Dolphins in captive display facilities face unique welfare challenges arising from their complex social lives, vast natural ranges, and high cognitive capacity — making the ethics of dolphin captivity one of the most debated issues in animal welfare.
The welfare case against captive dolphin display rests on the mismatch between the cognitive and social complexity of dolphins and what captivity can provide. Reputable sanctuaries are developing coastal sea pens as higher-welfare alternatives to pool-based display. The trend in progressive jurisdictions is toward phasing out captive breeding for entertainment, while allowing care of non-releasable individuals in enriched sanctuary settings.