How to Verify a Dog Breeder's License (Buyer's Guide)

If you are buying a puppy, one of the smartest things you can do is verify that the breeder is properly licensed. A valid license means the breeder has been inspected and meets minimum care standards. Here is how to check.

Step 1: Check for a USDA License

If you are buying a dog online or having one shipped to you, the breeder should have a USDA Class A Breeder license. You can verify this in two ways:

• Our free USDA License Lookup tool: Search by the breeder's name, business name, certificate number, city, or state. We maintain a database of all active USDA-licensed breeders and dealers, updated monthly.
• The official USDA APHIS Public Search Tool: The government's own database where you can also look up inspection reports.

Step 2: Check for a State License

Many states require breeders to hold a state-level license in addition to (or instead of) the federal license. State license verification varies — some states have online databases, while others require a phone call.

Visit the breeder's state page on our site to find the governing agency and their contact information.

What to Ask the Breeder

A reputable breeder should be happy to share their licensing information. Here are questions to ask:

• "What is your USDA license number?" (if buying sight-unseen)
• "Are you licensed by the state?" and "What is your state license number?"
• "Can I see your most recent inspection report?"
• "Can I visit your facility in person before buying?"

Red Flags

Be cautious if a breeder:

• Refuses to share a license number
• Will not let you visit their facility
• Cannot provide veterinary records for the puppy
• Only accepts payment methods that are hard to trace (gift cards, wire transfers)
• Ships puppies but claims they do not need a USDA license
• Has no reviews or online presence outside of a single ad

Not All Breeders Need a License

It is important to know that not every breeder is required to have a license. Small hobby breeders who sell face-to-face and are below their state's threshold may be legally exempt. The absence of a license does not automatically mean a breeder is bad — but if a breeder is required to have one and does not, that is a serious concern.