Pedigree dog breeding for conformation show purposes has produced widespread inherited diseases across many breeds, driving welfare reforms in kennel clubs and growing public awareness of breed-specific health problems.
The inherited disease burden in many pedigree breeds represents an enormous ongoing source of animal suffering — dogs living shortened, pain-affected lives as a direct consequence of human breeding choices. While breed reform is occurring, progress is slow because economic incentives and aesthetic preferences drive breeding choices more effectively than welfare science. Consumer education and regulatory pressure are essential.