What you need to know
Use a live call or one continuous fresh video. Ask for a detail chosen during the call, a clear view of distinguishing markings, the animal moving naturally, its current environment and—without exposing unnecessary personal data—the relevant record fields. Video connects the seller to the animal, but must be combined with identity and document checks.
Decision checklist
- ✓Choose a time-specific action the seller could not pre-record.
- ✓Observe the full environment, not only a close-up.
- ✓Compare visible markings with the selected animal.
- ✓Do not collect or share unnecessary personal data.
Set up a verification call
Agree on a live video time. During the call, ask the seller to say your first name, show the puppy in one continuous sequence and point out two identifying features. Avoid requests that distress the animal.
A short live call is more useful than ten polished clips because it demonstrates current access. Still, it does not verify ownership, health or legal status by itself.
Compare the video with the listing
Check sex, coat, markings, age-appropriate size and setting. Look for abrupt edits or a different background each time. Reverse-image-search the listing photos separately; stolen images can coexist with a convincing chat profile.
Do not diagnose health from a video. If you have concerns, ask for a veterinary examination or record from an identifiable clinic and verify it through an independently found contact channel.
Protect privacy while checking records
Ask the seller to show only the fields needed for comparison: animal name or description, microchip digits, date of birth and relevant veterinary entry. Personal addresses and identification numbers should be redacted unless genuinely required for the transaction.
After the call, write a short summary and ask the seller to confirm it. This prevents later disagreement about which puppy was shown or what was promised.
Pause pointA video call is a verification layer—not a guarantee and not a replacement for records or written terms.
Quick answers
Can prerecorded video be trusted?+
It can support the file, but a fresh buyer-chosen detail or live call provides stronger evidence that the seller currently has access to the animal.
Should I ask to see the mother?+
When appropriate, yes, but there can be legitimate exceptions. Ask for an explanation and other evidence about the litter rather than treating one clip as conclusive.
Can I assess health over video?+
No. Video may reveal a concern, but health assessment belongs to a qualified veterinarian with access to the animal and records.
Sources and verification
We prioritise first-party public guidance and show the sources used for factual rule or consumer-safety claims. Always check current requirements for your jurisdiction and route.
Read our editorial and safety policy →