Hello! I wanted to get anyones opinion on buying a standard poodle. I found a place that is one of the top 10 breeders in Georgia. Unlike others the price is a more reasonable rate at $1500. She gave images of the parents, texted me references and the vet she uses at Auburn University. From their I talked to one of her clients she recently sold a puppy too who confirmed she liked the breeder and as a first time owner she still can text her for advice.

When I asked to meet the mom (the father is someone elses show dog so I can't meet him) she said I could come any time before she goes into heat. Also making me aware I had to put a deposit down and after 8 week I could meet the litter, make a decision and pay the rest up front.

The pricing isn't horrible but I wanted to see if there were any options in states that are close to Georgia. So doing some research I found another place out in Alabama that cost around $1149 to $1199 depending on the color. After emailing the breeder she sent me her qualifications, images of the parents, a link to the vet she uses and a adoption contract to pay the my deposit.

I spoke to her over the phone and unlike the other breeder she has various colors of puppies and come with a puppy supply bag

It seemed up to par but my only issue is that I can't meet the parents or litter. When I put down my deposit I would be sent pictures of the puppies and can choose from there which one I won't. After I will be given pictures and various videos every day on his/her progress.

When I asked why the breeder explained to me that she didn't want the pups to get sick and the mom might get defensive. I even asked why her pups were cheaper then other breeders and she eplained to me she didn't want a family to spend so much on the dog and the essentials

The breeder also let me join her group on Facebook which from their I saw recent post of the environment, dogs parents and previous owners who bought from her (contacted most of them)

I am leaning towards the breeder in Alabama but didn't want to buy a dog solely based on the price and not get a chance to see the parents or litter

I realize because of the pandemic dog breeders have changed the way they sell but I feel it is kinda odd that one breeder would let me come over and the other won't

What are your thoughts?