Dog Breeds That Are Becoming Extinct in U.K. !
For generations, dogs have been the best companion and loyal animal to humans. Over the years, several breeds of dog are developed through cross-breeding. Despite this, many of them are now on the verge of extinction. The dogs which were once popular among the masses have been reduced to such an extent that they have become endangered. These are canines that have 300 or fewer registrations in a year. It is a sad reality pointed out by the Kennel Club that a few breeds have become so rare that even the Britain population fails to recognize them. Even though Britain can boast of some of the most wonderful pedigree population, it is ultimately becoming famous for all the wrong reasons as the list of endangered dogs species keeps growing. Read on to know more about the breeds that are dying away slowly.
Otterhound
The devastating news is that the big-sized Otterhound population has reached a critical stage from where it can go into oblivion. A recent survey showed that just 24 registration of this dog breed is done last year in UK. Though these canines make a great family member, and are quite jovial, there is little awareness about them. In addition to this, the horrible inbreeding, large size and shaggy appearance makes them a bit less attractive. Also, this breed is known to suffer from a variety of health issues right from high rate of epilepsy, to cancer and dysplasia. This limits the breeding option to increase their population.
Skye terrier
A Scottish breed and synonymous with the world-renowned tale of Greyfriars Bobby, this canine was a favorite of the Queen Victoria, and she even had a kennel. While one cannot be sure about this dog’s origin, it is said to be one of the oldest Scottish dog breed, and a wonderful companion. Despite this, the breed is one of the leading canines in the vulnerable list with only 40 registrations last year. Not only are the people forgetting them, but also going for more trendy pets from cross-breeding.
Bloodhound
Known for its uncanny ability to identify a human scent from over a distance of 130 miles, Bloodhounds were used for tracking purposes. It has helped the police and the army on several rescue missions, and has remained a faithful friend. Despite their service, and loyalty, this breed of the dog has been pushed to a brink of extinction. A meager 88 registrations in 2017 is a strong indication of their extinction. The increasing new trend of choosing crossbreeds, and the craze to turn to adorable pups such as Labradoodles, Puggles just to follow or imitate their favorite celebrities is fast catching up with the people.
Irish Red and White Setter
This endangered canine is among the cluster of nine native Irish breeds. Its number is said to be declining since the 1800s when the Red Setters slowly started gaining recognition. As of today, it has witnessed a sharp decline in its popularity by a huge percentage. According to data available, just 70 registrations have been noted for this breed in the last year. The irony is that even if it is a wonderful breed and becomes a great pet, people seem to have forgotten it completely. They are just going for the looks or choosing exotic pets to showoff, or simply following their favorite movie star. By doing this, the pet lovers are not only turning a blind eye to the endangered breeds, but also overlooking canines that could be the perfect for them.
Welsh Corgi Cardigan
It is surprising that this breed also features in the list of canines who need to be saved from getting extinct. The dog is more famous as it happens to be the Queen of England’s favorite canine. It is surprising that this pooch entered the KC’s watch list. The main reason for the decline of these canines has been attributed to the rise of popularity of purse dogs such as Chihuahua and the French Bull. Another major reason that is usually speculated with the decline of these canines is the enforcement of laws that prohibited tail docking. This can be considered as ostensible, but the alarming fact is that only 141 registrations have been recorded for this breed.
Apart from the above-mentioned ones, there is a whole list of canines who have featured in the group of endangered canines. With cross-breeding and being fashionable about the pet you choose to catch up with the latest trend these days, it is also important to remember that the traditional breeds do not get marginalized. Hence, when the canines haven’t changed in reflecting their love towards us, it is time that we take appropriate steps and join hands in helping them from disappearing.