About the HBA

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Promoting ethical breeding and responsible ownership of healthy dogs

Our Mission

"To promote responsible breeding of hybrid dogs, exercising the highest standards of animal welfare and raise public awareness of the basic precautions that should be taken when buying a puppy."

Health, Husbandry and Welfare

The HBA is not concerned with "breed standards" but with the breeder's understanding of the health, husbandry and welfare of the dogs they breed.

All HBA Breeders work to a clear Code of Ethics, based on the Five Freedoms.

The HBA aims to raise the standards of breeding for hybrid dogs by offering membership only to those breeders who adhere to our high standards.

Who is the HBA?

The HBA was founded by Jules Hamilton. Having set up Lindens Puppies, raised hybrid dogs and listened to the stories of those trying to find a hybrid puppy from a quality breeder, Jules felt passionately about the importance of such an association.

HBA membership helps to ensure that breeders have reached our exacting standards, and through Planned Pethood provides reassurance, help, guidance and support to the buying public.

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Why is the HBA necessary?

Currently, there are no organisations dedicated to helping regulate hybrid dog breeding in the UK, and as a growing area of the dog breeding sector, we believe it’s vitally important to help promote best practice and offer support to breeders, while providing important information to people looking to home a hybrid dog.

The Five Freedoms

The Five Freedoms outline five areas of dog welfare over which we - as owners and breeders - have control. Developed in response to a UK Government report on livestock husbandry in 1965, the Five Freedoms have been adopted by professional groups such as Veterinarians, the RSPCA, the World Organisation for Animal Health and now, the Hybrid Breeders Association (HBA).

Freedom from hunger or thirst - by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.

2
Freedom from discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.

3
Freedom from pain, injury or disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.

4
Freedom to express (most) normal behaviour - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind.

5
Freedom from fear and distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.