2 of 17

Breeders

Write now Article Tools

Really, I think both are to blame. On the one side, owners need to be doing more to keep their dogs from creating more of a problem. Many shelters and vets offer special discounts on spay and neuter surgeries, making it easier than ever to get your dog fixed. This helps the situation with homeless dogs, because if a dog can't get a bitch pregnant, then unwanted puppies are less likely to happen.

On the other hand, breeders are also at fault. There are a profusion of people in the world who breed their dogs simply to breed dogs, and/or to get money. These people do not care where these dogs go after they are sold, so long as they get their money. They often produce something commonly known as a 'pit bull', which is then sold as a guard dog...and eventually either dies or is abandoned by its don't-care owners.

From this type of breeder, commonly known as a 'Puppy Mill' lies most of the problem. They are over-breeding and under-caring for and of their dogs. They fail to take responsibility for those dogs, not making sure they will be taken care of. They send dogs away to any Tom, Dick, or Harry, and hope (or don't, in some cases.) that the new owner will take care of the dog, without any further questions.

Now, I am in no way condemning responsible breeding. There are many good, wonderful people who research their decision fully before making such a leap into the realm of the unknown. They don't simply throw two mutts together, and hope those dogs produce something that is sale material. Registered breeders also often have a contract which prospective buyers are required to sign, which states that they are to take care of the dog. While mostly useless, this gesture is still reassuring, because it shows that breeders do care about their dogs, and aren't going to just send them out to the four corners of the earth.

So my point is this- if you don't know how to breed, don't do it. Take the time and invest the money to spay or neuter your pet, thus avoiding unwanted puppies that will exacerbate the situation with the shelters and homeless dogs. If you want to get involved in the activity, take the time to research what you're getting in to. Take a trip to a local kennel, and look over the whelping facilities. This will give you an idea of what it takes.

If you are into responsible breeding- good job! But still be careful. It isn't a game for kids, or for those who don't know what they're doing. You can't just go into it blind, because then you're just as bad as the puppy mill owners.

Learn more about this author, Kyla.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Breeders or dog owners: Who is more responsible for the excess of abandoned or sheltered dogs??
We want to hear your view. Write now!