Warning issued over alarming number of dogs from dodgy breeders as charity shares 'red flags'

Thinking of adding a to your family? You’re not alone - around a million and puppies join UK households every year. But with a booming puppy trade comes a dark underbelly that animal welfare experts warn is putting pets - and buyers - at risk.

A new report from reveals the majority of puppies in Britain are still coming from unknown, unlicensed, or illegal sources. Campaign manager Natalie Harney warns that the system is so complex, it’s becoming a "minefield" for the r.

"I feel sorry for people looking to get a puppy and trying to work out what is a complex system," Natalie tells The .

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Only around 15 to 20 per cent of dogs bought in the UK each year come from licensed breeders, according to the charity’s analysis of Freedom of Information data from 391 councils.

That leaves the overwhelming majority coming from unlicensed, sometimes illegal, and often untraceable sources. So, how can Brits avoid falling for scams or engaging in dangerous breeding practices?

Natalie explains: "We would always say rescue if you can. But, we know that's not possible for everyone.

"Make sure you know your breeder really well and do as much research before seeing a puppy. Even if someone says they’re a hobby breeder, check if they’re licensed - you’d be surprised how strict the threshold actually is in England."

If you’re buying a puppy in England, always ask the breeder for their licence number and star rating. Local councils hold this information and are a vital first stop before you arrange any visits.

"You want to be with someone with a higher star rating," Natalie adds. "Those with a lower rating aren’t operating to the highest standards."

Naturewatch also warns against "designer" puppy listings with slick marketing and phrases like "lilac new shade" or "fluffy Frenchies". These aren’t just marketing gimmicks - they’re apparently big red flags.

"If someone’s making a big deal out of colour or coat type, that’s a major concern for us," says Natalie. "Always treat the listing as a starting point, not the full picture."

Visit the breeder’s premises in person - never agree to meet halfway - and always see the puppies with their mum. Ask to see the dad if possible.

Natalie says: "A trustworthy breeder will encourage multiple visits and won’t pressure you into taking a puppy home on your first visit."

The animal welfare charity also encourage a contract when purchasing a puppy, as well as ensuring all paperwork is provided before parting with any money.

Price points vary, but expect to pay £1,000 to £1,500 depending on breed - and don’t be lured by prices that seem too good to be true.

"You could get someone who’s written a bad listing but is actually a good breeder - or someone who looks legit but is dodgy as anything," Natalie warns.

With only 2,897 licensed breeders across the UK and Ireland keeping just 26,000 breeding dogs - compared to a million new puppies annually - the supply-and-demand gap is fuelling a thriving underground trade.

Naturewatch is calling for stricter industry oversight and more transparency for buyers. But until then, the public must stay vigilant.

"We want the regime to work," Natalie says. "But just because someone is licensed doesn’t mean they’re as good as you want them to be."

What to look for when buying a puppy:

• Always check the breeder is licensed (ask your local council)

• Ask for their star rating (in England)

• Visit the premises – never meet halfway

• Always see the puppies with mum

• Ask about the dad

• Get all paperwork and use a contract

• Avoid flashy listings with trendy colour or coat claims

• Never rely solely on the online ad

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