Buying a Working Gundog: Safety Checklist

How to buy a working gundog safely in the UK: what to check before you visit, at the visit and before you pay, which papers to ask for, and the signs of a scam.

Frequently asked questions

Should I pay a deposit before seeing a puppy?

No. Never send a deposit for a dog you have not seen in person. Once you have visited, met the mother and seen the paperwork, a deposit to hold a puppy is normal; get a written receipt that names the dog, the price and what happens to the deposit if the sale does not go ahead.

How old should a puppy be before it leaves its mother?

At least eight weeks old. It should already be microchipped, with the breeder recorded as its first keeper, and you should be given the details to transfer the microchip into your name.

Does a breeder need a licence to sell puppies?

Licensing depends on the nation and activity. In England, business breeding and advertising for sale, or breeding three or more litters in twelve months and selling any puppies, requires a licence. Scotland has its own three-litter rule, including puppies given away; Wales and Northern Ireland use different criteria. Confirm the position and any claimed licence with the council responsible for the premises.

What health tests should a gundog puppy's parents have?

Check the current recommendations for the particular breed. DNA tests, clinical screening and an ordinary veterinary examination answer different questions. Request the actual records for both parents and ask your vet about unclear results; one generic hip, elbow, eye and DNA checklist does not apply to every gundog breed.

How can I tell if a gundog advert is a scam?

Possible warning signs include pressure to pay before a visit, refusal to explain where the dog was raised, inconsistent information and photographs reused elsewhere. No single sign proves fraud. Verify the dog, seller and records in person before committing, and report suspicious adverts.

Does Gundogs Yard handle the payment?

No. Gundogs Yard is an advertising platform, so the price and payment are agreed directly between buyer and seller. Keep your messages on the site so there is a record of what was agreed.