How to vet a protection dog seller in Colorado

The Colorado Department of Agriculture runs the Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act (PACFA) program. Its licensing page says people who run pet animal businesses "may need to be licensed" and lists categories. A dog breeder category applies to operations that produce more than two litters or transfer more than 24 dogs a year. A boarding or training facility category covers a business that trains pet animals in the owner's absence for compensation, and a pet handler category covers transporting or training without a permanent facility.

The state also publishes an active facility list. Not every seller needs a license, so do not read an absence as a verdict. Ask the seller which category applies and call PACFA at (303) 869-9146 if the answer is unclear.

New state rules reported in July 2025 require daycares, boarders and groomers to keep records of rabies vaccination for pets over 16 weeks and distemper and parvovirus vaccination for dogs over 8 weeks. Use that as a benchmark: any dog you are buying should arrive with written vaccine records, and your veterinarian should be able to read them.

1. Who handled the dog's training, and can I watch a session?
2. Which state license or category covers your business, if any?
3. What vaccines, health tests and vet records come with the dog?
4. What does the written agreement promise, and what happens if the dog does not suit my household?
5. Will you coach me on handling the dog?
6. Can I speak with someone who bought from you earlier?

• Pressure to send money before a visit.
• Refusal to put promises in writing.
• A guarantee that a dog will never fail.
• No records, or records that do not match the dog in front of you.