The Balihara Ranch breeding facility has long been under public scrutiny due to its practices and the living conditions of its dogs. Although the owner of Balihara Ranch Kennel officially presents herself as a professional and ethical breeder, the reality of life for the dogs at this facility is deeply concerning.
This article provides a detailed comparison of minimum legal requirements, ideal conditions, and the actual situation at Balihara Ranch.
Minimum Legal Requirements for Breeding Facilities
Slovak law establishes specific regulations that govern dog breeding and set minimum standards that breeding facilities must comply with:
- Adequate space – Dogs must have a minimum area for movement (often just 15 m² for multiple dogs, as per legal regulations).
- Basic welfare needs – Breeders must ensure constant access to fresh water, proper nutrition, and veterinary care.
- Hygiene and sanitation – Facilities must maintain cleanliness to prevent the spread of disease.
- Social interaction – Dogs must be provided with at least minimal social contact with humans and other animals.
However, these legal requirements represent only the bare minimum and do not ensure a fulfilling or healthy life for dogs. For sensitive breeds such as Swiss Mountain Dogs, much higher standards are necessary.
As Immanuel Kant once said:
“You can judge a man’s heart by his treatment of animals.”
This statement perfectly captures the essence of responsible breeding—the quality of a dog’s life reflects the moral values of its owner.
Ideal Conditions for Ethical and Healthy Breeding
Responsible breeders adhere to much higher standards that prioritize the well-being of the animals. These include:
- Sufficient space – Each dog should have ample room for movement and natural activity.
- Daily exercise and socialization – Dogs need regular outdoor time and interaction with both humans and other dogs.
- High hygiene and veterinary care standards – A clean, well-maintained environment reduces the risk of illness.
- Individual attention and mental well-being – Every dog should receive proper training, socialization, and a sense of security.
These standards ensure that dogs are physically and mentally healthy, living a high-quality life rather than simply being used for breeding.
The Reality at Balihara Ranch: Disturbing Findings
Despite its claims of high-quality breeding, the actual conditions at Balihara Ranch kennel reveal a starkly different reality. Some of the most concerning findings include:
Massive Scale of Breeding Operations
Over the past 25 years, Balihara Ranch has bred more than 2,500 Swiss Mountain Dog puppies, not including other breeds such as Norfolk Terriers. At times, the facility has housed over 65 adult dogs at once, raising serious concerns about the level of care and individual attention each dog receives.
Extreme overbreeding of female dogs
Breeding females at Balihara Ranch are subjected to excessive reproduction cycles, leading to severe physical and psychological exhaustion.
For instance, a single female, “VOULEZ VOUS from Balihara Ranch,” gave birth to 64 puppies across 8 litters in just 5.5 years.
Premature breeding
Dogs are bred before reaching the appropriate age, which can have serious health consequences.
Overcrowded conditions
Dogs are frequently confined in cramped enclosures of just 15 m², housing multiple animals in a single space. This severely restricts movement and leads to significant stress.
Lack of proper puppy socialization
Puppies are separated too early and kept in isolation until sold, which can negatively impact their behavior and development.
These findings strongly indicate that the conditions at Balihara Ranch do not meet ethical standards.
Conclusion: Breeding Should Not Be Just a Business
Dogs are not factory products. Every breeder has a moral responsibility to ensure their animals live with dignity and care.
The Balihara Ranch case exemplifies how weak regulations enable unethical practices, leading to widespread animal suffering.
Not everything that is legal is morally right. Dog breeding should never be just about mass production of puppies—it should be about their health, well-being, and quality of life.
It is up to us to support ethical breeders who prioritize animal welfare over profit.