A new puppy should bring joy, but for many Texans it has brought costly disappointment instead. Better Business Bureau Heart of Texas is warning consumers after more than 35 puppy scam reports were submitted to BBB Scam Tracker from December 2025 through February 2026, totaling more than $31,000 in reported losses.
Pet scams usually start with an online ad from someone claiming to be a breeder who says the puppy must be shipped. After the initial payment, a supposed shipping company demands extra fees for insurance, vaccines or other delays. The charges continue if the buyer pays, and in the end, the puppy never arrives because it never existed.
Scammers rely on emotional manipulation, and high demand breeds. Yorkies, Dachshunds, and French Bulldogs are frequently advertised because scammers know consumers are willing to pay premium prices.
Scam Tracker Reports:
Corpus Christi, TX
“The description was for a brown puppy. After we moved, we got messages and my friend sent the initial $50 down payment. Then they harassed her for the rest of the payment before pickup when she refused, the listing was taken off of craigslist …and they refused to return money.”
Midland, TX
“Website advertised Newfoundland puppies for sale. The initial payment was $500 + $150 shipping cost. $50 dollars was sent via Zell payment system, vendor stated they were taking it to the transport service that evening. Started getting suspicious because we were only going to be charged $150, so the website was researched, and that’s when it was discovered to be a scam.”
San Antonio, TX
“Wanted to purchase a Boston Terrier puppy from this person on Facebook. The scammer said he had what we were looking for and asked for a deposit. I used the deposit by way of a couple gift cards. The scammer gave us an address to go pick up the puppy. The address was not her address. The people at the address never heard of her. Reported to our bank to try to stop pay.”
Red flags to watch for:
• The breeder refuses to meet in person or allow pickup
• The entire transaction is handled through email or text
• Payment is requested through wire transfer, gift cards or cryptocurrency
• Additional shipping fees continue to appear after the initial payment
• Threats or urgent pressure tactics are used
Where to report:
Consumers who encounter a pet scam can report it to BBB Scam Tracker at BBB Scam Tracker and learn more about avoiding common red flags.