Analysis calls for breed-specific dog population management
Vets are asked to promote health screening and genetic diversity to owners and dog breeders.
An analysis of over 11 million dog registrations reveals that only a small proportion of pedigree dogs are used for breeding.
The Roslin Institute says that the statistics could prompt new considerations about the future of canine health, population sustainability and breeding practices.
The project saw experts collaborate with The Kennel Club to analyse over 11 million dog registrations made in the UK between 1990 and 2021. The registrations covered all 222 pedigree breeds.
Researchers used the data to collate within-breed statistics for each of the UK pedigree breeds, before conducting a meta-analysis. This saw them study various demographic parameters, including the proportion of dogs used for breeding and rates of population changes,.
By collating data from each breed, the researchers assessed how far the variation was related to differences between breeds rather than chance. It also leads to an accurate understanding of specific breed populations, rather than treating pedigree dogs as a single group.
Their findings identified a decline in the overall pedigree dog population, with only a small number of pedigree dogs used for breeding.
Although dogs successful with conformation shows and field trials have historically been used for breeding, there has been a recent decline. There has also been increased reliance in imported dogs, with higher volume of breeding dogs being imported into the UK.
The research team suggests that breed health and sustainability is handled with a targeted approach, with responsible breeding practices tailored to individual breeds. They call for breed-specific recommendations on breeding thresholds, genetic testing and the use of imported dogs.
The Roslin Institute says that its findings highlight the importance of demographic context when considering how dogs are bred and raised. It believes this will support experts in more effectively managing genetic diversity, reducing inherited disease and maintaining viable population sizes.
Veterinary professionals are advised to support informed breeding by encouraging breeders and owners to think about health screening and genetic diversity when selecting mates.
Joanna Ilska, genetics and research manager at The Kennel Club, said: “This study used statistical tools to help us develop most effective methods to balance selection for health and genetic diversity – especially on breeds where population sizes are low.
“The smaller the gene pool gets, the more challenging it will be to balance responsible breeding choices with keeping a sustainable population, unless the situation is managed carefully.
“Our aim now is to work with breeders and those committed to safeguarding the breeds they love.”
The full study can be found in the journal Companion Animal Health and Genetics.
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