Companion Animals

Dog Breed Health Reform and Brachycephalic Welfare

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds suffer serious health problems that are the result of extreme selective breeding, requiring urgent reform.

Key Facts

French Bulldogs, Pugs, and English Bulldogs are the most affected breeds
BOAS causes chronic breathing difficulty, sleep apnoea, and reduced exercise capacity
Up to 70% of brachycephalic dogs in some studies have clinically significant BOAS
Surgical treatment can improve but does not resolve underlying structural problems
The Kennel Club and veterinary bodies have called for extreme conformation changes

Welfare Considerations

Brachycephalic breeds experience lifelong suffering as a direct result of selective breeding for extreme physical features. Reform of breed standards and consumer purchasing choices are essential to end this welfare crisis.

What You Can Do

Do not purchase flat-faced dog breeds with extreme features
Support Kennel Club and veterinary reform campaigns for breed standard change
Educate potential puppy buyers about brachycephalic welfare problems
Advocate for mandatory health screening before breeding flat-faced dogs
Support research into the genetics and prevalence of BOAS