Chovatel

Chovatel is a term used to describe a person who raises and maintains animals for breeding, production, or care. In Czech, the noun chovatel denotes someone who practices animal husbandry, often specializing in a particular species such as dogs, cats, horses, cattle, poultry, or fish. The word derives from the Czech verb chovat, meaning to raise, keep, or cultivate.

Chovatel activities include selecting breeding stock, planning matings, and maintaining records of lineage and health. They ensure appropriate nutrition, housing, and veterinary care, and comply with welfare standards. Professional chovatelé may operate kennels, stables, farms, or dedicated breeding facilities, and they often participate in breed clubs and registries that define breed standards and pedigrees. Hobbyists can also be chovatelé, though on a smaller scale and with different obligations.

Ethics and welfare are central concerns in chovatel practice. Responsible breeding aims to improve health and temperament while reducing inherited diseases. This often involves genetic testing, careful consideration of inbreeding, proper socialization of animals, and humane housing and care. Unethical breeding, such as in puppy mills or the promotion of unhealthy lines, has led to regulatory scrutiny and welfare concerns in many jurisdictions.

Regulation and professional standards vary by country. Breeders may be subject to animal-welfare laws, veterinary oversight, and registrations with breed registries or national authorities. For animals sold or shown publicly, requirements such as pedigrees, microchips, and health certificates may apply. The term chovatel can also appear as a surname in Czech and Slovak contexts.