Companion Animal Breed Standards and Health Welfare

Breed standards for pedigree dogs and cats have in some cases selected for physical characteristics causing chronic health problems, with welfare reform of standards the most effective intervention for improving health outcomes.

Key Facts

Brachycephalic dog breeds including bulldogs and pugs have respiratory, eye, and skin problems from flat-face selection
Scottish Fold cats have severe joint and bone disease linked to the mutation causing their distinctive ears
Dachshunds have elevated rates of intervertebral disc disease from their elongated spine and short-leg genetics
The UK Kennel Club and RSPCA have collaborated on breed health reforms targeting exaggerated features
Breeding for health rather than conformation requires changing judge assessment criteria and breeder incentives

Welfare Considerations

Breeding for exaggerated physical characteristics that cause chronic health problems represents a preventable welfare crisis. Brachycephalic dogs that cannot breathe normally, exercise properly, or sleep without respiratory obstruction experience welfare harm inherent in their genetic makeup. Extreme breeding has been driven by show preferences and buyer demand for dramatic appearances. Reform requires changes across the entire system including breed standards, judge training, breeder incentives, and buyer education. Progress has been made with some breeds but resistance from traditional breeding communities has slowed welfare-focused reform.

What You Can Do

Never purchase dogs or cats with extreme features known to cause health problems
Support the RSPCA's campaign against exaggerated breed features that harm animal welfare
Advocate for Kennel Club breed standard reforms that prioritize health over appearance
Choose breeders who health test and select against exaggerated features
Educate potential pet buyers about the welfare consequences of purchasing brachycephalic breeds