Complaint & Review Policy | Responsible Dog Breeders of Canada

Paw Privileges

Breeder Program – Complaint & Review Policy

Paw Privileges exists to champion responsible breeders and to maintain a program built on fairness, transparency, and accountability.


We take legitimate concerns seriously,  we do not engage in unsubstantiated accusations, personal grievances, or breeder bashing.

1. What Constitutes a Legitimate Complaint

We will review complaints that are specific, factual, and supported by documentation, relating to the following:

  • Overbreeding (frequency or volume inconsistent with breed standards or ethical practice)

  • Breeding dogs too young or too old

  • Breeding without required health testing for the breed (e.g. OFA/CHIC or equivalent)

  • Failure to provide breeder support when reasonably requested by an owner

  • Clear violations of a breeder’s own stated contract or code of ethics

Complaints must relate to current practices, not historical disagreements or third-party disputes.

2. What We Will Not Investigate or Entertain

We will not engage with complaints that are:

  • Based on opinion, hearsay, or personal animosity

  • Lacking names, dates, documentation, or first-hand involvement

  • Attempts to discredit breeders without evidence

  • Rooted in prior business, co-ownership, or personal fallouts

  • Social-media style accusations or emotional commentary\

 

Paw Privileges is not a forum for grievances, retaliation, or reputation damage.

3. Complaint Submission Requirements

All complaints must be submitted in writing and include:

  1. Full name and contact information of the complainant

  2. Relationship to the breeder (owner, co-owner, buyer, etc.)

  3. Specific allegation(s) tied to one or more items in Section 1

  4. Supporting documentation, such as:

    • Veterinary records

    • Health testing results or absence thereof

    • Contracts or written correspondence

    • Dates, litters, or dogs involved

Anonymous complaints or complaints without documentation will not be reviewed.

4. Review Process

  • Complaints that meet the criteria will be privately reviewed

  • The breeder will be given an opportunity to respond

  • Paw Privileges may request clarification or additional records

  • Outcomes may include:

    • No action

    • Monitoring

    • Required corrective steps

    • Suspension or removal from the program

We do not publicly disclose complaints, investigations, or outcomes.

5. Important Clarification

Paw Privileges does not certify, license, or replace kennel clubs, registries, or veterinary oversight.

Our program recognizes breeders based on current participation, transparency, and adherence to stated standards, not personal endorsements from third parties.