Warning signs of a puppy mill include…
Poor Living Conditions
- Dirty, overcrowded, or unsanitary environments where puppies are kept in cages or small pens with little space to move around.
Lack of Socialization
- Puppies are often isolated from human contact and may have fearful or aggressive behaviors due to lack of socialization.
Unhealthy Puppies
- Puppies may appear sickly, underweight, or have visible health issues like skin problems, runny eyes, or breathing difficulties.
No Health Records or Vet Care
- The breeder fails to provide proper health documentation or vaccination records for the puppies or the breeding parents.
Multiple Breeds
- Puppy mills often breed many different types of dogs without concern for breed standards, leading to poor genetics or temperament.
No Meeting with the Puppy’s Parents
- A puppy mill breeder may refuse to let you meet the puppy’s mother or father, which is a sign they’re not being properly raised.
High Volume of Puppies for Sale
- The breeder may have multiple litters available for sale at once, often pushing puppies for quick profit, without regard for their well-being.
Pushy Sales Tactics
- Puppy mill breeders may be eager to sell quickly, pressure you into purchasing, and avoid questions about the puppy’s history or the breeding conditions.
No Return or Health Guarantee
- They might not offer a return policy or health guarantees, making it hard to resolve any issues after purchase.
Limited Information
- Puppy mills provide little to no information about the breeding practices, parents, or environment where the puppies are raised.
If you notice these signs, it’s a strong indication that the breeder may be operating a puppy mill, and it’s best to walk away. Always prioritize responsible breeders who focus on the health and well-being of their dogs.
