Rescuing a Puppy Mill Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dogs rescued from puppy mills often come with specific needs due to their difficult pasts. Many have had little human interaction, lack socialization, and may carry physical and emotional scars. But with patience and proper care, a once-fearful dog can learn to trust and thrive in a loving home. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider when adopting a puppy mill rescue dog, from setting up a comforting environment to gradually socializing and training your new companion.

Welcoming a puppy mill rescue into your life requires dedication, but the rewards are immense. As Kathleen Murphy, policy analyst at Best Friends Animal Society, notes, “So many people who have undertaken this journey have reported that it was the most rewarding thing they have ever done — and odds are, it will be for you, too.”

What is a puppy mill?

A puppy mill is a large-scale commercial breeding operation that, Murphy adds, prioritizes profit over the well-being of the dogs. In these facilities, breeding dogs are often kept in crowded, unsanitary conditions with minimal to no veterinary care, socialization, or exercise. The dogs in puppy mills are frequently confined to small cages, receiving just enough food, water, and care to keep them alive for breeding purposes. 

Unfortunately, adult dogs in puppy mills are usually bred continuously until they can no longer produce puppies, at which point they may be abandoned or euthanized. Puppies from mills are often sold to pet stores, through online marketplaces, or directly to consumers.

“Many Americans are unaware of the connection between pet stores and puppy mills,” Murphy says. People assume buying from a pet store means the dog was raised in safe, humane conditions. In reality, many of these puppies come from mills that compromise animal welfare to pursue profits. 

This issue is widespread. There are an estimated 10,000 active puppy mills in the U.S., in which 500,000 dogs are kept solely for breeding purposes so that 2.6 million puppies can be produced annually. 

Understanding puppy mill dogs

Dogs rescued from puppy mills often need extra care and attention to help them feel secure in their new homes. “Puppy mill dogs spend most of their lives in fear without proper socialization with humans or other dogs,” Murphy says. Understanding the challenges and behaviors you may encounter is the first step in providing the support they need to thrive.

• Limited socialization and trust issues: Murphy explains that this lack of interaction can significantly impact their behavioral development, because the first few months of a dog’s life are vital for shaping their behavior and personality. To that end, puppy mill dogs may be wary of people and show signs of fear or anxiety when approached. 

• Behavioral challenges: Because of their upbringing, puppy mill dogs might have behavioral issues, such as excessive barking or chewing on your belongings. Some dogs may be skittish, hide frequently, or react defensively to sudden movements and noises.

• Health concerns: Puppy mill dogs are often bred and raised in unsanitary conditions, leading to potential health problems, such as untreated bacterial infections like campylobacteriosis, viruses like canine parvovirus (aka “parvo”), parasites, or congenital issues due to poor breeding practices. 

• Fear of new objects and experiences: Many puppy mill dogs have never encountered the outside world or common household sights and sounds. Activities that seem ordinary — such as walking up or down stairs, hearing a vacuum cleaner, or going on a car ride — might be completely new and intimidating for them.

How to prepare for adopting a rescued puppy mill dog

When welcoming any new dog into your home, preparation is key to making your pup’s transition as smooth as possible. Adopting a rescued puppy mill dog makes this preparation even more crucial. “The brave little survivor you adopted from a puppy mill has endured a lot and emerged as a unique individual who is now counting on you for help overcoming those experiences,” Murphy says. Here’s how to set the stage for a positive start. 

Stock up on essential supplies

Make sure you have all the necessary supplies ready before bringing your dog home. This includes a harness and leash, food and water bowls, dog food and treats, a dog bed, a crate, safe toys, and grooming tools. 

Dog-proof your house

Puppy mill dogs, especially those not accustomed to household environments, might explore in unpredictable ways. Murphy advises removing, placing out-of-reach, or securing any potential hazards. These include electrical cords, toxic plants, trash cans, cleaning supplies, medications, or small objects that could be swallowed. 

Also, you might want to block off certain areas of your home by using baby gates, so your dog does not wander into areas where they might get hurt or become overwhelmed. For outdoor areas, make sure your fencing is secure to prevent your dog from escaping or wandering off. Even with a fenced yard, outdoor supervision is recommended, at least initially.

Create a safe space

Set up a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your new dog can retreat and feel secure. This space should include a cozy bed, blankets, food and water bowls, and toys. Choose an area that’s free from loud noises and heavy foot traffic.

Schedule a vet visit

Puppy mill dogs often have untreated medical issues, so scheduling a veterinary exam soon after adoption will help identify any immediate health concerns.

Educate kids 

If you have children, educate them on how to interact gently and calmly with the new dog. Establish rules to prevent sudden movements or loud noises that might scare your new pup (i.e. no running in the house, no screaming, etc.).

Be patient and manage expectations

Progress with a puppy mill dog may be slow. Set realistic expectations for how they might adjust, and be prepared for setbacks. 

As Murphy says, “Don’t forget these eight words that will characterize your life with your puppy mill dog: patience, love, understanding, compassion, forgiveness, calmness, empathy, and perseverance.”

How to help your rescued puppy mill dog adjust

Every puppy mill dog has a different capacity to adapt, and it’s impossible to predict the speed or success at which they will recover, Murphy explains. However, she says that proper training, care, and support from you and others will help your dog settle in and increase the likelihood of overcoming certain behaviors.

One popular, effective method of helping dogs adapt to a new home is called the “3-3-3 rule.” The 3-3-3 rule outlines a dog’s adjustment timeline: three days to decompress, three weeks to settle in, and three months to fully bond and feel comfortable in their new home.

• First three days: Your new dog will likely feel overwhelmed and unsure of their surroundings.

• First three weeks: By now, your dog may start to feel more comfortable as they begin to settle into a routine.

• First three months: At this stage, your dog should be more familiar with their home, and you can start working on deeper training and socialization.

Note: Some rescue dogs may need more time in each phase, while others may progress more quickly. It’s important to let your dog set the pace and not rush the process. 

How to gain your puppy mill dog’s trust

Puppy mill dogs often come from environments where human touch and handling were either nonexistent or negative, so forming a positive relationship with your new dog can take some time. Here are some tips to build trust. 

Use gentle touch and handling

Let the dog approach you rather than approaching them. When they approach you, pet them with light, gentle strokes on the back or sides, avoiding more sensitive areas like the face and paws. Always observe their body language: Stiffening, flinching, or moving away indicate they need a break.

Build positive associations

Connect with your dog through positive reinforcement. This means rewarding small milestones with treats, praise, or a favorite toy. For example, give treats when they approach you, respond to their name, or let you pet them. This helps them associate your presence with good experiences, and gradually builds trust. 

Stick to a routine 

“Make a schedule for feeding times, going outside, playing, rest, and sleep — and stick to it,” Murphy suggests. “This is a critical part of building trust.” Consistent routines help your dog feel secure and gradually understand they can rely on you for care and stability.

Never use punishment 

When working with a rescued puppy mill dog (or any dog), avoid any form of punishment. Punishing your dog for behaviors like barking, fearfulness, or accidents can increase their anxiety, perpetuate unwanted behaviors, and set back the trust-building process. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement to encourage desirable behaviors. 

How to train your rescued puppy mill dog

Your new rescue dog has likely had little to no training or socialization, so it’s up to you to gently guide them as they adjust to their new life. Let’s break down some key steps you can take to help your dog begin learning new skills. 

How to socialize your dog

Puppy mill rescues are often unfamiliar with anything outside the mill environment, making everything new and potentially overwhelming. Very gradually introduce your dog to new people, other pets like cats, and environments. 

Start in quiet, controlled settings, rewarding calm behavior with treats and positive reinforcement to help build their confidence in social situations. This Adopt a Pet resource on socializing puppies can help. 

How to house-train your dog

Puppy mill dogs are often confined to cages with wire flooring, forcing them to pee and poop in their small living space.

Because of their history, house training a puppy mill rescue can take a bit longer, but it’s certainly achievable. Establish a routine with consistent potty breaks. Guide your dog to the designated outdoor potty area and wait several minutes for them to do their thing. Reward them with a treat if they go. If not, bring them inside and try again at the next scheduled time.

Be patient — indoor accidents are likely. Avoid punishment and maintain consistency to help build reliable bathroom habits. 

How to deal with marking

Marking occurs when a dog (usually a male, but sometimes females, too) urinates on specific objects or areas inside. In puppy mills, unneutered male dogs often mark their cages as territorial signals or due to anxiety. The longer this behavior continues, the more ingrained it becomes, making it harder to stop. 

If your dog is marking indoors, the first step is to get them neutered or spayed. Increase potty breaks and limit access to problem areas. Clean marked spots calmly and thoroughly, and use positive reinforcement when they go outside. Keep their environment calm and consistent to try to reduce anxiety. 

How to deal with poop-eating

Puppy mill rescue dogs might eat poop due to hunger, anxiety, curiosity, or boredom. To prevent this, clean up immediately after they poop to remove the temptation. When outside your home, keep your dog on a leash so you can guide them away from other dogs’ poop. If your dog is eating poop regularly, bring your dog in for a veterinary checkup to rule out medical issues. 

How to deal with separation anxiety

Many dogs from troubled backgrounds, like those from puppy mills, show insecure attachment behaviors, constantly fearing abandonment. These dogs may follow their human everywhere and often experience separation anxiety when left alone.

To tackle separation anxiety, start by leaving your dog alone for very short periods (start with 20 seconds), gradually increasing the time as they adjust. Provide comfort items like toys and blankets, as well as something to keep their mind busy, like a Kong filled with a little peanut butter or a food puzzle toy. Avoid big entrances or exits and reward them with a treat for staying calm in your absence. 

If their separation anxiety is severe or not improving, consult with a veterinarian, dog trainer, or dog behaviorist. 

How to leash train your puppy mill rescue dog

Puppy mill rescues are often unfamiliar with leashes. To begin leash training, start by putting a comfortable, sturdy harness on your dog and allowing them to walk around the house with it on. Then, attach a leash to the harness and let them drag it around indoors.

Once they’re comfortable with that, start with short, slow walks inside your house while holding the leash. Reward them for staying close without pulling. If they pull, very gently tug on the leash to guide them back and reward them when they return to the proper position and pace.

Once they’ve mastered indoor walks, transition to outside walks in safe, quiet areas. Start with brief outings and slowly increase the distance as they grow more confident.

How to crate train your puppy mill rescue dog 

For dogs who have lived in cramped, stressful conditions, a crate should be reintroduced as a positive space — not a place of confinement.

Start by placing a comfortable bed or soft blanket inside the crate and leaving the door open so your dog can explore it on their own terms. Encourage them to go inside by placing treats or toys near and inside the crate, allowing them to associate it with positive experiences. Never force your dog into the crate — let them choose to enter at their own pace.

Down the line, you can begin closing the crate door for short periods while you’re nearby, always rewarding your dog with praise or treats when they remain calm. Over time, increase the duration they stay in the crate. When properly done, crate training can help keep your dog safe while you’re away from the house for short periods of time. 

As for size, Murphy says the crate should be tall enough for the dog to stand and long enough to accommodate the dog lying down from the nose to the base of the tail. 

Commonly asked questions

What is the life expectancy of a puppy mill dog?

The life expectancy of a puppy mill dog can vary widely depending on factors like breed, the extent of neglect they endured, and health issues. But by being rescued and receiving proper care, many can live a normal lifespan for their breed.

What should be done when a puppy mill rescue dog is not bonding with you?

Give them time, avoid forcing interactions, and continue providing a safe environment. Use treats, gentle encouragement, and positive reinforcement. Consult a dog behaviorist if needed.

How can you help eliminate puppy mills? 

Puppy mills are a supply-and-demand business. So choosing to adopt pets from shelters or reputable rescue organizations — instead of buying from pet stores or online sellers — diminishes their business. You can also raise awareness among friends, family, and your community. If you’re looking for a new pet, visit your local shelter or rescue, or search for adoptable pets using Adopt a Pet’s search feature.  

Resources

“Buyer Beware: The Problem with Puppy Mills and Backyard Breeders | PAWS.” PAWS, 2019, www.paws.org/resources/puppy-mills/.

“‌Puppy Mill Brokers.” Humane Society of the United States, www.humanesociety.org/sites/default/files/docs/puppy-broker-dealers-factsheet-2020.pdf.

The Humane Society Of The United States. “Puppy Mills FAQ.” The Humane Society of the United States, 2019, www.humanesociety.org/resources/puppy-mills-faq.

Greenberg, Mark. “Stopping Puppy Mills.” The Humane Society of the United States, 2023, www.humanesociety.org/all-our-fights/stopping-puppy-mills.