AUSTRALIAN breeders of pedigree dogs are bracing for a barrage of criticism as a documentary highlighting shocking health problems caused by decades of inbreeding approaches television screens.
The BBC documentary Pedigree Dogs Exposed shows graphic images of animals suffering with genetic diseases caused by the quest for the perfect dog.
In disturbing footage, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel appears in agony due to Syringomyelia, a condition where the brain becomes too large for the skull and protrudes into the spinal canal.
Alsatians bred for dog shows are shown struggling to control their back legs.
Danny the Pekingese, a past winner of best in show at the famous Crufts competition in Britain, is shown sitting on an ice pack. Changes to the structure of his head interfere with his ability to breathe and regulate his body temperature.
The documentary caused a furore when it was broadcast in Britain. The BBC ceased coverage of Crufts, the RSPCA ceased attending the show and its major sponsor withdrew support.
Inquiries into breeding irregularities, such as mating mothers with sons, were initiated. Breed standards – the physical characteristics considered ideal for each breed by kennel clubs – were examined by authorities.
The documentary will be broadcast by ABC1 on September 10 and the Australian National Kennel Council, the peak co-ordinating body for local pedigree breeders, has hired a public relations officer "with the intent of reducing the impact of any fallout", council president Hugh Gent said.
Lee Pieterse, a leading breeder of Griffon Bruxellois, which are not featured in the documentary, is a council member who believes the documentary is biased.
Mrs Pieterse, of Dural, was interviewed by filmmaker Jemima Harrison but does not appear in the program.
"I just feel she did not present the side of breeders who do the right thing, and there are many of us," she said.
"She made us look so horrible. Yes, we've got some ratbags, I won't argue with that, but we also have a lot of people who spend a lot of money doing the right thing. Most conscientious and ethical breeders, if they find something wrong in their dogs, will do their damnedest to fix it."
Associate Professor Paul McGreevy of the faculty of veterinary science at the University of Sydney said: "The rules of engagement with dog breeding in Australia are the same as in the UK and most breed standards are identical."
He wants to see a review of breeding here and hopes Pedigree Dogs Exposed shows "pet owners why breeders should select for health, temperament and longevity" rather than for arbitrary aesthetics or to maintain exclusive blood lines.
Email a friend