Responsible Dog Breeder Survey 2025
In January, we launched the Responsible Dog Breeder Survey 2025, our largest and most open call yet to hear directly from breeders about what’s really happening across the UK. For years, legislation when reviewed has been centred around the information gathered from enforcement and policy makers rather than the breeders actually doing the work. This time, we’re changing that. Now, with the first quarter of responses collected, we’re ready to share what breeders have told us, honestly, and in their own words.
If you have yet to share your voice, there is still time, follow the link below to let us know your thoughts: Responsible Dog Breeder Survey 2025 Here
What Breeders Told Us (So Far)
Most respondents of the survey (70%+) have been breeding for over a decade. These are experienced voices who are hobby breeders, small-scale breeders and many of whom feel over regulated despite the low volume of puppies produced each year.
“We’re jumping through hoops while unethical breeders get away with no licence, no health testing, nothing.”
We asked, would you support replacing the “business test” with a registration system for small-scale breeders producing fewer than three litters annually?
Many breeders said the current business test doesn’t reflect how small or occasional breeding actually works. Over 65% supported scrapping it in favour of a fair registration system.
“It should be one rule, one standard, one price, no matter where you live.”
We asked, are you concerned about how differences in regional approaches
(e.g., licensing or welfare standards) might impact breeders across the UK?
Breeders expressed huge frustration with local licensing fee structures which vary wildly between councils, enforcement inconsistency from one council to another and that inspectors often lack knowledge of dogs or breeding.
Education is Key (for Everyone)
We asked, what educational resources would you find most useful?
Breeders told us they want more accessible, practical education, especially through online courses, detailed guides, and in person learning opportunities. Many also expressed interest in virtual meetings and access to experienced mentors who can offer one-to-one support.
One breeder suggested “Breed clubs have experienced members who can mentor new breeders with the knowledge that a novice should have of the breed.”
Technology Can Help (but Must Be Useful)
We asked, which technology tools would benefit your breeding activities?
Over 78% said a centralised breeder directory would promote responsible buying.
“People need to know the difference between ethical breeders and puppy farms.”
Breeders expressed strong interest in digital tools that support organisation, compliance, and transparency. The most popular choice was online databases for tracking lineage and health testing, followed by apps for recording health and breeding data. Many also saw value in platforms for managing licensing requirements and advertising litters. These responses highlight the demand for user friendly, centralised systems that reduce paperwork and help breeders
meet standards with confidence.
Thank You to Everyone Who has Taken Part
This is just a snapshot of the Q1 report. To see the full report in detail please click the following link:
Responsible Dog Breeder Survey Q1 Report Here
Whether you’re licensed or not, experienced or just starting out, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of responsible breeding in the UK. We’ll be updating the results each quarter and publishing a full-year report in early 2026.
Thank you to everyone who’s taken part. This is your voice. This is your future. And this is just the beginning.
