It's the size of the population and the competence/goals of the breeders. Breeders chasing exaggerated traits at the expense of the animal's health are the major problem.

There are "pure" breeds of every domestic animal that are healthy -- provided it's a line not perpetuated by selfish idiots. Domestic shorthair cats, various working breeds of dogs, horses, etc.

[–] [email protected] 0 points 11 months ago (1 children)

I like how you put "pure" in quotes because the way they keep those lines healthy is by occasionally mixing in other breeds.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago)

No, it's because I find the idea and the importance attached to it idiotic.

Having said that, I also believe it doesn't automatically mean a breed is inbred and/or has health problems.