Dog Breed Health Scoring and Responsible Breeding

Many pedigree dog breeds carry inherited health conditions that cause chronic suffering. Breed health testing and scoring schemes aim to reduce the prevalence of inherited disease in future generations.

Key Facts

The UK Kennel Club and veterinary schools run health schemes testing for over 200 inherited conditions across numerous breeds
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects French bulldogs, pugs, and English bulldogs — causing lifelong breathing difficulty
Hip dysplasia affects many large breeds; the BVA/KC Hip Scheme scores breeding dogs on hip joint quality
Elbow dysplasia, hereditary cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy are among the most common tested conditions
Health-tested parents do not guarantee health in offspring, but substantially reduce risk across populations
DNA tests for single-gene conditions (e.g., exercise-induced collapse, degenerative myelopathy) allow carriers to be bred only to clear partners

Welfare Considerations

The breeding of dogs with extreme conformations that cause structural suffering is one of the most debated animal welfare issues in companion animal care. Purebred dogs bred for flat faces, extreme body proportions, or loose skin often experience chronic discomfort or pain as a direct result of human selection. Breed health schemes provide a mechanism for improvement, but their impact depends on breeder participation and buyer demand for tested dogs. Choosing breeds without extreme conformations, from health-tested parents, is the most effective individual-level welfare decision a prospective dog owner can make.

What You Can Do

Research the health profiles of any breed you are considering before purchasing or adopting
Request health certificates for both parents from any breeder — insist on Kennel Club health scheme results
Avoid breeds with extreme conformations (flat faces, very long backs, excessive skin folds)
Consider mixed-breed dogs from rescue organizations, which typically have lower rates of inherited disease
Support campaigns for mandatory health testing before Kennel Club registration of high-risk breeds