Overbreeding in dogs: what is it, why is it dangerous, and how can you recognize it?
When you are looking for a dog, you often hear that you should be careful about “overbreeding.” But what does that actually mean, and why is it dangerous? In this article, we explain what it is and what to look out for.
Others
Welfare
10 February '26 • 1 min reading time
Overbreeding means that dogs are repeatedly bred within a small group, such as within the same family line or breed. This is often done to preserve or enhance certain physical traits (such as a specific coat color or head shape) or characteristics (such as hunting instinct). However, when this happens too often, the dogs become increasingly closely related. As a result, the risk of health problems increases, because harmful genes occur more frequently and are passed on more easily.
What is inbreeding?
Inbreeding is essentially an extreme form of overbreeding: dogs that are very closely related, such as brother and sister or parent and offspring, are bred together. In the past, inbreeding was sometimes deliberately used to keep breeds “pure.” However, this often has serious consequences, such as hereditary diseases, a shorter lifespan, and fertility problems. Well-known examples include hip dysplasia in shepherd dogs or breathing problems in pugs due to their flat muzzles.
Inbreeding leads to disease and weakness
Overbreeding and inbreeding can result in weaker dogs with a higher risk of disease, more pain, and a lower quality of life. Fortunately, stricter regulations exist today, and many breeders are aware of the risks. They use genetic testing and breed dogs that are not closely related—or even dogs from different breeds—to produce healthier litters. Still, overbreeding continues to occur, especially in popular breeds or among so-called “puppy mill” breeders who are primarily focused on profit.
Avoid buying an overbred dog!
Research the breed you are considering so you know which hereditary problems may occur. Never buy a puppy without a pedigree or health checks. Ask the breeder for access to the parents’ pedigrees and check whether the parents are not too closely related. Also ask for the results of genetic tests. In addition, choose a breeder who is affiliated with a recognized breed organization, such as the Raad van Beheer in the Netherlands. A good breeder is open about health testing and will gladly introduce you to the puppy’s parents.