West Virginia Puppies for Sale

Few states are as friendly to dogs and dog owners as West Virginia. In fact, West Virginia is one of the best states in the country to buy, rescue or adopt a puppy. The German Shepherd is the most popular breed in West Virginia, though Golden Retriever and the Great Dane are not far behind.   

Whether you’re from West Virginia, you’re on vacation with your German Shepherd or your visiting to find Golden Retriever puppies for sale, you’ll find West Virginia has more than enough dog-friendly parks and activities to keep you busy.  

Are you looking for German Shepherd puppies for sale in West Virginia? Then you’re in luck! There are a lot of dog lovers in West Virginia - If you're looking to become one, there are a few state, county and local requirements to be aware of before you bring home your new puppy.

Yes. W. VA Code § 19-20A-2, any person who owns a dog within the State of West Virginia shall have the dog properly vaccinated against rabies with a vaccine capable of producing immunity for three years, boostered one year after initial vaccination and every third year thereafter.  

Dogs need not be vaccinated before the age of three months but must be vaccinated by the age of six months. In addition, any dog over six months of age entering the State of West Virginia must have been vaccinated for rabies.

No. There is no statewide leash law in the State of West Virginia. However, though dogs may run at large, W. VA Code § 19-20A-8 clearly states, “ordinances or rules may be promulgated by any county commission or municipality relating to the control and management of dogs within the county; providing a limited exemption for hunting and farm dogs from county commission or municipality action.” 

In other words, whether or not you need to license your dog in West Virginia depends entirely upon the county or city in which you reside. Furthermore, according to W. VA Code §19-20-13, Any owner of any dog who permits it to run at large is liable for any damages inflicted upon a person or property by the dog while running at large.

No. As of January 2020, West Virginia does not have a law requiring dogs to wear seat belts or be secured within the vehicle during transportation. Regardless of state law, it’s best to keep dogs restrained and out of the front seat.  

Dogs who insist on climbing into the front seat should be placed in the back, in a crate. If your dog’s crate doesn’t fit in the car, you should invest in a barrier to keep them out of the front seat.