Breeders » Big Dog Blog

Saint and Mal Mom has just posed the question on the Message Board of “Who is exactly a backyard breeder?”

I have some questions about backyard breeders. I’d heard the term only occasionally before I came to BPO, but not as much as I do now. So I want to know, what exactly is a back yard breeder and who determines when someone is or not? What exactly do they do that is so bad? I’m not trying to stick up for them or anything. I’m sincerely asking. I know what things I think good breeders should do. Such as worm their pups and give them shots until they go to new homes. Make sure they are healthy by taking them to the vet for a checkup. Make sure they go to good homes and keep in contact with them after selling the pup to them. And take care of the puppies and parents of the pups. And if they can’t find homes for the pups or can’t care for them, then of course they shouldn’t breed their dogs. If a breeder doesn’t do that, then yes, I agree that they’re not a good breeder. But other than that, what defines a “backyard breeder” exactly?

There are some really good answers but what about all of the breeders that make that their life? They too started somewhere, with their first litter of puppies - were they at that time considered a backyard breeder? At what time did that title no longer apply to them? When do their peers shift from calling them Backyard Breeders and other names, as they often do, to finally recognizing them as a true breeder with the best of intentions?

Alexandra writes in and has this to say:

“This is to all the people running “rescue groups”. You keep talking about all these dogs who need new homes. There are more people than you know willing to give these dogs new homes. But you have set yourselves up as better qualified than we are to have a dog. I have not seen any initials behind your names that would signify training or something similar to make you better suited. I breaks my heart more everyday that goes by without a dog in my life. Have no idea if I would qualify for one of your rescued dogs. Do know I have owned dogs most of my adult life. Some have come from shelters. Some have been purchased from breeders. All have had a good home with lots of love and attention. I realize that you have expenses when you rescue a dog. If I am going to pay over $200.00 for a dog, I am most likely going to go through a breeder who can give me a dog with a known history. I feel that you are well intentioned. Also feel you are keeping alot of people and dogs from liveing happy lives together. Please take this the way it is intended. Not just criticism. But a new perspective on finding homes for so many dogs who truly need them.”

I do agree with Alexandra a bit as Jaime and I shared a similar experience. Before we found our Boy Bear, we faced 3 different applications that we were turned down by. We couldn’t be better parents (at least as far as we’re concerned and most would agree). Are breeders and rescuers overly cautious today? Is it for good reason? Sure, but at the expense of not placing pets into good homes? Sure is tough.