AN INQUIRY set up to examine if the way pedigree dogs are bred damages their health is set to report this afternoon.

The investigation’s conclusions could have far reach implications for some of Britain’s biggest dog shows - including the Darlington Dog Show.

Professor Sir Patrick Bateson was asked to examine the issue by the Kennel Club, which runs Crufts, and Dogs Trust after widespread reports the breeding process of pedigree dogs was resulting in a high level of genetic illness.

He said: ‘‘Our aim is to develop practical recommendations that will significantly benefit both pedigree and non-pedigree dogs.’’ The Kennel Club refused to comment on reports Prof Bateson would recommend setting up a regulatory body to oversee breeders and carry out spot checks.

Fears that pedigree dogs were being harmed led to the RSPCA announcing it was pulling out of Crufts over concerns about animal welfare.

The animal charity said it had suspended plans to staff a stand at the world-famous dog show in March 2009 and called for new measures to tackle disability, deformity and disease among pedigree breeds.

Its chief veterinary adviser, Mark Evans, called for a shift in emphasis away from the looks of show dogs towards their health, welfare and temperament.

But Crufts organisers said dog shows gave organisations a ‘‘great opportunity’’ to educate the public about the importance of health and welfare.

Kennel Club spokeswoman Caroline Kisko said it invested a great deal of time, money and care into pedigree health, including grants and a recent donation of £48,000 to the RSPCA to improve the general welfare of dogs.