PUPWELFARE : Research on the well-being, behaviour and health conditions of puppies sold in Belgium

The aim of this project is to answer a number of research questions related to health, hygiene, behaviour and welfare, primarily of puppies sold in Belgium. Is there a link between the origin of puppies and the type/size of the breeder, on the one hand, and the health and behaviour of those animals and the satisfaction of the new owner after purchase, on the other? How does the Belgian legal framework for puppy breeders compare with that of neighbouring countries and countries which import puppies into Belgium? 3) What are the current procedures for breeders or breeders and traders with regard to health, hygiene, socialisation, environment-related learning and the welfare of the breeding bitches and puppies for which they are responsible? 4) What risk factors exist in the current housing and management conditions for bike-breeders and grower-traders of puppies and what is their relative impact on health, hygiene, socialisation, environment-related learning about the environment and welfare of puppies bred? 5) What scientific information is available to support breeders in monitoring the health, socialisation, environmental learning and welfare of their puppies and to complete the Belgian legislation?