This petition is to gather support to remove the Canadian Kennel Club's mandatory spay/neuter policy for dogs participating in CKC performance events (i.e. Agility, Obedience, Chase Ability, Herding etc.).  These sporting events have no direct correlation to breeding and therefore, the dogs' reproductive status should not be relevant. 

Dogs without CKC approved paperwork are required to be spayed/neutered in order to participate in CKC events.  This applies to mixed breed dogs, purebred dogs that are not CKC registered, and unrecognized breeds that are not registered with a CKC recognized Registry.  

The CKC hosts important performance events, including the Agility Team Canada tryouts for the FCI European Open. The FCI European Open does not have any regulations regarding the spay/neuter of competing dogs.  However, the CKC’s spay/neuter policy dictates which intact dogs are eligible to represent Canada at this international event.  

The decision to alter a dog should be made solely between the owner and a veterinary professional.  There is a lot of new, reputable research regarding the effects of spay/neuter on dogs, specifically regarding orthopedic disease.   

Orthopedic Specialist and Sport Medicine Vet, Dr. David Lane’s Article on Spay and Neuter Surgery’s Effects on Dog Health

Due to these concerns, many dog sport competitors are now waiting to spay/neuter their dogs, if choosing to do so at all.  As an organization advocating for the health and wellbeing of all dogs, it is contradictory for the CKC to require the spay/neuter of dogs competing in performance events.

Performance events should highlight the dog’s athleticism and skill. A dog’s reproductive status should not be a factor in determining the dog’s eligibility to compete.