Buying a hybrid dog like a Royale (a cute mix of French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) can be exciting! These little guys are full of personality and make awesome pets, but unfortunately, there are some scams out there you’ll want to avoid. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe and make sure you’re getting a healthy pup from a reputable breeder.

Do Your Research

Before you even start looking for a designer dog, make sure you know what you’re getting into. Research the breed mix, their typical personality, health issues, and care requirements. This helps you spot any red flags when you’re talking to breeders. If they claim to have a Royale, but you’re not seeing the traits you expect, it’s worth asking more questions.

Meet the Puppy in Person

If you can, always meet the puppy and the puppy’s parents in person before you make a decision. This lets you see the living conditions and meet the breeder face-to-face. A good breeder should have nothing to hide and will happily show you around. If they try to push for a sale without letting you meet the dogs or their living space, walk away.

Check for Red Flags

Trust your gut! If something feels off, it probably is. Some red flags to watch for include:

  • The breeder won’t provide detailed information about the puppy’s health, vaccination status, or lineage.
  • The price seems too good to be true.
  • You’re being asked to pay a deposit or the full price upfront without a contract.

Ask for References

A reputable breeder should have no problem giving you references from past buyers. Talk to these people and get an honest sense of what it was like to buy from this breeder. Were their puppies healthy? Did they receive good support after the sale? Were there any issues with the process? If they can’t provide references, that’s a major red flag.

 

Avoid “Too Good to Be True” Prices

While it’s tempting to snatch up a puppy at a bargain price, remember: high-quality, healthy dogs don’t come cheap. If a breeder is offering puppies for way below the average price, it could be a scam or they may not be breeding responsibly. Be cautious of sellers who claim to offer purebred hybrid puppies at a fraction of the price you’d expect.

Get a Contract

Always ask for a written contract. It should clearly outline the terms of the sale, including what happens if there are any health problems with the puppy after purchase. A contract protects both you and the breeder, so if they’re hesitant to provide one, it’s a red flag.

Watch for Fake Photos

Some scam breeders will use photos they found online to trick you into thinking they have a Royale puppy for sale. If you’re getting photos of puppies that look too perfect or are clearly from different sources, do a reverse image search to see if they’ve been stolen from someone else’s listing. You can also ask for a live video chat to see the puppy in real time.

Trust Your Instincts

If anything feels off—whether it’s the breeder’s attitude, their lack of transparency, or something about the puppy that just doesn’t seem right—listen to your instincts. There will always be other puppies, so don’t feel pressured into making a decision you’re not 100% comfortable with.

While there are plenty of responsible breeders out there who want to make sure your new puppy is a good fit for you and your family, there are also scammers who only want to take your money. By doing your homework, asking the right questions, and trusting your gut, you can avoid the scams and bring home a healthy, happy pup.

If you’re looking for a puppy from a trusted breeder, always take the time to get to know the breeder, ask about their breeding practices, and ensure the puppy is healthy and well cared for. After all, adopting a dog is a big decision, and you deserve to make sure you’re getting the best.