Breed standards in pedigree dog breeding have contributed to inherited health problems. Reform movements are pushing for standards that prioritize health and welfare over extreme conformation.
Breed standards have created predictable, preventable suffering in pedigree dogs by prioritizing appearance over function and health. The welfare case for breed standard reform is overwhelming — dogs bred for extreme conformations suffer throughout their lives. Change requires action from kennel clubs, breeders, veterinarians, and consumers. Choosing to adopt mixed-breed dogs or healthy-conformation breeds and refusing to purchase from breeders of high-risk breeds sends the market signal that reforms the industry.