You should be able to find out a lot about a breeder just by talking to them. Can you visit their facility? If they won’t let you come unless you buy a puppy or only when you pick up your puppy that is a red flag. A good breeder should allow visits at all times. If they don’t they are either hiding something or they are not even there and have a separate job. If you get to go, look to make sure that the facility is clean and there is no chemicals around the puppies such as bleach or chlorine. You should get the feeling that the breeder is actually concerned and involved in raising the puppies. It’s not too difficult. Just talk to them and get to see the facility.