MDBA Breed Advisory Groups
Supporting Ethical Breed Development and Management Through Inclusion and Consultaion
At the Master Dog Breeders and Associates (MDBA), we believe the future of every breed is shaped by the shared knowledge and passion of its breeders and owners. Our Breed Advisory Groups (BAGs) provide an opportunity to utilise joint behaviours, learned skills, shared accountability and passion to help promote the devlopment of strategies and actions that guide the ethical development and long-term wellbeing of each breed.
What is a Breed Advisory Group?
A Breed Advisory Group is an informal consultative group made up of invited MDBA breeders and knowledgeable enthusiasts involved in a breed. These individuals volunteer their time to share insights, monitor emerging trends, and identify opportunities and challenges related to the health, development, and preservation of a breed.
Purpose and Role
Breed Advisory Groups support the MDBA by:
- Advising on breeding and registration policies
- Contributing to the refinement of breed standards
- Identifying health and welfare concerns
- Developing educational tools and resources
- Fostering constructive communication between breeders, owners and the MDBA
Each BAG is the sole advisory group recognised by the MDBA for its respective breed. While their recommendations are influential, all significant proposals are shared with the wider community of MDBA breeders of that breed for feedback and, where appropriate, a vote.
All proposals from BAG discussions are shared with all MDBA breeders of that breed for feedback and a vote, ensuring transparency and inclusivity.
Who Can Join?
BAG members are selected by invitation, based on:
- Proven experience with the breed
- Commitment to focusing on what is best for the breed
- A team mindset and willingness to contribute
- A desire to protect and promote their breed for future generations
Membership may evolve to reflect new insights and maintain a diverse representation of perspectives.
How Feedback is Used
Recommendations and insights from BAGs are reviewed by MDBA staff and the Board, and may inform:
- Breed Standard updates
- Educational resources
- Policy development
- Breed strategy and planning
All final decisions are made by MDBA’s Board or authorised staff in consultation with experts in the field to ensure intended outcomes are achievable.
Example in Action: Australian Cobberdog BAG
The Australian Cobberdog Breed Advisory Group is currently focused on:
- Creating conformation assessment protocols
- Establishing a points-based evaluation system
These tools will support fair and breed-appropriate assessments that reflect the unique nature of the breed.
FAQ: Breed Advisory Groups
Do BAGs make policy decisions?
No. They offer guidance only—MDBA retains all final policy and decision-making authority.
Can I suggest something for my breed’s BAG?
Absolutely. Contact a BAG member or the MDBA office to share your thoughts.
Are BAGs official MDBA representatives?
No. Members speak from personal expertise and do not represent MDBA positions or make public statements on our behalf.
Want to Learn More or Share an Idea?
Reach out to the MDBA Office or your breed’s BAG representative to connect, share feedback, or suggest a topic.