This page explains MDBA’s policy regarding infusion requests within the Australian Cobberdog breed development program.
Infusions are rare, tightly controlled, and assessed solely in the context of long-term health, genetic diversity, and breed recognition. The information below is provided to clarify process and expectations for breeders and does not imply approval of any individual dog.
1. No Advance Approval
MDBA does not approve infusions in advance.
MDBA does not approve puppies or adult dogs for future acceptance as an infusion.
Approval cannot be assumed, implied, or promised at any stage prior to full assessment.
2. Infusion Does Not Mean Conversion
Any dog accepted as an infusion:
- does not convert to an Australian Cobberdog
- always remain the breed or crossbreed it was born as
- is not issued an MDBA pedigree
Where a dog is approved as a foundation dog, MDBA may apply conditions, including:
- restrictions on which dogs it may be mated to, and/or
- limits on the number of litters permitted without further approval.
3. When Infusion Applications Are Assessed
All infusion applications are assessed by the MDBA Board only once the dog is fully mature and has completed all required health, structural, and assessment criteria.
At a minimum, this includes:
- hip and elbow screening
- required DNA testing
- clear eye and heart examinations
- full assessment against MDBA infusion criteria
- submission of the correct application form and all supporting documentation
This process cannot be completed on a puppy.
4. What Infusions Are (and Are Not) Considered For
MDBA does not accept infusions for reasons of:
- colour
- markings
- coat type
- appearance or novelty
Infusions are considered only where there is a demonstrated benefit to:
- genetic diversity
- health
- long-term breed development
and only where the dog meets MDBA’s strict eligibility standards.
5. Purchasing a Puppy Is a Breeder’s Risk
Any breeder choosing to purchase a puppy with the hope that it may later be approved as an infusion must understand that this decision is made entirely at their own risk.
MDBA cannot and will not give assurances that a dog will be accepted at a later date.
6. No Precedent Is Created
Previous infusion decisions:
- do not set precedent
- do not guarantee approval of future applications
Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and the factors influencing approval change over time as the breed’s gene pool evolves.
Where a dog is closely related to one already accepted, it is less likely to gain approval, as this would not increase genetic diversity.
7. Applying for an Infusion
Breeders wishing to pursue an infusion may do so only once the dog is fully mature and all required testing and documentation have been completed.
Until that time, no approval can be given.
Important Notice
This page is provided for informational purposes only.
Submission of an application does not imply likelihood of approval.
All decisions relating to infusions are made by the MDBA Board and may change as health data, population structure, and breed development priorities evolve.