#Japan #Tokyo #Veterinarians #Pet Welfare #BreederFamilies

The Challenge of Choosing a Good Dog Breeder

A recent study conducted by Petricowel Co., Ltd., led by Takayuki Yoshimura, has revealed that 90% of veterinarians believe it is extremely difficult for pet owners to identify trustworthy dog breeders. The survey aimed to assess the reliability of breeder referral websites and the challenges pet owners face when selecting breeders.

As more people turn to online purchasing in addition to pet shops for acquiring puppies, uncertainties abound about which breeder to trust. Many potential dog owners express concerns like, “I don’t know how to choose a breeder,” and “The information available online is not sufficient to make an informed decision.”

Lack of Transparency and Trustworthy Information

Key factors contributing to the difficulty in selecting a good breeder include the lack of accessible information regarding the breeding environment and philosophy that should be prioritized. Consequently, the transparency of information provided by breeders and the reliability of referral websites is becoming increasingly crucial from an animal welfare standpoint.

To address these issues, Petricowel has launched `BreederFamilies`, a matching website that rigorously selects and introduces only high-quality breeders who treat their dogs like family. The survey titled, “Challenges in Choosing a Breeder and the Reliability of Breeder Referral Sites” collected feedback from veterinarians who face animals daily.

Details of the Survey

• - Survey Period: December 2 to December 4, 2025
• - Method: Online survey conducted by PRIZMA
• - Sample Size: 1,009 veterinarians
• - Target Audience: Veterinarians at the time of response
• - Conducted by: Petricowel Co., Ltd.
• - Data Source: PRIZMA Research

Difficulties in Assessing Trustworthy Breeders

About 90% of veterinarians surveyed agreed on the difficulty general consumers face in assessing trustworthy breeders. When asked, “Is it challenging for non-expert users to assess a reputable breeder based on referral sites or social media?”, nearly 86% responded, “Very difficult (29.8%)” and “Difficult (55.9%)”.

What Makes Breeder Selection Challenging?

For those who found it difficult to assess breeders, the reasons provided included:

• - Inflated or Biased Information: 35% agree that published information is often exaggerated or misleading, while 56% agree slightly.
• - Lack of Knowledge on Key Points: 28.5% agreed that essential points for assessing breeders are unknown to general pet owners. 51.8% agreed slightly.
• - Limited Breeding Environment Access: 28% agree that breeder visits often only allow limited insights, with further agreement from 48.1%.
• - Omission of Important Data: 27.9% believe important information, like genetic health checks, is often not disclosed, with 49% agreeing slightly.
• - Low Reliability of Referral Sites: Over 82% of participants indicated that many referral sites lack transparency in their criteria and reviews, leading to distrust.

Characteristics of Unreliable Breeder Sites

The survey also sought to identify characteristics of breeder referral sites that veterinarians deem untrustworthy. Key concerns included:

• - Excessive Advertisements and Promotions: 39.9% feel that sites that push ads or pressure quick purchases are suspicious.
• - High Volume and Variety of Breeds: 43.7% find sites showcasing numerous breeds to be less credible.
• - Poor Evaluation Standards: 35% express concerns over sites claiming to rigorously vet breeders while lacking stringent checks or inspections.

Veterinarians expressed strong mistrust, particularly towards sites that proliferate mixed breeds and rare colors, as they tend to prioritize sales over animal welfare.

Elevating Trust Through Animal Welfare Standards

In light of the issues raised, the survey highlighted how breeder referral platforms can enhance their credibility by implementing rigorous welfare-focused criteria and thorough ongoing inspections. When assessing `BreederFamilies`, veterinarians recognized that its commitment to animal welfare and clearly defined standards correlates with increased trust.

Highlights from 'BreederFamilies' that build trust with veterinarians include:

• - Setting strict animal welfare guidelines.
• - Transparent information on site standards shared openly.
• - Pre-publication inspections and breeder interviews.
• - Regular evaluations and adherence checkups to maintain standards.

Veterinarians noted that thorough, ongoing oversight of breeders showcases a commitment to canine welfare.

Importance of Unique Standards

When inquiring whether the unique standards set by `BreederFamilies` correlate with identifying quality breeders, feedback showed that veterinarians appreciate factors such as breed-specific knowledge, handling of familial dogs, and a focus on socialization through nurturing environments.

Positive Feedback Towards BreederFamilies

When surveyed, around 80% of veterinarians considered `BreederFamilies` a safe platform for choosing reputable breeders. They noted that the platform not only acts as a bridge between breeders and potential owners but could also lead to improved ethics within breeding practices, ensuring that good breeders receive proper acknowledgment.

As the movement for ethical breeding practices continues to evolve, veterinarians hope platforms like `BreederFamilies` will provide clear, reliable guidance for pet owners. They believe that this will not only shape consumer behavior but also promote responsible ownership as a standard practice.

Conclusion

This survey clearly indicates the struggles veterinarians and prospective pet owners face in discerning trustworthy breeders amidst a sea of information online. For a culture developing around welcoming pets as family, it is no longer about convenience but rather about ensuring a secure and compassionate integration into homes.

As we navigate this landscape, it is essential for consumers to rely on platforms that vet breeders with integrity, such as `BreederFamilies`, ultimately benefiting the welfare of all canine companions.