Breed health reform for dogs with inherited welfare problems aims to reduce the prevalence of conditions that cause chronic suffering in affected breeds.
Dog breed health reform is a welfare priority because the suffering imposed by inherited conditions is lifelong, affects a significant proportion of breed populations, and is largely preventable through responsible breeding decisions. A French Bulldog that cannot breathe normally through its nose, sleep without airway obstruction, or exercise without distress is experiencing welfare compromise caused by the choices made by breeders and buyers. The reform pathway involves health testing before breeding, abandoning extreme phenotypes, outcrossing to restore genetic diversity, and consumer education about health costs associated with extreme conformation. Progress requires coordinated action from breed clubs, the Kennel Club, veterinarians, and consumers.