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What is a Puppy Farm? The RSPCA defines a puppy farm or a puppy mill as a puppy factory where animals live in appalling conditions. Examples include dogs that live in overcrowded and filthy environments without proper veterinary care, and animals that are permanently confined in small cages never allowed out for a walk or to be socialised. Puppies Downunder was approved in early 2020 by the Minister of Agriculture based on the recommendation of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Victoria to operate as a commercial dog breeder. This was based on the finding that Puppies Downunder was fully compliant with the Domestic Animals Act 1994, Domestic Animals Regulation 2015 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 What is a Commercial dog breeder? On 10 April 2020 the Victorian Government commenced the commercial dog breeder (CDB) scheme for dog breeders who wish to keep between 11-50 fertile female dogs on its premises. Animal Welfare Victoria has set out the requirements to be eligible to receive a commercial dog breeder license which are specified in the links below: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/d omestic-animal-businesses/breeding-and-rearing-businesses/commercial-dog-breeders https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/in-force/acts/domestic-animals-act-1994/079 https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/in-force/statutory-rules/domestic-animals-regulations-2015/007 https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/in-force/acts/prevention-cruelty-animals-act-1986/095 Do we breed dogs for profit? We were granted the rare privilege of being selected by the State Government of Victoria as a role model among breeders to represent the future of the dogs we breed. The new code of practice for a commercial dog breeder mandates an exhaustive list of measures which must be complied with. To name only a few, it requires that staff be employed to train, socialise and enrich the animals, and ensure all animals obtain the minimum exercise requirements which is at least 60 minutes per day. We believe these additional requirements are necessary to ensure the welfare of animals are protected. However, as a commercial breeder the cost of running a business is compounded by these additional costs which contributes to the increase in the prices that must be charged for our puppies. Furthermore, unlike many small breeders we declare 100% of our revenue from puppy sales. We are registered for GST and we pay our fair share of taxes on any profits we derive. This also adds to the cost of raising a puppy. In other states there are no limits on the number of dogs kept and no restriction on how many times a female can be bred. Dog breeding is not a business activity and many derive significant revenue with no adherence to rules or legislative requirements. Why breed oodles?: Our Mission states ‘We Breed for health, temperament and for hypoallergenic qualities’. The following article is an excellent resource for understanding the health differences between purebred and mixed breeds. https://www.dogslife.com.au/dog-news/dog-health/are-cross-breeds-healthier-than-purebreds Why buy from us? Puppies Downunder have over 45 years of breeding knowledge and a wide resource of healthy bloodlines that ensures diversity. All dogs bred are testament to great health, and temperament. Our team of specialists provide our customers with lifetime support. We hope we shared some insight into the latest measures introduced to help clean up this industry and put an end to terrible practices that for so long have existed in the shadows.

Water can be a beautiful part of a dog’s life, but it must be introduced safely, especially for puppies and smaller dogs. Puppies do not instinctively know how to swim Even breeds known for swimming need calm, gradual exposure. Never assume a puppy can float or manage on their own. Supervision is essential Pools, rivers, beaches, dams and even shallow water can pose risks. Always stay close and actively supervise your puppy near water. Start slow and shallow Let puppies explore at their own pace in calm, shallow water with a gentle entry and an easy exit. Confidence grows when they feel safe and supported. Life jackets save lives A well fitted dog life jacket adds confidence and safety, especially for puppies, smaller dogs, senior dogs or first time swimmers. Be aware of conditions Currents, tides and water levels can change quickly. Even strong swimmers can become tired or caught off guard. Rinse and check after swimming Salt, chlorine and natural waterways can irritate skin, eyes and ears. Always rinse your puppy with fresh water, dry thoroughly and check ears and paws after every swim. End on a positive note Short, calm and supervised water experiences help puppies build confidence while keeping safety front of mind.

Introducing a new puppy to a home with an existing dog is an exciting moment, but it does need a little planning. When done correctly, it sets the foundation for a lifelong friendship built on trust, boundaries and calm confidence. At Puppies Downunder, we see the smoothest transitions happen when families slow things down and let both dogs adjust at their own pace. Here are our best tips to help your puppy and your resident dog start off on the right paw. Start with neutral introductions, First impressions matter. Where possible, introduce your dogs on neutral ground rather than straight inside the home. A quiet park, a calm street, or even the front yard can help remove territorial feelings. Keep both dogs on loose leads and allow them to observe each other without forcing interaction. A brief sniff followed by a calm walk together is often better than face to face excitement. Keep the energy calm and positive Dogs feed off our emotions. If we are anxious, rushed, or overly excited, they will be too. Stay relaxed, speak softly, and avoid crowding them. Praise calm behaviour rather than excitement. Calm coexistence is the goal, not instant play. Give your existing dog reassurance Your resident dog may feel unsure or displaced at first. This is normal. Continue their normal routine as much as possible including walks, feeding times, and one on one attention.Let your existing dog see that they are still valued and secure. This builds confidence and reduces jealousy. Create safe spaces for both dogs Every dog needs a space they can retreat to and feel safe. This is especially important in the early days. Your puppy should have their own crate or pen for rest and sleep. Your older dog should also have access to a quiet area where they can relax without being disturbed. Never force interaction. Let them choose when to engage. Supervise all interactions early on Even the friendliest dogs need supervision when a new puppy arrives. Puppies are still learning social cues and can easily overwhelm an older dog without meaning to. Short, positive interactions are far better than long, chaotic ones. End play sessions while things are still going well. Teach the puppy respect early. Puppies learn quickly when boundaries are consistent. Discourage behaviours like climbing, biting ears, or interrupting rest. If your older dog corrects the puppy appropriately, allow it. This is healthy communication. Step in only if things escalate or become intense. Stick to routines Dogs thrive on predictability. Keeping feeding times, walks, and bedtime routines consistent helps both dogs feel secure. Structure creates calm and calm creates confidence. Be patient and realistic Some dogs bond instantly. Others take weeks or even months to fully relax together. Both are normal. Avoid comparing progress to other families or social media. Your dogs will build their relationship in their own time. When to seek extra support If you notice ongoing stress, guarding behaviour, or tension that does not improve, it is always okay to seek help from a qualified trainer or behaviourist. Early guidance can prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones. A calm start sets the tone. At Puppies Downunder, we believe the early foundations matter. A gentle, structured introduction helps your puppy grow into a confident companion and supports your existing dog to feel safe and respected. With patience, consistency and calm leadership, most families find that their dogs not only adjust but thrive together.

We do not support the practices of unethical breeders which profit from selling puppies. An article published by Animals Australia in September 2020 argues that unethical puppy breeders sell online using classified platforms such as Gumtree and Trading Post without scrutiny by any overarching body. This means they can sell puppies online without having to meet any level of animal welfare standard, or with regard to the manner or conditions which adult dog’s or puppies have been bred. We support Animals Australia’s view on selling puppies online . Due to our values and high standards we are of the view that advertising on these platforms would encourage more unethical breeders to sell puppies online. The flow of consumers to these platforms would in turn create an incentive for unethical breeders which operate in unregulated jurisdictions to further profit from substandard practices. Please refer the following RSPCA guidelines  for further information about selling puppies on the Trading Post and Gumtree. We highly recommend that before you purchase a puppy verify the integrity and authenticity of the breeders by either meeting on FaceTime first and subsequently attending the premises to meet the parents and puppies if practicable. The integrity of the breeder can be assessed by contacting the local council and asking them to advise about the standards of the practice. If they are a registered breeder they should be on a first name basis with the local laws team. Please refer the following RSPCA guidelines for further information about selling puppies on the Trading Post and Gumtree.

Toilet training is an essential part of bringing a new puppy into your home. At Puppies Downunder, we make the process as seamless as possible by providing a solid foundation before your puppy arrives. We believe in setting up puppies for success with a structured routine and positive reinforcement to help them adapt to their new homes quickly. Early Training for Clean and Happy Homes: Our puppies are trained to keep their sleeping area clean and use a separate space for toileting. We replicate the conditions they will encounter in your home by using artificial turf with scents such as ammonia or chlorine, which encourage puppies to go to the toilet in designated areas. This method mimics the backyard environment where most puppies will eventually toilet. Building Good Habits with Crate Training: During crate training, our puppies wake, immediately go to the artificial turf, and establish a consistent routine. By the time they join your family, they are already accustomed to separating play and rest areas from toileting zones, making the transition to your home much easier. Supporting Ongoing Toilet Training at Home: To help maintain this progress, we encourage our customers to continue the same routine. A toilet training tray with artificial turf is an excellent tool to reinforce this habit. These trays are available for purchase through Puppies Downunder—please refer to our price list for details. Toilet Training: Building Trust and Confidence: Toilet training isn’t just about cleanliness; it’s about building a bond with your puppy, establishing trust, and creating a routine that gives them confidence. At Puppies Downunder, we take pride in giving you the tools and knowledge to make this process as smooth and successful as possible. For more information on toilet training, read our Guide to Toilet Training Blog HERE To order your toilet training tray, please speak to one of our staff members at 0499 912 709.

This is something everyone should see. This xray is of a 2 week old puppy. When you get your 10 week old puppy, please keep this image in mind. Their bones do not even touch yet. They plod around so cutely with big floppy paws and wobbly movement because their joints are entirely made up of muscle, tendons, ligaments with skin covering. Nothing is fitting tightly together or has a true socket yet. When you run them excessively or don’t restrict their exercise to stop them from overdoing it during this period you don’t give them a chance to grow properly. Every big jump or excited bouncing run causes impacts between the bones. In reasonable amounts this is not problematic and is the normal wear and tear that every animal will engage in. But when you’re letting puppy jump up and down off the lounge or bed, take them for long walks/hikes, you are damaging that forming joint. When you let the puppy scramble on tiles with no traction you are damaging the joint. You only get the chance to grow them once. A well built body is something that comes from excellent breeding and a great upbringing-BOTH, not just one. Once grown - around 12-18 months depending on their breed, you will have the rest of their life to spend playing and engaging in higher impact exercise. So keep it calm while they’re still little baby puppies and give the gift that can only be given once.

A Day of Socialisation and Enrichment in Newborough As part of our 2023 socialisation and enrichment program, these adorable pups embarked on a fun-filled excursion through the streets of Newborough. Join us as we recount their heartwarming experiences meeting new people, other dogs and exploring a new environment. The puppies' first stop on their adventure was in the bustling streets of Newborough. They were introduced to friendly passersby and experienced an array of novel sights and sounds. The socialisation aspect of the excursion aimed to build their confidence and ensure they grow into well-adjusted and sociable adult dogs. As part of their enrichment program, the pups had the opportunity to interact with other dogs during their outing. This interaction helped them develop crucial social skills and learn how to communicate effectively with their fellow canine friends. The highlight of the excursion was undoubtedly the visit to a dog-friendly playground. The puppies gleefully explored the playground, running around with boundless energy. Their favorite activity was playing on the swing, with their tiny tails wagging with excitement. This playtime enriched their mental and physical development, enhancing their coordination and agility The outing to Newborough brought immense joy to our pups and the Puppies Downunder team. The sights of their wagging tails, happy barks, and playfulness showed us the importance of such experiences in shaping their personalities and ensuring their well-being. At Puppies Downunder, we believe in providing our adorable puppies with the best start in life. The excursion to Newborough was a testament to our commitment to their socialisation and enrichment. By exposing them to new experiences, people, and other dogs, we ensure they grow into confident, happy, and well-rounded companions for their future forever families. If you're interested in welcoming a loving and socially enriched puppy into your home, stay tuned for updates on our puppies for sale page. Puppies Downunder looks forward to bringing joy and warmth to your life with our delightful furry friends.

Puppies Downunder is a top organisation that is licensed through the Victorian State Government and is held to high standards when breeding or selling therapy dogs. This organisation is known to be a top tier place for someone who is on the hunt for the best therapy dog. So many people battle ongoing issues that could require assistance in one way or another. Some may need actual therapy, some may need medication, while others could use a loyal companion… like a dog. Retired veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with epilepsy, people with anxiety/depression, or someone with special needs (e.g., Autism, Aspergers, etc.) have been shown to have minimized daily issues and symptoms when they have a therapy dog in their life. The four breeds, Groodle, Labradoodle, Bordoodle, and Aussiedoodle have proven themselves in this arena. They have the traits and desires that make them helpful to many people. Read on to see why each of these breeds stands out among the crowd. What is a Therapy Dog? When the term “therapy dog” is used one may imagine a service dog at work. This is not the case; a therapy dog is different from a service dog but is still greatly needed to help people. A therapy dog doesn’t require special training but will typically go through the training process and acquires a certification. Temperament assessments are always part of this process as well as they will be used for emotional support. Therapy dogs give comfort and affection to individuals with physical or emotional problems. This is done in a facility setting or in the home. What Makes a Good Therapy Dog? While every breed has the potential to be a therapy dog, not every dog is cut out for the job. A good therapy dog has to have a certain temperament and calmness about them. They should be eager to please which will make them willing to listen and be there for the individual. Keep in mind, that there are many distractions and outside noises that can interfere with a dog’s attention span. If the dog is able to block out that stimuli and ignore the distractions to stay focused, it will be a perfect fit. Of course, the most important quality that a dog must have is enjoying human contact in all instances. Other qualities that a good therapy dog should possess include patience, friendliness, confidence, and gentleness. Groodle A Groodle aka a Goldendoodle is a crossbreed between the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. They are medium-sized dogs with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Not only does their fluffy and curly coat make them cute to look at, but their personality will win over anyone. Groodles are highly intelligent making them easy to train. They are loving and personable dogs that love human interaction. This breed is a great choice for a therapy dog because of its gentle and friendly personality. A Poodle is hypoallergenic, loving, and intelligent while a Golden Retriever is friendly, calm, and intelligent. Mixing the two into a Groodle means that they have the best of those qualities. Labradoodle Labradoodles are good for many things which include being a therapy dog for those in need. They are loving and loyal to those around them and will befriend anyone they meet. Again, the Labradoodle is bred from two of the best breeds in the world, a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. They were originally bred to be guide dogs to lead the blind, which should tell how trusting this breed truly is! They have the intelligence and patience to put them at the top of the list for therapy dogs. For someone who struggles with anxiety or any other mental health issue, the Labradoodle will be there for emotional support at any time of the day. Bordoodles When a Border Collie and a Poodle are bred with each other, you get a Bordoodle sometimes known as a Borpoo! This low maintenance breed ranks high on the intelligence scale. They are easy to train to like to show a lot of affection to those around them. The Bordoodle has a protective side and will likely keep its owner safe. This is a great thing to remember when dealing with a person battling issues such as epilepsy or panic attacks. They will be sure to keep the person safe during any episodes that may occur, whether it be keeping them from injuring themselves or keeping strangers from harming them. Aussiedoodles Aussidoodles are the result of breeding an Australian Shepard with a Poodle. Australian Shepherds have always been known for their intelligence and keen senses when it comes to the herding aspect. These qualities trickle into their offspring in the best of ways. A Poodle, as mentioned before, is smart, easy to train, noble, loving, and all of the above. An Aussiedoodle comes with a lot of energy and loves to play but they also can be trained to be calm in certain situations. They have the senses and dignity to know when to buckle down, give proper attention, and help someone who needs it. Conclusion As an organisation that is held to the highest standards, Puppies Downunder takes great pride in the therapy dogs that are bred. Only the best dogs are bred to produce puppies that will have the utmost intelligence and potential to provide this service. Poodles are typically chosen as a breeding mate because of their temperament and personality. They have always been chosen to be trained in many aspects and being a therapy dog is one of those. The 4 types described in this reading are four of the most trustworthy and most dependable dogs that anyone could ask for. For someone who is looking into getting a therapy dog, look no further, this is the right place to be and the right dog for the job!

How to support your puppy as they adapt to their new home and environment. Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. However, it's important to recognise that this transition can be challenging for the puppy, particularly when they are around 5 to 8 months old. As they leave the breeder and enter a new environment, the puppy encounters a range of unfamiliar experiences. From adjusting to new sounds and scents to building trust with their new owner, these challenges require patience, understanding, and effective communication. In this article, we will explore the hurdles faced by a puppy during this critical stage of their life and provide insights on how to support them through this process. Adapting to New Experiences A puppy transitioning to a new home faces a multitude of new experiences. The sights, sounds, and smells of their surroundings are all unfamiliar, which can initially be overwhelming. Sounds such as sirens or television may startle them, and they may exhibit curiosity or caution towards new scents. By providing a calm and secure environment, gradually introducing them to new stimuli, and offering positive reinforcement, you can help your puppy become accustomed to their new surroundings. Building Trust with the New Owner Trust is a crucial aspect of the puppy-owner relationship. It takes time for a puppy to develop trust in their new owner. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement play vital roles in building this trust. Engaging in gentle interactions, providing comfort, and establishing a routine will help your puppy feel secure and develop a bond with you. Remember, trust is earned, so allow your puppy to adjust at their own pace. Walking on a Lead in Town Walking on a lead in a town or busy area can be intimidating for a young puppy. They may be exposed to unfamiliar sights, sounds, and distractions. Gradual exposure to these environments, using positive reinforcement techniques, and ensuring a secure and comfortable leash and collar fit will help them feel more at ease. Building up their confidence through consistent training and rewarding good behavior will enable them to navigate public spaces with greater confidence over time. Meeting New Animals Introducing a puppy to new animals, whether they are cats or other dogs, requires careful management and supervision. Each interaction should be controlled and positive, with both parties feeling safe and secure. Gradual introductions, respecting boundaries, and rewarding calm behavior will help establish positive associations and promote successful socialisation. Toilet Training and Sleep Adjustment Toilet training can be a challenge during the initial stages. Puppies may have accidents as they adapt to a new routine and environment. Consistent schedules, frequent bathroom breaks, positive reinforcement for desired behavior, and patience are key to successful toilet training. Additionally, providing a comfortable and secure sleeping area will aid in a smooth adjustment to sleeping in their new home. Using a crate or designated space can help create a sense of security and routine for the puppy. Welcoming a puppy into your home requires understanding and empathy for the challenges they face during the transition. From encountering new experiences and stimuli to building trust and adjusting to daily routines, each step requires patience, consistency, and effective communication. Remember, it may take time for a puppy to settle into their new environment, so be patient and provide the support they need.

Toilet training, also known as housebreaking, is an essential aspect of raising a well-mannered and hygienic puppy. Establishing proper toilet habits early on will help your furry friend understand where and when to eliminate. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide to help pet owners successfully toilet train their puppies. Set Up a Designated Toilet Area: Choose a specific outdoor spot where you want your puppy to eliminate. Take your puppy to this area consistently, as the scent will help reinforce the association with the act of elimination. Ensure it is easily accessible and safe for your puppy to reach. Establish a Routine: Establishing a regular routine is crucial for successful toilet training. Puppies have small bladders and need frequent bathroom breaks. Take your puppy outside to the designated toilet area first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime. Consistency is key to help your puppy develop a reliable toilet routine. Observe and Anticipate: Watch for signs that your puppy needs to eliminate, such as sniffing the floor, circling, or pacing. If you notice these signs, immediately take your puppy to the designated toilet area. By anticipating their needs, you can prevent accidents indoors and reinforce the desired behavior. Use Positive Reinforcement: When your puppy eliminates in the designated toilet area, provide immediate praise, treats, and affection. Positive reinforcement helps your puppy understand that eliminating in the correct spot is a desirable behavior. Use a happy and encouraging tone to reinforce their actions. Supervise and Confine: When you cannot actively supervise your puppy, confine them to a small, puppy-proofed area using a crate or a playpen. This helps prevent accidents and encourages your puppy to hold their bladder until you can take them outside. Avoid using confinement as a punishment; it should be a safe and comfortable space for your puppy. Clean Accidents Properly: Accidents are bound to happen during the toilet training process. It's essential to clean accidents promptly and effectively. Use an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet accidents to eliminate odors. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as they can resemble the smell of urine and encourage your puppy to eliminate in that area again. Be Patient and Consistent: Toilet training takes time and patience. Puppies have varying learning speeds, so avoid getting frustrated with setbacks or accidents. Stay consistent with the routine, praise your puppy for desired behaviors, and redirect them to the designated toilet area when needed. Consistency and positive reinforcement will help your puppy learn quickly. Gradually Expand Boundaries: As your puppy becomes reliable with toilet training, gradually expand their boundaries within the house. Provide supervised access to additional rooms, always keeping an eye on them for any signs of needing to eliminate. Increase freedom gradually, as giving too much freedom too soon can lead to accidents. Toilet training is an essential part of puppy care that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By setting up a designated toilet area, establishing a routine, observing your puppy's behavior, and using positive reinforcement, you can successfully train your puppy to eliminate in the appropriate place. Remember to be patient, avoid punishment, and provide praise and rewards for desired behaviors. With time and consistent training, your puppy will become reliably toilet trained, leading to a harmonious and hygienic living environment for both you and your furry companion.

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but have you ever thought about where puppies come from? It’s an important question to ask. Turns out, Australia has one of the highest pet populations in the world. According to The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), there are currently about 28.7 million pets living in Australia. Just under half of all people share their home with a dog. So, where are Australians getting their puppies from? Ideally, an ethical breeder, such as Puppies Downunder. With 45 years of experience, we are family-owned commercial dog breeders dedicated to the health and well-being of every single dog and puppy in our care. But unfortunately, this isn’t always the case…But unfortunately, this isn’t always the case… Since the pandemic pet boom, Australia (like many countries) is facing a huge problem when it comes to irresponsible breeders selling puppies purely for profit through backyard breeding facilities and puppy mills. Of the 450,000 puppies sold in Australia each year, it’s estimated that only 10% come from reputable breeders, leading to a host of animal welfare issues. This should be cause for alarm for dog lovers everywhere! The Problem with Backyard Breeders Hearing how many puppies are purchased annually, it leads many people to wonder: Are backyard breeders really such a big issue? Sadly, yes. Those with a dog’s best interests at heart will always do what is right for their puppies. For breeders in Victoria, Australia, this includes being regulated by government bodies and following strict compliance measures. However, backyard breeders (also known as “micro-breeders”) do NOT adhere to the same high standards. Instead, backyard breeders often rely upon breeding practices that are: Unethical Irresponsible Undereducated Here are some key issues associated with micro-breeders: No Experience or Knowledge of Best Breeding Practices Firstly, backyard breeders lack the necessary knowledge, experience, and expertise in responsible breeding. It takes years – even decades – to have a deep understanding of canine genetics, breed standards, and proper healthcare, not to mention build relationships with veterinarians and fellow breed enthusiasts. With fewer resources and less time available to supervise whelping mother dogs, there is also a higher chance of complications, such as Mastitis, Eclampsia (Milk Fever), and Dystocia (puppy trapped in birth canal). Yikes! The outcome? Needless suffering and pain. Profit Over Puppies Secondly, unscrupulous backyard breeders focus on flipping a profit…at the expense of dogs. In one news article published by Daily Mail Australia, it was discovered that some micro-breeders are selling puppies on Instagram and making as much as $50,000 from a single litter! Shockingly, female dogs are bred over and over again starting at a young age. If mother dogs experience psychological or physical distress, or puppies are born with special needs, they are typically abandoned or disposed of. On the other hand, all breeders in Victoria with more than two fertile females must register as a Domestic Animal Business and comply with a Code of Practice. Yet to the dismay of animal advocates, this rule doesn’t apply to breeders with under two fertile females (AKA backyard breeders). Falls Outside Legislation Speaking of legislation, when you purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder, rest easy knowing they will come with: Routine vaccinations Deworming and flea treatment A microchip That’s because in Victoria, Australia, it’s the law! But micro-breeders fall outside such legislation. Therefore, they aren’t required to: Provide a 3-year genetic / hereditary guarantee Restrict mothers to 5 litters Obtain a breeding certificate from a veterinary technician prior to breeding Have at least 5 years experience breeding Undertake a Certificate IV in animal companionship. For these reasons, Puppies Downunder urges soon-to-be pet parents to contact only legislated breeders when searching for their new fur baby. Inadequate Health and Genetic Screening Additionally, certain breeds are more prone to health problems and hereditary diseases. To prevent these from being passed on to their progeny, mother and father dogs need to be tested. But this rarely happens in the case of micro-breeders. The result can be illness and/or serious health consequences that worsen the quality of a puppy’s life. Plus, heartbreak for you. Poor Living Conditions Backyard breeders are sometimes reluctant to have interested buyers visit their home. Why? Well, because they must operate in the shadows! You would be surprised by the appalling conditions many puppies live in while waiting for their future homes. Dogs are kept in overcrowded sheds, rooms, and cages. Food and water are unsanitary due to feces and urine that go uncleaned. When raised unhygienically, infectious diseases can be passed on from animals to humans too, such as zoonosis. Contribution to Pet Overpopulation Lastly, did you know? Animal shelters are bursting at the seams. Tragically, 264 healthy dogs and cats are euthanized in Australia every day. Unregulated backyard breeding adds to the problem of pet overpopulation and subsequent surrender. Backyard-bred puppies who are not properly cared for end up in shelters and rescue organizations, contributing to the heavy burden that falls upon animal welfare organizations. On the contrary, regulated breeders have puppy waitlists, usually months or even years long. Buyer Beware: Recognizing and Avoiding Backyard Dog Breeders So, how do you identify irresponsible breeders? Here are 5 red flags to watch for: No website (only advertising on social media) Pressure to buy on the spot Demanding cash payment Not letting you meet the dog’s parents or littermates Lack of ongoing breeder support Take Action! How to Combat Backyard Dog Breeders in Your Community Ultimately, backyard dog breeders undermine animal welfare and fail to contribute to the betterment of dog breeds as a whole. So, we encourage you to take action! Together with our partners, Puppies Downunder has written a letter on behalf of Victorian Government Approved Breeder’s Group Pty Ltd (VGABG) calling attention to the problem of backyard breeders. To learn more, please visit: www.vgabg.com.au

Eden was diagnosed with Lissencephaly when she was only 6 months old. Lissencephaly is a rare congenital condition that causes a developing brain to appear smooth instead of having normal bumps and folds. It is a life limiting diagnosis that unfortunately comes with a very difficult to treat form of epilepsy. Eden requires physical assistance with every aspect of her daily living and uses an eye gaze device to communicate with her family. In 2020 and 2021, Eden sufferred a difficult time with her condition and spent much of her time in hospital and is now in palliative care. The palliative care team contacted Make a Wish as Eden has always been desperate for her own dog. She actually specifically asked for a curly black boy, but when she went though the litters available she chose Maverick immediately. Maverick is settling in well with his new family and is getting used to their busy routine. We wish Eden and her family the very best and hope Maverick brings much love and companionship into their home. Make-A-Wish Australia helps grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, giving them greater strength and hope for their future. Puppies Downunder is proud supporter of Make-A-Wish Australia and donates a puppy or $10 from every puppy sold to help grant life-changing wishes. to children with critial illnesses.