Pure Breed (Pedigree) Dog Day

Hello Everyone,

Today is national Pure Breed (Pedigree) dog day. Let me start by saying I love all dogs regardless of if they are a pure breed, a cross breed or a mongrel. It is well known that unfortunately our purebred dog’s do tend to have more heath problems than mixed bred dogs but that does not mean cross breeds don’t have their issues to. There are some fantastic schemes that breeders take part in, including health testing in order to make sure they breed the healthiest possible dogs.

So on this day, irrespective of its pedigree, why don’t you give your dog a quick check over,

· Have there been any changes in the way they move or how they behave?

· Have they got one of the common breed’s issues? How are you managing them, do they need additional treatment?

· Keep your dog fit, and their weight healthy to help prevent and manage common musculoskeletal issues like hip dysplasia and luxating patella.

If you are thinking of getting a particular breed, then please consider.

· What was the dog bred for? – Dogs tend to have a natural role, for example if you don’t want an overly energetic dog, a working Cocker Spaniel probably isn’t for you. Even if you get a cross like a Cockapoo – do you like Poodles, do you like Cocker Spaniels? If not you’re unlikely to bond with a mix of the two.

· All dogs need training and a couple of puppy classes is unlikely to be enough. Identify training support should you need it.

· Look up the common conditions your breed could potentially suffer with. Are you familiar with the symptoms and the possible expense associated with the vets treatment (in the worst case scenario)?

· Have the breeder’s tested the health of the parents? Look up the health tests that are recommended for the breed or mix of breed (e.g. check the tests for Poodle and Cocker Spaniel if getting a Cockapoo). The more informed you are the better you will be at spotting a responsible breeder and a healthy puppy.

· Ask if there are any health issues that the parents of your potential puppy have had? If in doubt consult with your local vet on the results of any test and what they mean.

· Does mum and dad look healthy? If they don’t own dad, ask for the breeder for contact details of the father’s owner.

· Do you like how mum and dad behave? Many qualities of the puppy are passed down from its parents.

Remember all dogs regardless of if they are pedigree or not can get problems. There are so many things we can do to prevent and manage conditions. With problems such as hip dysplasia, luxating patella, IVDD etc. physiotherapy has been proven to have a significant positive impact on preventing these problems getting worse and ultimately managing the condition.

The best way to help our dogs is to make sure, regardless of if a pedigree or a mix, that the puppies being born are healthy, with a good temperament. The more we are aware of these possible conditions and the subsequent treatments, the more likely our dogs will live long, happy healthy lives.

Happy Pure Breed (and every breed) Day!