Returning a puppy to its breeder can be a challenging experience, requiring careful planning and emotional fortitude. Whether due to unexpected life changes or health-related concerns, this decision is never easy. This post aims to guide you through the process, detailing the reasons for returning a puppy, the correct way to approach the breeder, and how CitizenShipper can facilitate the transportation process.
Understanding the Need for Puppy Return
A multitude of reasons can lead to the difficult decision of returning a puppy to its breeder. From sudden life alterations like moving or financial changes to unexpected health issues or allergies, circumstances can sometimes necessitate this step. Understanding and accepting these reasons is the first step toward ensuring a smooth return process.
Approaching the Breeder
Once the decision has been made, the next step is to contact the breeder. Reputable breeders like Pamela Wright, a dedicated puppy breeder, welcome the return of puppies to ensure they find a safe and loving environment. Transparency is critical when communicating with the breeder about your decision. Providing details about the puppy’s health, behavior, and reasons for the return helps the breeder prepare for the puppy’s arrival and future care.
Reviewing Breeder Contracts
If a contract was signed at the time of purchase, it’s crucial to review its terms carefully. As suggested by Katie Bjorkman, a former trainer and rescue volunteer, a well-drafted breeder contract should contain clauses about puppy return, ensuring a smooth process. Make sure to adhere to any stipulated instructions or deadlines.
Choosing the Right Transportation with CitizenShipper
The journey back to the breeder is a critical aspect of the return process, requiring careful consideration. It’s essential to choose a transportation service that ensures your puppy’s safety and comfort. CitizenShipper bridges the gap between pet owners and a network of reliable, professional, and thoroughly vetted transporters, offering an optimal solution.
Carolyn Bishop, one of our clients, shared her positive experience with our service on Trustpilot. In her review, she highlighted the professionalism, punctuality, and continuous communication provided by her chosen transporter. Her puppy was returned happy and safe, testifying to our commitment to prioritizing your pet’s welfare.

Preparing for the Journey
Preparation is vital to ensuring a smooth transition for the puppy. Grooming the puppy and packing its belongings such as its collar, leash, toys, and food, create a familiar environment during transit. This preparation helps alleviate some of the stress associated with travel.
Post-Return: Follow-Up and Reflection
Once the puppy is safely returned, it’s recommended to follow up with the breeder to confirm the puppy’s safe arrival. This aids in resolving any potential concerns and provides peace of mind that the puppy is settling in well.
Conclusion: Prioritizing the Puppy’s Best Interests
Returning a puppy to its breeder can be daunting, filled with emotional and logistical challenges. However, with open communication, an understanding of return terms, and a reliable shipping service like CitizenShipper, the process can be smoother and less stressful for you and the puppy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few commonly asked questions about returning a puppy to the breeder:
What is the cheapest way to transport a pet?
Typically, ground transport is the cheapest way to transport a pet. Longer trips using a transportation service, like CitizenShipper, typically average around $1.00 per mile. Using a pet transportation service ensures your pet arrives in your new location safely, while minimizing stress and overall cost.
How much does it cost to ship a pet internationally?
While shipping your pet domestically is a relatively straightforward process, international shipping can be more complicated. Hiring a pet transport service to help with international logistics can save a tremendous amount of stress and time.
Each country of arrival will have specific regulations regarding pet health checks, necessary vaccination, and possible quarantine requirements. The cost to ship a pet internationally can vary, especially if you need to board your pet for an extended quarantine.
How much does it cost to transport cats?
The cost to transport cats will vary depending on the transport method. Cats can be transported via ground or air transit, and are often small enough to be considered a “carry on” item. Transporting a cat can cost as little as $25 on Amtrak, or as much as $125 to fly in the main cabin of an airplane.
How much does it cost to travel with a small pet?
Traveling with a small pet, compared to a large pet, is much cheaper. Smaller pets can fit under the seat in front of you and can often qualify as a “carry on” item. Traveling with small pets on Amtrak can cost $25, while airlines can charge around $125. Keep in mind certain companies will only allow cats and dogs to travel.
What does it cost to ship a puppy?
While puppies are small enough to fly in most airline cabins, they can incur additional costs. Puppies generally require more attention, and therefore can be more expensive than shipping an adult dog or cat.
Many breeders will utilize an air nanny service to accompany your puppy. If the air nanny is experienced, or a regular, certain airlines may provide discounted rates or waive certain fees. Breeders regularly ship puppies to their new homes and are well-versed in arranging transportation.