Supporting information
RSPCA views
In August 2008, a BBC One documentary, Pedigree Dogs Exposed, investigated some of the serious health and welfare issues experienced by many pedigree dogs as a result of the way they are bred. The documentary sparked a huge and long overdue public debate that has already led to positive change within the pedigree dog world.
Following the programme, the RSPCA commissioned an independent report, which contains the findings, views and conclusions of acclaimed experts in the fields of animal welfare science, genetics, epidemiology* and veterinary science. Whilst conclusions are centred on the specific situation in the UK, the report reviews what is well recognised as an international problem.
The authors of the report reviewed the available science and concluded that the welfare issues associated with pedigree dog breeding are very serious and can be split into two distinct, but interrelated issues:
- exaggerated physical features that result directly in disability, behavioural problems or pain, and thereby unnecessary suffering.
- high rates of diseases with hereditary causes as a result of lack of genetic diversity.
In order to identify and implement practical, evidence-based, effective solutions to the problem, the authors of the report also proposed and prioritised 36 recommendations for action for possible ways forward. This was based on a survey of 20 experts in the fields of animal welfare, genetics, veterinary science and practising vets.
The findings of Pedigree Dog Breeding in the UK: A Major Welfare Concern? have underpinned the RSPCA’s position and activities on this very serious animal welfare issue.
*Epidemiology is the study of how often and why diseases occur in different groups of animals and/or people.
A collaborative approach
The RSPCA recognises that solving the welfare problems associated with exaggerated physical features and inherited disease presents a very complex challenge. As such, we believe that all those who benefit from dogs have a collective responsibility to collaborate and coordinate efforts to protect their welfare.
We believe that every dog should be born with the best possible chance of living a healthy and happy life, well suited to its intended lifestyle. All those who breed dogs should prioritise health, welfare and temperament over appearance when choosing which animals to breed, in order to protect the welfare of both the parents and offspring.
Dog breed definitions
- To be a pedigree dog, both the dog’s parents must be of the same single breed. The dog must also be registered with the UK Kennel Club or an equivalent and have a pedigree record – this gives details of its breeding over a certain number of generations.
- To be a pure-bred dog, both parents must be of the same single breed. However, pure-bred dogs are not registered with the UK Kennel Club or equivalent as pedigree dogs.
- To be a cross-breed dog, both parents must be pedigree or pure-bred dogs, but each of a different breed.
- To be a mixed-breed dog, at least one parent must be a cross-breed or mixed-breed dog.