Low Numbers of Purebred Dogs in American Shelters

The National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) conducted a study to examine the types of dogs present in American animal shelters. One goal of the study was to estimate the size of the purebred dog population in shelters. Previous estimates put purebred numbers at approximately 25% of the shelter population. First-hand observers feel that this percentage is too high.

NAIA wrote, “Establishing more accurate information would benefit policy makers who rely on such data when drafting legislation; consumers who consider it when choosing a family dog; and society at large, which forms opinions and attitudes about dogs, based on their perception of such issues.” The 25% estimate is seen as causing an unnecessary stigma that purebreds are a large problem for pet population control. It also leads consumers to believe that purebred dogs are readily available at most shelters.1

Previously, breed designation has relied on owner statements or shelter staff. Shelter staff are not typically dog breed experts, nor are owners surrendering their dog. NAIA found that Collie-like dogs are labeled as Collies, chunky black dogs are labeled as Labrador Retrievers, and stocky short-coated dogs are labeled as Pit Bulls. According to NAIA, the previous studies that put purebreds at 25% of the shelter dog population in the 1990’s used the number of purebreds that entered shelters. They did not examine the percentage of dogs that were available to the public for adoption. It is important to make this distinction because purebreds are reclaimed by the owners more often than mixed breeds.1

The NAIA’s Shelter Project Study found that purebreds make up approximately 5% of the American shelter population. NAIA wrote, “It is interesting to observe that the number of purebreds in shelters would be 3.3% were it not for two breeds that are overrepresented, Chihuahuas and dogs described as Pit Bulls. Together, these two breeds account for 35% of all purebreds listed by shelters in this study. What is not well known is that Chihuahuas are the single most numerous purebred found in shelters today. Because Chihuahuas are small, attractive to adopters and highly adoptable, their numbers are especially high in shelters that import dogs for adoption.“ 1

Director of Government Relations for the American Kennel Club, Sheila Goffe said, "The NAIA study results are very encouraging. It is the most extensive survey on this subject to date and it shows that dogs identified as purebreds are rare in American shelters today, an outcome that responsible breeders, rescuers and AKC have worked decades to achieve. We are gratified that AKC programs were able to contribute to this result and we are committed to continuing these programs to further reduce the need for shelters and rescues – not just for purebreds, but for all dogs." 2