British dogs face extinction

British dogs, such as bloodhounds (pictured), setters and corgis face extinction because of the demand for the foreign toy dogs favoured by celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Britney Spears.

The Kennel Club list 2007 highlights breeds with less than 300 puppies a year being registered.

Dogs in danger:

Bloodhound: 100 puppies registered

Greyhound: 48 puppies registered

Cardigan corgis: 68 puppies registered

Glen of Imaal terrier: 36 puppies registered

Skye terrier: 37 puppies registered

Smooth collie: 63

Retriever (curly coated): 81

Irish red and white setter: 93

Chihuahuas and Pugs, however, have seen registrations rise by around 1,000 in the past year, which is also pushing up the price of puppies. A Chihuahua puppy can now cost up to £2,000, compared to the £400 – £800 average price tag for other pedigree puppies.

British breeds that have done well, however, include the bulldog, with 4,000 puppies being registered – 1,000 more than were registered two years ago. However, the Kennel Club list 2007 highlights breeds with less than 300 puppies a year being registered, and it includes many well-known British breeds.

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