Genetic problems in pooches may decrease thanks to a new pet matching scheme.

The Kennel Club recently released details of its Mate Select programme, which aims to provide a database featuring dogs available for breeding.

Animal owners will be able to upload information regarding their furry friends' health in order to reduce the number of mutts born with genetic defects.

The programme is expected to launch at the end of the year and was created partly in response to the BBC's Pedigree Dogs Exposed documentary, which highlighted how some breeds suffer from long-term medical problems.

However, the database will allow breeders to search for pooches who have a reduced risk of passing on inherited disorders to puppies.

Caroline Kisko, communications director for the Kennel Club, said: "A lot of science is going into the Kennel Club's new database, but the end result will be that the computer will help dog owners find a mate for their dog."

In other news, equine owners can now get their Fell ponies tested for foal immunodeficiency syndrome to establish which of their furry friends are carriers of the fatal condition.