What Is Puppy Season? Why Shelters Overflow Every Spring (And What Dog Owners Should Know)

Every spring, animal shelters and rescues across the country brace for a massive influx of new arrivals. It's not a surprise—it happens every year. But it does have a name:

Puppy season.

This seasonal surge of puppies (and kittens) stretches shelter systems thin, floods foster networks, and leaves animal welfare organizations scrambling to keep up. While those tiny paws may be adorable, the reality behind puppy season is far more complicated—and it’s something every current and future dog parent should understand.

What Is Puppy Season?

Puppy season refers to the time of year—typically spring and summer—when the number of puppies being born spikes significantly. Many dogs naturally go into heat during the warmer months, which leads to a dramatic increase in litters during this period.

If those litters aren’t planned, the result is often more puppies than people ready to care for them. The consequences can be heartbreaking.

Why Puppy Season Overwhelms Shelters

Here’s why this seasonal influx is such a challenge:

• 🐶 Overpopulation – Unplanned litters add to an already large population of dogs in need of homes.

• 🏠 Limited Resources – Most shelters and rescues don’t have the space, staffing, or funding to support the surge.

• 💔 Increased Euthanasia Risk – When adoptions don’t keep pace, more animals face euthanasia due to lack of space.

According to Shelter Animals Count, in 2023:

• Roughly 6.5 million cats and dogs entered shelters and rescues—up 4% from 2021.

• By the end of the year, there were 250,000 more animals in the system than the previous year.

• The ASPCA reports that 920,000 shelter animals are euthanized each year, including 390,000 dogs.

It’s not just the small breeds either. Giant breed puppies often get surrendered once people realize just how much food, training, and space they truly require.

The Role of Spaying and Neutering

One of the most effective ways to reduce overpopulation during puppy season is through spaying and neutering. These procedures help prevent unwanted litters and can also provide health benefits:

• Spaying females can reduce the risk of uterine infections and breast cancer.

• Neutering males can prevent testicular cancer and reduce prostate problems.
  (Source: AVMA)

But—it’s not always a simple decision.

Recent research suggests that early spay/neuter isn’t right for every dog, especially for large and giant breeds. A study by UC Davis found that neutering before one year of age may increase the risk of joint disorders and some cancers in certain breeds.

If you choose to keep your dog intact, that’s a personal decision—but it comes with responsibility. You’ll need to:

• Prevent unplanned mating

• Manage behavior during heat cycles

• Be extra diligent in public and around other dogs

Whether you spay/neuter or not, responsible ownership is key.

How to Be Part of the Solution This Puppy Season

If you want to help reduce the impact of puppy season, here’s how:

✅ Educate Yourself

Know what you’re getting into before bringing home a puppy—especially a giant breed dog. They grow fast, eat a ton, and require serious commitment.

🐾 Adopt, Don’t Shop

Thousands of puppies and young dogs—big and small—are waiting in shelters right now. Consider adopting or fostering to give them a second chance.

❤️ Support Local Shelters

Donations, supplies, volunteer hours—it all helps. Puppy season is their busiest, most stressful time of year.

🩺 Talk to Your Vet

Discuss what’s best for your dog when it comes to spaying or neutering. Breed, age, and health history all matter.

FAQs About Puppy Season

Q: When is puppy season?
A: Puppy season typically begins in the spring and lasts through summer, aligning with dogs' natural breeding cycles.

Q: Why are shelters overcrowded during puppy season?
A: Many dogs give birth during this time, and not all litters are planned or wanted. That leads to a large number of puppies surrendered to shelters.

Q: Should I spay or neuter my giant breed dog?
A: It depends. Some breeds may benefit from delaying the procedure due to growth and joint development. Consult your vet and weigh the pros and cons carefully.

Q: How can I help during puppy season?
A: Adopt, foster, donate, or volunteer at your local shelter. You can also help by educating others about responsible pet ownership.

Final Thoughts

Puppy season may sound cute—but for shelters, it’s a critical time that stretches already limited resources and puts thousands of lives at risk.

As a giant breed dog brand, we’ve seen the difference prepared, responsible pet parenting makes—because a dog’s future doesn’t depend on luck. It depends on the choices we make.

Let’s make good ones.