Health data registries for dog breeds are transforming the ability to identify inherited health problems and guide welfare-positive breeding decisions.
Health data registries transform breeding from intuition and tradition to evidence-based welfare improvement. When BVA hip scores are publicly accessible, breeders can select against dysplasia systematically rather than unknowingly concentrating it. When DNA tests identify mutation carriers, a breed can eliminate specific genetic conditions within generations without sacrificing other selection goals. The challenge is participation: registries only work when breeders contribute data, including data showing their dogs have problems. Cultural norms in pedigree dog communities sometimes discourage disclosure of health problems. Transparency culture, supported by mandatory health testing in assurance schemes, is the change that makes registries welfare-effective.