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Cross breeding for health

18 13:29:04

Question
I have had rescued dogs and pure bred dogs that were from responsible registered breeders who aimed to reduce or eliminate weaknesses from the breed, but despite great care with diet, exercise etc, I still have had the awful experiences of having some dogs die younger or undergo major trauma from inherited weaknesses.

I have dogs as pets and companions and would like to get a cross breed dog whose parents were selected so as to be unlikely to have the same weaknesses, but are compatible in other ways to give predictable traits such as temperament etc. Why is cross breeding for health not acceptable to Kennel Clubs and their registered breeders? I am not talking about breeding for fashion or trendy names or appearance. I feel that a careful study of common heritable weakness across breeds could result in some ideal cross breed possibilities. I do not believe this would hinder the work of the breeders to improve their breed.

I have two issues with taking on another rescued dog.
- I have resolved that all my dogs will be the result of responsible breeding.
- I want to know that they have been socialized both with dogs and people at an early age, and not been abused, as I believe it is irresponsible for me to take on a dog that I may have to rehome again because it cannot live with children, other dogs, or other animals.

Please tell me what you think of this. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Janette

At the end of the day, you have to deal with people you trust and breeders who have been breeding for over 10 years. Generally they should have a better record for longevity and health.  There are breeders that feel like you do. The bottom line is as a breeder are you bettering and doing right by your dog and your breed?