Selective breeding for extreme physical traits has created generations of dogs with heritable suffering, and reform efforts are growing but face significant resistance from breed clubs and buyers.
The welfare crisis in pedigree dog breeding represents decades of prioritising appearance over health. Millions of dogs live with chronic pain, breathing difficulties, skin infections, and neurological problems as a direct consequence of breed standards. Reform requires changes to breed standards, mandatory health testing before breeding, and consumer demand for healthier dogs. Norway's landmark legal ruling that some breed standards violate animal welfare law may influence policy in other countries.