All breeds of dogs have predisposed health diseases and diseases that may manifest with selective breeding. They can range from minor to life threatening. The Russell Terrier Health Program is designed to list affected and non affected Russells to track health problems through breeding stock in an effort to control disease within the breed. The Russell Terrier is a relatively new breed with few serious health problems thus far. That statement solely depends on the honesty of the breeders. However, if we want to strive to produce genetically sound health in our Russells it is important to keep a record of affected stock. This record is a tool to be used by breeders, not a way to attack other breeders and their lines. You may actually eradicate disease through tracking the affected dogs. It is crucial we do health testing on breeding stock to insure we are breeding healthy stock. It is not a sin to have a disease develop in your lines. However, it is irresponsible to know a serious defect is there and keep breeding affected dogs. It is detrimental to the health of the breed. Every affected dog that is bred will pass on the defective gene to their offspring. Bred to certain lines the disease may not be apparent in the offspring but make no mistake the defective gene is there along with three or four others and will surface at a later date. Defective genes just don't go away. We have the opportunity while the Russell Terrier is in the developmental stages to make a difference in the health of our terriers. There are many good books on genetics available and I suggest to anyone breeding dogs education in genetics is very important. Inbreeding, line breeding, and test-matings can also be a useful tool if practiced by a knowledgeable breeder and can help control genetic disease. I have heard repeatedly Kennel Club recognition ruins breeds. Think about it. Kennel Clubs only provide a reputable and professional registry for pure bred dogs. It is the breeders who breed the dogs ethically or otherwise. It is the breeders who breed away from the original standards and purpose with little regard for temperament and health. If we all work together in a positive approach we can work towards a sound Russell Terrier in health and temperament.
It is highly recommended that puppies only be purchased from breeders who do special health testing. Buyers should insist on this.
Look for this logo on Participating Russell Terrier Breeder's Websites:
