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New annual breed averages for inbreeding released
labrador
Data provides a more effective means of monitoring yearly change

The Kennel Club has released a new set of annual breed averages for the coefficient of inbreeding (COIs).  Available on its free online health resource, Mate Select,  it is hoped that the averages will help breeders to continue to make responsible choices when choosing which dogs to use for breeding.

Previously the breed average calculations were based on all dogs recorded by the Kennel Club during the previous year. This included imported dogs, dogs that form part of an overseas pedigree but are not necessarily registered with the Kennel Club, dogs born one year and registered the next, and dogs registered late (over a year old).

Following feedback from users, the Kennel Club has reviewed and recalculated the COIs on Mate Select to reflect just those dogs born and registered within the UK in a given year. In future, this calculation will be carried out each June and will generate  the annual breed average using Kennel Club registered dogs born in the UK between January and December of the previous year. Using this data will provide a more effective means of monitoring yearly change, than by using the average of all recorded dogs in each breed.

The Kennel Club say that the changes do not impact on any individual dog's inbreeding coefficient, nor the COIs of hypothetical matings.

Of the 206 breeds using the new calculation, the annual breed average COI has decreased for nine breeds and stays the same for an additional 12.  Five breeds did not have any dogs born in the UK in 2013, therefore the current breeding average COI is based on the most recent year in which an annual breed average could be calculated.

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club secretary said: "We believe that these new annual breed averages will not only help breeders to continue to make responsible choices when choosing which dogs to use for breeding, but also show the effect that these decisions have for their breed year-on-year."

Further information on COIs and the Kennel Club’s Mate Select resource can be found at www.thekennelclub.org.uk services/public/mateselect or by emailing mateselect@thekennelclub.org.uk.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.