What risk exists when relying solely on the AKC Marketplace search method?

AKC registration alone does not guarantee quality or health standards

While the AKC Marketplace can provide a wide array of listings, including those from locations like Visalia, California, or Fairfield, Montana, prospective buyers must exercise substantial caution. This is because the standard AKC registration process primarily confirms parentage registration, ensuring the puppies meet pedigree requirements, but it does not inherently guarantee the quality of care, temperament, or the extent of health testing performed by the breeder. Therefore, relying solely on this marketplace necessitates performing extensive due diligence regarding temperament assessments, socialization practices, and specific health clearances, tasks that are often already partially completed when vetting WVCA-listed breeders.