This legislation, titled the Puppy Protection Act of 2026, significantly amends the Animal Welfare Act by establishing more stringent requirements for dog dealers. Its primary goal is to enhance the welfare and humane treatment of dogs by setting detailed standards across various aspects of their care and environment. These new provisions aim to address common concerns regarding the conditions in which many dogs are kept by licensed dealers. The bill mandates improved housing conditions for dogs, requiring completely solid flooring and sufficient indoor space for dogs to stand on their hind legs. It specifies minimum indoor floor space based on a dog's length and prohibits the stacking of enclosures. Additionally, dealers must maintain appropriate temperature control, between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, for all dog enclosures. Beyond housing, the Act ensures dogs receive proper nutrition and hydration, requiring nutritious food at least twice daily and continuous access to potable, uncontaminated water. It also introduces requirements for adequate exercise, including unrestricted daily access to an outdoor, ground-level, solid-surface exercise area for dogs over 12 weeks old, or a veterinarian-prescribed alternative. To promote psychological well-being, the bill mandates meaningful socialization for at least 30 minutes daily with humans and compatible dogs, involving positive interactions like petting and play. Comprehensive veterinary care is also required, including prompt treatment for illness, annual hands-on examinations, core vaccinations, and preventative medications for parasites. Crucially, the legislation establishes safe breeding practices , including screening for inheritable diseases, limiting female dogs to no more than two litters in 18 months or six litters in a lifetime, and setting age restrictions for breeding based on breed size. It also requires all canine caesarian sections to be performed by a licensed veterinarian. Finally, dealers must make reasonable efforts to find humane placement for retired breeding dogs, explicitly prohibiting their sale at auction or to other breeders for further breeding.