Choose the adoption option and help shut down puppy factories

When welcoming a new puppy into your home, we urge you to choose the adoption option, and help shut down puppy factories.

As shocking as it is, puppy factories (also known as puppy farms) still exist in Australia. In these facilities, puppies and their mothers are often kept in overcrowded and filthy conditions, and forced to eat, sleep, go to the toilet, and give birth all in one confined space. Puppy factories fail to meet dogs’ behavioural, social and/or physiological needs.

Tragically, with every puppy that is sold from puppy factories, there is a mother left behind. Trapped in a constant cycle of pregnancy, abuse and neglect.

That’s why we’re calling for your help to shut down puppy factories once and for all.

Please don't support puppy factories.
Think about the mothers.

4 ways to help shut down puppy factories

When looking for a new puppy…

  1. Choose the adoption option and visit your local RSPCA or responsible rescue first.
  2. Can’t find the right rescue puppy? Find a responsible breeder – and, crucially, ensure you visit their property.
  3. Ensure the breeder provides a high standard of care for the puppy’s mother and father – make sure you witness this firsthand.
  4. If you suspect you’re dealing with a puppy farmer, immediately make a cruelty report by calling our 24-hour hotline on 1300 477 722, or alternatively fill out our online form.

To help you make an informed choice when looking for a new puppy, please order a copy of our FREE Smart Puppy Buyer’s Guide.

Red flags that may indicate a puppy factory

When buying from a breeder, watch out for these red flags – they’re all warning signs that you could be dealing with a puppy farmer:

  • The seller refuses to allow you to visit their property or meet the puppy’s mother.
  • The seller requests to meet in a public space.
  • The seller claims they are selling puppies on behalf of a third party.
  • The seller tries to sell you sick, unvaccinated and/or very young puppies (less than 8 weeks).

South Australia’s new dog and cat management laws

In August 2017, new dog and cat laws, along with a new code of practice for dog and cat breeders and traders, came into effect.

These laws are aimed at provide some assurance that puppies bred and made available for sale under acceptable conditions.

However, while these law changes will help in the fight against irresponsible breeders and puppy farms, the onus remains on you, the buyer, to be vigilant when checking the integrity of a breeder. Find out more about these new laws and regulations.


All images supplied by and used with the permission of RSPCA Victoria.