Quote:
Originally Posted by DvlshAngel985  This was brought up in the other thread, but I think it does a good job of posing the question, who is responsible? YouTube - syringomyelia in dogs
The breeders that follow standards for the cavalier breed for certain characteristics in order for them to show. But, when the breed standard is hurting the breed itself, who is responsible? Breeders for choosing to follow standard, or the breed clubs who set the standards? I know the cavalier is an extreme case of this, but LP's, LS, and the other problems that plague our favorite breed do have a genetic background.
I know reputable breeders breed for health, temperament, and appearance and they sincerely try to better the breed, but when faced with something as extreme as syringomyelia, which in my opinion is caused by people wanting a smaller cute head for the cavalier, why do the breeders not say "ENOUGH! We're killing this breed!." I think byb's and puppy mills that breed for the micro minnie teacups are a plague to our beloved breed, it's the yorkie's equivalent to a small skull. |
I think there are at least 5 breeds that have had very poor mother clubs, and have been breeding for "cuteness" or some other trait, without checking the long-term safety of the trait. The problem with this, is that all purebreds get a bad name. As far as I know, the physical standard of the yorkie doesn't have any impact on health, in fact, structure is a large part of standard, and is very much a part of the dog's overall health. I'm concerned with pet buyers who want smaller and smaller dogs, and also those who love "apple" heads, and tiny tiny noses, and variations in color. I don't think we should breed for these things until we have learned more about how these things impact the health of the dog. That's why I always encourage pet buyers to support those breeders who breed to standard.