Pedigree Dogs Exposed 10 Years On: Ongoing Challenges & Next Steps

The documentary exposé Pedigree Dogs Exposed first aired in 2008, igniting widespread concern among dog lovers and animal welfare advocates about the health and welfare of pedigree dogs in the UK. It revealed how breed standards and showing practices had encouraged exaggerated physical traits that compromised dogs’ wellbeing.

Since then, The Kennel Club has made many reforms aimed at improving pedigree dog health, including adjustments to breed standards and show judging criteria. However, some issues persist, and progress remains ongoing. This article outlines these enduring challenges and highlights positive steps for the future.

Brachycephalic dogs and conformation exaggerations

One of the most controversial topics exposed was the serious health problems caused by extreme facial features in brachycephalic breeds such as the English Bulldog puppies. These dogs often have flat faces, narrow nostrils, protruding eyes, and misaligned teeth causing respiratory distress, overheating, eye injuries, and dental issues.

Despite increased awareness and measures to discourage overexaggerated dogs from winning major dog shows, public demand for these flat-faced appearances remains high. This demand unfortunately fuels irresponsible breeding, sometimes prioritising looks over health, increasing risks such as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).

It is vital for prospective puppy buyers to research health implications thoroughly and choose dogs bred with welfare in mind, avoiding extreme conformations.

Unhealthy dogs still winning shows

The health of dogs awarded at high-profile shows continues to be contentious. While The Kennel Club has introduced safeguards like enhanced health checks and Breed Watch monitoring, Jemima Harrison, the journalist behind the documentary, noted that trends rewarding unhealthy dogs seem to be creeping back, both in the UK and abroad.

Continued vigilance from breeders, show judges, and the public is essential to ensure that health and welfare remain paramount in showing standards and award decisions.

Inbreeding remains a challenge for breed health

Inbreeding can consolidate desirable traits in litters but often increases hereditary health issues due to genetic similarity. The Kennel Club now provides breeders with inbreeding coefficient calculators and restricts immediate close relative matings such as parent-offspring and full siblings, although some closer crosses like grandparent to grand-puppy matings are still allowed.

Outcrossing with unrelated breeds to boost genetic diversity is generally discouraged as it may affect pedigree registration status. However, some breeders advocate for these measures when done responsibly to improve breed health.

Long-term reduction of inbreeding and maintenance of genetic diversity are crucial to improving outcomes for pedigree dogs.

Public demand: catalyst or barrier to change

Buyers’ preferences strongly influence breeding practises. Though responsible breeders prioritise health over trends, a market exists for dogs with exaggerated features, sustaining unscrupulous breeding.

High-profile media presence of certain breeds and celebrity influences increase demand for popular but often health-compromised dogs like brachycephalic breeds.

It’s imperative that prospective puppy buyers perform comprehensive research, choose health-tested puppies from reputable reputable breeders, and reject dogs showing extreme physical exaggerations or lacking proper registration.

When the public demands healthier breeding practices and refuses to support poor breeding or questionable judging, real change will accelerate.

What the Kennel Club is doing in 2025 to improve welfare

New health reforms come into effect in 2025 to tackle ongoing welfare issues:

• Mandatory Respiratory Function Grading for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs to compete at Crufts
• Expansion of the Breed Watch early warning health monitoring system with digital integration for judges
• Introduction of veterinary health check requirements for certain breeds at championship shows
• Development of a Health Standard programme to assist breeders in health testing and responsible breeding decisions

These actions aim to prioritise the health and genetic diversity of pedigree dogs over appearance, moving breeding towards more sustainable and welfare-friendly standards.

How you can help promote positive change

Quick tips for prospective puppy buyers and dog lovers:

• Research breed-specific health challenges and demands fully before choosing a puppy
• Choose only health tested puppies from responsible breeders with transparent pedigrees and clear registration
• Avoid dogs with extreme conformational exaggerations, especially among brachycephalic breeds
• Support dog shows and breeders who prioritise health and welfare, to reward positive breeding practices
• Speak out against puppy farming and unethical breeding to influence change in the wider community

Every dog lover has a role in shaping a future where pedigree dogs enjoy the health, welfare, and quality of life they deserve.

Conclusion: Continuing the journey toward healthier pedigrees

Ten years on from the impact of Pedigree Dogs Exposed, the UK pedigree dog community has seen important reforms but still faces significant challenges. Responsible breeding supported by public education, regulatory enforcement, and conscientious buyer choices forms the cornerstone of future progress.

By making informed puppy buying decisions and advocating for health-first breeding policies, dog lovers can help drive sustainable, positive changes that respect the dignity and wellbeing of all pedigree dogs.

Together, we can turn awareness into action, supporting breeds that thrive through genetics and care rather than exaggerated appearance alone.