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PEDIGREE DOGS EXPOSED

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Pedigree Dogs Exposed (19th August 2008)

Tuesday, 19th August 2008

9pm to 10pm

BBC1

Pedigree dogs are suffering from genetic diseases following years of inbreeding. This BBC documentary shows that they are suffering acute problems because looks are emphasised over health when breeding dogs for shows. The particular eaxmples that they concentrate on is the Cavalier King Charles spaniel with brains too big for their skulls and boxers suffering from epilepsy.

The programme investigates the fact that dogs suffering from genetic illness are not prevented from competing in dog shows and have gone on to win "best in breed", despite their poor health. Physical traits required by the Kennel Club's breed standards, such as short faces, wrinkling, screw-tails and dwarfism, have inherent health problems.

Yet the Kennel Club says it works tirelessly to improve the health of pedigree dogs. But it is happy to register deliberate matings of dogs which are close relatives such as mother to son and brother to sister.

Steve Jones, professor of genetics at University College London, said: "People are carrying out breeding which would be first of all entirely illegal in humans and secondly is absolutely insane from the point of view of the health of the animals. In some breeds they are paying a terrible price in genetic disease."

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