paris hilton w/ chihuahua
Native UK Dog Breeds at Risk – Well, maybe it’s not as dramatic as Noah choosing which species would survive the great flood, but it’s a trend that would certainly make Darwin lift an eyebrow.
According to recent Kennel Club statistics, Britain’s native dog breeds at now at risk in part because demand has shifted to more fashionable breeds showcased by celebrities.
25 dog breeds including the formerly popular English Setter (England’s oldest dog breed) are now considered vulnerable (extinction risk) because of low registration numbers. Registrations for English Setters have dropped by a third since last year, (only 234 registrations in 2011) while registrations for breeds like the Chihuahua have increased by a quarter.
cardigan welsh corgi puppy
This demand for celebrity dogs can also give breeds whose numbers are dwindling a boost. Consider the fact that registrations for the Cardigan Welsh Corgi (a favorite of the Royal Family) soared by over 130% after the Royal Wedding in 2011, enabling the breed to be taken off the vulnerable list. (let’s hope they are still cared for in a few years)
In a related twist, I couldn’t help but notice another headline in today’s news: Sumatran Elephants close to extinction. Maybe we could get Paris Hilton to walk an elephant down Rodeo drive, causing THEIR numbers to rebound!
More: View BBC video: UK Native Dog Breeds at Risk (2:34)
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Humans sure can be fickle creatures, not to mention sheep-like. There’s a big movement towards pet adoption that has also bit celebrities (pun intended), but at least that’s a good thing.
In many ways it is sad that so many people choose what kind of dog they want like this seasons fashion.
Wow, I didn’t know dogs breeds really go extinct. I will be looking for another dog eventually and this will make me think about what type of breed to buy. Maybe I can help save one, who knows! There are so many of the designer breeds I guess eventually the old breeds will die off. Thanks for the story, it was really informative.