What is a Backyard Breeder? How to Spot Reputable Breeders

by: Carrie Profenno / Author, Mainer, Maine Coon Mama!

Whether you are looking for a new fur baby or not, you may have wondered "exactly what is a backyard breeder?" You may even wonder why it seems to be viewed negatively.

After all, on our pages we recommend a small home cattery, where kittens are raised underfoot.

So puppies and kittens being born and raised at home, where there is a backyard, should be a good thing, right? This term can be a bit of an enigma!

Recently I passed an interesting scene while driving. I slowed to approach a red light alongside a yellow farmhouse with a large yard.

There were lawn chairs and a large fenced-in pen area, with a big sign that read "Double-Doodle puppies! Six left!"

This space was set up to be used to show off the litter of puppies soon. How adorable and tempting!

I made a mental note to take note of the yard on my way back home.

What Is a Backyard Breeder?

Signs of Backyard Breeders

Lack of Health Testing: One of the hallmarks of backyard breeders is the absence of responsible genetic testing.

Unlike reputable breeders who perform genetic screenings to avoid hereditary diseases, backyard breeders may not be aware of or choose to ignore these crucial tests.

This can lead to offspring with serious health problems that may not be immediately clear.

Poor Living Conditions: Backyard breeders often do not provide the optimal living environment for their animals.

Their facilities may be cramped, unsanitary, or lacking in proper socialization opportunities. This can result in behavioral issues and a lower quality of life for the animals.

Limited Knowledge of Breeding Practices: Many backyard breeders lack a comprehensive understanding of breeding practices.

They might not be familiar with the breed standards, proper mate selection, or the care required during pregnancy and after birth. This can lead to complications and unhealthy litters.    

No Long-Term Commitment: Unlike hobby breeders who might invest significant time and effort into improving a breed, or breeding to a standard, backyard breeders often lack long-term commitment.

Their focus is on short-term results, such as producing a specific number of litters without considering their long-term health or betterment of the breed.

Inadequate Socialization: Proper socialization is crucial for the development of well-adjusted pets.

Backyard breeders may not have the resources or knowledge to properly socialize their animals, leading to pets that may struggle with anxiety, aggression, or other behavioral issues.   

Minimal Screening of Potential Owners: Reputable breeders take great care in selecting the right home for their animals, often requiring contracts and thorough interviews with prospective buyers.

In contrast, backyard breeders might be more concerned with making a quick sale, leading to pets ending up in homes that are not well-prepared for their needs.

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After looking at these characteristics it's easy see why it’s so important to distinguish between backyard breeders and responsible, ethical, educated and experienced ones.

After all, we want to find a healthy puppy or kitten with a temperament befitting their breed, who will be with us for a full lifetime!

Kudos to anyone who takes the time to research, and to ask the question "What are backyard breeders, really?"

Problems That Can Arise From Backyard Breeding:

The impact of this practice extends beyond individual animals and affects broader communities, including shelters and rescue groups. There are significant issues that arise from backyard breeding. 

Health and Genetic Issues

Behavioral Problems Due to Poor Breeding Practices

Beyond physical health, the behavioral well-being of animals is also at risk. Backyard breeders often lack the knowledge and resources to properly socialize their animals.

Puppies and kittens need early, positive interactions to develop into well-adjusted adults.

Inadequate socialization can lead to a range of behavioral issues, including anxiety, aggression, and difficulty adapting to new environments.

Picture adopting a pet that has never been properly socialized. The challenges of managing fearfulness or aggression can be daunting for any pet owner.

These behavioral problems not only affect the bond between pet and owner but can also result in the pet being surrendered to shelters.

Responsible breeders invest time and effort into socializing their animals, laying the foundation for confident, well-behaved companions.

Broader Impact on Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations

The ripple effect of backyard breeding reaches animal shelters and rescue organizations as well.

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Understanding the impact of backyard breeding underscores the importance of making informed choices when it comes to bringing a new pet into your home.

By supporting good breeders and adopting from reputable shelters, we can collectively promote better healthier, happier lives for all pets!

Why Do Backyard Breeders Exist?

Responsible pet ownership means learning why backyard breeders exist in the first place. Certain motivations and societal factors are at play:

Economic Motivations

One of the primary reasons is economic.

Unlike reputable breeders who invest significant resources into health testing, proper care, and ethical breeding practices, backyard breeders often see breeding as a quick way to make extra money.

The lure of easy profit can be tempting, especially when there’s a market for “cute” pets that can be sold quickly.

These economic motivations can lead people to cut corners, neglecting the necessary health screenings and proper care that good breeders prioritize.

The result? A cycle where animals are bred solely for financial gain, with little regard for their well-being or the long-term health of the breed.

Lack of Knowledge or Education About Responsible Breeding

Another significant factor is the lack of knowledge or education about responsible breeding practices.

Many backyard breeders simply don’t understand the complexities involved in breeding healthy, well-adjusted animals.

They might not be aware of the genetic issues that can arise or the importance of early socialization.

This gap in knowledge can lead to unintentional harm to the animals they breed.

Imagine a back yard breeder who loves their pets but doesn’t know about the necessary health tests or proper socialization techniques.

Without this knowledge, they might inadvertently produce litters with serious health or behavioral problems, contributing to the broader issues we’ve discussed.

Education and awareness are key to transforming these breeders into responsible pet owners who focus on the well-being of their animals.

The Role of Demand for "Cheap" Pets

The demand for "cheap" pets plays a crucial role in perpetuating backyard breeding.

Many prospective pet owners are drawn to lower prices, often unaware of the long-term costs associated with poorly bred animals.

Pet stores and online marketplaces can make it easy to buy a pet without considering the breeder’s practices or the animal’s background. 

Many folks are unaware of how much money it costs a professional breeder to produce healthy puppies or kittens, as well as to provide proper care for them, for their adult breeding pets, and to take part in the screening necessary to avoid genetic health issues.

This demand for low cost purebred pets creates a market where irresponsible breeders can thrive, offering pets at lower prices without the investment in proper care and health testing.

While it might seem like a bargain, the reality is that the costs can be much higher in the long run, both financially and emotionally.

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By understanding the motivations behind backyard breeding, we can take steps to address these issues and promote better practices.

Supporting reputable breeders and rescue organizations, educating prospective pet owners about the true costs of "cheap" pets, and advocating for responsible breeding practices are all ways we can make a positive impact.

When we choose to bring a pet into our home, we're making a commitment to provide love and care for a lifetime.

By making informed decisions and supporting good homes for our furry friends, we can help ensure that every pet has the chance to live a healthy, happy life. 

How to Identify and Avoid Backyard Breeders

Spotting the red flags that signal a backyard breeder can save you from heartache and ensure you bring home a healthy, happy pet.

Lack of Documentation and Health Records

One of the biggest red flags is a breeder who cannot provide proper documentation and health records for their animals.

Reputable breeders prioritize the health and genetic screening of their pets, offering detailed records of vaccinations, health checks, and genetic tests.

If a breeder is unable or unwilling to provide this essential paperwork, it’s a sign that they may not be taking the necessary steps to ensure the well-being of their animals.

Always insist on a comprehensive health guarantee and documentation to safeguard your future pet’s health.

Reluctance to Let You Visit Their Breeding Facilities

Overly Aggressive Sales Tactics or Unwillingness to Answer Questions

Another red flag is a breeder who employs high-pressure sales tactics or is unwilling to answer your questions thoroughly.

Reputable breeders want to ensure their animals go to good homes and will take the time to answer all your questions, no matter how many you have.

They'll be more interested in finding the right match for their animals rather than making a quick sale.

If a breeder seems aggressive in pushing you to make a purchase or avoids answering questions about their breeding practices, health guarantees, or the animal’s background, it's a clear sign of little experience and questionable motives.

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By staying alert to these red flags, you can make an informed decision and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and happiness of their animals.

Together, let’s champion responsible pet ownership and ensure every furry friend finds a loving, well-prepared home!

Questions to Ask Potential Breeders

Finding the perfect new kitten or puppy is an exciting adventure, and asking the right questions is key to ensuring you choose a reputable breeder.

By being thorough and informed, you can feel confident that your new pet will come from a healthy, ethical environment.

Your ethical, responsible breeder will be happy to answer these questions. It shows that you are informed, responsible and ready to provide the best home possible! 

Here are essential questions to ask potential breeders to guide you on this journey!

Inquiries About Health Testing and Veterinary Care

First and foremost, inquire about the health testing and veterinary care provided to the animals.

Ask the breeder about the specific health tests they perform to screen for genetic disorders common to the breed.

A reputable seller should be able to provide detailed information and documentation on the health screenings their breeding animals undergo.

Additionally, ask about the veterinary care the animals receive, including vaccinations, deworming, and routine check-ups.

Ensuring that the breeder prioritizes comprehensive veterinary care is crucial for the long-term health of your future pet.

Questions About the Breeder's Experience and Involvement in Breed Clubs

Understanding the breeder's experience and involvement in breed clubs can give you insight into their dedication and expertise.

Ask how long they have been breeding and what led them to start their breeding program.

Inquire about their membership in breed clubs or associations, which often have strict standards and guidelines for ethical breeding practices.

A breeder who is actively involved in breed clubs is likely committed to maintaining the breed standard and continuously improving their breeding practices. 

Requests for References from Previous Buyers

Another crucial step is to request references from previous buyers. Speaking with others who have purchased pets from the breeder can provide valuable insights into their experiences and the quality of the animals.

Verifying Breeder Credentials

Choosing a responsible and ethical breeder is essential, as we can see. Verifying their credentials is a critical step in this process.

Let’s explore how to confidently assess a breeder’s legitimacy and commitment to their animals!

Checking for Memberships in Recognized Breed Clubs

A hallmark of a reputable breeder is their membership in recognized breed clubs or associations.

These organizations often have strict standards and ethical guidelines members must follow, ensuring high-quality breeding practices.

Ask the breeder if they are a member of any breed clubs and verify this information with the club directly.

Membership in such clubs indicates that the breeder is dedicated to maintaining the breed standard and is committed to the welfare of their breeding stock and companion animals.

This commitment often translates into healthier, well-adjusted pets for their new home.

For purebred kittens such as Maine Coons, this refers to the organizations CFA (Cat Fanciers Association), TICA (The International Cat Association), and sometimes also MCBFA (Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association).

Their registration in these associations means they have a network of support and resources that contribute to the health and well-being of their animals.

It also means that they have committed to the responsible breeding practices set forth by these associations. This is what is meant when you encounter the term "registered breeder."

But, you must take care to note that scammers and dishonest people can lie about membership, or even provide fake proof of membership.

It's important that you visit the website of, or call the association to confirm your potential breeder is indeed a member in good standing.

Researching the Breeder’s Reputation Online and Through Word-of-Mouth

In today's digital age, researching a breeder's reputation online is easier than ever.

Look for reviews and testimonials from previous buyers on various platforms, such as social media, breeder directories, and forums dedicated to pet enthusiasts.

Pay attention to the experiences of others about the health, temperament, and satisfaction with their pets.

Additionally, word-of-mouth recommendations can be invaluable. Ask friends, family, or your veterinarian if they have heard of the breeder and what their impressions are.

A breeder with a stellar reputation is more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-cared-for pet.

Visiting the Breeding Facility in Person if Possible

One of the most effective ways to verify a breeder's credentials is by visiting their breeding facility in person.

This visit allows you to see firsthand the environment in which the animals are raised. Observe the cleanliness, space, and conditions of the facility.

A reputable breeder will welcome your visit and proudly show you around, demonstrating transparency and commitment to their animals’ welfare.

You'll also have the opportunity to meet the breeding stock, which should be healthy, well-socialized, and reflective of the breed standard.

This visit provides crucial insights into how your potential new companion animal has been cared for from the start.

By taking these steps to verify breeder credentials, you ensure that your new home will be graced by a pet from a loving, responsible background.

The Role of Rescue Organizations

Rescue organizations play a vital role in the landscape of responsible pet ownership.

These dedicated groups work tirelessly to provide loving homes for animals in need and combat the negative impacts of backyard breeding.

For folks who find the higher prices of registered breeder to be prohibitive, this is a great option!

Adopting from Shelters and Rescues

Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization offers many benefits.

These groups are filled with animals waiting for their forever homes, many of whom have been rescued from dire situations.

By adopting, you're giving a second chance to a deserving animal and opening up space for more rescues.

Shelters and rescues often provide thorough medical care, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering before adoption, ensuring your new companion is healthy and ready for their new home.

The Work of Breed-Specific Rescues

Breed-specific rescues focus on particular breeds, providing specialized care and rehoming services.

These organizations deeply understand the breed's unique needs and characteristics, making them excellent resources for potential pet owners.

Whether you're looking for a Maine Coon cat or a Golden Retriever, breed-specific rescues can match you with the perfect companion while ensuring that the animals receive the specialized care they need.

Combating the Issues Caused by Backyard Breeders

Rescue organizations often find themselves on the front lines, dealing with the fallout from backyard breeders.

Animals from these environments often arrive with health or behavioral issues that need extra care and attention.

Rescues work to rehabilitate these pets, providing medical treatment and socialization to prepare them for adoption.

By supporting rescue organizations, we help mitigate the harm caused by irresponsible breeding practices and contribute to a more compassionate community.

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So what ever happened with that litter of puppies? As I passed by on my ride home, the yard and pen were full of people and puppies.

I would imagine they all found homes. As cute as they were, I know that when I'm ready for a puppy or for more Maine Coon kittens, I will be reaching out to a local, ethical, experienced and registered Maine Coon cat breeder!

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