Dogs are beloved family members, but not every state provides proper care for them. As per the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 3.1 million dogs enter shelters each year in the U.S., with 390,000 euthanized due to overcrowding. Let’s look at the worst states for dog ownership.

#15 – Arizona

Arizona’s harsh desert climate takes a toll on neglected pets. With many dogs abandoned in scorching temperatures, many suffer from dehydration and heatstroke. In 2023, Arizona Humane Society (AHS) initiated nearly 10,000 animal abuse investigations and this has increased over the years. Moreover, limited access to spay-and-neuter services worsens the issue.

#14 – Missouri

An estimated 10,000 puppy mills operate in the U.S., with Missouri at the forefront for both the number of mills and reports of abuse. Many dogs are bred in poor conditions, leading to serious health and behavioral problems. Despite efforts to combat illegal breeding, countless dogs still suffer.

#13 – Tennessee

The Shelter Animal Counts report indicates that around 900,000 cats and dogs have entered and lingered in shelters since 2021. Backyard breeders exacerbate the problem, leading to more neglected pets. Many of these animals end up in overcrowded shelters or abandoned, particularly in rural areas lacking adequate pet care resources.

#12 – Nevada

According to The Defenders, in Nevada, it’s illegal to leave pets outdoors for over 10 hours within a 24-hour period or during heat advisories. Extreme weather contributes to rising abandonment rates, as many owners fail to provide proper shelter or water, leading to numerous heat-related pet deaths.

#11 – Michigan

A significant number of Michigan’s dogs are left chained outside in all kinds of weather. Many owners fail to bring their pets indoors during harsh winters. They are left exposed to freezing temperatures. Despite some progress in urban areas, rural communities still lag behind in responsible dog care.

#10 – West Virginia

Access to primary veterinary care is a luxury in many parts of West Virginia. Rural areas are significantly affected, where dogs go without vaccines, spaying, or even regular checkups. The result is a growing population of unhealthy and neglected animals with little hope of receiving proper care.

#9 – South Carolina

With its high dog population and low spay-and-neuter rates, South Carolina is home to some of the most overburdened shelters in the country. Dogs are abandoned at alarming rates, and many face euthanasia due to the sheer number of animals needing homes. Besides, rescue groups are stretched thin trying to keep up.

#8 – Kentucky

Kentucky faces persistent issues with dog neglect, particularly in rural regions. Dogs are often left without food, water, or adequate shelter and exposed to extreme weather for long periods. Although laws against animal cruelty exist, enforcement is usually weak, and this leaves many dogs to suffer in silence.

#7 – Alabama

Facing a severe crisis in dog care, Alabama struggles with a rapidly growing stray dog population. Many pet owners neglect to vaccinate or spay their animals, resulting in overcrowded shelters that cannot keep pace. The state ranks 15th in animal abuse incidents, according to the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System.

#6 – Georgia

In Georgia, especially in rural areas, many dogs are left outdoors without proper care, suffering from exposure and neglect. These conditions contribute to the state being one of five responsible for 44% of the annual shelter animal euthanasia cases in the U.S., according to the Best Friends Animal Society.

#5 – Mississippi

Stray and abandoned dogs are a common sight in Mississippi. The state has the highest shelter kill rate in the U.S., with approximately 18% of animals in shelters being euthanized. The state’s limited access to affordable pet care services and high poverty rates mean many owners cannot properly care for their pets. 

#4 – Oklahoma

Oklahoma faces an overwhelming number of abandoned pets, particularly in rural communities. Owners often leave their dogs behind when moving, resulting in countless stray animals on the streets. While rescue organizations work tirelessly to address the issue, the lack of strict legal penalties allows the problem to continue.

#3 – Louisiana

Louisiana’s hot, humid climate poses serious risks for dogs left outdoors, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and humidity over 80%. In this situation owners must ensure proper care to their dogs. Additionally, frequent storms and hurricanes further complicate pet ownership, making Louisiana one of the most challenging states for responsible care.

#2 – Arkansas

Arkansas is known for high rates of animal cruelty and dog mistreatment. Many pets are left in unsafe conditions, facing neglect and abuse at the hands of their owners. Despite animal welfare laws, weak enforcement allows these issues to persist. Dogs suffer in some of the worst living conditions.

#1 – Texas

Texas ranks as the worst state for dog ownership, facing severe issues with pet abandonment and cruelty. Between 2012 and 2021, it reported nearly 7,000 animal cruelty offenses, leading the nation in these cases. According to USA Today and FBI data, Texas also contributes to 44% of annual shelter animal euthanasia in the U.S.