Pedigree Dogs

Image by Jose Luis C.R. from Pixabay.

Please see the bottom of this post for links to all the websites I used in researching this topic.

What is a Pedigree Dog?

The Kennel Club defines a pedigree dog as “A pedigree dog is one that has parents which are both of the same breed. These parents must be registered with The Kennel Club or with another club or society recognised by us.“

However, the PDSA provide a more detailed definition. “If your puppy’s parents are the same breed of dog, your puppy is a pure breed, but not necessarily a pedigree. A pedigree dog will have parents who are the same breed but they will also be eligible for registration under a pedigree scheme.“

So, if we go by these two definitions, it all hinges on whether a dog can join a club.

What are the Advantages of a Pedigree Dog?

Pedigree dogs have traits bred into them; therefore, when you buy one, you know what you are getting. These traits may relate to temperament, energy levels or skills, such as being good at herding. This can make selecting a dog for your living conditions or lifestyle easier. In addition, the health of a pedigree dog may be more predictable as the dog’s lineage and any health issues the breed is prone to are already known, making it easier to identify and manage at the earlier stages.

Cross-breed or mongrel dogs are mixed bags and therefore are less predictable across the board. In addition, their lineage is often unknown or very diverse.

Pedigree dogs can also be money earners. The two most common methods are using them for breeding or as show dogs. Dogs and bitches with good lineage or sought-after traits can make a lot of money per litter.

What are the Disadvantages of a Pedigree Dog?

The main disadvantage with pedigree dogs is that many of them are prone to health problems caused by breeding within a very narrow gene pool. Also, over time preferred characteristics can become exaggerated and also cause problems. The most obvious one is with the pug. Their flat- faces can cause breathing problems. Less obvious ones are the large heads that bulldog pups have, which makes natural birth more difficult.

The health issues are a problem for the animal, and they can also be very costly for the owner and not just financially. It’s agony watching a beloved pet suffer.

In conclusion, if you’re going to get a pedigree dog, make sure you know as much as you can about the breed of dog you are getting. You need to be sure you are getting the right animal, not just from your perspective but also from its. Like any pet, it is a long-term commitment, and if the chances of issues down the line are more likely with your chosen breed, then you need to be as sure as you can that you are in a position to deal with them.

The opinions expressed in this post are mine and do not reflect those of Kelp Social

Websites Used in my Research

https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/getting-a-dog/are-you-ready/what-is-a-pedigree-dog/

https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/pedigree-dog-health

https://www.omlet.co.uk/guide/dogs/choosing_the_right_dog_for_you/pedigree_dogs/#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20key%20advantages,for%20it’s%20low%20energy%20levels.

https://www.trustedpups.com/blog/what-are-pedigree-dogs