Formal recommendations have been set out for dog breeders to adhere to

The Advisory Council on the Welfare Issues of Dog Breeding has launched its Standard, giving formal recommendations to dog breeders.

Minimum standards to provide good health and welfare for all dogs involved in breeding are set out in the Standard, which will also help people find good breeders.

The Standard gives advice on how to achieve the minimum standards that the council feels are essential. It is designed to protect both breeding stock and their puppies, and will be updated regularly to coincide with the best available science.

Furthermore, the Standard covers aspects such as socialisation, daily routine and feeding, and highlights the importance of the recently launched puppy contract and puppy information pack (PIP).

"We welcome the standard which applies to all types of dogs and all types of breeder," said British Veterinary Association (BVA) president, Carl Padgett. "Sadly, all too often veterinary surgeons see the devastating consequences of poor breeding practices.

"The Standard offers clear, sound, practical guidance and is a big step forward in trying to improve the environment in which dogs are being bred."