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User Guide

A step-by-step guide to using BreederDirect. Easy to follow, even for first-time users.

Buyer's Guide

Complete your transaction in 5 steps, from sign-up to delivery confirmation

1

Sign Up (Free)

Register with your email address. Takes about 1 minute. You can immediately start searching and saving favorites.

2

Browse Listings

Search by category, species, prefecture, price range, and more. Save listings to your favorites. Check breeder profiles for care environment and species handled.

3

Message the Breeder

Found something you like? Message the breeder directly. Ask about care environment, diet, temperament, health, shipping methods — anything you want to know.

4

Close Deal & Pay

Arrange payment directly with the breeder (bank transfer, cash on pickup, etc.). We recommend paying after in-person inspection. In-person inspection is required by Japan's Animal Welfare Act for dogs and cats.

5

Receive

Receive via in-person handover or shipping. If anything goes wrong, contact the breeder via messaging. If unresolved, our team will mediate.

Buyer Protection Features

Verified Breeders Only

All breeders pass our verification review. Animal handling business registration is confirmed for applicable categories.

In-Person Inspection Recommended

Inspect the animal at the breeder's facility before paying. In-person inspection is required by law for dogs and cats.

Pre-Purchase Messaging

Contact breeders directly before buying to resolve any questions or concerns.

Direct from Breeder

No pet shop intermediaries — clear health status and lineage.

No Payment Data Stored

Since payment is direct between breeder and buyer, BreederDirect does not store payment details.

Breeder Guide

4 steps from registration to completing transactions

1

Register as a Breeder

Create an account and apply as a breeder in one step via the registration page. Sign up with your email address. Enter your business name, categories, prefecture, and animal handling registration number if applicable.

2

Review & Verification

Our team reviews your application, typically within 1 business day. Once approved, you can start listing as a verified breeder.

3

List Your Items

List animals from your dashboard. Just upload photos and enter species, size, price, and shipping method. Listing is free with no monthly fees.

4

Trade & Report Closing

Respond to buyer inquiries via messaging and arrange payment directly (bank transfer, cash on pickup, etc.). After closing, report from the dashboard and BreederDirect issues a commission invoice (5.5% incl. tax of the sale price).

About Shipping

For safe delivery of live animals

Shipping Methods

Shipping methods are set by the breeder when listing. The following options are available:

  • Courier DeliveryShipped with proper packaging and temperature control for live specimens
  • Local PickupPick up directly from the breeder

Shipping Costs

Shipping costs are set by the breeder as 'included' or 'buyer pays.' Please message the breeder for details.

Packaging & Shipping Notes

Proper packaging varies by species. We recommend discussing shipping and packaging with the breeder before purchase. Temperature-sensitive specimens may require adjusting shipping timing based on season and weather.

FAQ

Are there registration or monthly fees?
No. Registration, breeder listing, and product listing are all free. A commission of 5% (excl. tax) applies only upon successful transactions. No additional fees for buyers.
What types of animals are available?
Animals include corals, marine fish, tropical fish, goldfish, medaka, reptiles, birds, small animals, and insects.
How is shipping handled?
Shipping methods are set by the breeder. Options include courier delivery and local pickup. Please consult with the breeder about appropriate packaging and shipping methods for the specific species.
What if there's a problem with my delivery?
Contact the breeder first via the messaging feature. If unresolved, our team will mediate.
What payment methods are available?
Payment is arranged directly between breeder and buyer (bank transfer, cash on pickup, etc.). Confirm details via messaging before purchase.
Can I contact breeders directly?
Yes. You can ask questions and consult with breeders directly through our messaging feature before purchasing.
Is animal handling business registration required?
For listing dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, small animals, and other mammal/bird/reptile categories, a Type 1 Animal Handling Business (Sales) registration is required. Not required for corals, fish, or insects.
Can I cancel a purchase?
Due to the nature of live animals, cancellations after purchase are generally not accepted. Please confirm all details with the breeder via messaging before purchasing.
What are the fees?
Breeders pay a platform commission of 5.5% (incl. tax) only upon successful sale. No fees for buyers. Since payment is direct between breeder and buyer, there are no payment processing fees.

This site operates with online support only. Please note that we cannot provide support via phone.

Category Buying Guides

Tips, price ranges, and recommended species for each category

Get Started with BreederDirect

Sign up for free. Buy safely from verified breeders.

If you have questions about care or cultivation, ask experienced keepers and breeders on our Q&A Forum. If your pet shows signs of illness, try our Find by symptom.

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