Selective breeding for extreme physical traits has created dogs with inherited health problems that cause chronic pain and reduced quality of life.
Extreme breed conformation creates dogs that cannot perform basic natural behaviors without pain or difficulty. Brachycephalic dogs cannot breathe normally, sleep comfortably in some positions, or exercise adequately. Chondrodystrophic breeds like dachshunds suffer disc disease that causes paralysis. These are not incidental problems but are inherent to the breeds as currently defined. Breed standard reform, mandatory health testing, and consumer education are all required to improve the situation.