Ending puppy mills

When you buy a puppy from a pet store or the internet, you’re most likely supporting a puppy mill, an inhumane dog-breeding operation where dogs live in small cages, often in the minimum legal size allowed (only six inches larger than the dog on all sides). Female dogs in puppy mills are bred constantly, in order to produce as many puppies as possible for the pet trade and to make a profit.  

Although the federal government regulates most breeders who sell puppies online and to pet stores, the animal care standards imposed on breeders don’t promote responsible breeding or ensure healthy puppies. For example, it’s legal for licensed breeders to own 1,000 or more dogs, to keep them in very small cages for their entire lives and to breed them as often as possible.  

The standards set by the government aren’t meant to ensure that the dogs have the good lives they deserve; they only require the bare minimum of care. Plus, there are only a few inspectors in each state for all the state’s licensed breeding facilities.  

Where dogs need your help

OR: Help stop puppy and kitten mills »

Our ongoing work to reach this goal includes creating and lobbying for humane pet sales legislation across the country, educating people about the harm of puppy mills, promoting adoption rather than the purchase of pets, and encouraging pet stores to offer pets for adoption instead of selling mill-bred pets.  

In 2023, our puppy mill initiatives team helped to enact 12 local ordinances and two statewide bills to prevent the sale of dogs and cats from breeding mills. That means there are now nearly 500 humane pet sales laws in place across North America.  

You can start or join a campaign to help end puppy mills.