DogPed: Building an Ethical Marketplace for Pedigree Dogs in Romania

Research context and background

DogPed is a digital platform designed to connect families in Romania with verified kennels that breed pedigree dogs. It was created by two Shiba Inu owners who struggled to find transparent information when searching for their own puppies. The founders faced issues like stolen photos, vague claims about parentage, and a lack of health testing details in standard classified ads. DogPed solves this by making transparency non-optional. The platform handles the hard work of verifying breeders, checking bloodlines, and reviewing health tests so buyers do not need to be canine experts to make safe choices.

Benefits

DogPed offers several key advantages that foster trust and safety in the dog buying process. First, it provides verified breeder profiles. No breeder can list their kennel until the DogPed team reviews their documents and proof of ownership. Once approved, they receive a public trust badge. Second, the platform ensures transparent listings. Breeders must share detailed photos, pedigree records, and health test results for the parents. This allows buyers to see the full origin and lineage of a puppy. Third, communication is streamlined. All questions and document requests happen in a single thread on the platform, removing the need to exchange phone numbers on risky classified sites. Finally, the platform supports scheduled video meetings. Buyers and breeders can meet via a private video room without downloading new software, which helps build confidence before a purchase.

Use Cases

DogPed is primarily used by families in Romania looking to adopt a pedigree dog. It serves as a safe alternative to traditional classified ads where information is often hidden. A typical user might be a first-time dog owner who wants a healthy puppy with known parents. They can browse verified kennels across the country, from Transylvania to Dobrogea. The platform is also useful for breeders who want to build their reputation on evidence rather than promises. By joining DogPed, breeders gain access to a community of serious buyers and can showcase their health testing and breeding standards. The tool is designed for anyone who values ethical breeding practices and wants to avoid puppy mills or volume breeders.

Pricing

Pricing details are not available in the provided information. The platform does not handle financial transactions for the puppies. Payments remain a direct arrangement between the buyer and the breeder.

Vibes

Public reception information is not available in the provided text. The platform is currently in its early stages, with an official launch scheduled for August 11, 2026. The founders have spent time presenting the idea to breeders and building a network of verified kennels before the public launch.

Additional Information

DogPed was founded in June 2025 by Marius Stegaru and Ovidiu Zisu. The project transitioned from a weekend hobby to a full-time endeavor by January 2026. The company is registered in Bucharest, Romania, but its operations are national. The team plans to expand to other Eastern European markets and eventually aim to create a single standard for pedigree and health testing across the entire European Union. The founders are both experienced Shiba Inu owners and breeders who personally understand the challenges of finding a responsible dog.