Vulnerable native breed numbers on the rise
During the first six months of 2012, the Kennel Club has reported a ‘significant rise’ in registrations of four vulnerable native dogs. The breeds include the English toy terrier, the Glen of Imaal, the King Charles spaniel and the Irish water spaniel.
English toy terrier registrations have almost doubled in the first half of this year compared to the same period in 2011, from 37 to 72. Only seven Glen of Imaal puppies were registered in the first six months of 2011, however numbers have risen to 35 so far this year. Registrations of Irish water spaniels have risen from 58 to 90, and those of the King Charles spaniel are up from 90 to 133.
The Kennel Club has also seen a rise in registrations of foreign breeds over the first six months of this year. Among these include the Antolian shepherd dog, the Estrela mountain dog and the Norwegian buhund. There has also been a rise in the number of small breeds; among these are the pug, the chihuahua and the French bulldog.
The secretary of the Kennel Club, Caroline Kisko, commented: “It is great news to see some of our vulnerable native breeds starting to bounce back. However, there are some breeds that have continued to see declining numbers so far this year, such as the Englush setter, Kerry blue terrier and Clumber spaniel.”
However, the Kennel Club is concerned that people are not choosing a dog for the right reasons and are instead following trends such as foreign breeds and ‘handbag’ dogs, rather than choosing a breed more suitable to them.
Ms Kisko continued: “Registrations of Portuguese water dogs have more than doubled this year in comparison to the first half of last year, and while it is a lovely dog it requires a lot of grooming.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
