Dutch prohibition of the breeding of dogs with too short muzzles
The Dutch government accepted the law in 2014, which prohibits the breeding of about 20 short-snouted dog breeds, as defined by the system of head measurement, using traffic light colors classification. According to this criterion, only dogs with the length of a muzzle at least a third of the head are allowed to breed. The law will now be actively enforced, which was the reason for the Dutch Pug Club Commedia to immediately stop breeding pugs and plan to adjust the breeding program in order to breed healthier dogs.
https://business.gov.nl/regulation/animal-welfare-requirements/
https://www.vettimes.co.uk/news/dutch-to-crack-down-on-breeding-of-dogs-with-too-short-snouts/
In its August edition, the Dog’s Today (UK’s largest magazine for dog owners) published an article on Dutch prohibition of the breeding of dogs with too short muzzles. FECAVA has welcomed this news and made a statement that was included in the article:
»FECAVA welcomes this decision, which is potentially a first small step towards healthier Pugs, and we would encourage other breeder associations of brachycephalic dog breeds to take similar steps,« said FECAVA president Wolfgang Dohne.
»It’s great news to see that breeders have taken an iniciative in improving the health and welfare of dogs,« added former president Monique Megens. »It is one of the recommendations of our joint FECAVA/FVE (Federation of Veterinarians in Europe) position paper on healthy breeding, adopted earlier this year. We hope that the show judges and public as a whole will embrace this iniciative, and move away from flat-faced Pugs.«
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It makes sense. Why breed dogs for them to suffer?
ReplyPeople have messed up so many animals in search of mutants to satisfy their own vain pursuit of "perfection".
There are more pressing matters to worry about.
As an owner of a 14 year old pug that rescued at 2 years of age , I couldn’t be happier to see this law come into effect and I wish that the same law was enforced in the U.S. where I live.
ReplyBella, my pug has a collapsed tracheae and I have never been able to take her on walks because Ivfeel that she is suffering when her breathing gets so agitated. I have to pay someone to do that for me and always remind them the importance of walking at her pace and take as many breaks as possible.
Bella is such a smart and obedient dog, that she follows all direction but it is animal cruelty to keep breeding animals like pugs.
I tried having surgery to correct her breathing issues, but her vet decided that it was too late in her age to have such surgery, so, I just protect her as much as I can, summers are the worst for Bella and J have to have the air conditioning on year round for her to be comfortable. Aside from her collapsed trachea Bella also suffers from sleep apnea and is already deaf from so many ear infections. She has had two surgeries to have bladder stones removed, the first one was to remove a stone the size of an avocado pit.
Bella has cost me so much money, that if anyone wants to pet her, must pay $10- despite all her health issues, she has a healthy apetito and is the most loving dog and I do not regret having rescued her at two years of age. She is the love of my life and I cry when I imagine my life without her. She is a gift from God.
I recently came across your news article highlighting the Dutch prohibition on breeding dogs with short muzzles, and I wanted to express my appreciation for shedding light on this crucial development. The decision to take a stand against the breeding of dogs with brachycephalic features is a commendable step towards prioritizing the welfare and health of our canine companions.
Brachycephalic breeds have become increasingly popular due to their unique appearances, but sadly, their distinctive physical traits can also lead to a multitude of health issues. Breathing difficulties, eye problems, dental issues, and temperature regulation challenges are just a few examples of the health concerns faced by these breeds. By taking a stand against breeding dogs with short muzzles, the Dutch authorities have taken a significant step towards addressing these welfare issues.
It is encouraging to see a country proactively working to promote responsible breeding practices and prioritize the well-being of dogs. By placing restrictions on the breeding of brachycephalic dogs, the Dutch government is sending a strong message that the health and welfare of animals should never be compromised for the sake of aesthetics or popularity.
Furthermore, this prohibition serves as an important reminder to breeders, dog owners, and enthusiasts worldwide that it is our collective responsibility to prioritize the long-term health and well-being of dogs. Breed standards should not be a justification for perpetuating health issues, but rather a guideline to strive for a healthy, functional, and balanced breed.
I hope that this decision in the Netherlands will inspire other countries to follow suit and implement similar regulations to protect the welfare of brachycephalic breeds. By collectively taking a stand against the breeding of dogs with short muzzles, we can work towards fostering a healthier future for these breeds and promoting a more ethical approach to dog breeding overall.
Thank you once again for highlighting this significant development. Your article serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of responsible breeding practices and the need to prioritize the health and well-being of our beloved canine companions.
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