19/03/2026
I’ve been encouraged by several people to apply for the new Dogs NZ Breeding & Welfare Committee — something that strongly aligns with my work in canine reproduction, genetics, and welfare.
However (don't worry family and clients!), I’m not eligible to apply.
The reason? I can’t declare that I’ve “bred or co-bred three or more litters under a registered prefix.” This is the only qualifying factor alongside being a financial Dogs NZ member. So experience in breeding (arguable), in welfare (not required) and a financial member...
Despite being involved in thousands of breedings professionally, I don’t hold a Dogs NZ prefix — so I don’t meet the criteria.
For context, I’ve been a kennel club member for 35+ years, sit on an international hereditary disease committee, contribute to national veterinary and animal welfare boards, and lecture nationally and internationally on inherited disease while helping inform policy in this space.
And yet — not eligible.
For a brand-new Breeding & Welfare Committee, that’s an interesting starting point.
It effectively limits eligibility to breeders, while excluding those working at a broader population and welfare level. Breeding experience is valuable — but it’s not the same as expertise in genetics, reproduction, or welfare. And arguably, requiring active breeders introduces more potential for conflicts of interest, not less. Don't we want more views presented rather than less?
It does make you wonder what perspectives will shape this committee from the outset.
If the goal is to improve pedigree dog welfare in New Zealand, is this the right mix?
Keen to hear others’ thoughts (and slightly relieved the rules have prevented me from giving it a crack ;)) .
(oh, and yes, I did indeed submit to EC at the time the proposed criteria were circulated stating my rather strong views)
