GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG RECLASSIFIED FROM CATEGORY THREE TO CATEGORY TWO ON KENNEL CLUB BREED WATCH
On 20 June 2025, The Kennel Club and German Shepherd Dog Breed Council agreed to reclassify the German Shepherd Dog from Breed Watch Category Three to Category Two, effective 1 September.
Breed Watch serves as an 'early warning system' to identify points of concern for the health of individual breeds, and to monitor and address visible health issues effectively. The reclassification is a result of a year-long, collaborative and comprehensive review of data between The Kennel Club and the German Shepherd Dog Breed Council, reflecting a shared commitment to the breed's welfare and future.
It follows a recommendation from The Kennel Club Dog Health Group, which is made up of independent vets, dog experts, canine researchers and welfare organisations, and means that German Shepherd Dog best of breed winners, or those winning their third challenge certificate, will no longer require a veterinary health check at championship dog shows.
The health of the breed will continue to be monitored by The Kennel Club in collaboration with the breed, as part of the breed health plan. Dog show judges will also continue to submit mandatory health monitoring forms after each championship appointment.
The reclassification will be reviewed in twelve months’ time and progress of the breed with its broader action plan around judging, handling and education will be continually monitored by The Kennel Club.
Helen Kerfoot, Chief Canine Officer at The Kennel Club, commented: “This is an evolution to a broader, more comprehensive approach to address concerns relating to judging and handling of German Shepherd Dogs and to improve breed health both inside and outside of the show ring.
“The evidenced health challenges in German Shepherd Dogs, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, can’t be assessed by dog show judges and are supported by our KC/BVA canine health schemes for hip and elbow screening, with good uptake from the breed community.
“The Kennel Club and German Shepherd Dog breed representatives are committed to working together to develop a comprehensive plan to improve judges' and exhibitors' education, as well as the health of the breed in and outside of the show ring. We are also reviewing ring procedures, handling measures and guidelines and ensuring these are consistent across all breeds, to ensure responsible dog showing and welfare standards.”
The decision to reclassify the German Shepherd Dog was made by The Kennel Club Board following a recommendation from The Kennel Club Dog Health Group, which has been reviewing and discussing the health initiatives with breed representatives.
Andrew Winfrow of the German Shepherd Breed Council, and Breed Health Coordinator, Chris Hazell, commented: "The Kennel Club’s recent decision to reclassify the German Shepherd Dog’s status is the result of collaborative effort between The Kennel Club, breed experts, veterinarians, and responsible breeders. This change recognises positive advancements in the breed’s health, movement, and overall well-being. It also acknowledges the persistent work of the German Shepherd Dog Breed Council, whose members have worked tirelessly to address concerns, implement best practices, and advocate for responsible stewardship. The reclassification is seen by many as a testament to the breed’s progress and a beacon for continued improvement."
This classification means that nine breeds remain on The Kennel Club’s list of Category Three breeds: Basset Hound, Bulldog, Dogue de Bordeaux, French Bulldog, Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Pug and St Bernard. More information about Breed Watch can be found at thekennelclub.org.uk/breedwatch.
Further details have been communicated to the relevant General and Group Championship dog shows, as well as the German Shepherd Breed Council and breed clubs, and can be requested from breedshows@thekennelclub.org.uk or health@thekennelclub.org.uk.