Survey found almost a third of UK dog owners spent less than a day researching the breeder
The UK’s foremost dog breeding authority has raised alarms about the detrimental impact of convenience-driven puppy purchases on animal welfare, highlighting a troubling trend among prospective dog owners.
Research conducted by the Kennel Club reveals that nearly one-third (29%) of UK dog owners invest less than a day in researching their chosen breeder and puppy. Additionally, 34% of buyers limit their search to within their county, and a quarter are unwilling to travel more than an hour for their new pet.
The study found that 48% of those who restricted their search cited convenience as a primary factor. Furthermore, 56% did not see the puppy interacting with its mother, 53% missed observing the puppy’s upbringing environment, and over three-quarters were not asked about their suitability as potential dog owners—critical factors emphasized by the Kennel Club.
Charlotte McNamara, head of health at the Kennel Club, expressed concern: “This research uncovers a disturbing trend of hasty and often negligent decisions made by potential puppy owners. Although the intent may not be malicious, this behavior inadvertently supports unscrupulous sellers who operate with minimal oversight, leading to severe consequences for puppy welfare.”
The survey also highlighted that nearly 20% of puppies became ill or died before their first birthday, with the rate climbing to almost one in three (31%) for puppies purchased with minimal research.
McNamara described this “convenience culture” as a harmful trend impacting puppy welfare: “The rush to purchase without adequate research has become a pervasive issue, endangering the health and well-being of countless puppies.”
The survey, conducted by Censuswide in August as part of the Kennel Club’s Be Puppywise campaign, involved 2,610 recent puppy buyers. It revealed that 26% of dog owners struggled to identify rogue breeders or scams, while 28% might have unknowingly purchased from a puppy farm—this figure rose to 40% among those who researched for less than a day.
Dr. Dan O’Neill, an associate professor of companion animal epidemiology at the Royal Veterinary College, recommended avoiding extreme canine body shapes that can lead to health problems. “For those seeking a healthy dog, it’s crucial to steer clear of breeds with severe physical traits that often result in serious health issues,” he advised.
David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, suggested using the “puppy contract,” a free toolkit designed to guide responsible puppy purchases and breeding. He also advocated for stronger enforcement of breeder licensing and tighter controls on puppy importation to combat illegal trade.
Holly Conway, head of public affairs at the Kennel Club, acknowledged that while rescue dogs are a viable option for some, they may not suit everyone. She stressed the need for increased public awareness and better enforcement of existing legislation: “We must empower individuals to make informed decisions and understand their responsibilities. Relying solely on others to enforce regulations is not enough.”