About Us

Welcome to Happiness Is Pets, a family-owned pet store built on one simple mission: helping people meet their new best friend. For more than three decades, we’ve connected families across the Midwest with happy, healthy, well-socialized puppies and provided lifelong support long after adoption day.

Our team isn’t just passionate about puppies; we’re devoted to responsible breeding, animal welfare, and creating lasting bonds between pets and people.


A Long History of Puppy Love

Our story began in 1987 when the first Happiness Is Pets store opened in the Chicago suburbs. What started as one small location has grown into a trusted name throughout Illinois and Indiana.

Today, you can visit us in Indianapolis or Schererville to meet a variety of breeds, learn about their personalities, and find the perfect puppy for your lifestyle. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff are always here to answer questions, offer guidance, and make sure the process is fun and stress-free for both you and your new companion.


Our Breeders and Care Standards

The heart of Happiness Is Pets is our network of exceptional breeders. We work only with USDA-licensed and Canine Care Certified breeders who share our commitment to animal well-being. Their kennels feature large, open play areas and outdoor runs—ranging from 2,500 square feet to several acres—so the dogs can run, play, and socialize every day.

We personally visit many of our breeders regularly to ensure their facilities remain clean, safe, and enriching. Every puppy we offer comes directly from these trusted breeders, so you’ll always know exactly where your new family member was born and raised.


What It Means to Be Canine Care Certified™

Our breeders participate in Canine Care Certified™ (CCC), a science-based welfare program developed by Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The program sets high standards across five key areas: physical health, behavioral health, environment, breeding life and retirement, and caretaker expectations.

To maintain certification, breeders must pass an on-site, third-party audit each year. CCC goes beyond basic requirements by ensuring puppies are raised in clean, spacious environments with regular veterinary care, early socialization, and plenty of love and attention.

By choosing Happiness Is Pets, you’re choosing a puppy that’s been raised to thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially.


Health Guarantee and Peace of Mind

We stand behind every puppy we place. Each one receives a 7-day veterinary check after adoption, and any necessary medication during that time is provided at no cost.

We also include a 2-year health warranty that covers congenital or hereditary conditions that may significantly affect your puppy’s health. If an issue arises, you’ll receive a full refund—and we will never require you to give up your puppy. Pets are family, not products, and we treat them that way.


Visit Us

There’s nothing like meeting puppies in person. Stop by during open visiting hours—no appointment needed—to play, cuddle, and find your perfect match. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or adding another furry friend to your home, our team will help guide you through every step.

Why Families Choose Happiness Is Pets

  • Experience and Reputation: Serving families since 1987 with a long-standing history of trust and care.
  • Responsible Breeding: Puppies come only from USDA-licensed and Canine Care Certified breeders who provide spacious runs, play areas, and daily human interaction.
  • Health Guarantee: Our 7-day vet check and 2-year warranty offer peace of mind when you bring your new puppy home.
  • Transparency: Every puppy is breeder-direct, so you know exactly where they come from.
  • Ongoing Support: From choosing the right breed to care tips after adoption, we’re here every step of the way.

At Happiness Is Pets, we believe every puppy deserves a loving home and every family deserves a happy, healthy companion. Visit us today and experience the difference that responsible breeding and genuine care make.