Say No to Puppy Farming in the UK !!
UK dog welfare
Say No to Puppy Farming in the UK
At BuyAPet.co.uk, we take puppy farming seriously. If you suspect a seller is running a
low-welfare operation or using unscrupulous breeding practices, report the advert so we can investigate and take action.
We investigate, remove listings that breach our rules, and may ban offenders.
Why it matters
Every year, over 60,000 puppies from puppy farms are sold in the UK. Stories like Bella’s a Labrador kept in a cramped cage without proper care—highlight the widespread harm caused by this industry. By raising awareness and making informed choices, we can reduce demand for farmed puppies.
The cruel reality of puppy farms
Living conditions
Puppy farms often use cramped, unhygienic spaces with minimal comfort or enrichment.
Early separation harms
Removing puppies from their mothers too soon fuels anxiety, fear and later behavioural problems.
Financial incentives driving the trade
High demand and low start-up costs create strong profit motives for unscrupulous breeders, with animal welfare sidelined in favour of quick sales.
How to spot puppy farms & online scams
Farm red flags
- ✓ Multiple litters and different breeds for sale at once
- ✓ Won’t show the mother or provide clear breeding history
- ✓ Puppies seem unusually fearful, withdrawn or aggressive
Online scam warning signs
- ✓ Prices that seem too good to be true
- ✓ Poor-quality or stock images; vague details
- ✓ Pressure to pay quickly, delivery to a neutral location
The legal landscape (plain-English overview)
- Animal Welfare Act 2006: sets a duty of care and requires suitable living conditions.
- Licensing rules: many activities involving breeding/selling require council licensing.
- Lucy’s Law (England): bans third-party sales of puppies & kittens under 6 months.
Enforcement varies; some operators exploit loopholes. Always verify and report concerns.
Responsible ownership: choosing a puppy ethically
Research the breeder
- Visit the home/kennel; check cleanliness and space
- Meet mum with the litter; review health records
- Ask about socialisation and health testing
Consider adoption
Rescue organisations (e.g., Dogs Trust, RSPCA) provide thorough checks and support—adopting saves lives.
Recognising signs of a farmed puppy
- Physical neglect: poor coat, low weight, persistent cough
- Behavioural issues: fear of people, lack of socialisation
- Missing paperwork: no microchip/vaccination documents
Quick buyer checklist
- ✓ Do you see the mother with the litter?
- ✓ Are conditions clean, spacious and enriched?
- ✓ Is full health documentation provided?
How you can help stop puppy farming
Report suspected farms
- ✓ Report to BuyAPet so we can investigate and remove bad actors
- ✓ RSPCA: 0300 123 4999
- ✓ Local council animal welfare team
Support charities & educate others
- Donate or volunteer with UK rescue organisations
- Share welfare information with friends/family
- Promote ethical buying and adoption
Conclusion: your choices make the difference
The cruelty of puppy farming is real—but informed buyers stop the trade. Research breeders, adopt where
possible, insist on transparency and report concerns. Together we can build a kinder future for dogs.
This page is general information and not legal advice.
