The selective breeding of dogs for extreme physical traits has produced a welfare crisis across dozens of popular breeds experiencing endemic health problems.
The dog breeding industry has created animals living with chronic pain and disability as a routine aspect of their existence. Brachycephalic dogs struggle to breathe, sleep, and exercise normally. Dogs with exaggerated skin folds suffer from chronic skin infections. The welfare cost is borne by individual animals who did not choose their genetics; the moral responsibility rests with breeders, registries, and buyers who continue to select for these traits.