I propose we change how we talk about "backyard breeders" (BYB) in a more positive and accurate direction.
The term is often used as an insult without clear meaning or understanding. It's time to replace it with a more appropriate term like "low-welfare breeder."
This term better reflects the concerns we have when discussing BYBs.
Using "low-welfare breeder" is more descriptive, encourages productive conversations, and reduces the potential for derogatory use. Let's reshape the language we use to foster understanding and positive change.
Language carries significant weight and can shape perceptions and attitudes.
The term "backyard breeder" (BYB) has been used in various contexts, often as a derogatory label to criticize individuals involved in breeding dogs. However, the term lacks specificity and can be misused or misunderstood.
BYB is often, but not always, used to criticize or "hate" on another breeder without considering the specific circumstances or welfare standards in place.
This type of usage is unhelpful and counterproductive to improving animal welfare.
We need to shift our focus towards uplifting and supporting each other within the breeding community.
Rather than using derogatory terms, let's prioritize education and constructive dialogue.
By promoting a culture of understanding and empathy, we can work together to raise awareness about responsible breeding practices and provide resources for those who may not meet adequate welfare standards.
Through education and guidance, we can empower breeders to make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of their animals.
We must approach these discussions respectfully, offering support and guidance to those needing it rather than simply criticizing or condemning them.
Changing to the term "low-welfare breeder" creates a more accurate and constructive way to address the concerns associated with certain breeding practices.
Low-welfare breeder emphasizes animal welfare and acknowledges the potential issues that can arise when breeding standards and care fall below acceptable levels.
Using "low-welfare breeder" allows for more meaningful discussions and enables us to address the specific challenges faced by breeders who may not prioritize the well-being and proper care of their animals.
It encourages dialogue about responsible breeding practices, education, and advocacy for improved animal welfare standards.
By adopting this alternative term, we promote clarity and understanding.
Identifying and addressing breeders who may require support, education, or regulatory intervention to ensure better outcomes for the animals involved becomes easier.
At the same time, it discourages using the term as a derogatory label, which can hinder productive conversations and collaboration. No one wants to reach out to help from someone who is basically calling them names.
Instead, maybe we can shape a more compassionate and informed dialogue surrounding responsible dog breeding practices.
Let's use language that fosters understanding, promotes education, and inspires positive change within the breeding community.
I'd love to hear your thoughts, please let me know what you think in the comments.
In the state of Texas to become a licensed breeder, you have to have at least 11 intact females and 1 male. I can't handle that many dogs alone! I want my dogs to be healthy and have lots of attention and socialization. Then imagine dealing with all the puppies and ensuring they go to good homes. That is why most people are BYB. We love the breed, on a smaller level.
However recently the Texas laws have changed. It's 5 intact females instead of 11. This is much more reasonable.
There will always be people who don't care about the dogs and are only interested in the money. They are the ones that need to be labeled as garbage.
Most of Texas has "low-welfare backyard breeders". It also has the highest number of "dogfight" (for lack of better word) rings. Generations of Texans have and continue to throw their unwanted puppies into the rivers.
Most people I know here in South Texas have rescue dogs that were given to them or they were found wondering the streets.
There are more people looking to make money on these dogs than there are volunteers to rescue, foster or donate to the help the overpopulation problem.
TX does have decent laws on protecting animals, but not enough manpower or education of those in charge of enforcing.
By your third paragraph, I was waiting for you to influence but you couldn’t…perhaps you could go back add a list of bullets or list of possible outcomes you hope for with this term change.
my issue is that I can go on a Facebook page in Texas and go to someone’s profile and see that they have a handful of different breeds for sale some of them are aging, you can see that there’s not a lot of action on the posts all the while the shelters got litters upon litters of dogs being found on country roads all over north Texas in some of the most affluent ZIP Codes- going to be euthanized. When I question these people…
I agree with Stephanie Frampton's comments. I don't actually think any label will assist with the issue. I think what will assist is more education for the general public on what a professional dog breeder is and how that compares to other breeders. No need to label them as many breeders who belong to a breed club, health test their dogs, et cetera are highly unethical and unprofessional. I believe it would benefit all of us who consider ourselves to be ethical and professional breeders. It would benefit the general public. Most importantly, it would benefit puppies overall.
For me, the word “welfare” can also seem derogatory but in this particular context, I can’t think of a better word. I wholeheartedly agree that backyard breeder has way too many varying degrees of definitions. IMO you can have a fully health tested pair of breeding dogs and still be an unethical dog breeder. I think defining ethical dog breeding is important for this discussion. I’ll give my definition. PARENTS:Genetically tested and cleared of diseases that will affect offspring in a negative way, OFA tested for hips, elbows, patellar, eyes and heart (others if breed standard) Kept in a home or in a controlled temperature kennel if laws demand it. (I personally don’t like anything about dogs ”living” in ken…