Neil Patrick Harris Called Out By PETA, Fans After Making Overseas Purchase Of French Bulldog

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has criticized actor Neil Patrick Harris for buying a French bulldog from an overseas breeder.

In a statement to the press, they stated that the actor should have adopted an extra dog from an animal shelter rather than making the expensive purchase.

Fans also called out Harris for his gestures, for the same reasons PETA voiced in their statement.

Keep on reading to learn more.

According to RadarOnline, PETA isn't pleased with Harris latest act of purchasing a French bulldog from an overseas breeder.

While Harris' gesture might appear innocent to some, PETA thinks it is wrong because he could have adopted a dog from one of the nearby animal shelters. They also blasted him for promoting the breeders of the dog, whom they described as "irresponsible."

"While animal shelters are in crisis, Neil Patrick Harris chose to turn his back on homeless animals in the U.S. and instead paid thousands to fly a purebred puppy from a breeder overseas," a rep for the animal rights association told the publication on Thursday.

The rep continued, "To top it off, he's promoting irresponsible breeders who glorify breathing-impaired dogs doomed to a lifetime of suffering. Good going, Neil' Part of the Problem' Harris."

It comes after the 50-year-old shared a video of his canine being brought in on a plane to his residence in New York City. The video also included a monologue from Harris where he announced the arrival of the dog, as well as scenes captured of the dog playing with its new family and fellow canines.

The French bulldog joins a trio of dogs, Spike, Ella, and Gidget, previously owned by Harris and his partner, David Burtka.

"Meet Chunk. We are enamored with this amazing French Bulldog. Except for the peeing everywhere. And the gnawing on everything. And the sibling rivalry. But otherwise, he's the perfect addition to our family," Harris captioned the clip.

Meanwhile, the actor tagged Chunk's Hungarian breeder, TomKings Puppies, in the post. He also disabled the comment section. Although it is not clear why he did so, it could have been a strategic move to prevent potential negative comments.

Surprisingly, resilient fans took to Harris most recent picture prior to the dog post to blast him for his actions.

One fan wrote a long diatribe, chastising him for switching off the comment section in the post and asking him to acknowledge that his actions were wrong.

The fan said, "The least you can do, however, is accept that you bought him without much thought and that it was not a good decision….Do your duty as someone who is influential. There's no shame in admitting when you're wrong."

Another critic remarked, "I have been a huge fan of yours for years, but not anymore. Buying a puppy from a breeder in Hungary is just so wrong….. Shame on you for becoming part of the problem. "

Another fellow noted, "It's not cute when you buy a dog who will have breathing issues all of It's life and may need painful surgeries later on."

Earlier in the year, Harris celebrated 19 years of being together with his husband, Burtka, via a heartfelt message on his Instagram account.

"19 years ago today, I went on my first date with this man. Single greatest decision of my life," the "Modern Family" star penned.

He added, "Happy Anniversary, David Burtka! You are the ultimate, most astonishing roller coaster ride, and I can't get enough. Thank you for believing in me, for believing in yourself, for believing in us. You're the best husband, the best father, and my best friend. Here's to a bazillion more awesome adventures!"

Alongside the cute post, Harris uploaded a carousel of throwback pictures that seem to narrate the story of their love. Burtka also commented on the post with "Awwe babe. I love you so much," and posted on his account a sweet tribute to Harris.

The duo share a twin of opposite sex, daughter HHarper, and Son Gideon, 12,. They will also mark their ninth wedding anniversary on September 6, 2023.