This book provides extensive research results on canine hip and elbow dysplasia, population structure and inbreeding. It shows that systematic breeding programs, including preservation of genetic variation, are needed in order to improve health of the dogs, as well as to improve or maintain the desired behaviour and working traits. The only way to reach this goal is to clearly favour health and mental traits when selecting breeding dogs. Beauty of the dog should not be more than a minor factor on selection. The research has been made with large data sets and novel animal breeding research methods.
