Particular points of concern for individual breeds may include features not specifically highlighted in the breed standard including current issues. In some breeds, features may be listed which, if exaggerated, might potentially affect the breed in the future.
Prior to 2014, the features listed below were derived from a combination of health surveys, veterinary advice, a meeting of The Kennel Club's group judges, feedback from judges at shows or consultation with individual breed clubs/councils via the breed health co-ordinators.
From 2014, the structure of Breed Watch allows for a greater involvement by judges in the reporting on and monitoring of the points of concern. Read more information about Breed Watch.
Points of concern for special attention by judges
- Signs of respiratory difficulty or distress (laboured or rapid breathing, excessive respiratory effort, respiratory noise)
- Exaggerated roach in the top line
- Signs of dermatitis irritation in skin folds, and/or hair loss or scarring from previous dermatitis
- Excessively undershot jaw
- Tail too short to cover the anus, screw tail, inverted tail or a tight tail
- Pinched nostrils
- Short neck
- Protruding eyes