🐾 Holiday Puppy Scams: How to Protect Your Heart and Your Wallet
The holiday season brings out the best in people—but unfortunately, it can also bring out the worst. Every year between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, countless families fall victim to puppy scams while trying to surprise a loved one with a furry Christmas morning companion.
As a responsible breeder, I’ve seen the heartbreak firsthand. Families lose hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars, believing they’ve found their dream puppy, only to discover the photos were stolen, the “breeder” fake, and the puppy nonexistent.
Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
🎁 Why Scammers Target Puppy Buyers During the Holidays
Scammers know that emotions run high this time of year. When people picture a little puppy under the Christmas tree, logic sometimes takes a back seat to excitement.
They take advantage of that by creating fake listings on sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and even pet-sale websites.
Common tactics include:
Stolen photos from real breeders’ pages or Google Images
“Too good to be true” prices on purebred puppies
Sob stories (“My husband just passed and I can’t keep them…”)
Pressure to act fast (“I have two families interested already!”)
Payment requests by Zelle, Cash App, or gift cards — always a red flag
Once they get your deposit, they vanish. No puppy. No refund. No way to trace them.
🕵️♀️ Red Flags to Watch For
Before sending money or personal info, pause and verify.
Here are signs you’re likely dealing with a scammer:
They refuse to video chat or show the puppy live.
Their phone number doesn’t match their supposed location.
They won’t share vet records or AKC information.
Their photos appear on multiple breeder pages (do a reverse image search to check).
They pressure you with “holiday discounts” or “shipping specials.”
A legitimate breeder welcomes questions, provides references, and never rushes a sale.
✅ How to Protect Yourself (and Find a Real Breeder)
Ask for live photos or video calls. Real breeders are proud to show their puppies in real time.
Verify the breeder’s name and website. Google it, check social media, and look for reviews.
Use safe payment methods. Never send money through untraceable apps. Most reputable breeders use secure invoices or contracts.
Trust your gut. If anything feels off, walk away.
Remember: a good breeder’s goal is not just to sell a puppy—it’s to make the right match for both the dog and the family.
💬 From the Heart of a Breeder
As someone who truly loves these dogs, I can’t stress this enough: be cautious, not discouraged. There are plenty of honest breeders who work hard year-round to raise healthy, well-socialized puppies.
If you’re looking for a Boston Terrier or Boxer, take your time, ask questions, and connect directly with a breeder who will be there long after your puppy goes home.
The right puppy is worth waiting for—and your peace of mind is priceless.
❤️ Final Thought
The holidays should be filled with joy, not regret. By staying alert and informed, you can protect your family from scams and find the perfect companion the right way.
If you ever have doubts about a listing or want to learn how to safely connect with a trusted breeder, reach out directly through our site:
👉 www.baldwinsbostonterriers.com
Because every puppy deserves a loving home—and every family deserves a happy beginning. 🐾
