RSPCA accuses Crufts of 'failing to protect dogs'

Published on Monday 9 February 2009 18:33

URGENT changes are needed to protect pedigree dogs against inherited diseases and damaging physical features caused by current breeding methods, the RSPCA says.

According to research commissioned by the animal charity, breed specifications laid down for dogs appearing in shows such as Crufts fail to consider health, temperament and welfare.

Instead, physical characteristics are given priority and as a result some breeds have features that can cause disability, behavioural problems and pain, while many have high rates of hereditary disease.

Problems include dogs with heads too large to be born naturally or with faces so flat they cannot breathe normally. The study said that society, and those who benefit from pedigree dogs in particular, had a "moral and ethical obligation" to improve dogs' health and welfare.

The report called for a series of measures, including changes to rules covering the registration of pedigree dogs to prevent them being bred with close relatives.

Mark Evans, the RSPCA's chief veterinary adviser, said:

"Finding remedies is a difficult, complex challenge.

"But that isn't an excuse to shy away from it – the fact is that pedigree dogs need our help and they need it now."