Practical Ways to Shut Down Bad Breeders

Think there’s nothing you can do about shady breeders? Think again. You don’t need a badge to make a real difference. Regular people have more power than they realize when it comes to shutting down bad breeders and protecting dogs. Whether you’ve bought a puppy, know someone who has, or just care about animal welfare, there are concrete steps you can take—right now—that actually work. Here are some of the most practical, effective ways you can help hold breeders accountable and keep others from falling into the same trap.

Leave Detailed, Honest Reviews

  • Post factual, calm reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and breeder review sites (including ours!).

  • List exactly what happened: “I bought a ‘purebred’ puppy but the DNA test proved otherwise.” Attach photos or test results if you can.

  • Potential buyers often Google breeders—honest reviews work.

Use Your Payment Processor

  • If you paid by credit card, Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle, dispute the charge for “goods not as described.”

  • Examples include: the puppy isn’t the promised breed (DNA test proves it), arrives sick (vet diagnosis), comes with fake paperwork, or never arrives at all.

  • You may get your money back—and sometimes the platform will flag or ban the seller.

Flag Suspicious Craigslist, Facebook, or Online Ads

  • Platforms have rules against illegal animal sales and puppy mills.

  • Flag and report ads—include screenshots and why you believe the seller is shady.

  • Enough reports can get accounts shut down and ads removed.

  • Join us on Reddit at R/Pawtrol where we do exactly that!

File Complaints Everywhere

  • Don’t stop at the USDA—file complaints with your state agriculture department, local animal control, and (sometimes) the sheriff of the town/county.

  • Many states have online complaint forms for animal sales fraud.

  • More complaints = more scrutiny and higher chance of investigation.

  • Follow up. Be annoying.

Use DNA Results for Small Claims Court

  • Were you sold a “purebred” (often at a premium price) and the DNA results proved otherwise? That’s fraud.

  • Many small claims courts let you file online, no lawyer needed. Attach your purchase receipt, breeder’s ad, and DNA results — ask for a refund for fraud.

  • Then, report it to the District Attorney. False advertising and consumer fraud are crimes — especially when done for profit.

Report to State Consumer Protection Office

  • Investigate complaints about breeder fraud, misrepresentation, or deceptive business practices

  • They can contact the breeder on your behalf to help resolve disputes (like a refund or replacement)

  • Take legal action against breeders with patterns of violations (fines, restitution, lawsuits)

  • Add your complaint to the public record, helping warn others and build bigger cases