Kennel Club Changes to Put them on Collision Course with Breed Clubs

Following the statement of intent from the Kennel Club that it intends to review the health and standards of all 209 breeds recognised by its registry – starting with the Pekingnese – it would appear a rocky road lies ahead for pushing through change.

The Pekingese is a breed under immediate scrutiny and instructions have been placed that the exaggerated flat face should be discontinued in favour of a dog with a more pronounced muzzle, reason being the flat face causes terrible breathing problems in the dog.

However, this news has not gone down well with some.

Speaking in today’s Times newspaper Barry Offiler, chairman of the Pekingese Club, a century old organisation, has accused the Kennel Club of a panicked overreaction. Offiler says:

“If it’s got a muzzle it won’t be a pekingese, and if we have to breed dogs with a muzzle which breed do we cross with them?” he said. “We are talking about a breed that is popular worldwide. This will prevent us showing dogs abroad and will stop overseas competitors entering Crufts. We all support improved health, but we don’t know what damage the muzzle might give to the breed.”

Read it again folks, please. Read it again.

“we don’t know what damage the muzzle might give to the breed”

Here’s a hint Mr Offiler – try looking at all the dogs who DO have a muzzle and CAN breath properly. It’ll give you a great clue as to how much ‘damage’ having a muzzle will do to the breed.

And the dog show world wonders why urgent reforms are needed?

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Tags:  Animal Welfare, kennel club