Backyard Breeding and Why It’s a Problem

Backyard breeding is a major contributor to the dog overpopulation crisis, poor health outcomes in dogs, and widespread neglect. It refers to individuals who breed dogs without knowledge, responsibility, or regard for health, welfare, or long-term outcomes.

What Makes It "Backyard Breeding"?

• Breeding without health testing or vet screening

• Breeding dogs purely for profit or novelty

• No application process or home checks

• Puppies sold through social media, Kijiji, Craigslist, etc.

• No accountability or return policy

Why It’s Dangerous

• Overpopulation: One backyard-bred litter adds 6–10 more dogs to a system that is already overwhelmed.

• No vetting: Backyard breeders sell to anyone with money—no regard for safety, preparation, or ethics.

• Zero support: When things go wrong, they disappear. No returns. No help.

• Dog dumping: These dogs often end up abandoned, surrendered, or euthanized.

The Fallout

• Increased shelter intakes and euthanasia

• Dogs with genetic diseases, poor behaviour, trauma

• Families left with unmanageable or medically compromised pets

• More dogs bred while rescues beg for fosters and adopters

What You Can Do:

• Never support casual or unverified breeders

• Educate friends and family

• Spay and neuter your pets

• Adopt or foster instead of buying

Backyard breeding isn’t accidental anymore. It’s a choice—and it’s one that puts dogs at risk.