Retiring & Rehoming – Behavioral Considerations

Behavioral and health considerations along with environmental aspects all impact the success of the rehoming process.

Dogs are retired from breeding for many reasons. They include genetic, physical or behavioral health, and dogs that have aged out of a breeding program. Successful rehoming practices must consider health, behavior, and environmental aspects. Preparation for successful rehoming after retirement begins early, with proper puppy socialization and early exposure that mirrors typical life in the kennel as well as a pet home. It is maintained throughout a dog’s breeding career with good behavioral and physical wellness care.

Whether a breeder chooses to keep a retired dog in the kennel or rehome them, the ethical obligation to ensure dog well-being at the end of their reproductive careers must be met. Breeders should identify clear criteria, including both physical and behavioral health components, to evaluate whether a dog can be successfully rehomed. This should include interventions for dogs that may have developed minor or major problems. Identifying humane endpoints is also key in the protection of dog welfare. Neutering retired dogs removes the possibility of future intentional or unintentional breeding. 

Rehoming decisions should be made with the long-term best interest of the dog in mind.  It is critical to ensure that a rehomed dog’s welfare needs can be continuously met throughout the process and in a new home. Sharing dog health and behavioral records, along with supportive educational materials, sets new families up for success.   Provisions should be made that support families by welcoming dogs back to the kennel or finding another appropriate home when the need arises.

See Also:  Retiring and Rehoming in Environment and Health

 

 

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Retiring & Rehoming – Behavioral Considerations Learning Library

Resources focused for the welfare needs of dogs living in breeding kennels, large or small scale.

SNACKS – BOOKS, VIDEOS, WEBSITES (IF YOU HAVE 10 MINUTES MORE)

KIBBLE – Extension Papers (IF YOU HAVE 20 MINUTES)

 Additional Resources to Support Dogs in Other Environments

SHELTER & RESCUE

Dogs living in shelter or rescue kennels face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers, including those caring for dogs in home-based foster systems or rescue networks, are provided to support efforts to improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.

 

PET FAMILIES

Dogs living in homes as family pets face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers, support the human-animal bond, keep pets in their homes, and improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.

 

Research & Teaching

Dogs living in research or teaching kennels face challenges specific to their living environments. Practical applications for their management and care may also differ. Additional resources for their caretakers are provided to support efforts to improve, maintain, and protect their welfare.