Confused about deposit

[CozyPeanut]

I'm considering putting a deposit on a puppy that will be ready to go home in about a month. The deposit is, of course, non-refundable.
What I'm confused about is that I've read many comments on here about not buying a puppy sight-unseen. When I pick him up I'll pay the balance, so I'll see him then....but right now as I send the $200 I'm doing it sight-unseen. The breeder said she doesn't allow anyone to visit her house while the pups are so young for their protection, so I can't go see him now. She's about 2 hours from my house. Any thoughts?

[KazzyK810]

As long as she's a reputable breeder and has provided photos/video, i would feel comfortable placing a deposit. And such a small deposit is something i would willing forgo should i find the pup objectionable for some reason.

I didn't see my ZoE until the day I picked her up, as she was across the other side of the state, and my kids who were away at college over there were the ones that saw her and placed the deposit.

[Rachael1983]

I selected my breeder based upon reputation. I totally forgot I was on her waiting list before she emailed me back. I knew, that the quality of the puppy I was getting no matter look or gender would be healthy, come with the necessary documentation, I'd see parents etc. I sent a deposit, without physically holding Emma but I had maybe 1 picture. I felt comfortable and sent the check.

A reputable breeder typically requires a deposit to know you're serious because like you said she's about 2 hours from you and she herself might be very busy. No one wants to waste their time. So if you feel that the breeder you selected is the right one, send the deposit. Red flags might be lack of communication, not willing to describe to you their process etc. If you have questions the breeder should be open to answering them for you.

[Yorkiemom1]

Originally Posted by Rachael1983

I selected my breeder based upon reputation. I totally forgot I was on her waiting list before she emailed me back. I knew, that the quality of the puppy I was getting no matter look or gender would be healthy, come with the necessary documentation, I'd see parents etc. I sent a deposit, without physically holding Emma but I had maybe 1 picture. I felt comfortable and sent the check.

A reputable breeder typically requires a deposit to know you're serious because like you said she's about 2 hours from you and she herself might be very busy. No one wants to waste their time. So if you feel that the breeder you selected is the right one, send the deposit. Red flags might be lack of communication, not willing to describe to you their process etc. If you have questions the breeder should be open to answering them for you.