The Dark Side of Pedigree Dog Breeding

Petside Blog
|
Poll Archive
|
A-Z
- AAHA
- Beds
- Bones
- Books
- Bowls
- Carriers
- Cat Food
- Catnip
- Collars
- Crates
- Dog Food
- Grooming Tools
- Leashes
- Pet Food
- Pet Picture
- Pet Store
- Pharmacy
- Toys
- Treats

| Print | By Jo Singer | January 27, 2010 10:36 AM

If you asked any of my friends about where my passions lie in regard to animals, while this is certainly no "breaking news" regarding me, most would tell you cats and horses have completely captured my heart. I am able to spend hours talking about these two species with anyone willing to hang out and share my palpable adoration.

King Charles Spaniels Photo via Wikipedia
But many folks aren't aware that I hold the canines in high regard as well. I love to watch the National or Westminster Dog Shows on Television, with the magnificent competitors vying for "Best Dog" in show. I also get a kick out of watching the handlers and of course the judges, as they evaluate the different breeds within each Division.

And while I have had very limited experience living with dogs, I was blessed, years ago, to be able to "baby sit" an incredible black Great Dane named Sabina, with whom I was totally in love. The two of us were inseparable when I was caring for her. Unfortunately, Great Danes and many of the gigantic breeds are not blessed with longevity. My heart was broken when I learned of Sabina's passing at what I consider far too young; at the age of 8 years old.

So when I ran across an item titled "Pedigree Dogs Exposed" the other day, while on my daily trip to cyber space discussing the dark side of pedigree dog breeding, I was completely fascinated and was compelled to write about it. The question posed to readers was "What exactly is the problem with breeding pedigree dogs, (or for that matter, cats)?"

Is it possible that there are breeders of these gorgeous dogs who are more concerned about winning points than the genetic health of their breeding lines? There certainly is a dark-side to dog breeding and showing which needs light to be shed on it.

From my experience with many reputable breeders I know personally, who work very hard to ensure the robust health of their lines, who spend time and often a great deal of money to produce excellent stock, after reading more about the BBC television show, "Pedigree Dogs Exposed "aired here in the USA, it was quite shocking to me to learn about the huge controversy and national outrage caused in Great Britain following the airing of this documentary in August 2008.

Furthermore after the BBC documentary was shown, according to the article the BBC pulled airing the well -loved Crufts dog competition which carries the equivalent prestige to the National or Westminster Dog Show here in the United States.

The article described the program to feature very disturbing footage at times, along with interviews concerning the ethics of dog breeding. It even hinted at the practice, in some cases to be "immoral" by some breeders far more concerned with those huge wins than the serious health problems they are causing by using breeding practices which only serve to produce puppies with major and heartbreaking genetic deformities.

Watch the video uploaded to YouTube by DerPfaffe which graphically and dramatically shows some of these serious genetic problems showing up in certain breeds, discussed in the BBC documentary. I caution that some of the images may be disturbing to some viewers.

Should dog breeders continue to put beauty and fame, ignoring the necessity of robust health? Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment.

RELATED TOPICS: Blogs (262) , Breeding (1) , Breeds (11) , Dogs (66)

« Previous

adoption_advocate January 27, 2010 9:46 AM

Flag

adopt, don't shop.

crazie_eddie January 27, 2010 10:00 AM

Flag

The Kennel Club in the UK is coming to the conclusion that it's time to change some of their standards - time for the AKC to get on board....

jmuhj January 27, 2010 12:12 PM

Approved

While anyone who knows me knows I do not care for dogs, I'm against cruelty, abuse or exploitation of ANY living being, including dogs; and while "purebreds" of any species are sought-after and thought of as superior to others, in actuality, non-purpose-bred animals of all species, including humans, tend to be stronger, healthier, and IMO, better looking. I support rescue and adoption from "the streets", sanctuaries, "shelters" and so on, not the buying and selling of living beings in any way, shape, or form.

Vicki January 27, 2010 12:58 PM

Approved

If the video is disturbing, I can't watch it. I used to breed Boxers many years ago. It is a hard breed to make sure all genetics are perfect, but worth the extra effort. I had beautiful litters that brought top dollar. But I got so attached to them, money didn't really matter. Making sure they got the best home was my top priority. Long after they had gone to their new homes, the new owners would bring them back to me to visit. That always meant so very much to me.

Diana January 27, 2010 2:00 PM

Flag

Amy breeder who does not breed for robust health and good temperment first and foremost, should not be breeding dogs at all. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that they shouldn't be allowed to breed little humans, either.
Almost all purebred animals have genetic weaknesses that are inherant to that breed, but responsible breeders have their dogs and puppies health certified by a vet to the best of their ability and make sure that any dogs who have that specific weakness are not used for breeding.

fran January 27, 2010 2:38 PM

Flag

It's a hideous, all-too-common practice. We see it here with Bulldogs and other breeds with pushed-in faces that literally cannot breathe, collies bred for stylishly narrow heads that cannot think--- the list goes on. But I do not think this discussion is complete without including the breed-standard "cosmetic" alterations that take place routinely on tiny puppies--- the chopping off of tails and the scissoring off of ears. Does anyone believe that this is done painlessly? I do not! And I've never heard anyone or any organization protesting it, either.

Stella Gaylor January 28, 2010 10:25 AM

Flag

I had seen that special and I was very upset by the breeders actions and their lack of concern for the animal health. Plus the lack of the ability of the kennel club to do anything about it. I am so glad I deal with a breed of cats (Maine Coons) that the breeders or most of the breeders are very concerned about health issues. The testing that is done and blood work up for DNA testing. I could not see letting a breeding animal continue to breed if there is a health issue and knowing it. And, just for what a dust collector, ribbons and titles. No thank you very much. I would rather have a healthy animal who is not going to have to suffer with an issue that causes so much grief and pain.

Stella
http://rpcathousemainecoons.com/

Margie February 1, 2010 2:07 AM

Flag

My feelings are that any breed or species that humans have tinkered with and cannot exist on their own (should humans vanish) should be re-tinkered with to go back to the original standards. Bulldogs have to have c-sections to produce litters now due to the puppies head and shoulders being to big to deliver on their own. Bostons also have problems breathing as do pugs and pekes and Persian cats. My first dog was a collie who was "old style" and smart as anything. My last collie was an airhead. I also feel that to become an AKC champion the animal must be more than just pretty. If he is a working dog then he must work and earn points, hunting dogs same thing. The non sporting and toys should have a purpose in life too and earn points towards that before they can go into the conformation ring and become a champion.

Rose Walsh February 25, 2010 1:25 PM

Flag

It broke my heart to see this video and the suffering the little black and white Cavalier had to endure because of irresponsible breeding. I hope that the exposure of these practices helps to reduce or eliminate them. Thanks to the person or persons who made this public knowledge.

add your comment