Dog - breeding
Dog breeding is the practice of mating selected specimens with the intent to maintain or produce specific qualities and characteristics.
A person who intentionally mates dogs to produce puppies is referred to as a dog breeder. Breeding relies on the science of genetics, so the breeder with a knowledge of canine genetics, health, and the intended use for the dogs attempts to breed suitable dogs.
In domestic dogs, sexual maturity begins to happen around age six to twelve months for both males and females, although this can be delayed until up to two years old for some large breeds. This is the time at which female dogs will have their first estrous cycle.
A person who intentionally mates dogs to produce puppies is referred to as a dog breeder. Breeding relies on the science of genetics, so the breeder with a knowledge of canine genetics, health, and the intended use for the dogs attempts to breed suitable dogs.
In domestic dogs, sexual maturity begins to happen around age six to twelve months for both males and females, although this can be delayed until up to two years old for some large breeds. This is the time at which female dogs will have their first estrous cycle.
They will experience subsequent estrous cycles biannually, during which the body prepares for pregnancy. At the peak of the cycle, females will come into estrus, being mentally and physically receptive to copulation. Because the ova survive and are capable of being fertilized for a week after ovulation, it is possible for a female to mate with more than one male.
Dogs bear their litters roughly 56 to 72 days after fertilization, with an average of 63 days, although the length of gestation can vary. An average litter consists of about six puppies, though this number may vary widely based on the breed of dog.
In general, toy dogs produce from one to four puppies in each litter, while much larger breeds may average as many as twelve.
Some dog breeds have acquired traits through selective breeding that interfere with reproduction. Male French Bulldogs, for instance, are incapable of mounting the female. For many dogs of this breed, the female must be artificially inseminated in order to reproduce.
In general, toy dogs produce from one to four puppies in each litter, while much larger breeds may average as many as twelve.
Some dog breeds have acquired traits through selective breeding that interfere with reproduction. Male French Bulldogs, for instance, are incapable of mounting the female. For many dogs of this breed, the female must be artificially inseminated in order to reproduce.
History
Humans have maintained populations of useful animals around their places of habitat since pre-historic times.
They have intentionally fed dogs considered useful, while neglecting or killing others, thereby establishing a relationship between humans and certain types of dog over thousands of years.
Over these millennia, domesticated dogs have developed into distinct types, or groups, such as livestock guardian dogs, hunting dogs, and sighthounds.
To maintain these distinctions, humans have intentionally mated dogs with certain characteristics to encourage those characteristics in the offspring.
They have intentionally fed dogs considered useful, while neglecting or killing others, thereby establishing a relationship between humans and certain types of dog over thousands of years.
Over these millennia, domesticated dogs have developed into distinct types, or groups, such as livestock guardian dogs, hunting dogs, and sighthounds.
To maintain these distinctions, humans have intentionally mated dogs with certain characteristics to encourage those characteristics in the offspring.
Through this process, hundreds of dog breeds have been developed. Initially, the ownership of working and, later, purebred dogs, was a privilege of the wealthy. Nowadays, many people can afford to buy a dog. Some breeders chose to breed purebred dogs, while some prefer to produce crossbred dogs, claiming that the outcross is healthier than original breeds, and avoiding linebreeding or inbreeding.
Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) - is an international federation of kennel clubs based in Thuin, Belgium. The English language translation, World Canine Organisation, is not often used. Its goals are described in Article 2 of their regulations (statistics):
The aims of the F.C.I. are to encourage and promote breeding and use of purebred dogs whose functional health and physical features meet the standard set for each respective breed and which are capable of working and accomplishing functions in accordance with the specific characteristics of their breed; to protect the use, keeping and breeding of dogs in the member countries; to support free exchange of dogs and cynological information between member countries and initiate the organization of exhibitions and tests - Fédération Cynologique Internationale
The aims of the F.C.I. are to encourage and promote breeding and use of purebred dogs whose functional health and physical features meet the standard set for each respective breed and which are capable of working and accomplishing functions in accordance with the specific characteristics of their breed; to protect the use, keeping and breeding of dogs in the member countries; to support free exchange of dogs and cynological information between member countries and initiate the organization of exhibitions and tests - Fédération Cynologique Internationale
The FCI was founded in 1911 by Germany, Austria, Belgium, France and the Netherlands. The Société Centrale Canine de France and the Société Royale Saint-Hubert in Belgium recreated the FCI in 1921 since it had disappeared in World War I.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale has 84 member countries as of May 2008, with one member per country. Each member country regulates its own breed clubs and stud books, and trains its own judges; the Fédération Cynologique Internationale acts as an international coordinating body, making sure that pedigrees and judges are internationally recognized. In addition, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale sponsors and regulates the World Dog Show and international dog shows. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale is not connected to any other dog club or body that also uses the acronym "FCI".
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale has 84 member countries as of May 2008, with one member per country. Each member country regulates its own breed clubs and stud books, and trains its own judges; the Fédération Cynologique Internationale acts as an international coordinating body, making sure that pedigrees and judges are internationally recognized. In addition, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale sponsors and regulates the World Dog Show and international dog shows. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale is not connected to any other dog club or body that also uses the acronym "FCI".
Registries - Breeders may report the birth of a litter of puppies to a dog registry, such as kennel club to record it in stud books such as those kept by the KC (Kennel Club).
Such registries maintain records of dogs’ lineage and are usually affiliated with kennel clubs. Maintaining correct data is important for purebred dog breeding. Access to records allows a breeder to analyze the pedigrees and anticipate traits and behaviors.
Requirements for the breeding of registered purebreds vary between breeds, countries, kennel clubs and registries.
Such registries maintain records of dogs’ lineage and are usually affiliated with kennel clubs. Maintaining correct data is important for purebred dog breeding. Access to records allows a breeder to analyze the pedigrees and anticipate traits and behaviors.
Requirements for the breeding of registered purebreds vary between breeds, countries, kennel clubs and registries.
Breeders have to abide the rules of the specific organization to participate in its breed maintenance and development programs. The rules may apply to the health of the dogs, such as joint x-rays, hip certifications, and eye examinations; to working qualities, such as passing a special test or achieving at a trial; to general conformation, such as evaluation of a dog by a breed expert.
However, many registries, are not policing agencies that exclude dogs of poor quality or health. Their main function is simply to register puppies born of parents who are themselves registered.
However, many registries, are not policing agencies that exclude dogs of poor quality or health. Their main function is simply to register puppies born of parents who are themselves registered.
Genetic defects
Some dogs have certain inheritable characteristics that can develop into a disability or disease.
Excessive wear of hip joint or bone, known as hip dysplasia is one such condition. As well, some eye abnormalities, heart conditions, deafness, are proven to be inherited.
There have been extensive studies of these conditions, commonly sponsored by breed clubs and dog registries, while breed clubs provide information of common genetic defects for according breed.
As well, special organizations, such as Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, collect data and provide it to breeders, as well as to the general public.
Some registries, for example, the German Shepherd National Breed Club in Germany is a registry that recognizes that hip dysplasia is a genetic defect for the dogs of this breed. Accordingly, it requires all dogs to pass evaluation for absence of Hip Dysplasia in order to register their progeny, and records the results in individual dog‘s pedigrees.
Excessive wear of hip joint or bone, known as hip dysplasia is one such condition. As well, some eye abnormalities, heart conditions, deafness, are proven to be inherited.
There have been extensive studies of these conditions, commonly sponsored by breed clubs and dog registries, while breed clubs provide information of common genetic defects for according breed.
As well, special organizations, such as Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, collect data and provide it to breeders, as well as to the general public.
Some registries, for example, the German Shepherd National Breed Club in Germany is a registry that recognizes that hip dysplasia is a genetic defect for the dogs of this breed. Accordingly, it requires all dogs to pass evaluation for absence of Hip Dysplasia in order to register their progeny, and records the results in individual dog‘s pedigrees.
Pedigree Dogs Exposed
The purpose of breeding -
There is a compelling argument that our interdependence with dogs has
been so great, we may even have co-evolved. Yet we seem to struggle to
maintain their quality of life, particularly in pure-bred dogs.
A BBC documentary, Pedigree dogs exposed, argued for example that winners of dog shows are selected chiefly on appearance and movement, at the expense of health and wellbeing. The BBC documentary says they are suffering acute problems because looks are emphasised over health when breeding dogs for shows. The Kennel Club says it works tirelessly to improve the health of pedigree dogs. Pedigree dogs are suffering from genetic diseases following years of inbreeding, an investigation has found.
In the wake of the documentary, leading animal welfare charities such as the Dogs Trust and the RSPCA have spoken out against pedigree dog breeding, and withdrawn their support for Crufts, the UK Kennel Club's flagship event. It is time for a new approach to dog breeding: that is based on a comprehensive understanding of their biology; that values health, longevity and suitable temperament; and that ensures we get the best out of companion dogs by helping them to help us.
Pedigree animals make up 75% of the seven million dogs in the UK and cost their owners over £10m in vets' fees each week. The documentary, Pedigree Dogs Exposed, says dogs suffering from genetic illness are not prevented from competing in dog shows and have gone on to win "best in breed", despite their poor health. It says physical traits required by the Kennel Club's breed standards, such as short faces, wrinkling, screw-tails and dwarfism, have inherent health problems.
A BBC documentary, Pedigree dogs exposed, argued for example that winners of dog shows are selected chiefly on appearance and movement, at the expense of health and wellbeing. The BBC documentary says they are suffering acute problems because looks are emphasised over health when breeding dogs for shows. The Kennel Club says it works tirelessly to improve the health of pedigree dogs. Pedigree dogs are suffering from genetic diseases following years of inbreeding, an investigation has found.
In the wake of the documentary, leading animal welfare charities such as the Dogs Trust and the RSPCA have spoken out against pedigree dog breeding, and withdrawn their support for Crufts, the UK Kennel Club's flagship event. It is time for a new approach to dog breeding: that is based on a comprehensive understanding of their biology; that values health, longevity and suitable temperament; and that ensures we get the best out of companion dogs by helping them to help us.
Pedigree animals make up 75% of the seven million dogs in the UK and cost their owners over £10m in vets' fees each week. The documentary, Pedigree Dogs Exposed, says dogs suffering from genetic illness are not prevented from competing in dog shows and have gone on to win "best in breed", despite their poor health. It says physical traits required by the Kennel Club's breed standards, such as short faces, wrinkling, screw-tails and dwarfism, have inherent health problems.
BBC documentary, Pedigree dogs exposed
Other problems occur because of exaggerations bred into dogs by breeders trying to win rosettes, it adds. The programme shows a prize-winning cavalier King Charles spaniel suffering from syringomyelia. It also features boxers suffering from epilepsy, pugs with breathing problems and bulldogs who are unable to mate or give birth unassisted.
It says deliberate mating of dogs which are close relatives is common practice and the Kennel Club registers dogs bred from mother-to-son and brother-to-sister matings. Scientists at Imperial College, London, recently found that pugs in the UK are so inbred that although there are 10,000 of them, it is the equivalent of just 50 distinct individuals.
Steve Jones, professor of genetics at University College London, said: "People are carrying out breeding which would be first of all entirely illegal in humans and secondly is absolutely insane from the point of view of the health of the animals. "In some breeds they are paying a terrible price in genetic disease."
It says deliberate mating of dogs which are close relatives is common practice and the Kennel Club registers dogs bred from mother-to-son and brother-to-sister matings. Scientists at Imperial College, London, recently found that pugs in the UK are so inbred that although there are 10,000 of them, it is the equivalent of just 50 distinct individuals.
Steve Jones, professor of genetics at University College London, said: "People are carrying out breeding which would be first of all entirely illegal in humans and secondly is absolutely insane from the point of view of the health of the animals. "In some breeds they are paying a terrible price in genetic disease."
Many veterinary geneticists saw the crisis that now faces the Kennel Club looming many years ago. The closed studbook system used by pedigree breeders inevitably involves inbreeding that increases the risk of inherited disorders caused by recessive genes.
Such disorders are now recognised in all established breeds of dogs and cats, as well as horses, farm animals and a growing number of captive exotic species.
But the problem is worst in dogs, which have been intensively bred within the closed studbook system since Victorian times. Many dogs now have inherited disorders that cause them to suffer so much that it is unkind to keep them alive.
Worse, pedigree dog breeders compete to produce animals that conform to written standards, which may include morphological and behavioural traits that compromise quality of life.
Such disorders are now recognised in all established breeds of dogs and cats, as well as horses, farm animals and a growing number of captive exotic species.
But the problem is worst in dogs, which have been intensively bred within the closed studbook system since Victorian times. Many dogs now have inherited disorders that cause them to suffer so much that it is unkind to keep them alive.
Worse, pedigree dog breeders compete to produce animals that conform to written standards, which may include morphological and behavioural traits that compromise quality of life.
These traits were incorporated into the first breed standards when dogs left the working arena and entered the world of dog shows in the late 1800s, and many of them may have been valued by early dog domesticators because they served a particular purpose. Unfortunately breed standards now tend to prioritise appearance over functionality.
For example, the breed standard for Weimaraners demands that the chest is "well developed, deep" while the abdomen is "firmly held" and the flank is "moderately tucked-up".
These requirements may help to make Weimaraners appear athletic but veterinarians know that breeds with deep chests are at risk of gastric dilation and torsion, an extraordinarily painful, life-threatening condition in which the stomach bloats with gas and can become twisted.
Or take the Pug, which according to it s breed standard should have eyes that are "very large, globular in shape". Breeders oblige the judges and select for this feature, leaving Pugs with eyes that bulge so badly their lids scarcely meet well enough to wipe the eyeball clean. The poor dogs undergo a lifetime of chronic conjunctivitis that eventually scars over the cornea and blinds them.
The emphasis in dog breeding needs to shift. To minimise rates of inherited disease, closed studbooks may need to be abandoned.There are also calls for each breeding population of dogs to be placed under surveillance, so that new disorders can be tracked as they emerge.
These requirements may help to make Weimaraners appear athletic but veterinarians know that breeds with deep chests are at risk of gastric dilation and torsion, an extraordinarily painful, life-threatening condition in which the stomach bloats with gas and can become twisted.
Or take the Pug, which according to it s breed standard should have eyes that are "very large, globular in shape". Breeders oblige the judges and select for this feature, leaving Pugs with eyes that bulge so badly their lids scarcely meet well enough to wipe the eyeball clean. The poor dogs undergo a lifetime of chronic conjunctivitis that eventually scars over the cornea and blinds them.
The emphasis in dog breeding needs to shift. To minimise rates of inherited disease, closed studbooks may need to be abandoned.There are also calls for each breeding population of dogs to be placed under surveillance, so that new disorders can be tracked as they emerge.
Leading vet calls for pugs and bulldogs ban because the pedigree dogs often struggle to breathe - It is unbelievable that we need invasive surgery just to repair the basic needs of the dog. Breathing is the most basic need and this is no way acceptable from any ethical point we have today. - DR OECHTERING. Source: Mail Online.
|
We should also start to celebrate the traits we truly value in dogs. These days, dogs work chiefly as companions in most societies. So temperament is clearly important - "inappropriate" behaviour is the commonest reason for dogs in developed countries to be put down.
Dogs that bond easily with people and that cope well with modern living, as typified by high-density urban environments, are likely to have a higher quality of life, as well as serving their owners better. Yet the selection process in the show ring barely reflects temperament - the only behaviour test the show dog has to pass is not biting the judge, and even failing this may be ignored. It is good to see a pilot scheme to promote behavioural traits adapted to contemporary domestic environments currently underway in Australia, with the blessing of the national dog breeding body. |
|
Ultimately, the relationship between dogs and humans may be changing. The notion of a high-quality bond may prevail over the idea that as many homes as possible should have dogs. This is fuelled by the emergence of better indicators of welfare in domestic dogs.
Crude measures such as longevity and behavioural wastage (the proportion of dogs abandoned, surrendered or euthanased because of their behaviour) still have merit. But evolving assessment tools from the medical profession are giving veterinarians more sophisticated ways to measure dogs' wellbeing. Perhaps one day breeders and people will compete in a class for "The dog with the best chance for a high quality of life." - Rather than persist in some breeds. The prospect of further co-evolution is both fascinating and speculative. We cannot say what the domestic dogs of the future will look like because we do not know what the humans of the future will look like, need and therefore value. |
|
But under the current framework, pedigree dogs are doomed. The prevalence of inherited disorders will continue to rise unless the rules for breeding are changed to prioritise traits that are compatible with quality of life.
The best dog breeders have the passion to bring about the necessary changes. They are very good at what they do - the problem is that what they currently do is not very good. Welfare charities, veterinary associations and dog breeders must unite in using the latest advances in genetics and epidemiology to develop a new model of dog breeding practice.
The best dog breeders have the passion to bring about the necessary changes. They are very good at what they do - the problem is that what they currently do is not very good. Welfare charities, veterinary associations and dog breeders must unite in using the latest advances in genetics and epidemiology to develop a new model of dog breeding practice.
While all dogs are genetically very similar, natural selection and selective breeding have reinforced certain characteristics in certain populations of dogs, giving rise to dog types and dog breeds.
Dog types are broad categories based on function, genetics, or characteristics.
Dog breeds are groups of animals that possess a set of inherited characteristics that distinguishes them from other animals within the same species.
Modern dog breeds are non-scientific classifications of dogs kept by modern kennel clubs.
Purebred dogs of one breed are genetically distinguishable from purebred dogs of other breeds, but the means by which kennel clubs classify dogs is unsystematic.
Dog types are broad categories based on function, genetics, or characteristics.
Dog breeds are groups of animals that possess a set of inherited characteristics that distinguishes them from other animals within the same species.
Modern dog breeds are non-scientific classifications of dogs kept by modern kennel clubs.
Purebred dogs of one breed are genetically distinguishable from purebred dogs of other breeds, but the means by which kennel clubs classify dogs is unsystematic.
Systematic analyses of the dog genome has revealed only four major types of dogs that can be said to be statistically distinct. These include the "old world dogs" (e.g., Malamute and Shar Pei), "Mastiff"-type (e.g., English Mastiff), "herding"-type (e.g., Border Collie), and "all others" (also called "modern"- or "hunting"-type).
Do you love "your" breed to death?
Five common problems in Pedigree Dogs
Health and welfare problems in pedigree dogs can arise as a result of the deliberate selection for exaggerated physical features or as a result of inherited disease. While some of the following problems can occur in any breed, cross breed or mixed breed dogs, purebred pedigree dogs are at greater risk and appear to be over-represented clinically. This is mainly due to traditional breeding practices.
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty giving birth
- Difficulty walking
- Serious eye problems
- Serious skin problems
Difficulty breathing - Some breeds of pedigree dogs with very short muzzles (termed brachycephalic) can have difficulty breathing due to a disorder known as brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS).
In these dogs the skull length is reduced, but the amount of soft tissue in the muzzle is not, resulting in the same amount of tissue being squeezed into a smaller area. This characteristic has been deliberately selected in order to conform to the breed standard.
Dogs with BAOS usually have small and narrow nostril openings and elongated soft palates that hang down into the airway, both of which make breathing difficult. BAOS may be progressive with laryngeal and tracheal collapse occurring at later stages. Some dogs require surgery to alleviate their breathing difficulties and to try to improve their quality of life.
Symptoms - Serious difficulty breathing, High blood pressure, Low oxygen concentration in the blood, Fainting or collapsing due to a lack of oxygen, Facial fold dermatitis (inflammation/infection of the skin due to excessive skin folds on the face), Excessive flatulence (as affected dogs habitually gulp and swallow air to try to overcome their breathing difficulties).
Breeds at risk - Pekingese, English Bull dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bull dog, Pug, Staffordshire Bull terrier, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Shar Pei, Boxer, Boston Terrier, among others.
In these dogs the skull length is reduced, but the amount of soft tissue in the muzzle is not, resulting in the same amount of tissue being squeezed into a smaller area. This characteristic has been deliberately selected in order to conform to the breed standard.
Dogs with BAOS usually have small and narrow nostril openings and elongated soft palates that hang down into the airway, both of which make breathing difficult. BAOS may be progressive with laryngeal and tracheal collapse occurring at later stages. Some dogs require surgery to alleviate their breathing difficulties and to try to improve their quality of life.
Symptoms - Serious difficulty breathing, High blood pressure, Low oxygen concentration in the blood, Fainting or collapsing due to a lack of oxygen, Facial fold dermatitis (inflammation/infection of the skin due to excessive skin folds on the face), Excessive flatulence (as affected dogs habitually gulp and swallow air to try to overcome their breathing difficulties).
Breeds at risk - Pekingese, English Bull dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bull dog, Pug, Staffordshire Bull terrier, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Shar Pei, Boxer, Boston Terrier, among others.
Difficulty giving birth - Certain pedigree breeds frequently have difficulty giving birth without surgical intervention (termed obstructive dystocia).
Individuals of these breeds are deliberately selected for a large head, broad shoulders and narrow pelvis simultaneously, which results in a large foetal head:maternal pelvis ratio.
This is known as cephalopelvic disproportion and means that the pup's head and shoulders are too large to fit through the mother's pelvic canal. Bitches with this problem cannot give birth safely without veterinary assistance in the form of a Caesarean section. This problem is common in breeds with large heads and wide shoulders.
Breeds at risk - English Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Scottish Terriers.
Individuals of these breeds are deliberately selected for a large head, broad shoulders and narrow pelvis simultaneously, which results in a large foetal head:maternal pelvis ratio.
This is known as cephalopelvic disproportion and means that the pup's head and shoulders are too large to fit through the mother's pelvic canal. Bitches with this problem cannot give birth safely without veterinary assistance in the form of a Caesarean section. This problem is common in breeds with large heads and wide shoulders.
Breeds at risk - English Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Scottish Terriers.
Difficulty walking - Certain pedigree breeds have been selectively bred for physical features that can lead to walking difficulties.
Chondrodystrophia - A condition in which the cartilage grows and matures abnormally and the long bones fuse faster than normal, leading to stunted growth. Chondrodystrophic breeds are actively selected for this abnormality, which results in disproportionately short and curved limbs.
These breeds have an increased likelihood of spinal injury, not only due to their excessively long spinal columns and excessively short legs but also because their abnormal cartilage makes them susceptible to ruptured discs (termed Intervertebral disc disease). When the spinal disc ruptures it puts direct pressure on the spinal cord, causing extreme pain and potential neurological problems.
Symptoms - Severe pain, Neurological deficits - disruption of normal nerve signals leading to movement problems, including difficulty walking and in severe cases, complete paralysis.
Breeds at risk - Basset Hound (which also have a relatively large and heavy head, which places further strain on their spinal column), Dachshund (long, smooth and wire-haired), Miniature Dachshund (long, smooth and wire-haired), Shih Tzu, Lucas terriers, among others.
Chondrodystrophia - A condition in which the cartilage grows and matures abnormally and the long bones fuse faster than normal, leading to stunted growth. Chondrodystrophic breeds are actively selected for this abnormality, which results in disproportionately short and curved limbs.
These breeds have an increased likelihood of spinal injury, not only due to their excessively long spinal columns and excessively short legs but also because their abnormal cartilage makes them susceptible to ruptured discs (termed Intervertebral disc disease). When the spinal disc ruptures it puts direct pressure on the spinal cord, causing extreme pain and potential neurological problems.
Symptoms - Severe pain, Neurological deficits - disruption of normal nerve signals leading to movement problems, including difficulty walking and in severe cases, complete paralysis.
Breeds at risk - Basset Hound (which also have a relatively large and heavy head, which places further strain on their spinal column), Dachshund (long, smooth and wire-haired), Miniature Dachshund (long, smooth and wire-haired), Shih Tzu, Lucas terriers, among others.
Hip dysplasia - The abnormal formation of the hip joint - probably the most commonly recognised musculoskeletal problem in dogs.
Symptoms - Lameness, Progressive degeneration of the hip joint, Crippling arthritis, Pain, difficulty walking.
Breeds at risk - German Shepherd, St Bernard, Alaskan Malamute, Bulldogs, Golden Retriever, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, among other breeds and particularly large breed dogs.
Symptoms - Lameness, Progressive degeneration of the hip joint, Crippling arthritis, Pain, difficulty walking.
Breeds at risk - German Shepherd, St Bernard, Alaskan Malamute, Bulldogs, Golden Retriever, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, among other breeds and particularly large breed dogs.
Elbow dysplasia - The abnormal formation of the elbow joint.
Symptoms - Lameness, Progressive degeneration of the elbow joint, Crippling arthritis, Pain, difficulty walking.
Breeds at risk - Bernese Mountain dog, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Bull Mastiff, German Shepherd, St Bernard, among other breeds and particularly large breed dogs
Symptoms - Lameness, Progressive degeneration of the elbow joint, Crippling arthritis, Pain, difficulty walking.
Breeds at risk - Bernese Mountain dog, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Bull Mastiff, German Shepherd, St Bernard, among other breeds and particularly large breed dogs
Serious Eye Problems - Pedigree dogs are predisposed to a number of serious eye diseases, many of which are the result of selectively breeding for a particular physical type in order to conform to the breed standard.
Three common problems are corneal trauma and ulceration, entropion and progressive retinal atrophy.
Corneal trauma and ulceration - An erosion of the outer surface of the eye following injury. Breeds with very short muzzles (brachycephalic) have a high susceptibility for corneal trauma and ulceration.
Symptoms - Pain & discomfort, Potential blindness, Sometimes the affected eye needs to be removed.
Breeds at risk - All brachycephalic breeds are at risk including, Pug, Shih Tzu, Pekingese.
Three common problems are corneal trauma and ulceration, entropion and progressive retinal atrophy.
Corneal trauma and ulceration - An erosion of the outer surface of the eye following injury. Breeds with very short muzzles (brachycephalic) have a high susceptibility for corneal trauma and ulceration.
Symptoms - Pain & discomfort, Potential blindness, Sometimes the affected eye needs to be removed.
Breeds at risk - All brachycephalic breeds are at risk including, Pug, Shih Tzu, Pekingese.
Entropion - A condition where the eyelids fold inwards and rub onto the surface of the eye. This condition occurs frequently in those breeds that have been selected for wrinkled facial features (excessive skin fold about the eyes). These folds also predispose the dog to facial fold dermatitis.
Symptoms - Constant rubbing/irritation from the hairs, leading to trauma and ulceration of the eye surface, Pain & discomfort, Potential blindness.
Breeds at risk - Shar Pei (the pups often require an 'eyelift' surgery in infancy to prevent erosion and ulceration of their eyes. This surgery may need to be repeated at later stages), Chow Chow, British Bulldog, Pekingese, Pug, Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Cocker Spaniel, among many others.
Symptoms - Constant rubbing/irritation from the hairs, leading to trauma and ulceration of the eye surface, Pain & discomfort, Potential blindness.
Breeds at risk - Shar Pei (the pups often require an 'eyelift' surgery in infancy to prevent erosion and ulceration of their eyes. This surgery may need to be repeated at later stages), Chow Chow, British Bulldog, Pekingese, Pug, Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Cocker Spaniel, among many others.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) - The term given to a group of genetic eye diseases that cause the retina to gradually degenerate. The result is progressive loss of vision and eventual blindness.
In nearly all breeds the condition is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, thus breeding from close relatives greatly increases the risk of inheriting this disease.
Symptoms - Progressive loss of vision, Eventual blindness.
Breeds at risk - Many breeds of dogs including those in the Gundog, Hound, Non-Sporting, Terrier, Toy, Utility and Working dog groups, but most commonly Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Australian Cattle Dogs, Silky Terriers, Labradors.
In nearly all breeds the condition is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait, thus breeding from close relatives greatly increases the risk of inheriting this disease.
Symptoms - Progressive loss of vision, Eventual blindness.
Breeds at risk - Many breeds of dogs including those in the Gundog, Hound, Non-Sporting, Terrier, Toy, Utility and Working dog groups, but most commonly Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Australian Cattle Dogs, Silky Terriers, Labradors.
Serious Skin Problems - Many pedigree breeds are predisposed toward the development of serious skin problems, many of which are the result of selectively breeding for a particular physical type in accordance with the breed standard requirements. Two examples of serious skin problems are: excessive skin folds and inherited allergies.
Excessive skin folds - Many breed standards require that the dog have excessive and wrinkled skin. Unfortunately this excess skin leads to folding and subsequent inflammation and infection.
Symptoms - Dermatitis (inflammation/infection of the skin), Discomfort & irritation, Pain.
Breeds at risk - Facial fold dermatitis: brachycephalic breeds such as the English Bulldog, Pug, Pekingese, Boston Terrier and French Bulldog (excessive facial folds may also lead to entropion & corneal ulceration), Tail fold dermatitis: English Bulldog, Pug, Lip fold dermatitis: American Cocker Spaniel, English Cocker Spaniel, St Bernard. Leg fold dermatitis: Basset Hound Labial fold dermatitis: Spaniels, Setters, Golden Retriever, St Bernard, Blood Hounds and Newfoundlands, General body fold dermatitis/interdigital dermatitis: Shar Pei.
Excessive skin folds - Many breed standards require that the dog have excessive and wrinkled skin. Unfortunately this excess skin leads to folding and subsequent inflammation and infection.
Symptoms - Dermatitis (inflammation/infection of the skin), Discomfort & irritation, Pain.
Breeds at risk - Facial fold dermatitis: brachycephalic breeds such as the English Bulldog, Pug, Pekingese, Boston Terrier and French Bulldog (excessive facial folds may also lead to entropion & corneal ulceration), Tail fold dermatitis: English Bulldog, Pug, Lip fold dermatitis: American Cocker Spaniel, English Cocker Spaniel, St Bernard. Leg fold dermatitis: Basset Hound Labial fold dermatitis: Spaniels, Setters, Golden Retriever, St Bernard, Blood Hounds and Newfoundlands, General body fold dermatitis/interdigital dermatitis: Shar Pei.
Inherited allergies - Certain pedigree dog breeds are predisposed to major skin allergies that can severely compromise quality of life.
Symptoms - Constant and severe itching that often interferes with sleeping and the ability to have a normal life, Lesions may become infected causing discomfort and pain, Dogs with skin allergies often have accompanying ear infections (also with an allergic basis) that can become chronic and difficult to treat.
Breeds at risk - West Highland White Terrier, Shar Pei, German Shepherd, Bull Terrier, Pug, English Springer Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, among many others.
Symptoms - Constant and severe itching that often interferes with sleeping and the ability to have a normal life, Lesions may become infected causing discomfort and pain, Dogs with skin allergies often have accompanying ear infections (also with an allergic basis) that can become chronic and difficult to treat.
Breeds at risk - West Highland White Terrier, Shar Pei, German Shepherd, Bull Terrier, Pug, English Springer Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, among many others.
Dogs that are selectively bred for extra-long ears that hang over their ear openings (e.g. American Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Basset Hound, Poodle etc) are also predisposed to ear infections as the covered ear canals can become abnormally hot and humid (perfect breeding grounds for bacterial and yeast infections). The Shar Pei is also prone to ear infections due to their excessively narrow ear canals, with some requiring ear surgery to open the canal. Source - RSPCA
The Bizarre Truth About Purebred Dogs (and Why Mutts Are Better) - Adam Ruins Everything
Puppy Farms
A puppy farm or puppy mill, is a commercial dog breeding facility that is operated with an emphasis upon profits above animal welfare and is often in substandard conditions regarding the well-being of the animals in their care.
Similar types of operations exist for other animals commonly kept as companions (pets) or used as feed for other animals.
The term can be applied to operations involving other animals commercially bred for profit. For-profit breeding on a smaller scale is sometimes referred to as "backyard breeding".
Similar types of operations exist for other animals commonly kept as companions (pets) or used as feed for other animals.
The term can be applied to operations involving other animals commercially bred for profit. For-profit breeding on a smaller scale is sometimes referred to as "backyard breeding".
The term ‘backyard breeders’ is commonly used in Canada and the U.S. to describe a breeder with a lack of knowledge and experience; while the term ‘puppy farms’ or ‘kitty farms’ refers to businesses that mass produce animals of different breeds.
Animal rights activists claim that breeding animals in order to sell them is unethical, attacking breeders whom they believe are more concerned with profit than the animals' welfare.
Critics cite breed registries for encouraging the inbreeding of dogs and cats thereby contributing to a proliferation of genetic disorders.
Intensive puppy and kitty breeding is the hidden cruelty behind the pet store window, in the newspaper, or the internet.
Animal rights activists claim that breeding animals in order to sell them is unethical, attacking breeders whom they believe are more concerned with profit than the animals' welfare.
Critics cite breed registries for encouraging the inbreeding of dogs and cats thereby contributing to a proliferation of genetic disorders.
Intensive puppy and kitty breeding is the hidden cruelty behind the pet store window, in the newspaper, or the internet.
The general public are unaware that puppy and kitty farms can house thousands of animals, imprisoned for life as they churn our litter after litter of puppies and kittens.
Female dogs come into their first season at approximately 4-6 months of age and this is when many unscrupulous breeders mate them for their first litter, when they are still only puppies themselves.
Female dogs come into their first season at approximately 4-6 months of age and this is when many unscrupulous breeders mate them for their first litter, when they are still only puppies themselves.
Mother dogs are not given any rest between litters and are kept in a continual cycle of pregnancy. Father dogs live their entire lives locked in pens with small runs, if they are lucky, and are only there to 'service' the female dogs.
Both the mother and father dogs spend day after day ceaselessly pacing back and forth in small enclosures, their only way of coping with endless despair. These intelligent animals are treated as nothing more than breeding machines.
Puppies are weaned from their mums between 4 and 5 weeks of age and then transported to pet stores for display to the unsuspecting public.
Both the mother and father dogs spend day after day ceaselessly pacing back and forth in small enclosures, their only way of coping with endless despair. These intelligent animals are treated as nothing more than breeding machines.
Puppies are weaned from their mums between 4 and 5 weeks of age and then transported to pet stores for display to the unsuspecting public.
Pet shop owners depend on love at first sight when people, especially kids, see the adorable little puppies, as it prompts people to make an impulsive purchase. What the consumer can’t see is the puppy’s mother imprisoned miles away in her small pen awaiting repeated pregnancies.
Puppy farms usually house dogs in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, without adequate veterinary care, food, water and socialization. Puppy farm dogs do not receive treats, toys, exercise or basic grooming.
To minimize waste cleanup, dogs are often kept in cages with wire flooring that injures their paws and legs. It is not unusual for cages to be stacked up in columns. Breeder dogs at farms might spend their entire lives outdoors, exposed to the elements, or kept inside indoor cages all their lives.
Puppy Trade and Trafficking
Everything is connected - puppy farms - pet stores - ads - vans - disposing puppy stocks - more profit - matings - puppies - pet stores - ads - vans … over and over again …
Meanwhile, suffering animals mentally and physically, day in and day out …
This well-oiled machinery, we have to thank all those who acquire dogs, cats and other animals without controlling mother and father living condition and where they come from.
Never get an animal without knowing its provenance - demanding to meet the animal's parents and visit the breeder. Never panic buying an animal - take your time.
Never get an animal because you feel sorry for the situation, then you just help to keep alive the vicious situation for other animals - you fatten the cruel business that these monsters live on only for profit.
Meanwhile, suffering animals mentally and physically, day in and day out …
This well-oiled machinery, we have to thank all those who acquire dogs, cats and other animals without controlling mother and father living condition and where they come from.
Never get an animal without knowing its provenance - demanding to meet the animal's parents and visit the breeder. Never panic buying an animal - take your time.
Never get an animal because you feel sorry for the situation, then you just help to keep alive the vicious situation for other animals - you fatten the cruel business that these monsters live on only for profit.
Broaden your horizons when you get a companion animal - think bigger and longer - make demands - all baby animals comes from somewhere ...
On the whole, we must begin to ask ourselves whether it is not time to give all our effort and open our homes to those already hundreds of thousands of animals that have no home, waiting in all these rescue shelters - help to stop this cruelty NOW - by refusing to contribute to this cruel industry – do the right, adopt an animal.
On the whole, we must begin to ask ourselves whether it is not time to give all our effort and open our homes to those already hundreds of thousands of animals that have no home, waiting in all these rescue shelters - help to stop this cruelty NOW - by refusing to contribute to this cruel industry – do the right, adopt an animal.
Break the puppy trade - this cruel industry progress in all countries, believe nothing else - where there is money to be made, there are always unscrupulous people without compassion for living creatures. You can help stop this by refusing to participate in this cruel industry by finding out the facts before you get a companion animal.
Breeding to death
|
Today's dogs have become fashion and accessory - an object to own and show off. Different breeds indicates what the owner wants to convey - a status symbol signaling messages.
There is everything from small dogs to be carried around in your arms to larger dogs to boast among friends - there are dogs for all tastes, and breeders are not late to deliver, litter after litter. There is no control whatsoever on dog breeding or ownership today. Uninformed people continues to get dogs from all sorts of people and places - owners rarely have knowledge of the dog as species, its natural needs - the dog has become a product. The dog has become a throwaway product - much because of the enormous supply that all breeders provides - both reputable and unserious puppy makers - but also because the people have no knowledge of the dog as a species. It is now high time to regulate the breeding of dogs and only be able to get a dog from special breeders with license. Breeder should also have more responsibility for the dogs that are born, it should be a mandatory requirement that breeders must take back dogs that the buyer can not keep. It should be the breeders job to make sure that their dogs come to good owner and get a good life - in this way would fewer dogs being born, and they will not end up in ads, bad owners, shelter or be killed. There must also be a requirement for basic knowledge on those who want to get a dog. The dog is not a thing, but a living creature who must be given the best conditions for a good life. Major efforts need to be made in schools to enhance knowledge about companion animal species and the welfare of the dog and other animals. |
|
Today's breeding has become a sport to create, maintain or modify various breeds. This is solely to satisfy human taste and wishes - many people are so fixated to maintain a specific breed, that they forget or do not want to see, that the breed is in fact a failure - dogs who are forced to suffer through their lives in pain or undergo lifelong treatment.
The obsession with maintaining a breed also depends a lot on that breeders want to win prizes, and feel talented in their striving to create racial copies according to the breed standard - success breeds appetite - in the hunt for fame and success, they forgets the dog's well being. If this genetic playground may continue, we will in the long run to obliterate all modern breeds that are selectively bred over the past 100 years. |
|
We can only hope that international associations together with governments instituting rules that will be introduced to regulate this egotistical insanity. The great horror would be that many breeds will be forced to suffer decades before breeding people realize the facts and think of the dog as a homogenous species - not a breed with genetically engineered feature which means sick breeds or breeds with adverse living conditions.
|
The same applies to breeds that have mental characteristics, which no longer fit in today's societies and modern animal welfare - to force these dogs to be born into a breed with very bad odds is selfish and cruel - over 70% of those so-called fighting dog breeds with increased aggressive behavior and other characteristics, are killed before the age of two years - before that, the dog has probably passed several owners with diverse understanding of the breed.
The large group of owners of this type of dog is also mostly criminals and dealing largely with Dogfighting - therefore it is not justifiable by a small group of talented enthusiasts, to argue that this type of breed shall continue to exist. Again, this demonstrates how humans think narrow and selfish purely to satisfy the own desire. |
We must begin to think differently in terms of the dog and selective breeding. Breeds and breed standard should be revised - some breeds should disappear and other breeds should perhaps be born.
We must also give crossbreed dogs an equivalent status as the purebred dogs - the dog is a species - the purebred dog is just a selectively modified crossbreed dog with certain physical and mental characteristics that have been copied over and over again.
On the whole, we should strive to not have specific breeds, but healthy dogs. All dogs have the same value - there are no purebred - there is only one true breed and species for thousands of years - The Dog!
We must also give crossbreed dogs an equivalent status as the purebred dogs - the dog is a species - the purebred dog is just a selectively modified crossbreed dog with certain physical and mental characteristics that have been copied over and over again.
On the whole, we should strive to not have specific breeds, but healthy dogs. All dogs have the same value - there are no purebred - there is only one true breed and species for thousands of years - The Dog!