Is inbreeding a problem in Australia?
The Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) does not prohibit the mating of first degree (brother-sister, mother-son) or second degree mating (grandfather-granddaughter). Some pedigree dog breeders deliberately mate close relatives, which increases the chances of inherited disorders in puppies and makes puppies less resistant to both infectious and genetic disease. Closed stud books, where only animals registered with the ANKC can breed, also decrease the gene pool. A lack of genetic variation increases the chances of inherited disorders, compromises the immune system and may lead to infertility.
