The fine art of ethical dog breeding

German Shepherds have bad hips, Rottweilers are aggressive, Dachsies’ backs give up – most breeds are plagued with genetic problems created by humans.

Ballito dog trainer Scott Farlam is a firm advocate for ethical breeders as he said they make it their mission to create the best possible version of the breed.

“If you are looking for a family pet, a rescue dog is great, but if you want a working dog it is crucial to stay away from backyard breeders. I believe these breeders should be heavily fined which would show a major decline in our overflowing shelters and the number of health issues created by bad breeding,” said Farlam.

To qualify as an ethical breeder, Farlam said you have to meet the following criteria: 

1. Experience is key

Ask for the breeder’s track record with their specific breed – they need to know the history of the breed, what it was traditionally bred for and what, if any, breeding problems the breed has had.

People bred a lot of natural aggression into German Shepherds, for example, as they were used in the military and police work and it was believed that they needed the aggression.

Also read: Looking into Salt Rock’s history books

With time some became aggressive towards their handlers too and it became a problematic genetic trait which is often a reaction of fear, as the dog is not confident.

The newer breed line is not about aggression, but about confidence and drive.

2. Check the family tree

“The breeder needs to understand and know the full history of the sire (father) and dam (mother) that they want to pair – where they came from, what type of personality and health traits they have. Ask the breeder these questions to understand the type of dog they are breeding.

From the way a dog bites to how they walk are all genetic traits.”

3. Worth the wait

Ethical breeders usually have a waiting list of about one year as they will often only breed one litter annually.

“A good breeder will not just pump out puppies. Fashion breeds such as the Boston Terrier is bred by every second person and you can buy a puppy on Gumtree today, but the breeders have no plan. They are just breeding them because they are trendy, not because they understand or want to improve the breed.”

4. Understand the breed yourself

Before you commit to a dog, research the breed thoroughly before going to a breeder. Understand what the breed requires and be realistic about whether you can provide the right environment and lifestyle.

“My favourite breed is a Belgian Malinois, yet it is the last breed I would recommend to anyone because they need to be worked a lot. People complain if their husky runs away yet they are made to run. Or if their Dachsie digs up the garden – they are bred to hunt burrow-dwelling animals like badgers. If these dogs are not worked, that pent up energy causes problems that gets them into trouble.”

5. Return policy 

After you have passed your home check, ethical breeders will sign a contract with you which states that should you not be able to keep the dog for any reason, the dog must return to the breeder.

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