Have you ever wondered what the term BYB means when used in relation to dogs? It refers to “back yard breeder”, which is a term (usually considered derogatory) used in USA to describe people who breed animals without selection for important genetic traits. It usually refers to people who allow animals, particularly dogs, cats and horses, to procreate regardless of physical or genetic health as opposed to breeders who intentionally screen and select their animals for important characteristics.
Selective breeding in domesticated animals is the process of a breeder developing a cultivated breed over time, and selecting qualities within individuals of the breed that will be best to pass on to the next generation. The term is synonymous with “artificial selection”.
Breeding techniques such as inbreeding, linebreeding and outcrossing are utilized by breeders in the maintenance and improvement of their chosen breeds. Charles Darwin discussed how selective breeding had been successful in producing change over time in his book, The Origin of Species. The first chapter of the book discusses selective breeding and domestication of such animals as pigeons, dogs and cattle. Selective breeding was used by Darwin as a springboard to introduce the theory of natural selection, and to support it. “Breeding stock” is a term used to describe a group of animals used for purpose of planned breeding.