How to Avoid Puppy Scams When Searching for Your New Puppy

The demand for Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, and Cavapoos has grown quickly—and unfortunately, so have puppy scams. At Highland Goldendoodles, we talk to families every week who have either been scammed before finding us or were close to it. Our goal is to help you avoid the heartache and disappointment of sending money to a fake breeder.

Here are some important tips to protect yourself when looking for a doodle puppy online.

Tip #1 - Research the Breeder’s Website and Reputation

A trustworthy breeder should have a professional website with detailed information about their dogs, health testing, and adoption process. Check for:

• Clear photos of past litters and parents (not stock photos).

• Contact information that matches their location.

At Highland Goldendoodles, we encourage families to read our reviews, meet the parents, and see updates from families who have already adopted from us.

Tip #2 - Look at Their Social Media & History

Social media can reveal a lot about whether a breeder is legitimate. Ask yourself:

• How long have they been in business?

• Do they have an active presence on Instagram or Facebook?

• Do they share updates from current and past litters?

• Do they have genuine followers and engagement?

We’ve been proudly raising Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, and Cavapoos since 2019, and our social media reflects years of happy puppies, families, and updates from our community.

Tip #3 - Beware of Stolen Photos on Instagram

Sadly, many scammers steal photos from real breeders—including ours. We’ve even had our own pictures stolen, some that included me personally, and reposted by fake accounts claiming to sell “our” puppies.

Families have contacted us after sending money to these scammers, thinking they were buying a Highland Goldendoodle, only to be ghosted once payment was made. This is devastating for families, and it’s why verifying a breeder through live video or phone calls is so important.

Tip #4 - Never Buy a Puppy From a Shopping Cart

A puppy is not a product, it’s a family member. Trustworthy breeders will never let you simply “add to cart” and check out like you’re buying a pair of jeans. Instead, they want to talk with you to make sure the puppy is the right match for your home, lifestyle, and family.

At Highland Goldendoodles, we guide families through an application and matching process to ensure the best fit for everyone. You can learn more by checking out Our Process.

Tip #5 - 5. Check Google Verification & Reviews to Avoid Puppy Scams

One of the simplest ways to avoid scams is to see if the breeder is verified on Google and to read reviews from past clients. A real breeder will have reviews that mention specific experiences, details about the adoption process, and updates about puppies over time.

At Highland Goldendoodles, we’re verified on Google and proud of the wonderful reviews from families who’ve adopted our puppies. Reading feedback from past clients is one of the best ways to feel confident you’re working with someone real.

Tip #6 - Be Cautious of “Too Good to Be True” Prices

Scammers often lure people in with unusually low prices or “ready-to-go” puppies at a discount. Ethical breeders invest heavily in health testing, vet care, and raising puppies in loving environments, so prices are consistent with that level of care.

Tip #7 - Never Pay Without Verifying First

If a breeder refuses to FaceTime, video chat, or let you meet the puppies (either in person or virtually), that’s a major red flag. At Highland Goldendoodles, we happily set up FaceTime calls so you can see the puppies in real time and ask questions.

Tip #8 - Ask About Health Testing and Vet Care

Scammers rarely provide health details. A responsible breeder will openly share information about genetic testing, vet visits, and vaccinations. We provide proof of health testing on our parent dogs and send puppies home with vet records, microchip info, and first shots.

Tip #9 - Look for Transparency and Ongoing Support

Good breeders care about where their puppies go and will ask you questions, too. We don’t just hand over a puppy—we get to know your family to ensure it’s the right fit, and we’re here for you long after adoption. Scammers want money fast and don’t care about your lifestyle or home.

Final Thoughts

Puppy scams are heartbreaking, but you can avoid them with the right steps. At Highland Goldendoodles, we’re dedicated to raising healthy, happy puppies and guiding families through every step. Visit our Available Puppies page to see who’s ready for their forever home.