Purchasing a French Bulldog, lovingly known as a Frenchie, can be a joyful experience.
Yet, it can also turn into a nightmare if you fall victim to a scam. Unfortunately, the rise in popularity of this breed has also led to a surge in fraudulent activities associated with it. Therefore, to protect potential Frenchie owners, we’ve compiled seven crucial tips to avoid Frenchie scams.
1. Research Reputable French Bulldog Breeders
The first step in ensuring a legitimate transaction is conducting thorough research on French Bulldog breeders. The internet is flooded with advertisements, and while many breeders are legitimate, it’s essential to verify their credentials. Reputable breeders will have an online presence, complete with customer testimonials, clear contact information, and will be registered with kennel clubs or similar organizations.
Don’t rush into a decision. Take time to cross-check the breeder’s name, address, and phone number. Check their online reviews, and don’t hesitate to contact previous customers to inquire about their experience.
2. Ask for Detailed Health Checks and Certifications
Reputable breeders prioritize the health of their dogs. Therefore, they routinely screen their breeding dogs for genetic health issues that can plague the French Bulldog breed. When considering a pup, always ask for detailed health checks of the parents and the puppy. Genuine breeders will be more than willing to provide documentation from a licensed vet.
Moreover, check for certifications such as those from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF), which can provide assurance about the dog’s overall health.
3. Request to Meet the Puppy in Person
Although online transactions have become the norm, when it comes to buying a puppy, it’s always better to meet in person. A legitimate breeder will welcome a visit to their home or breeding facility. This allows you to meet the pup, its parents, and to assess the living conditions.
If meeting in person isn’t possible, due to distance, request a video call instead. Any breeder unwilling to show their dogs or the environment they live in is a significant red flag.
4. Beware of Pricing That Seems Too Good to be True
French Bulldogs are not a cheap breed. Their breeding requires considerable time, effort, and resources. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Extremely low prices can be an indication of a scam or a breeder cutting corners at the expense of the dogs’ health.
5. Avoid Money Transfers and Wire Payments
Scammers often ask for money to be sent through wire transfers or other untraceable methods. It’s always safer to stick with traceable payment methods. Reputable breeders will typically accept checks, credit cards, or payment through recognized apps.
6. Don’t Rush the Process
Purchasing a French Bulldog should not be an impulsive decision. Reputable breeders often have waitlists, as they breed responsibly, limiting the number of litters their dogs produce. If a breeder is pushing you to make a quick decision or claiming they have multiple litters available all year round, that is a red flag.
7. Trust Your Instincts
Last but not least, trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t let the excitement of getting a new puppy cloud your judgment. It’s better to wait for the right breeder and pup than to rush into a situation that could potentially be a scam.
Conclusion
Frenchie scams are becoming more and more common, but there’s no need to panic. With the right knowledge and precautions, you can avoid becoming a victim of one. We hope our tips have been helpful in showing you how to spot a scammer, as well as how to protect yourself from them.
