For centuries, dogs have been our loyal companions, evolving alongside us. However, selective breeding has had a significant impact on their health and well-being, often with unintended consequences. Understanding the history and effects of this practice can help dog owners make informed choices when choosing a breed or supporting ethical breeding. Many dog trainers and behaviourists like me are stepping away from kennel club awards, registrations and affiliations now as we are noticing how much our canine friends are struggling.
The History of Dog Breeding
Before the 1800s, dogs were left to breed naturally, with evolution guiding their survival. As Charles Darwin famously theorised in 1859, "survival of the fittest" meant that only dogs best suited to their environment passed their genes to future generations. Over time, however, humans took a more active role in breeding dogs, selecting traits that would suit specific working needs and desired appearances.
This selective breeding process led to the creation of different breeds, each with its own unique characteristics, but it also introduced health problems as breeders focused more on physical traits than on the overall well-being of the dogs.
The Problem with Selective Breeding
One of the main issues with selective breeding is the narrowing of the gene pool. Many breeders, in an attempt to preserve certain physical features, will breed dogs that carry harmful genetic traits, which are then passed on to their offspring. As a result, diseases and health problems become more common within certain breeds.
For example:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels suffer from a high rate of cardiac issues.
- Collies are prone to eye anomalies that can lead to blindness.
- Brachycephalic breeds like pugs and bulldogs have been bred to have flat faces, causing severe breathing problems.
- In extreme cases, such as with the English Bulldog, selective breeding has shortened the breed's average life expectancy to just 4.5 years due to genetic health problems.
Brachycephalic Breeds and Health Concerns
Brachycephalic breeds (dogs with short, flat faces) like pugs, French bulldogs, and British bulldogs have gained popularity for their cute appearance, but this breeding choice comes at a cost. These dogs often suffer from restricted airflow, sleep disorders, digestive issues, and more due to their facial structure. In fact, some countries like Norway have banned the breeding of these dogs to protect their welfare. The Netherlands has also implemented a system that only allows dogs with a certain muzzle length to breed, aiming to reduce health complications.
Behavioural Issues and Breeding
Selective breeding doesn't just affect a dog's physical health; it can also impact behaviour. For instance, the XL American Bully breed, responsible for a number of fatalities in the UK, is thought to exhibit aggressive behaviour due to a small, restricted gene pool in the country. Interestingly, the same breed in the United States is generally known to be gentle and well-behaved, highlighting how genetic diversity can influence behaviour. That does not mean to say that all XL bullies are dangerous, please hold onto read the next bit before getting angry with me!
Additionally, working dogs such as Collies are bred for specific traits like herding, which can make them highly suited to certain jobs. However, it's essential to match a dog's temperament to a potential owner's lifestyle. For example, German Shepherds are known for their protective and sometimes aggressive nature, while Labradors are more likely to be friendly and playful but may be slower to mature.
The Role of Ethical Breeding
Selective breeding doesn't have to be harmful if done ethically. Responsible breeders prioritise health, temperament, and overall well-being over exaggerated physical features. They carefully select dogs from diverse gene pools to minimize the risk of passing on harmful genetic traits.
By selecting the friendliest instead of the scariest to breed from even the XL bullies could be man's best friend.
Unfortunately, not all breeders follow these practices. Many focus on breeding dogs to meet specific standards for appearance, especially for show purposes, rather than considering the health and longevity of the breed. The Kennel Club, for example, has strict guidelines for breed standards, which can sometimes perpetuate the problem by encouraging closed genetic pools.
There is legislation in the UK that discourages breeding dogs with known health issues, but it applies mainly to licensed breeders. Backyard breeders, who may not follow these regulations, continue to contribute to the problem by breeding dogs without proper health checks.
Did you know Lyudmila Trut, sped up evolution. From wild foxes he chose to selectively breed from the friendliest of the litters. Within just 20 years he had foxes that looked like dogs and we're as tame a labradors.
What Can Dog Owners Do?
As a dog owner, there are steps you can take to support healthy breeding practices:
- Research breeders: Choose breeders who prioritise the health, behaviour, and welfare of their dogs over appearance or show standards.
- Consider adoption: Many dogs in shelters need loving homes, and by adopting, you may avoid some of the health issues associated with overbred purebred dogs.
- Look for diversity: If you’re set on a particular breed, look for breeders who are committed to genetic diversity to reduce the risk of hereditary issues.
- Focus on behaviour over breed: It's important to match a dog's behaviour and temperament to your lifestyle, rather than focusing solely on its breed or appearance.
Selective breeding has played a significant role in shaping the dogs we know and love today. However, when done irresponsibly, it can lead to a host of health and behavioural problems. By supporting ethical breeders and focusing on the well-being of the dogs, rather than their physical traits, we can help ensure that future generations of dogs are healthy, happy, and well-adjusted. Understanding the history and effects of breeding allows us, as dog owners, to make informed decisions and advocate for the best possible care for our four-legged friends.
If you are struggling to understand your dogs communication or you would like some advice when you are looking for a new addition to your family reach out to a dog behaviourist like me. Based in Wigan and covering the north west I can help guide you.
#selectivebreeding #dogtrainerwigan #dogtrainer #happydog #lovingdog #loveyourdog
Add comment
Comments