Summary
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), along with other federal agencies, announced a major initiative to crack down on dog welfare violations and dogfighting. This effort aims to enforce the Animal Welfare Act by targeting repeat offenders and unlicensed breeders while supporting those who meet humane care standards.
Key Facts
- The initiative is led by the USDA in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other federal agencies.
- It focuses on enhancing enforcement against repeat offenders of the Animal Welfare Act and those involved in dogfighting.
- There are about 10,000 puppy mills in the U.S., but fewer than 3,000 hold federal licenses.
- The USDA will increase inspections and enforcement against those with persistent Animal Welfare Act violations.
- The USDA is expanding its team to identify unlicensed breeding activities and ensure compliance with dog import regulations.
- A memorandum of understanding between USDA and DOJ will strengthen enforcement, focusing on prosecuting dogfighting cases.
- Compliance among licensed dog breeding facilities has increased from 67% in 2015 to over 92% in 2025.
- All 50 states have felony-level animal cruelty laws that can be used alongside federal law in enforcement efforts.
