Breed reform to eliminate extreme traits that cause health problems is one of the most impactful welfare interventions available for companion dogs.
Millions of dogs suffer preventable health problems because selective breeding has prioritized appearance over welfare. Brachycephalic breeds struggle to breathe, exercise, and thermoregulate throughout their lives. Breed reform that establishes health-based standards, combined with consumer education that reduces demand for extreme phenotypes, can shift the baseline welfare of entire breeds over generations.