Ultra-typing or over-typing in cats and dogs explained

For every recognised pedigree breed of dog or cat, there is a strict breed standard to adhere to, which describes the desirable traits of the animals of that breed and what breeders should strive to achieve from their subsequent litters of kittens or puppies in terms of their signature traits. More information on breed standards, what they encompass and how they are set can be found in this article, here.

One of the core considerations of breed standards not only dictates the way that any given animal should look and the traits that they display, but that those traits are not taken to an extreme. This involves avoiding an unnaturally over-exaggerated look or development that deviates from the natural condition of the cat or dog, which could be detrimental to the animal's health.

When any dog or cat is selectively bred for a specific breed trait and this is taken to extremes or achieves an overly exaggerated appearance or dominance of one particular trait, this is known as ultra-typing or over-typing, and is frowned upon in breeding and judging circles.

What is ultra-typing and over-typing?

The terms ultra-typing and over-typing are often used interchangeably and essentially mean the same thing. However, there is a subtle distinction:

• Ultra-typing is usually on the borderline of acceptable prominence of a trait. Some may see it as an excellent example of the trait, while others may consider it a step too far. Even experienced pedigree show judges may disagree on what precisely constitutes ultra-typing.
• Over-typing is a clear exaggeration of a trait beyond the natural norm, often resulting from selective breeding to emphasise this trait artificially. Over-typing is frequently linked to health problems or abnormalities caused by this extreme expression.

Examples of ultra-typing and over-typing in popular breeds

Certain pedigree dog and cat breeds are particularly prone to ultra-typing or over-typing, especially among show animals. The UK's regulatory authorities, including the Kennel Club for dogs and the Council of the Cat Fancy for cats, closely monitor these to prevent such exaggerations from being encouraged or rewarded, promoting healthier, natural breed standards.

The English Bulldog

The English Bulldog’s head is meant to be large and square, but the modern show Bulldog is a frequent example of over-typing. Breeders have selected for increasingly larger and heavier heads, leading to over 80% of Bulldog litters requiring caesarean sections because the puppies' heads are too large for natural birth, a serious health concern.

The Persian cat

The modern Peke-faced Persian cat is characterised by a very flat muzzle and shortened nasal passages. While breed standards recommend a moderately flat muzzle with the nose not higher than the bottom of the eyes, excessive flatness, protruding eyes, or tear duct issues are signs of over-typing and can cause breathing difficulty and eye problems.

The Pug dog

The Pug is a prime example of a breed with exaggerated traits due to unchecked breeding. Common over-typed features include excessively bulging eyes, severely flattened faces that impair breathing, numerous wrinkles, pinched nostrils, an overly curled tail, and extreme skin folds. Such traits often cause lifelong health problems.

The Siamese cat

The contemporary Siamese cat typically sports a slender, angular appearance compared to its ancestors. Over-typing may be seen in an excessively wedge-shaped head, long narrow nostrils, or disproportionate angular facial features compared to the traditional “apple-headed Siamese.”

Health risks associated with ultra-typing and over-typing

Over-typing often leads to significant health issues. Breeds with extreme facial structures may suffer from respiratory ailments, difficulties during birth, eye problems, and skin infections. This has ethical implications, urging breeders and buyers alike to prioritise animal welfare over appearance.

Responsible breeders aim to avoid extreme exaggeration, focusing on the health, well-being, and natural characteristics of the breed. Regulatory bodies discourage rewarding dogs or cats that exhibit ultra-typed or over-typed traits in shows to reduce incentives for such breeding.

How to select a healthy pedigree pet

If you are considering buying a pedigree kitten or puppy, it is vital to understand the breed’s typical features and be able to spot signs of ultra-typing or over-typing. Since young animals may not fully display adult traits, also carefully examine the dam and sire, if possible, to assess the potential health and conformation of the litter you are considering.

When searching for puppies, trustworthy sources such as the English Bulldog breeders, Pug breeders, or reputable Persian cat breeders can help ensure the animals meet sound health standards without detrimental exaggerations.

Ultimately, prioritising pets bred with health in mind contributes to their lifelong quality of life, preventing suffering caused by extreme physical traits.