Most people now find their next puppy online, and so do scammers. Fake ads use stolen photos, prices that look too good and stories that end with a request for money. A few simple rules protect you, your money and the puppy.
Red flags
- The seller asks for a deposit, shipping, customs or "insurance" fee before you have seen the puppy.
- The price is far below what the breed usually costs.
- The seller refuses a video call or a visit, or is "abroad" and will ship the puppy to you.
- The photos look professional or appear in other ads, and the seller cannot send new pictures on request.
- You are pushed to decide today because "many people are interested".
What to do instead
- See the puppy in person. Visit the shop or the seller’s home. If you buy from a breeder, ask to meet its mother.
- Check the age. Puppies should stay with their mother until at least eight weeks old.
- Ask for documents: vaccination card, microchip number and, for pedigree dogs, the registration papers.
- Watch the puppy. Bright eyes, clean ears and nose, a healthy coat and a curious, playful attitude are good signs. Book a vet check in the first days and ask your vet about the vaccination plan.
- Pay on collection and get a written receipt with the seller’s details and the microchip number.
Take your time choosing a breed
Popular small breeds such as the Chihuahua, Pomeranian and Poodle suit flats; large, active breeds such as the German Shepherd or Husky need space, training and help with the heat. Be wary of "teacup" puppies: extremely small dogs often have serious health problems.
Consider adoption
Many lovely dogs in the UAE need new homes. Adoption ads on AnimalMarket24 are free: see dogs for adoption.
Seen a suspicious ad?
Every ad on AnimalMarket24 has a Report link. Tell us about fake or suspicious ads so we can remove them.