Crossbreeds compete at Crufts 2013
For the first time, the world's largest dog show has announced it will include a competition specifically for crossbreeds. The decision has been met with approval by campaigners and welfare charities, with head of the Dogs Trust Clarissa Baldwin calling the change "a brave move".
The show has previously come under criticism for celebrating breeding practices that are not always healthy. A BBC documentary in 2008 showed some animals to have various health problems as a result of being bred purely for appearance rather than health. As a result of the documentary, the Dogs Trust and RSPCA pulled out of the show, and the BBC ended its coverage after 42 years.
Speaking of the new development however, Ms Baldwin commented: "Since then the Kennel Club has done a lot to improve things. It’s not enough yet — and not enough for us to return, but we welcome crossbreeds going to Crufts…it has to be good showing people that you don't have to be a pedigree to be at Crufts, and crossbreeds have a huge place in our lives.”
While crossbreeds have been allowed in the competition before, this is the first time there has been an event specifically for them. The animals will be judged on their health and personalities, rather than their appearance. The Kennel Club said that while it has "celebrated cross breeds for years now" this year's show was "the right time" to bring them centre stage.
A spokesman said: "The judges look to different things — they will speak to the owners, hear their stories, hear where they come from and have a good play. There’s no standard for them to match to."
Crufts 2013 begins in Birmingham on 7 March, and will be shown on Channel 4 and More 4.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
