Good Breeder Center

Bridging the distance: Tips for working with long-distance buyers

When you add Meetup Areas to your profile, your puppies appear in searches for those additional locations – helping buyers find your program even when they're farther away! While working with local buyers is always a great option, many breeders find forever homes for their pups by working with long-distance buyers as well. The key is creating strong connections that bridge the physical gap between you and potential families.

Here's a comprehensive guide to connecting and building trust with long-distance buyers, featuring expert advice from Good Breeders in our community:

Share weekly Updates

Bring buyers into your world with engaging Updates showing daily moments in your puppies' lives. When families receive weekly Updates, they form strong emotional bonds long before meeting their puppy in person!

“"I send photos and descriptions to the buyer about the puppy 2+ times per week through the Updates feature on the mobile app." - Colleen K. ”

These regular glimpses into your puppies' development help families feel connected to the process despite the distance.

Consider including:

  • Health checks and vet visits to showcase your commitment to puppy wellness
  • Program accomplishments like show results or new certifications
  • Socialization activities with new experiences, people, and animals
  • Sweet moments of puppies with parents and littermates
  • Pickup day celebrations as puppies go to their new homes
  • Outings to public places like stores, libraries, or nursing homes
  • Growth milestones from weigh-ins to first outdoor adventures
  • Training progress with crate training and other foundational skills

The more detailed and personal these updates, the stronger the connection families will feel to both you and their future puppy.

Use technology for face-to-face connections

Schedule virtual "meet and greets" via video calls to help long-distance families bond with their puppy and ask you questions in real-time.

“"Prior to the sale of any of our puppies, we schedule a video call. During this call, I personally go over our purchase agreement and health guarantee, introduce the puppy, answer any questions, and explain everything included in our program." - Jennifer D.”

Maintain Consistent Communication

Stay connected through Good Dog Messenger with updates about vet checks, growth milestones, puppy prep, and travel plans. Your quick responses help distant families feel supported throughout their puppy journey!

“"From day one we talk to them like they're family, because that's what they are now." - Daniel B.”

When working with long-distance buyers, you may want to:

  • Set clear expectations about response times
  • Provide regular updates on puppy development
  • Share any educational resources specific to your breed
  • Offer guidance on preparing their home for the new pup
  • Discuss travel arrangements well in advance

Prepare Puppies For Their Journey

Set puppies up for travel success by gradually introducing them to carriers, car rides, and the sounds of travel. These small steps make a huge difference in how confidently your puppies handle the journey to their new homes.

“"Start discussing transport details early on in the process. The preparation for travel should begin weeks before departure day with carrier training and short drives. I also provide families with a detailed travel day plan, including what to expect during the journey and upon arrival." - Tristany B.”

By relying on strategies like these, distance becomes less of a barrier and more of an opportunity to expand your program's reach, and find even more quality homes for your pups.

By focusing on communication, connection, and preparation, you can build the trust necessary for successful long-distance placements – creating positive experiences for families and puppies alike, regardless of the miles between you.