Addressing Health Issues for Show Dogs

Breed Specific Instructions

The Breed Specific Instructions were initiated in Sweden and now are used in many countries to address issues of extreme physical characteristics in certain breeds. To see a list of high-risk breeds see:

• http://www.skk.se/Global/Dokument/Utstallning/special-breed-specific-instructions-A8.pdf
• The BSI document is also available in http://dogwellnet.com/files/file/98-the-swedish-kennel-clubs-breed-specific-instructions-bsi-programme/ (IPFD Downloads)

OR see resources in our Downloads from the 1st and 2nd International Dog Health workshops.

Breed Watch Program / High Profile Breeds

In Britain, The Kennel Club's Breed Watch program / High Profile Breeds involves veterinary checks to be done on certain breeds at conformation shows.... Further information concerning "Veterinary health checks confirm best of breed awards at dog shows, by assessing dogs to ensure that no visible health conditions, which may cause pain or discomfort, are rewarded. Further information on the processes and procedures behind these checks can be found" here...

• https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/events-and-activities/dog-showing/judging-dog-shows/breed-watch/