Are Doodles and Well-bred Mixed Breeds Ethical?

The whistle of a name, the rustle of a treat bag, or the jingle of a leash—these sounds spell joy in a dog owner's world. As a lifelong dog lover and someone deeply entrenched in Stokeshire's ethical breeding practices, nothing piques my discord quite like the debate over the ethics of breeding doodles and well-bred mixed breeds. These dogs, hybrids known for their charismatic allure and poodle-mix charm, are a triumph of marketing and design. But does their popularity eclipse the ethical implications of their breeding?

Understanding Doodles and Well-bred Mixed Breeds

"Doodles" refer to the darling of contemporary pet fashion: the poodle crossed with other breeds, ostensibly to blend the poodle's hypoallergenic coat with the desirable traits of another breed. Doodles are everywhere, from Labradoodles to Goldendoodles, charming dog enthusiasts with their shaggy looks and dynamic personalities.

On the other hand, well-bred mixed breeds are the product of considered crossbreeding, where ethical breeders leverage careful genetic screening and match-making to minimize health risks. They are distinct from the products of backyard breeders who often lack knowledge and disregard the welfare of their breeding stock.

At Stokeshire, we differentiate ourselves by advocating for and practicing responsible breeding—not just breeding for a mission and sustainability but prioritizing the well-being of each dog, its genetic diversity, and overall health.

Ethical Concerns

The crux of the ethical debate lies in several concerns. First is the issue of health. These designer dogs have not escaped the clutches of genetic disorders, despite claims to the contrary. Many inherit the very afflictions their cross was meant to eliminate, and without widespread, recognized breed standards, the predictability of their health and temperament remains a lottery.

Then there's the impact on purebred dog populations. As the demand for mixed breeds rises, we observe a decline in some purebred numbers or, conversely, a spike in their backyard breeding, resulting in dogs with high Coefficients of Inbreeding (COIs)—essentially, purebred equates to inbred.

Ethical breeders understand that high COIs lead to a Pandora's box of problems: compromised immune systems, congenital diseases, shortened life spans, and the like. Breeding animals with such vulnerabilities is irresponsible at best and at worst, it's intolerable negligence.

Stokeshire Ethical Breeder Position Statement on Responsible Breeding

In Stokeshire, we, as ethical breeders, share a commitment to the principles outlined by the ASPCA regarding responsible breeding practices. Our focus is primarily on dogs, but we extend these principles to other species, such as cats and rabbits.

Our Principles:

1. Care and Well-being:

   • We prioritize the well-being of our dogs, providing them with quality food, clean water, proper shelter, exercise, socialization, and professional veterinary care.

   • Grooming and cleanliness are essential aspects of our care routine.

2. Home Environment:

   • We raise our dogs in a home environment, ensuring they are well-adjusted and accustomed to living with families.

3. Breeding Planning:

   • We develop individual breeding plans for each dog, considering their age, health, and well-being, in consultation with our trusted veterinarians.

4. Puppy Socialization:

   • Daily handling and socialization of puppies with other dogs and people are integral to our breeding practices.

5. Responsible Placements:

   • We place dogs with careful consideration, prioritizing those unable to breed, unsuitable for breeding, or those returned to us.

   • Avoiding permanent physical alterations for cosmetic purposes is a fundamental principle.

6. Weaning Practices:

   • We ensure that puppies are gradually and fully weaned before placement, with a minimum age of 8 weeks and ideally between 10-12 weeks.

7. Focus on Health:

   • Our breeding prioritizes health and function over appearance, screening for heritable traits to avoid negative impacts on puppies.

   • Inbreeding is strictly avoided to reduce the risk of inherited disorders.

8. Transparent Practices:

   • We encourage prospective owners to visit our breeding facility, meet the parents, and discuss our breeding and sales practices.

   • Providing accurate health, vaccination, and pedigree information is a commitment we uphold.

9. Clear Contracts:

   • We prepare adoption/purchase contracts in plain language, outlining responsibilities, health guarantees, and return policies.

10. Ensuring Good Homes:

    • We assess the availability of quality homes through waiting lists or other strategies before breeding.

    • Making informed matches between owners and dogs is a priority, ensuring direct sales to prospective owners rather than third-party involvement.

11. Ongoing Support:

    • We serve as ongoing resources for new owners, ready to take back or rehome an animal if needed.

12. Welfare Advocacy:

    • We actively engage in educating our community about the risks associated with commercial breeders, stores, and websites.

    • Supporting laws and policies that ensure breeder transparency, quality of care, and accountability is a part of our advocacy.

Do Purebred Dogs Exist?

A team of researchers has conducted a comprehensive genomic study on dogs, resulting in the most extensive genomic map to date. The study involved samples from 1,346 dogs representing 161 breeds, collected over 20 years from Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia. The findings reveal that dogs were selectively bred into 23 distinct types or "clades," with humans playing a crucial role in shaping these breeds. The study highlights instances of breeding for specific traits emerging independently in different regions. The research aims to unravel the evolution of dogs, providing insights into their history and potential implications for understanding human evolution and diseases. Future studies may explore the origins of diseases in modern-day dogs and offer insights into novel treatment options.

“There’s no such thing – in a sense there’s no such thing as a purebred dog. And that’s – I don’t have a problem with that.[...]We obsess about whether our dog is a pug-Jack Russell terrier mix with corgi overtones and an oaky finish. ‘An approachable little dog,’ whatever. They’re all dogs, okay? And so the idea of a purebred is just a human construct.”

— Bill Nye

Benefits of Doodles and Well-bred Mixed Breeds

Conversely, proponents of doodles and well-bred mixed breeds tout their potential hypoallergenic qualities—a beacon of hope for the allergy-afflicted. Their varied appearances also appeal to those seeking a certain "look" or size, demonstrating the diversity that selective crossbreeding can achieve. And while doodles may not carry an official breed standard, they've sparked broad inclusivity in what it means to be a beloved family pet.

Well-bred mixed breeds can possess robust genetics due to their mixed ancestry, shedding some of the congenital woes beleaguering their purebred counterparts. However, this 'hybrid vigor' is only attainable through ethical breeding practices that prioritize the animals' health above the aesthetics or novelty of the breed.

Ethical Breeding Practices

Ethical breeding isn't a catchphrase; it's a mandate at Stokeshire. It's about meticulous health testing and screening, ensuring prospective parents are free of heritable conditions. It's about considering the breed's future—every litter should contribute to the dogs' overall welfare, not detract from it.

Socialization and temperament assessment are also paramount. Without these, we couldn't confidently create bright, personable dogs likely to thrive in loving homes. The practices we advocate for at Stokeshire are echoed globally by breed enthusiasts who wish to see their beloved breeds thrive responsibly.

Financial Responsibility For Breeders

In addition to our commitment to responsible breeding practices, Stokeshire prioritizes financial responsibility. We recognize the importance of contributing to our local, state, and national communities. As part of our ethical stance, we ensure that our financial transactions are transparent and accountable. Ethical breeders pay taxes diligently, supporting essential community services and infrastructure. We refrain from using payment processors such as PayPal or Venmo, which may potentially circumvent local, state, and U.S. taxes. Our choice of legitimate payment methods aligns with our values, emphasizing transparency and ethical conduct in all aspects of our breeding practices. We believe that contributing to the broader fiscal framework is a vital aspect of responsible citizenship and ethical business practices.

The Role of the Buyer

Buyers have power—immense power. Educated decision-making differentiates dilettante doodle purchasers from thoughtful dog owners. Researching breeders, understanding where your pup comes from, and what its parents have endured—is it coming from a puppy mill, or was it bred with care?—is crucial.

Stokeshire believes that the cheap sale of puppies is just as unethical as inbred line-breeding. The price of a dog should reflect the care, effort, and ethical consideration that went into its breeding. This notion often leads us back to the noble path of adoption as an ethical, loving alternative.

The Dynamic Nature of Ethics in Dog Breeding

Ethics serve as the moral compass of our actions, a set of principles that govern what is right and what is wrong in our behavior and practices. But to say ethics are carved in stone would be to ignore the fluidity of our ever-evolving society. As consumer demand shifts in light of increased awareness and changing values, so too must the ethical standards that guide us—particularly in industries like dog breeding, where sentient beings are at the core.

Ethics Examined

Ethics, at their simplest, are the yardstick by which we measure the decency of our actions. They influence laws, societal norms, and personal conduct. For dog breeders, ethics dictate the practices of breeding not just for appearance or profit, but also considering the welfare and health of the animals involved.

The Vital Role of Ethics

Why do ethics matter so much? In dog breeding, ethical practices ensure the physical and psychological well-being of dogs. They prevent practices that lead to lifelong health issues for the sake of maintaining certain "breed standards" that can end up causing more harm than good.

A breeder aligned with strong ethical standards will prioritize the long-term health and vitality of the breed over immediate gains. They understand that they have a responsibility not just to their clients, but to every dog they help bring into the world—for that animal's entire lifespan.

The Evolution of Ethical Standards

In recent years, there's been a noticeable shift in consumer awareness concerning the origins of their pets. With social media, documentaries, and a growing body of research at their disposal, consumers are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about what constitutes ethical breeding.

This evolution of ethics could see a movement away from breeding practices that place the dog's appearance above its health. Squashed noses leading to breathing difficulties, oversized dogs susceptible to hip dysplasia, or skin folds that lead to infections—these are not attributes we can continue to champion if we uphold an ethical standard in line with current consumer sentiment.

Throughout history, there has never been a time when ethics were so prominently in flux across all industries as they are today. Sustainable sourcing, cruelty-free products, and transparent practices have all become expected norms. The dog breeding industry is not immune to these changes. If anything, it is an area where change is greatly needed—and it is here that we see a prime example of how ethics are shaped by consumer demands.

Breeding with a Conscience

The anticipation is that as consumers demand healthier, ethically bred dogs, breeders who refuse to adapt will be left behind. Those who embrace these changes—who breed for vitality, character, and health—will rise to meet a market that aligns more closely with the progressive values of society.

This evolution is beneficial for all parties involved: breeds will be healthier and more robust, owners will find joy in the companionship of their pets with fewer health-related heartaches, and breeders will find satisfaction in knowing they have contributed positively to the legacy of each breed.

Ultimately, the core argument here is simple: ethics are not immovable. They are as alive and dynamic as the society in which we live. They breathe, evolve, and adapt to what we, as a collective, deem important. For dog breeders, the message here is clear—breed not for the moment, but with an eye toward the future, with ethics in one hand and responsibility in the other.

Dog breeding is at a crossroads. With today's technologies and advances in genetic science, there is an unprecedented opportunity to breed dogs ethically, scientifically, and sustainably. Yet, tradition is a powerful force, and shifting the needle on what constitutes 'ethical' can feel like turning a battleship. But turn it must, for the sake of both the dogs and the future of the industry.

It is in our hands to redefine ethics in dog breeding and ensure they accurately reflect the society we strive to be—one that values health, welfare, and the humane treatment of all living creatures.

Change comes one decision at a time. For those in the world of dog breeding, it is time to decide: what ethics will you bring into the world today?

Why Reducing COIs in Dogs Creating New Breeds is Ethical

In the intricate and often passionately debated world of dog breeding, one metric generates considerable conflict— the Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI). This measure determines the probability that a dog will inherit the same genetic variant from an ancestor through multiple lineage paths. While it might seem like just a statistical concern, the reality is that the COI embodies a significant ethical dilemma, touching upon the fundamental welfare of man's best friend.

Understanding COIs

COI is a crucial concept in genetics that quantifies the level of inbreeding in an individual. It's a measure indicating how closely related the parents are, and therefore, the likelihood of offspring inheriting identical genes from both. Principally, a higher COI heightens the risk of dogs inheriting not only advantageous traits but also deleterious ones, leading to a myriad of health issues.

Ethical Concerns

The ethical quandary stems from breeders who, in pursuit of perpetuating desirable show traits—be it a luscious coat, a distinct shape, or size—end up increasing the COI, often at the cost of their dogs' health. These selectively bred dogs may inherit congenital and hereditary conditions, from hip dysplasia to heart disorders, severely impacting their quality of life. The morality of trading off long-term health for aesthetics is contentious, stirring a debate that questions the very ethos of breeding.

Benefits of Reduced COIs

Advocating for reduced COIs is, essentially, an advocacy for healthier, happier dogs. It emphasizes the potential benefits of expanded genetic pools, which can lead to:

• Improved Health and Longevity: Diverse genetics equate to a robust immune system, improving disease resistance.

• Decreased Inherited Disease Risks: Lowering the risk of passing on prevalent breed-specific hereditary illnesses.

• Preserved Genetic Diversity: A vital factor in ensuring the adaptability and survival of breeds in changing environments.

Moreover, reducing COIs and crossbreeding can often result in hybrid vigor, where the offspring exhibit superior health or quality traits compared to their parents.

Arguments Against Reducing COIs

Nevertheless, a faction of breeders and enthusiasts argues that strict adherence to breed standards, often requiring a higher coefficient of inbreeding (COI), is essential for preserving a breed's distinct identity. Their concern lies in the belief that diversifying the gene pool could dilute the unique attributes that define a breed. However, the pivotal question emerges: should we prioritize the preservation of aesthetic traits over the overall well-being of the animal? This is a crucial dilemma that demands our consideration. Recent studies, drawing from data provided by 18,000 dog owners and conducting genetic analyses on over 2,000 dogs, have uncovered a significant revelation: an individual dog's personality cannot be solely determined by its breed. While certain traits may have a genetic foundation, the study underscores that dogs of the same breed may not exhibit identical behavior. These findings challenge the widespread assumption that a dog's behavior can be exclusively forecasted based on its breed, underscoring the intricate interplay between genetics and individual uniqueness in shaping a dog's personality.

The Importance of Responsible Breeding

Ethical breeding isn't about forsaking the pursuit of breed integrity; it's about recalibrating our moral compass to include the welfare of the animals involved. Cognizant breeding practices that judiciously balance the desire for certain traits with the health implications of high COIs are not just plausible; they're imperative.

Responsible breeders must grapple with questions far beyond the superficiality of appearances. They wield the ability to shape the future of these beloved canine companions, fiddling with the very strands of life that constitute them. It is vital to proceed with a profound respect for the biological sanctity and well-being of the dogs, transcending the mere accolades of producing the quintessential specimen of a breed.

We ought to encourage breeders to consider sound science, genetics, and the advisories of veterinary experts. It's incumbent upon our society to reward breeders who make ethical choices, ensuring that consumer demand aligns with the ideals of animal welfare and not just aesthetic whimsy.

Reducing conflicts of interest in the creation of new dog breeds is not just a suggestion for ethical breeding; it is a pressing call for humanity. It is about looking beyond the ribbons and titles and into the eyes of our canine companions, who, regardless of pedigree, desire nothing more than a healthy and fulfilling life. This is a duty we must accept, as it is not only ethical, but also just.

The Other Side: Reputable, Ethical Breeders Breed for the Betterment of their Breed

Reputable, Ethical breeders hold a singular goal in high regard - the betterment of the breed they are passionate about. They meticulously study the breed's history, characteristics, temperament, and health issues. They strive to produce puppies that not only epitomize the breed standard but also contribute to the overall quality and longevity of the breed. They are motivated by a deep love for the breed and a desire to preserve its unique attributes for generations to come.

However, this ideology, while noble in its intentions, has some pitfalls. By focusing solely on the betterment of a specific breed, breeders may inadvertently perpetuate health issues that are prevalent in that breed. The pursuit of breed purity might lead to inbreeding, which can exacerbate congenital health problems. Furthermore, this breed-centric perspective may overlook the fact that all dogs, regardless of breed, have inherent value and deserve to live a life free from suffering.

Therefore, it is essential for ethical breeders to not only consider the betterment of their chosen breed but also the impact of their breeding practices on the wider dog population. This can be achieved by educating themselves on genetic diversity and utilizing responsible breeding techniques such as outcrossing to maintain a healthy gene pool. Additionally, breeders should prioritize genetic testing and health screenings of their breeding dogs to reduce the risk of passing on hereditary diseases.

While the role of ethical breeders is integral in promoting the health and well-being of specific dog breeds, it is crucial to broaden our perspective beyond breed-based considerations. The focus on breed-centric characteristics and traits can inadvertently foster a narrow mindset, overlooking the fundamental aim of fostering a loving, harmonious, and personality-driven relationship between dogs and their humans. Our mission transcends beyond breeds; it is about understanding and appreciating each dog as an individual, with unique personality, behaviors, and needs. Recognizing a dog’s distinct individuality encourages responsible pet ownership and a more profound, fulfilling bond between humans and their canine companions, especially for Therapy. Therefore, it's incumbent upon us all, as dog lovers, to prioritize a dog's individual personality and our relationship with them over breed-specific attributes. Let's foster an environment where every dog, irrespective of breed, is valued, loved, and cared for, based on their unique personality and our shared connection with them. Let’s stop the Doodle hate.

Conclusion

As dog lovers, we have a responsibility that goes beyond just enjoying the company of our furry friends. It's our duty to protect and nurture them, and to ensure that they are treated ethically and bred responsibly. At Stokeshire, we are committed to upholding this standard, and we call on other breeders, buyers, and dog enthusiasts to join us in embracing responsible breeding practices and advocating for every dog's right to a healthy, happy life.

Our love for dogs should be reflected in our actions. Let us work together to create a future where every wagging tail comes from a dog that's been cared for with respect, ethics, and boundless joy. In Stokeshire, we believe that responsible breeding leads to the creation of healthy, happy pets. When adoption is not an option, we encourage people to choose ethical breeders who prioritize the well-being of animals over profit. By supporting responsible breeding practices, we can all contribute to a more humane and compassionate community.

We firmly oppose breeding dogs in conditions that compromise their physical, social, and behavioral needs. We do not support buying dogs from commercial breeders, brokers, or retail outlets. The welfare of animals is our top priority, and we actively discourage practices that lead to their suffering.

In Stokeshire, the rise of Doodles has sparked conversations among our community of dog lovers. While we recognize the popularity of these hybrid breeds, it is essential to address concerns raised in your article regarding their ethical breeding and potential health issues.

As a community that values responsible and ethical breeding practices, we share the apprehension about the breeding trends that prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. The lack of adherence to recognized standards, combined with the unpredictability of mixed genetics, has raised valid concerns, but ones we hope to remedy with or program and by producing new breed standards for doodles at large.

The emphasis on ethical breeding in Stokeshire aligns with the principles outlined in your article regarding responsible breeding practices. Ethical breeders in our community prioritize the health, well-being, and care of their dogs. They adhere to stringent standards, including health testing, responsible socialization, and the commitment to finding suitable homes for their puppies.

In light of the ethical concerns surrounding Doodles, our community encourages prospective dog owners to conduct thorough research before choosing a breed. We advocate for responsible breeding practices that prioritize the overall health, temperament, and happiness of the dogs. This includes supporting breeders who demonstrate a commitment to enhancing and protecting their breed's lineage.

Stokeshire emphasizes the significance of ethical breeders who are dedicated to making informed matches between dogs and owners. By prioritizing health and temperament over appearance, our community seeks to ensure the well-being of every dog placed in a loving home.

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Parker, Heidi G, et al. “Genomic Analyses Reveal the Influence of Geographic Origin, Migration, and Hybridization on Modern Dog Breed Development.” Cell Reports, vol. 19, no. 4, 1 Apr. 2017, pp. 697–708, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211124717304564, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2017.03.079. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.

Perry, Philip. “New Genetic Study Shows the Origin of Dog Breeds.” Big Think, Big Think, May 2017, bigthink.com/hard-science/new-genetic-study-shows-the-origin-of-dog-breeds/. Accessed 21 Jan. 2024.

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