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Discover
the benefits of pedigree dogs - the
live webchat show was held on 30th October with Dr Jeff Sampson, Canine Geneticist and Phil Buckley
of The Kennel Club.
The following information was passed to me before the
live chat took place. Lots of questions were submitted so if you
want to see webchat show use the link If you want to see the show
use the link below
Here's the information that was sent to me:
"They are supposed to be man's best friend but how much do we actually
know about our
canine cousins? Bringing a dog into the home is a big decision so making
the right
choice for your lifestyle is crucial. Many people take on a dog without
researching
all the options but understanding the character of your pet is crucial
if you want a
smooth settling in period.
With the acquisition of a pedigree dog you can know more about the dogs
character,
which helps when selecting the right temperament of dog for the right
home. There
are 206 breeds currently registered with the Kennel Club that are
categorised into
seven groups: Hounds, Gundogs, Terriers, Utility, Working, Pastoral and
Toys and
each group has a distinct character. Terriers are thought of as 'brave
and tough'.
Gundogs are considered 'all-round family dogs' and Hounds as 'aloof but
trustworthy'.
But despite their obvious appeal dozens of native breeds are in danger
of becoming
extinct. Skye Terriers have declined to the lowest figure of new
registrations, with
only 30 registered puppies bred last year. They have been on the
vulnerable breeds
list since 1995, but have suffered a steady descent, tumbling to a
worrying new low.
Fears that pedigree dogs suffer more health problems than their
crossbreed cousins
are unfounded according to experts. In fact, veterinary experts are
getting excited
about the potential for wiping out diseases in pedigree dogs through
rigorous DNA
testing and selection of appropriate breeding mates.
This year's Discover Dogs show at Earl's Court on Saturday 11th and
Sunday 12th
November will showcase the diversity of pedigree dogs and the
differences in
character, coat and needs. Experts will be on hand to advise prospective
dog owners
on the right breed for them. 24,000 people attended last year and
tickets and
further information are available at
www.discover-dogs.org.uk"
Dr Jeff Sampson, Canine Geneticist and Phil Buckley, The Kennel Club
joined us live
online at
http://www.webchats.co.uk/webchat.php?ID=324 on Monday 30th October.
Use this link to view the chat show and find out more
about pedigree dogs and how genetics are helping us learn
more about
them.
For more information visit
www.the-kennel-club.org.uk
For a table of vulnerable breeds showing the number
of registrations at the Kennel Club, visit Agility Bits
Vulnerable Breeds Registration page |
