Most breeders that are even somewhat reputable will require you to sign some sort of contract/document up front along with the deposit. If they insist that they won't have you sign a contract, that's a big red flag.
Breeder contracts usually cover several essential elements: Health guarantees against genetic conditions, return policies for various situations, spay/neuter agreements, breeding rights and restrictions, and may include stipulations for the future care and welfare of the puppy, including diet, living conditions, and ...
All dogs in Orange County over the age of four months are required by law to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Residents owning or having custody of any dog must license the dog within 15 days of acquisition or within 15 days after the license becomes due.
In the painful event of a serious dispute, a court is more likely to enforce terms that are clearly spelled out as essential to the Breeder's agreement to sell the puppy in the first place. Not everything is a Deal Breaker - Remember, if the contract is too overbearing and unreasonable, it likely won't be enforceable.
The contract should include information on the dog's health, vaccination history, and any microchip information. It should also specify what is included in the sale (such as food, toys, and veterinary care). Most importantly, it should state what will happen if the dog is ever returned to the breeder.
Checklist for a Sales Agreement When Buying a Dog Health. The seller should set out any health problems the dog has or might have and should guarantee that the dog is otherwise healthy. Vaccinations. List the vaccinations the dog has had and when they were given. History. Training. Pedigree. Quality. Price. Warranties.
Breeding contracts spell out the rights and responsibilities of the breeder and the other person whether the other person is purchasing a puppy or stud service. Good breeders will stand behind their services and their dogs.
Write the contract in six steps Start with a contract template. Open with the basic information. Describe in detail what you have agreed to. Include a description of how the contract will be ended. Write into the contract which laws apply and how disputes will be resolved. Include space for signatures.
Checklist for a Sales Agreement When Buying a Dog Health. The seller should set out any health problems the dog has or might have and should guarantee that the dog is otherwise healthy. Vaccinations. List the vaccinations the dog has had and when they were given. History. Training. Pedigree. Quality. Price. Warranties.
So, many puppy contracts, or provisions of them, are not legally enforceable if they are unreasonable or micromanage the buyer.