Acta Vet. Brno 2026, 95: 53-61
Breed club requirements for breeding approval of dogs in relation to the prevention of genetically determined diseases
Selective breeding has contributed to the development of numerous dog breeds but has also increased the prevalence of inherited disorders, raising concerns regarding canine health and welfare. Mandatory health examinations required prior to breeding approval represent an important preventive tool; however, their scope and application vary among breeds. This study evaluated health examination requirements established by breed clubs affiliated with the Czech-Moravian Kennel Union, with emphasis on the number and type of mandatory examinations targeting inherited disorders. Publicly available documents from 139 breed clubs covering 325 dog breeds were analysed. Mandatory examinations were categorized according to affected body systems, and their distribution was assessed in relation to breed size and utilization. At least one mandatory examination was required in 50.2% of breeds. The most frequently required examinations targeted musculoskeletal disorders, particularly hip dysplasia, whereas examinations for hearing, urological, and cardiac conditions were least common. Significant differences were observed among examination categories. Breed size influenced requirements only for musculoskeletal and ocular examinations, while breed utilization was associated with differences exclusively in ocular disease screening. The results demonstrate substantial heterogeneity in preventive health requirements across breeds and highlight an emphasis on selected well-established conditions, with limited attention to other clinically relevant inherited disorders. Broader and more consistent implementation of mandatory examinations may contribute to improved health management and welfare in purebred populations.
Keywords
Canine, health screening, hereditary disease, kennel club, welfare.
