English Setter faced with extinction threat

The Kennel Club has urged would-be dog owners to look past celebrity and fashion trends following the release of its latest registration statistics.

Demand for more fashionable dogs has resulted in one of the country's oldest breeds coming under threat from extinction.

According to the Kennel Club, the English Setter is at risk of dying out as dog buyers are increasingly influenced by celebrities when picking their pet.

The body's latest statistics showed a 33 per cent decline in registrations this year, with only 234 formally taken on by new owners.

Caroline Kisko described the English Setter as a "wonderful and loyal breed" that has fallen victim to the "fickle tastes" of people influenced by fashion and popular culture.

Bred as a gun dog, they have a long coat that requires regular trimming and grooming with items such as Mikki coat scissors and a Mikki combi brush, while their energetic nature means they require plenty of exercise.

According to the English Setter Association, the inquisitive nature of the breed means it is important to ensure there are no potential escape areas if the dog is being allowed to roam free in the garden, while a study dog lead is needed when taking it on walks.

Ms Kisko warned would-be dog owners against choosing their breed based on what is popular at present, noting the Kennel Club has seen a rise in the number of exotic breeds being brought to its rescue centres because their owners cannot meet their exercise, grooming or diet demands.

She noted the Discover Dogs section at Crufts, taking place at Birmingham's NEC in March, is an ideal way for people to find out what breed will be best suited to their lifestyle and learn about the dog supplies they will need to purchase

The body's statistics revealed 25 varieties are on its Native Vulnerable Breeds list - which consists of breeds where less than 300 puppies are registered in a year - with the Irish Setter back on the list for 2011 after a 22 per cent fall in registrations.

Posted by James Fullerton
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Thursday, 26 Jan 2012, 5:41pm