Crufts 2009 And BBC Split

The Kennel Club has refused to comply with conditions set by the BBC which would have excluded certain breeds of dog from the group competition at Crufts. The result is a confirmation today from the Club that the BBC will not be broadcasting Crufts 2009.

Ronnie Irving, Kennel Club Chairman, said:

"I am very sorry that BBC audiences around the world will not be able to join us in celebrating all dogs in 2009 and to see the remarkable diversity of dogs and activities on show at Crufts; ranging from the show classes to agility displays, the Friends for Life competition and the unsung heroes who take part in breed rescue.

"However, we have been forced to reject the insupportable conditions imposed by the BBC, who have told us they will only televise the show in 2009 if certain breeds are excluded from participating. We are unable to agree to these demands, as it would compromise both contractual obligations and our general responsibility to dog exhibitors and our audience and we believe it would be inappropriate and counterproductive to exclude any recognised breed from Crufts.

"We are obviously disappointed and confused with this outcome as we hoped the broadcast would have supported our focus on health and welfare issues, given advice about caring for and training dogs and showcased the charitable work that we support. This TV exposure would have benefited all dogs and given viewers a well-rounded picture of what the new Crufts in 2009 is all about."

Earlier this month, the Kennel Club completed a review for each of the 209 pedigree dog breeds in the UK and announced revised standards that will have far-reaching benefits for the health and welfare of dogs.

The overall aim, says the Club, is that all pedigree dogs should be fit for function and that breeders and judges should not reward dogs with obvious conditions or exaggerations, which would be detrimental in any way to their health.

The Kennel Club's code of ethics can be found at here.

The Club's complaint to OfCom, regarding the BBC documentary, Pedigree Dogs Exposed, is ongoing.