Update short-nosed breeds in the Netherlands

‘As previously communicated, the Dutch Kennel Club had to regulate the pedigree registration for 12 short-nosed breeds on the basis of the legal requirements set by the government.

‘This has led to resistance from a number of the breed clubs concerned, partly because, in the opinion of the clubs, the standards set by the government are of a general nature and are not breed-specific enough.

‘We can now report that further discussions with the breed clubs concerned have led to agreements in which clubs for their breeds can contribute to future breeding. To this end, breed specific covenants will be drawn up for each breed in which the specific health aspects will be discussed and provided with requirements for breeding aimed at health and welfare. The most modern and latest research and screening methods will be included.

‘The Dutch Kennel Club, together with the breed clubs, will take care of this per breed and will include the requirements specifically in the covenants, after which the board can approve the covenants that are ready, with the target date of 1 October 2020.
‘Of course, a legal screening will also become part of the process, because the covenants cannot be used contrary to the national law.

‘After completion of this process, the Dutch Kennel Club will be able to return pedigrees to the offspring for those breeds where breeding has taken place in accordance with the relevant covenants.

‘This development fits in well with the aim to stand for the breeding of healthy dogs, an interest that affects us all and a goal that we can only achieve in the form of good and trustful cooperation between all parties involved.’