How to Find, Choose, and Evaluate a Pug Breeder: A Club Pug Guide to Responsible Pug Parenthood

If you're dreaming of bringing home a pug puppy, choosing the right breeder is one of the most important decisions you'll make. A responsible breeder lays the foundation for your pug's health, behavior, and lifespan — while a bad breeder can lead to heartbreak, expensive vet bills, and unethical practices.

In this Club Pug exclusive, we’ll walk you through how to find a reputable pug breeder, what questions to ask, red flags to avoid, and how to ensure your future pug comes from a place of love and ethical care.

🔍 Step 1: Where to Find Responsible Pug Breeders

Skip online classifieds and social media sellers — reputable breeders rarely advertise this way. Instead, use trusted sources like:

• The American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace
• Pug Dog Club of America (PDCA) breeder directory
• Breed-specific events or dog shows
• Veterinarian referrals
• Club Pug’s curated breeder listings (coming soon!)

💡 Tip: A good breeder doesn’t just sell puppies — they breed for health, temperament, and the long-term well-being of the pug.

🧠 Step 2: Questions to Ask a Pug Breeder

Once you’ve found a potential breeder, interview them like you would a babysitter or medical provider. A quality breeder won’t mind — in fact, they’ll expect it.

✅ Ask about their breeding program:

• How long have you been breeding pugs?
• Are you an AKC-registered breeder?
• Do you breed for health, temperament, or conformation standards?
• Can I meet the parents of the litter? This is also a great opportunity to visit the breeder's home to ensure you are working with a responsible and conscientious breeder, and that the parents and puppies are being raised in a clean, loving and caring environment.
• Do you have a waiting list? If so, what is needed to secure a place on the waiting list?

✅ Ask about health and screening:

• Do you perform health testing for common pug conditions (e.g., BOAS, PDE, hip dysplasia, eye problems)?
• Are puppies vet-checked before going home?
• Will I receive vaccination and deworming records?

✅ Ask about the puppies:

• How are the puppies socialized?
• At what age can they go home (must be at least 8 weeks)?
• Do you offer a health guarantee or return policy? This typically covers serious health issues that may arise during the first year of the puppy's life.
• Can I meet the puppies in advance? (This is often related to the following question on puppy selection.)
• Will I get to pick my puppy, or what is your puppy selection process?

✅ Ask about paperwork and support:

• Do you provide a contract and puppy care guide?
• Are you available for questions after adoption?
• Will the puppy come with AKC registration?

🚨 Red Flags to Watch For

📋 Checklist: What a Responsible Pug Breeder Should Provide

• ✅ Detailed health screening of breeding dogs
• ✅ AKC or equivalent registration (with documentation)
• ✅ Clean, safe, and loving environment for puppies
• ✅ Proof of early socialization
• ✅ Vaccination and vet records
• ✅ Written contract with return policy
• ✅ Lifetime breeder support

🐾 Bonus: Does AKC Registration Mean a Breeder Is Ethical?

Not necessarily. AKC registration only confirms pedigree — it doesn’t guarantee humane practices. Always look beyond registration and evaluate how the breeder cares for their dogs and puppies.

Look for health-tested lines, transparent policies, and breeders who prioritize the breed over profit.

❤️ Final Thoughts: Choose with Your Head and Heart

Bringing home a pug puppy is exciting — but don’t rush it. Take the time to do your research, ask tough questions, and build a relationship with your breeder. The right one will become part of your pug’s support system for life.