The term describes individuals who breed animals, typically dogs or cats, often without prioritizing the health, genetic soundness, or temperament of the animals. Such breeders generally operate on a small scale, often from their residences, and lack the expertise, resources, and commitment to ethical breeding practices that characterize responsible breeders. For example, a person who allows their unspayed female dog to have multiple litters, selling the puppies without providing proper vaccinations, health screenings, or socialization, could be considered one of these.
This practice is detrimental to animal welfare, contributing to overpopulation in shelters and the propagation of hereditary diseases. Historically, the rise of such breeders has been linked to increased demand for specific breeds and the profitability of quickly producing and selling offspring. The proliferation of these breeders often leads to increased costs for pet owners in the long run, due to higher veterinary bills associated with inherited health problems, and strains animal shelters and rescue organizations.
