The human-canine relationship is a unique and constantly evolving dynamic in our world. With advancements in scientific knowledge and the implementation of specific welfare standards for animal trading, it is crucial that these standards are also upheld in the canine industry. The recent introduction of the Animal Activities Licenses in 2018 has resulted in industries being rated based on their professionalism, welfare standards, and hygiene, yet the canine industry has been largely overlooked. As a result, the consequences for both dogs and people have been devastating, with dog attacks and bites on the rise due to poor training practices and an increase in poorly bred animals with behavioural issues. Like humans, animals undergo complex developmental processes that shape their ability to cope with stress and affect their behavioural responses. However, education on these matters for canines is lacking, and there are no established standards to prevent low-quality information and poor practices from becoming popular myths. It is, therefore, imperative that the canine industry catch up with other animal industries and prioritise the implementation of welfare standards to ensure the well-being of dogs, as these issues directly affect human health.

The early stages of a puppy's life are crucial for their development and future behaviour. During this time, puppies are very impressionable and are constantly learning from their surroundings and experiences. A puppy's upbringing can significantly impact its physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When poor practices are weaved into society, causing misinformation, this can interrupt and harm a puppy's upbringing. Breeders are responsible for ensuring their puppies are brought up in a stress-free environment while also providing opportunities for encountering new sensory challenges that help them develop strength and resilience and reduce fearful behaviour. New owners need to continue this up until way past adulthood, yet they are often bombarded with information that can damage a dog for the rest of its life. The attitudes suggested by low-quality sources create poorer relationship qualities and conflict at the most crucial point in time. Relationship breakdowns coincide with puberty and are one reason why the majority of relinquishments are dogs under three years old.

Genetics play a vital role in determining a puppy's physical and behavioural traits. These traits are passed down from the puppy's parents and ancestors. Hence, it is essential to consider the health and temperament of a puppy's lineage when choosing a puppy. However, beyond physical traits, research suggests that trauma can also be passed down to future generations. Transgenerational trauma is a phenomenon where trauma experienced by one generation can be passed down to future generations through epigenetic changes. These changes can affect gene expression, leading to behavioural and physiological changes in the offspring. This means that a traumatic experience that a dog's ancestor went through may affect a future puppy's behaviour and health. As we see an increase in poor behaviour in dogs, this effect may be compounding for decades. The way we choose to behave and treat animals can have a profound impact on many generations ahead. Poor practices can indirectly affect puppy resilience and welfare, leading to long-term negative consequences. Therefore, it's important to protect canine welfare and treat them with care and respect. By doing so, we can improve the lives of future puppies and dogs by preventing the compounding effects of transgenerational trauma and promoting positive behaviour and health to reduce the risks to people.

To protect the welfare of UK’s dogs and reduce further harm to people and children, we need change, fast.

To begin with, it is imperative that the national curriculum incorporates modules on animal handling skills, canine body language, and handling techniques. These modules should be created by a group of qualified modern behaviourists to ensure that children receive the most up-to-date information and learn crucial safety measures. Educating children from a young age can instil a better understanding of dogs and promote responsible pet ownership. Additionally, it is recommended that information on best practices for animal and canine handling is aired on television programs. This will help spread awareness and educate people on how to handle animals properly. Programs that do not meet the standards of good care should be removed and banned from airing, as they can perpetuate low-quality and dangerous practices. 

The second recommendation is to establish regulations for all canine care and handling aspects. These regulations should require a minimum entry qualification for various categories of industry professionals. For instance, dog walkers must hold qualifications in welfare, handling, first aid, and canine body language. Behaviourists must be recognised as a protected profession, with degree-level or higher qualifications, while trainers can easily be integrated into the Animal Activities Licensing scheme. Groomers must complete a certification program that trains them on body language and behaviour, as close quarters and invasive procedures increase risks. Kennels and borders are already under the Animal Activities Licensing scheme, but further improvement is necessary. In addition, breeders of animals through artificial insemination should be regulated to close the loophole in poor breeding practices. Unscrupulous breeding practices contribute to the problematic upbringing of puppies and adults, illegal cropping of ears, and many recent maulings and deaths. The mishandling of care within the dog's upbringing through poor breeding practices is a contributing factor to poor behaviour and outcomes.

Please sign the petition to raise public awareness and ask the government to bring progressive changes in canine welfare.