One concern for purebred dogs is health conditions that arise due to the conformation, temperament and use of the dog. Breed characteristics, especially those reflecting extreme conformations may represent potential health or welfare concerns. In attempt to address such issues, some Kennel Clubs have instituted programs aimed at detecting dogs with health issues and/or not rewarding conformation shows. Two examples are:
- Breed Specific Instructions (BSI) which involve education and discussion with judges in an effort draw awareness to high risk breeds and problems, and
- Breed Watch / High Profile Breeds in the UK; which is a programme involving veterinary checks at dog shows...
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...
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