A Dachshund from 1906 and today: showing clearly how breeding has altered its physique.

UK RSPCA Chief Veterinary Advisor, Mark Evans summarised the problem: “The welfare and quality of life of many pedigree dogs is seriously compromised by established breeding practices for appearance, driven primarily by the rules and requirements of competitive dog showing and pedigree dog registration.”

Animals Asia has compiled a comprehensive report on the problems associated with the breeding and promotion of purebred dogs, including the significant health and welfare problems in many breeds. Included in the report are findings from independent studies from several animal-focused organisations and groups:

• The RSPCA (UK) commissioned an independent scientific report on pedigree dog breeding in the UK in 2008.
• The Bateson Report (UK) is an independent inquiry into dog breeding by Professor Bateson, University of Cambridge (2009).
• The Multilateral Consultation of Parties to the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals, (Council of Europe 1995) has also identified a number of anatomical features in dogs which can lead to welfare problems.
• The Kennel Club (UK) completed a review in 2009 for each of the 209 UK registered pedigree dog breeds and announced revised standards to benefit their health and welfare. This was in response to media exposure of the wide-ranging health issues and subsequent welfare implications which affect many dog breeds.

The report highlights and supports the extensive recommendations made by the Bateson Inquiry and the RSPCA report and provides recommendations for Kennels Clubs, breeders and breed societies globally.

Ultimately if the public stopped buying breeds that have hereditary disorders or anatomical features that adversely affect their health and welfare, irresponsible breeders would stop breeding these animals and these lines would potentially die out.

Read or download a copy of the full report here.