What is a puppy farm?

A puppy farmer can be described as a high-volume breeder who breeds puppies with little to no respect for the health and welfare of the puppies or their parents.

Bred purely for profit, puppies from puppy farms are often kept in conditions reminiscent of intensive farming systems. Bitches are bred too often, many are unhealthy and live in unbearably poor conditions. Puppies are generally removed from their mothers far too early and are then transported in unsuitable conditions to satisfy the public’s demand. While puppy farms are a huge concern it is also important to remember that poor breeding can occur no matter the size of the establishment.

Many puppies are severely traumatised by how they are treated, their health is compromised and many do not survive the ordeal.

Dispelling the myth of what a puppy farm is?

Puppy farms do not mean that puppies are running around free in a field. This couldn’t be further away from the truth. Sadly, puppies are kept in cramped, overcrowded and unsanitary conditions with little to no human interaction.

How does puppy farming affect puppies?*

The intensive breeding environment causes increased stress to puppies and mothers.

Farmed puppies are more likely to have a genetic disorder and are more at risk of deadly infectious diseases such as parvovirus.

Dogs from puppy farms have more behavioural issues than dogs from other breeding environments and are likely to display fear, anxiety and aggression.

They have not been socialised with people or introduced to family life, meaning they are frightened by strangers and scared by common household noises and activities.

The environment and breeding process often means puppies will require veterinary treatment soon after arriving in their new home.

They will not have had the required vaccinations or treatments, such as worming.

*Findings from a study conducted by the Scottish SPCA and the University of Edinburgh.

Puppy farms and puppy dealers are not always the same. Some puppy farms sell directly to the public but never where the public could see the rearing conditions.
Many breeds of dogs have inherent health problems because of the way they’ve been bred, for example breathing or skeletal problems. Responsible breeders will do all they can to produce dogs free from these issues but these problems can be exacerbated in pups bred purely for numbers by these unscrupulous traders.

How can I help stop puppy dealers?

As well as helping spread awareness using #SayNoToPuppyDealers – you can help by ensuring that you don’t buy from a puppy dealer.

Although it can be hard to walk away from a puppy that looks like it needs your help, you will only be funding the illegal trade by purchasing a puppy – and another dog will soon take it’s place.

How to buy a puppy responsibly.

We’ve put together some helpful advice so that you can buy a puppy safely and responsibly.