Commercial dog and cat breeding is a business. It is not a hobby.

As with any business, there are good and bad businesspeople — those who comply with laws and those who don't; those who act ethically and humanely and those who don't.

Certain commercial breeders view dogs and cats as products to be sold for profit. To maximize profits, these breeders cut corners in their operations (e.g., less staff, limited veterinarian care, inadequate shelter or food), resulting in physical and psychological harm to animals.

Mass-volume breeders are referred to as puppy mills or kitten mills. (Minnesota is known for having some of the largest dog breeding facilities with 500, 600 and over 900 dogs per kennel.) Smaller breeders, with a similar, profit-driven attitude towards breeding, are referred to as backyard breeders.

The situation

The dog and cat breeding industry is not regulated by the State of Minnesota so the State does not measure dog and cat ‘production,’ transactions and sales, or hold breeders and veterinarians accountable.

Local municipalities and cities can choose to create their own laws to restrict commercial breeding and further protect dogs and cats from inhumane practices. Some communities are starting to become aware of the problem; others are reluctant to change.

Citizens can choose to report acts of cruelty or suffering — but this is typically after the cruelty has occurred. Citizens can also pursue civil complaints (under consumer protection laws) for animals purchased that are unhealthy; however, this, too, is after the fact — after an animal becomes sick due to unhealthy conditions or practices. 

For further information about commercial dog/cat breeding, go to:

• The profit motive
Certain commercial dog and cat breeders are in business to make money. The care or well-being of an animal comes second.

• Who is USDA-licensed
There is no State law that licenses dog and cat breeders in Minnesota. There is no record of how many total breeders operate in our State.

• USDA inspections
USDA-licensed facilities are inspected by the USDA. No inspections are required for non-licensed breeders.

NOTE: For additional information and insight, see resources.