Certificate Status
Active or Canceled
&
What This Means
A spotless USDA report doesn’t guarantee humane treatment; it just means the facility met the lowest standards required by law. Learn what it means if the status is active or canceled.
Active
Active without violations: The standards that breeders must meet to be licensed under AWA are set to a minimum. Passing the inspections doesn’t mean animals are treated humanely. It means the inspector determined that they are meeting the standards set under the federal law.
Active with violations: This will have to be a personal decision as to whether you want to purchase this puppy from a breeder who has violations. Violations are given when the minimum standards of care are not met.
🛑 NEVER purchase a puppy to “save it.” Your money will continue to fuel the cycle of cruelty. If you think the breeder should be reported, you can file a complaint here. Then reach out to a local rescue or shelter for guidance on what to do next.
Canceled
The breeder is no longer authorized to breed and sell animals commercially under the AWA. This could be for a variety of reasons. However, it’s important to find out why they’re still selling puppies, and if it’s legal.
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Voluntary: The breeder may have chosen not to operate anymore.
Failure to renew: Licenses must be renewed annually.
Failed Inspection: Pre-inspection or routine inspection wasn’t passed
Chronic or critical violations: (e.g., neglect, untreated illness, repeated noncompliance).
Failure to comply: after written warnings or a formal hearing.
Consent agreements: A breeder agrees to give up their license to avoid court or fines
Hint: Search the breeder’s inspection reports by last name or city to see if they opened up under a new name.
Bottom Line: A “cancelled” license doesn’t always mean cruelty, but it can signal serious problems. It’s important to research whether it was voluntary, due to business closure, or part of a pattern of violations. Sometimes breeders close and then open under a new name (DBA). This can be a red flag. Remember that a license ≠ a good or a bad breeder. However, if they are operating with a canceled license but still selling puppies, you should find out why.
You can also access APHIS’ Official Warnings-Notice of Alleged Violation, Settlement Agreements, Administrative Complaints, and Decisions and Orders from the Office of the Administrative Law Judges and the Office of the Judicial Officer. Click the AWA Actions button below.