Puppy mills and puppy farms produce dogs in poor welfare conditions, creating behavioral and health problems that affect animals throughout their lives.
Puppy mills create welfare harms at multiple stages: breeding dogs live in poor conditions with inadequate care; puppies are weaned too early causing socialization deficits; buyers are deceived about breeding conditions and health. Legislative reform through measures like Lucy's Law has improved outcomes in some jurisdictions by removing the ability to sell through pet shops. Consumer education about the Five Welfare Needs for dogs before purchase prevents continued demand for puppy farm products.