Healthy bettas?

So, my son wants to add a betta to our collection, we have an unused 10 gallon so it works out well.
Where do I buy one? Every place I've seen, big chains AND lfs have them all in the glass jars.... Is there any way to choose a healthy one??? What should I look for? They all look so sad in the jars!

 

You could get two! Two females or males, just split the tank up. Healthy ones, well, looks healthy(helpful, I know). Look for alert, no tattered fins, isn't floating or on its side. Others should be more helpful. If you want, you could try online and buy from a breeder.

 

If I were you I'd start with one betta, if you find you want another down the line you could easily divide the 10 gallon tank.

Look for bright colour, alertness, no tears or holes in the fins, clear water and a betta that reacts to you when you approach the cup/jar. Make sure the bettas gills aren't moving quickly and the fins aren't clamped down towards it's body. Also keep in mind that the larger bettas may already be six months old.

Best of luck finding a new betta and remember to post pics

 

Thanks everyone! Yes, for now we are getting just one...just waiting on the tank to cycle. I feel like all the bettas I've seen are torn clamped fins... It will be a challenge to find the right one, but I'm happy to hear people buy the jars!

 

Another option is to order online, I've had great success with eugene fish store and aquabid.