Puppies Behind Bars
Puppies Behind Bars is a New York City–based nonprofit that trains incarcerated individuals in seven New York State correctional facilities to raise service dogs and explosive-detection canines for wounded veterans, first responders, and law enforcement agencies nationwide. Participants are carefully screened and expected to complete rigorous training and coursework in the program. It is a vital part of the instruction for inmates to then live and work alongside the puppies, providing round-the-clock care, socialization, and structured development.
Since its founding nearly 30 years ago, Puppies Behind Bars has raised more than 3,000 puppies, pairing high standards with deep compassion while transforming lives on both ends of the leash and strengthening communities across the country.
