The problem with the puppy mill conversation is that it is loaded with emotion. In fact, just writing these articles will cause some to think that I support puppy mills or puppy mill behavior. There is nothing further from the truth. Like so many breeders, puppy mills break my heart and I want to see them shut down. 

However, when we are driven by emotion and not facts, it often causes us to not be objective and to fall into the trap of the “judging a book by its cover” mentality. Consider an email I received from someone against puppy mills. The email read “As you know many Amish overbreed and most do not health test their dogs”. I had to respond to this person that while I agree with her regarding puppy mill behavior, I had to disagree that “many overbreed, and most do not health test their dogs”. In fact, we have many Amish who are part of our Responsible Dog Breeder Network. This means they are ethical and responsible breeders who genetically test, are licensed, and have kennel inspections. 

• It’s unfortunate that the puppy mill stigma exists and that some people automatically assume that all breeders are running puppy mills. In addition to the two steps mentioned in Part 1 (addressing the issue up front and developing a proper kennel environment), I want to encourage breeders to really think through the process for the customer when they pick up their puppy from your location. Here are some things to consider: 
•  Make every effort to have visitors meet your family. This can help establish a sense of trust. Have your kids playing with the pups. 
•  Ensure that you have a clean and comfortable place for visitors to sit and talk. This could be in your house, office area, or somewhere else. Consider offering coffee, water, or a snack. 
•  Be personable and friendly when greeting visitors. Ask questions to strike up a conversation and address them by name. This can help create a positive experience. 
•  Discuss your kennel specifics. Discuss why you use specific food and supplements. Share your socialization and exercise program, whelping process, and genetic testing. Show them any memberships you belong to. 
•  Make sure that your payment and form process is easy to use and navigate. Consider using a well-known payment platform, as well as having written forms that are clean and easy to understand. 

The best way to address the puppy mill stigma is for you to show your customers that you are not one. Change their perceptions and they will become advocates for breeders. You will end up with raving reviews like the one we received recently. After having her puppy for a week, she said “We are totally convinced that we have the most beautiful and perfect puppy. We are so happy and so in love.”