Breeding for Improved Health in Swedish Dogs

Abstract

In Sweden there are about 950 000 dogs, 85% of which are purebred and registered in the Swedish Kennel Club (SKC). Furthermore, a large proportion of Swedish dogs have a health insurance. Thanks to the extensive registration and insurance of dogs in Sweden, large amounts of data regarding morbidity, mortality, and ancestral background are being collected and made available to breeders and scientists. These databases are valuable tools for breeders and breed clubs in selection of breeding stock and in breeding planning. They also offer unique possibilities for both epidemiological and genetic studies on different diseases in dogs.