06/04/2026
Finnish Kennel Club Board Approves Doberman Crossbreeding Project and Other Key Decisions
The Finnish Kennel Club Board met on May 7 and May 22, approving a number of initiatives affecting breeding, governance, education, and international activities.
One of the most significant decisions was the approval of a crossbreeding project for Dobermans.
The project aims to improve the breed’s overall health, expand the gene pool, and increase genetic diversity. The primary focus is reducing the impact of Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart disease that affects approximately 60% of the breed population during their lifetime.
The approved outcross breeds are:
• Gordon Setter
• Hovawart
• Finnish Lapponian Herder
• German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Kennel Club has unanimously approved and expressed support for the project. Offspring produced through the program will be registered in the Finnish Kennel Club’s FIRR registry, a separate registry for crossbreeding projects.
The Board also approved the creation of a new official role to assist with behavioural evaluations of dogs subject to participation restrictions. Individuals appointed to the role must have advanced education in animal care, behaviour, or related fields, along with experience dealing with aggression-related behavioural issues.
Two new members were appointed to the Finnish Kennel Club Education Working Group as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen educational programming and training initiatives.
The Board approved a new advocacy and government relations strategy covering the years 2027 to 2031.
Among the international highlights:
• Finnish representatives were selected for several FCI and international championship judging assignments.
• Nordic kennel organizations agreed to begin work toward more unified anti-doping policies.
• Finnish officials received appointments within FCI committees, including agility and rescue dog activities.
The Board also approved several organizational changes, including recognition of additional breed organizations and breed clubs, along with multiple new member associations from across Finland.
The next meeting of the Finnish Kennel Club Board is scheduled for June 11.
Source: Finnish Kennel Club Board decisions from meetings held May 7 and May 22, 2026.
