Puppy Protection Act of 2025

The Puppy Protection Act of 2025 aims to significantly amend the Animal Welfare Act by imposing new, stringent requirements on dog dealers to ensure the humane treatment of dogs. These amendments introduce detailed standards for various aspects of canine care and welfare, building upon existing regulations. Specifically, the bill mandates improved housing conditions, including completely solid flooring, sufficient indoor space for dogs to stand on their hind legs, and minimum indoor floor space requirements based on dog size. It also prohibits stacked enclosures and requires appropriate temperature control between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Dealers must provide appropriate and nutritious food at least twice daily and continuous access to potable, uncontaminated water. The legislation further requires adequate exercise for dogs over 12 weeks, specifying an accessible, ground-level, solid-surface outdoor area that allows for full stride and mentally stimulating behaviors, with restrictions only during nighttime or severe weather. Dogs must also receive at least 30 minutes of meaningful socialization daily with humans and compatible dogs, excluding veterinary care time. Regarding veterinary care, dealers must provide prompt treatment for minor injuries and ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment by a licensed veterinarian for significant illnesses. Annual hands-on examinations, core vaccinations, and medications for parasite prevention are also mandated. The bill introduces strict safe breeding practices, including screening for inheritable diseases and prohibiting breeding of unhealthy dogs. Breeding limitations include no more than two litters in a 25-month period or six litters in a dog's lifetime. Female dogs of small breeds cannot be bred before 18 months or after 9 years, while large breeds have limits of 2 years and 7 years, respectively. All canine caesarian sections must be performed by a licensed veterinarian. Finally, dealers are required to make all reasonable efforts to find humane placement for retired breeding dogs, excluding sale at auction or placement with another breeder for breeding purposes. The Secretary is directed to issue final regulations establishing these standards within 18 months of the Act's enactment.