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Abstract

Dog breeding has received increasing attention due to concerns surrounding animal welfare and other issues associated with the ethics of the practice, including the commercialization of companion animals. While large-scale commercial breeding operations have been studied considerably and often linked to poor welfare outcomes, little is known about smaller-scale breeders who may operate under very different conditions. The objective of this study was to provide an empirical foundation for understanding practices used by dog breeders in Canada including among small scale breeders. A survey containing both closed and open questions was distributed to Canadian dog breeders, and responses (n = 464) were collected containing information on demographics, breeding and housing practices, and breeder perspectives on both dog welfare and breeding regulations. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and open-ended responses were thematically coded. Most participants were small-scale breeders who kept their dogs within home environments, averaging 3.28 breeding dams per year and maintaining a caretaker-to-dog ratio of approximately 1:3—substantially lower than the 1:20 ratio reported in large-scale commercial kennels. The breeders in this study reported frequent use of enrichment, socialization, and training, reflecting management approaches centered around individualized care. Qualitative findings revealed that breeders placed high importance on “ethical” breeding practices, responsible ownership, and early-life socialization. Many expressed concern that proposed regulations and public narratives often fail to capture the realities of small-scale breeding or recognize their welfare-oriented efforts. Participants also identified industry-wide risks, including over-breeding, inadequate health testing, and lack of mental and physical stimulation for dogs. As one of the first studies to examine dog breeding systems in Canada this research provides insight into breeder values, practices, and perceived challenges. The findings suggest that small-scale breeding represents a distinct model within the industry, warranting consideration in future policy discussions and welfare standards. Future work should collaborate with breeders to address issues, broaden recruitment to obtain a more representative sample of Canadian breeders, and improve public understanding of breeding decisions to support welfare improvements for dogs.