Dog overpopulation isn’t just an issue of abandoned pets—it’s a reflection of deeper societal challenges, from unregulated breeding to shifting attitudes toward pet ownership. South Korea, like many other countries, is grappling with an increasing number of stray and abandoned dogs, overwhelmed shelters, and a pet industry that often prioritizes profit over animal welfare. But solutions do exist. By looking at how other countries have tackled this crisis, South Korea can develop more effective policies and foster a culture of responsible pet ownership.
Why Is Dog Overpopulation a Problem?
It might seem like a problem that only affects shelters or stray animals, but dog overpopulation has far-reaching consequences. Overcrowded shelters struggle to care for abandoned animals, leading to high euthanasia rates. Irresponsible breeding practices not only result in an excess number of dogs but also contribute to genetic health problems due to poor breeding standards. And, of course, many dogs end up neglected, abandoned, or worse, euthanized simply because they weren’t sold in a pet shop.
What’s Fueling the Problem?
1. Unchecked Breeding Practices
In South Korea, dog breeding operates with very little regulation. While breeders must meet certain facility standards to obtain a license, there are no limits on how many dogs they can breed. This means that large-scale breeding facilities—often referred to as puppy mills—can flood the market with more dogs than there are homes to take them in. And because enforcement is weak, many illegal breeders operate without oversight, making the situation even worse.
2. The Business of Pet Shops and Puppy Mills
The commercial pet industry is designed to prioritize sales over the well-being of animals. Puppies are often taken from their mothers too early, placed in shop windows, and marketed as impulse purchases. If they aren’t sold quickly, many are either abandoned or euthanized. A shocking case in Yangpyeong County—where over 1,200 animal carcasses were discovered at an unlicensed facility—revealed the dark reality of this system.
3. Changing Attitudes Toward Pet Ownership
For many people, buying a pet is an emotional decision rather than a well-thought-out commitment. Some purchase puppies on impulse, not realizing that a dog requires long-term care, time, and financial resources. When circumstances change, many of these pets are abandoned or given up to already overcrowded shelters. The concept of adoption as a responsible alternative to buying a pet is still not widespread in South Korea, further worsening the issue.
How Other Countries Are Managing Dog Overpopulation
Some countries have taken proactive steps to control dog populations and promote responsible pet ownership. Here’s what’s working elsewhere:
1. Stricter Breeding Laws
- United States: Some states, such as Oregon, limit breeders to owning no more than 50 adult dogs capable of reproduction. California’s Bella’s Act prohibits retail pet stores from selling dogs unless they come from shelters or rescue organizations.
- United Kingdom: Lucy’s Law bans the sale of puppies and kittens under six months old through third-party sellers, ensuring that buyers adopt directly from reputable breeders or shelters.
2. Rethinking Euthanasia Policies
- Germany: Shelters are publicly funded, and euthanasia is only allowed for terminally ill animals, ensuring that healthy, adoptable dogs are given the best chance at finding homes.
- South Korea: Currently, many municipal shelters resort to euthanasia after a 10-day holding period due to space constraints, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
3. Promoting Adoption Over Buying
- The Netherlands: Through mandatory sterilization, microchipping, and extensive public education campaigns, the country has effectively eliminated its stray dog population.
What South Korea Can Do Next
1. Tighten Regulations on Dog Breeding
Adopting stricter breeding laws, similar to those in the U.S. and U.K., could help curb overproduction:
✅ Set limits on the number of breeding animals per facility.
✅ Require stricter licensing processes and regular inspections.
✅ Impose severe penalties for illegal breeding operations.
2. Improve Shelter Systems
Rather than relying on euthanasia to manage shelter populations, a better approach would be:
✅ Expanding shelter capacity to accommodate more animals.
✅ Providing better training for shelter staff to improve adoption rates.
✅ Running nationwide adoption awareness campaigns.
3. Educate the Public on Responsible Pet Ownership
Changing mindsets is just as important as changing policies. Public education initiatives can:
✅ Encourage adoption over purchasing from pet shops.
✅ Teach responsible pet care through school programs and community workshops.
✅ Promote sterilization and microchipping as standard practices for pet owners.
Final Thoughts: A Better Future for Pets and People
Dog overpopulation isn’t just about stray animals—it’s about how we, as a society, value and care for our pets. By enforcing better breeding regulations, reforming shelter systems, and fostering a culture of responsible pet ownership, South Korea can take meaningful steps toward solving this crisis. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel—other countries have found solutions that work. Now, it’s time for South Korea to adapt and implement these strategies to create a more humane and sustainable future for both pets and people.
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