There are currently no breeding guidelines out there for breeders who have 4 or less breeding females (which can have up to 8 litters per year).* They’re considered “hobby breeders.” Most breeders fall into this category and they bring thousands and thousands of dogs into the world every year.

Those that have 5 or more breeding females ( which can have 10 or more litters per year) are subject to USDA regulations that are so poor that most puppy mills are actually USDA regulated and able to continue operating legally.

*Refers to federal regulations. Number of females varies from state to state.

USDA guidelines are vague, left up for loose interpretation and often go unenforced altogether.

This allows puppy mills to continue horrific practices leaving dogs to suffer and die.

There are only about 100 USDA enforcement agents in the United States and they have approximately 15,000 wellness checks to do on commercial breeders.

Breeders are given violations for unsanitary conditions, sick or injured dogs, and dogs with major infestations. The breeder is then given a timeframe to correct the issue - sometimes up to 1 year. By then, many of the dogs in that breeder’s care have already died.

Enforcement agents give minimal fines for violations and usually do not confiscate animals or close down poorly run facilities.

Our organization plays a crucial role in preventing dogs from entering shelters by fostering responsible breeding practices and empowering both breeders and new dog owners with the knowledge and tools necessary to ensure a lifelong, loving home for their pets.

Through comprehensive genetic testing, transparency and education on responsible dog ownership, we strive to produce healthy, well-adjusted puppies that are less likely to face health or temperament issues that might lead to relinquishment.

By discouraging unintentional litters and educating new owners on responsible dog care, we aim to reduce the number of dogs in need of shelter placement.

Additionally, our commitment to advocating for and enforcing state and federal regulations further contributes to the welfare of dogs, ensuring that breeders meet the highest standards of care.

Ultimately, our organization's mission is to create a world where fewer dogs end up in shelters, and more dogs find their forever homes in responsible, loving households.

Imagine a world where every dog lives a healthy, happy life with a loving family. Herzog's Heroes, a nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of our four-legged friends, is working tirelessly to turn this vision into reality. With goals ranging from eradicating unethical breeders to recognizing conscientious breeders, Herzog's Heroes is a force for positive change in the canine community. But we can't do it alone – we need your support to make a lasting impact.

One of our primary missions is to eliminate unscrupulous breeders through education and advocacy. By raising awareness about responsible breeding practices and collaborating with government agencies, Herzog's Heroes aims to put an end to the inhumane treatment of dogs being used for breeding by both hobby and commercial breeders. Through our efforts, we're not only advocating for better living conditions for these animals, we're also ensuring that families who adopt puppies are met with healthy, well-socialized companions.

Our HCBA (Herzog’s Conscientious Breeder’s Alliance) program plays a pivotal role in recognizing and encouraging conscientious breeders. We provide breeders with the tools and knowledge they need to elevate their practices, setting a higher standard for the industry as a whole. By supporting Herzog's Heroes, you're enabling us to educate breeders on responsible breeding, resulting in generations of healthier, happier dogs that bring joy to countless households.

Our impact doesn't stop with breeders. We're dedicated to empowering puppy buyers with the information they need to make informed decisions. Through education, we guide potential dog owners in selecting the right breed for their lifestyle and preparing for the responsibilities of pet ownership. By promoting the importance of choosing HCBA breeders, we're fostering a culture of responsible ownership, leading to stronger, lasting human-canine relationships.

Our commitment to dogs in need goes beyond breeding initiatives. The Herzog Hero Canines program focuses on donating service and therapy dogs to individuals who require assistance. These dogs become true heroes, providing companionship, support, and newfound independence to their human partners. Additionally, through the Herzog Hardship Fund program, we provide financial aid to individuals facing veterinary expenses, ensuring that no pet suffers due to lack of resources.

By contributing to Herzog's Heroes, you're becoming an essential part of this transformative journey. Your donation not only directly impacts the lives of dogs, it also resonates across communities, leading to a decrease in shelter populations and an increase in the overall welfare of our beloved canine companions. Join us in creating a world where every dog is a cherished member of a loving family – donate to Herzog's Heroes and be a hero for dogs in need.