Research has shows that the way that a dog looks is a very powerful factor in a puppy buyers’ decision to buy a dog, whether cross breed or pedigree. But sometimes the way that a dog looks can be detrimental to its health – for example if the dog has a nose that is too short to enable it to breathe properly or eyes that are obscured by folds of skin. The tendency to breed for extreme features in order to create a certain look is called exaggeration. Good breeders will always put health above looks and avoid exaggerations.

Breed standards for pedigree dogs
The Kennel Club sets Breed Standards, which are a description of the looks, temperament and characteristics of the UK’s 210 pedigree dogs. These Breed Standards have been revised in conjunction with the veterinary profession to ensure that health comes first and each explicitly states that breeders must ‘avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health, welfare or soundness’ of the breed.

High profile breeds
Some breeds have however developed in such an exaggerated way that it will take time to change them. This includes the Chow Chow and Neopolitan Mastiff, known for their sometimes excessive skin folds, which can be vulnerable to infection and the Bulldog known for its short muzzle that can affect its ability to breathe. There are 14 high profile breeds that the Kennel Club has identified, which are at risk of ill health because of their exaggerated features.

Dog shows
There is no law requiring breeders to breed dogs to look as the Kennel Club describes in its Breed Standards. But the Kennel Club can ensure that breeders who win at its dog shows are healthy and meet the Breed Standards. This is what judges are trained to look for. There are also vets at all Kennel Club dog shows who can remove any unhealthy looking dog from competition and who will now check the winners amongst the 14 high profile breeds for good health before their prizes are confirmed. It is hoped that in this way the show ring will reward and encourage the breeding of healthy dogs, by holding healthy dogs up as an example for others to follow.

Puppy buyers
Ultimately change will come from the grass roots upwards. If puppy buyers only refuse to buy dogs that have features that are so exaggerated that they cannot see, breathe and walk freely, then breeders will no longer breed these dogs.

Avoiding puppy farmers

What is puppy farming?
One of the biggest challenges facing the dog world, and the health and welfare of dog, is puppy farming. Puppy farmers breed dogs, often in large volumes, solely for profit and with no regard for their dogs’ health and welfare. Many people unknowingly buy a dog that has come from a puppy farm. These puppies are badly treated and often have behavioural and health problems, which can result in heartbreak for the family further down the line. The breeding bitches are used time and again and then simply abandoned when they are no longer of use. Sadly, this black market industry is thriving.

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