Choosing a dog breed based on appearance alone, without considering health and welfare implications, perpetuates demand for dogs with inherited conditions that cause lifelong suffering.
Many popular dog breeds carry significant inherited welfare costs. Brachycephalic dogs experience chronic respiratory compromise affecting their entire life. Some giant breeds develop severe orthopaedic disease. Dachshunds have high rates of spinal cord disease. These conditions cause chronic pain and disability. Choosing breeds for looks without considering health perpetuates this suffering through continued demand. Breeding reform requires consumer and regulatory pressure.