Introduction: The welfare of dogs used for breeding companion animals is a contentious issue in some sectors of the community, with welfare groups in developed countries focusing campaigns on shutting down ‘puppy farms’ and regulating puppy sales. However, public perceptions surrounding dog-breeding practices are poorly understood. The aims of this study were to a) describe perceptions of dog breeding and associated welfare concerns held by members of the general public, and b) identify whether demographic or dog experience-related factors predict these outcomes.
Methodology: Australian residents (N = 986) completed an online questionnaire investigating their perceptions of, and attitudes towards, companion dog breeding in Australia. Demographic information and companion dog ownership history data were collected. Descriptive statistics investigated overall perceptions. Cluster analysis subsequently identified specific community subgroups. Chi-square tests for independence and one-way between-groups ANOVAs determined predictors of cluster group membership.
Results: Participants predominantly indicated that the welfare of breeding dogs was important, that dog breeding should be regulated, and that tougher laws were necessary to improve breeding dog welfare. Three distinct groups of respondents were identified: those who supported breeder-sourced companion dogs but felt that current regulations were inadequate to ensure satisfactory welfare (N = 426); those who disapproved of all dog breeding and felt adoption was the only appropriate acquisition method (N = 336); and, those who felt breeding was acceptable and that current industry practices provide adequate welfare (N = 214). A number of factors predicted cluster membership, including participant age, factors participants consider important when acquiring companion dogs (e.g. physical appearance, genetic testing), the source of their most recent dog, their self-reported dog breeding knowledge, and whether they had a history of dog breeding (all p ≤ .001).
Principle Conclusions and Implications: This study provides a direct examination of public perceptions of dog breeding, breeding practices and associated welfare concerns. It provides insight into factors contributing to perceptions held by members of the general community. This information can be used to inform evidence-based policy development concerning companion dog breeding and acquisition.