Commercial puppy mills prioritize volume over welfare, producing dogs with genetic and behavioral problems while housing breeding dogs in conditions causing chronic suffering.
Dogs in puppy mills experience chronic deprivation of socialization, exercise, and veterinary care. Breeding females undergo repeated pregnancies that deplete physical condition and cause reproductive health problems. Puppies separated from mothers too early - a practice driven by retail demand for young-appearing animals - develop behavioral problems including anxiety and aggression that reduce adoptability and cause welfare harm across their lives. Ending puppy mill supply chains is one of the highest-impact companion animal welfare interventions available.