Overall the experience was good. I think that it would have gone better if the payment terms were clearly defined from the start. Your standard answer of it's in the contract was the standard answer. List out the financial steps at the beginning, outside the contract, and it would let us not remember the legal ramblings of a contract. No surprises and everyone will be happier.
Response from Pawrade.com:
Hi Jason, we know you were concerned about paying for the puppy in full before picking him up from the breeder. We were able to alleviate your concerns with a video conference call so you could see Earl prior to making your final payment. We hope Earl is adjusting nicely into his forever home!