Knowing what place your puppy comes from is important. It helps protect the health and safety of pets and humans. Puppy mills are large-scale dog breeding operations that don't always make sure the dogs are kept safe and healthy. For example, 1,200 puppies arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) from other countries every year. Some puppies imported (brought) to the United States are born and raised at "puppy mills."

1. What are common problems with imported puppies?

Many puppies are shipped from countries where rabies is common in dogs. Many puppies born out of the U.S. have diseases that aren't found here, such as dog rabies. Many puppies brought to the U.S. may be younger than the date of birth written on their papers. If your puppy is too young when it gets the rabies vaccine, the vaccine won't work. This puts you and your pet at risk. Many puppies are also sold before being released from Federal Quarantine. This means they may have a disease that can spread to humans or other animals.

2. What breeds are imported the most?

• Yorkshire Terrier
• Maltese
• French Bulldog
• English Bulldog

3. What should I do if I'm thinking about getting a puppy?

• Adopt from your local shelter or rescue group.
• Always visit the location where the puppies are being raised. Ask to see the puppy's parents (or at least the mom). Pick up your puppy at the same location.

4. What should I do if I already have a puppy?

• Take the puppy to the veterinarian for a full exam. The veterinarian will verify its age and check if its vaccines are up-to-date.
• If you know the puppy is imported, tell your veterinarian.

Signs that your Puppy was Imported

If the seller doesn't tell you about or give you the puppy's papers, you might never know if your puppy was imported. Signs that your puppy was imported are:

• The seller only wants to talk with you online and never in person.
• The seller never lets you visit the puppy or mother before buying.