Puppy Mill vs. Breeder: How to Spot the Difference

The glorious day has finally arrived: You’ve decided which dog breed you want and are ready to welcome a rambunctious new ball of fluff into your home! But the most important part of the process is still ahead of you: How do you find the best breeder? Most importantly, how can you be sure your puppy does not come from a puppy mill?

The truth is that it's not as easy as it seems. The main problem is that most puppies bred on puppy farms are then sold in pet stores or online, making it difficult for a potential buyer to spot the difference and make an ethical decision.

We understand that as a dog lover, you want the absolute best for your future furry family member. This guide will enable you to be better equipped when it comes time to choose a breeder, so you don’t unintentionally encourage an unscrupulous puppy mill disguised as an ethical and responsible breeder.

Visual Differences

At a Glance

Overview of Puppy Mills

The way that the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) describes puppy mills leaves no ambiguity:  “A puppy mill is an inhumane, commercial dog breeding facility in which the health of the dogs is disregarded to maintain a low overhead and maximize profits.”

These establishments, also known as puppy farms, often maintain unsanitary conditions and ignore healthy breeding practices. While they may call themselves dog breeders or kennels, their focus is on mass-producing puppies through excessive breeding, disregarding health and genetics.

Most of the female dogs are over-bred until they are no longer useful, enduring cramped spaces and little socialization. Puppies are usually sold to pet stores or online platforms when they’re only 6 to 8 weeks old, despite the high risks of health and behavioral problems. Researchers have found that due to the lack of proper socialization during a critical period of their development, puppy mill dogs may show heightened aggression and fear toward any unfamiliar person or situation, even their owner and family.

The sad truth is that due to these issues, many puppy mill dogs are at risk of being abandoned or euthanized later.

Some people argue about the lower prices and availability of puppies in puppy mills, but while these “advantages” might seem appealing on the surface, the suffering and negative consequences for the dogs can’t be ignored.

Responsible breeders prioritize the health, well-being, and happiness of the dogs and puppies. They want to make sure their puppies find loving homes. While they do want to make some profits, they never want to do so over the well-being of their animals.  That’s why it's so important to do your research before adopting or buying a new canine companion, to ensure that you’re encouraging the right people.

Why Aren’t Puppy Mills Illegal?

According to the HSUS, there are over 10,000 puppy mills in the U.S.¹ Most claim to be "USDA approved," but just because the facilities are inspected by the USDA, that does not mean the business isn’t a puppy mill.

The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) sets minimum welfare requirements in commercial breeding facilities. But even when breeders fail to meet these standards, there are few revoked licenses or fines imposed on establishments by the USDA, and many puppy mills with a history of violations continue to sell to pet stores. Furthermore, laws surrounding puppy mills vary by state, making the regulatory landscape even less clear.

Overview of Breeders

Responsible breeders prioritize the welfare of their dogs above all else. For example, they collaborate closely with vets to ensure their puppies’ health and safety. All their dogs undergo health screenings for specific issues, and they aren't afraid to share their pets' medical records with potential buyers. Above all, they do not breed dogs with health or behavioral problems but instead turn to spaying or neutering.

Good breeders also have solid references and operate on a smaller scale than puppy mills. The puppies are raised in a family environment and socialized from birth. They will also welcome dogs back due to hereditary issues or unforeseen changes in ownership, which is not the case with puppy mill puppies.

How to Spot the Difference Between Puppy Mills and Responsible Breeders

Unlike puppy mills, good breeders care about where their puppies end up. They will ask you questions to ensure that their pups will be going to a loving home. They invest time, effort, and emotional energy into their puppies' early days.

Here are a few other cues to help you tell the difference:

• Puppy mills often hide in plain sight; they can be disguised as charming pet shops or online sellers. Responsible breeders are more likely to welcome you to their home or kennel to meet the pups' parents and see their living conditions.
• Good breeders will provide health records and vaccinations and will ensure that the pups are properly checked by a veterinarian before going to their forever homes.
• A responsible breeder will be happy to answer your queries about their breeding practices, the puppy's parents, and how they raise their animals.
• When talking to or meeting with a dog breeder, be sure to check all the facts, but also go with your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
• Most importantly, resist buying a puppy from a pet store. We know how hard it can be, but you must remember that buying this dog will likely only encourage unethical and inhumane breeding practices. It's a heartbreaking cycle that needs to stop.

Conclusion

Choosing between a puppy mill and a breeder isn't a tough call. What is tricky, though, is finding responsible breeders. It’s of the utmost importance to conduct thorough research before and after contacting a potential breeder. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and if you suspect unethical breeding practices, you should contact your local SPCA or Humane Society for advice on what to do next.

If possible, consider adopting your new beloved companion from a local shelter or rescue organization.

Featured Image Credit: (L) TPM-FOTO, Shutterstock | (R) Voltgroup, Shutterstock