Animal Welfare Code of Practice – Breeding dogs and cats, or is operating a ‘puppy farm’.
We do not recommend buying a pet from a breeder who cannot answer the questions below, or who suddenly stops the sale when you ask them.
Ask the breeder these questions:
- Can I visit the puppies or kittens before deciding to buy one?
- Can I meet their mother? Meeting the mother informs you about the health and behaviour of the animals and how well the breeder treats them.
- What is the microchip number? In NSW, it is illegal to rehome, sell, or give away a kitten, cat, puppy or dog without a microchip. You can verify a microchip number on the NSW Pet Registry.
- What age can I take my puppy or kitten home? Puppies and kittens must not be rehomed before they are 8 weeks of age.
- What vaccinations have they had? Puppies and kittens must be vaccinated against common infectious diseases when they’re 6 to 8 weeks old, in keeping with the Animal Welfare Code of Practice – Breeding Cats and Dogs.
- Has a vet checked the health of the puppy or kitten? Will you provide a health-check certificate?
- Can you give references?
- Do you offer any support after I buy the puppy or kitten? Reputable breeders genuinely care about the wellbeing of the animals they breed. They will often ask you a variety of questions to ensure you are a good fit for their puppies or kittens.
- What do you provide with the sale of the puppy or kitten? If sale prices are significantly lower or higher than other breeders or they provide no resources for new owners, this could be a warning sign.
If you are concerned about the way a breeder responds to these questions, contact RSPCA NSW or Animal Welfare League NSW.