I feel compelled to discuss some of the ethical issues surrounding the breeding and showing of dogs. Dogs were initially bred by humans with certain characteristics to fit in with the environment and conditions in which they would be required to live and work. Examples include breeding dogs with thicker coats in order to withstand the cold, or bigger and stronger frames than others to enable them to hunt more efficiently. Some dogs were bred small and fast in order to catch small game and varmints.
Today, the majority of dogs are kept as pets, not working animals. Many of the special characteristics being bred into dogs produce harmful genetic deformities. Purebreds have myriad medical issues, such as back, eye and breathing problems. Many suffer from joint problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Many undergo unnecessary, painful cosmetic surgery, such as tail-docking and ear-cropping because it’s “the norm” of appearance for the breed, or the “standard.”
Purchasing an animal from a breeder or pet store also takes away a home from the estimated 5 to 6 million animals housed in animal shelters each year. It simply doesn’t make sense to produce more animals when millions are euthanized each year for lack of loving homes. An estimated 20 percent of animals that end up in shelters are purebred, and many are also available for adoption through breed rescue organizations. But what most people don’t realize is that mixed-breed dogs, or mutts, often are happier, healthier and have wonderful dispositions.
When considering adopting a dog, be sure to research the breed to be certain that the dog is a good fit for your lifestyle. And always spay or neuter your dog–it’s healthier for the animal, decreases behavioral problems and cuts down on pet overpopulation.
Ideally breed clubs should forget about aesthetics and appearance and focus on behavior and temperament. If dogs are to be bred, it should be to adapt to living with people in urban environments and small, enclosed spaces.
There are few experiences as rewarding as adopting a companion animal in need. It is a large responsibility but a worthwhile one.
