As Norway moves to ban the breeding of bulldogs and cavalier King Charles spaniels, RSPCA WA has urged puppy purchasers here to be cautious of these breeds too.
The court-ordered ban has spurred the RSPCA to remind people that breeds like pugs, bulldogs and cavaliers can be ‘fundamentally unhealthy’.
On Monday, Oslo District Court ruled that selective breeding of British Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels breached the country’s Animal Welfare Act. The decision effectively bans the two breeds, which are notorious for problems associated with their flat faces and other characteristics.
RSPCA WA Animal Welfare Policy Officer Dr Talia Morgan said the decision was a win for dogs in Norway whose suffering had gone unabated for far too long.
‘Dogs in Australia with exaggerated features, like those around the world, also endure pain and suffering because of them; the associated health issues are well-documented and utterly heartbreaking,’ she said.
‘We know that pugs, British bulldogs and French bulldogs struggle to breath due to multiple airway deformities; that Dachshunds frequently suffer spinal problems which can lead to paralysis; and that cavaliers are prone to heart defects and headaches, due to their unnaturally small skulls.
‘These dogs don’t need to suffer, and consumers have incredible power to encourage responsible breeding by choosing to buy puppies bred for good lifelong health and welfare, rather than looks.’
Dr Morgan said owners of dogs with exaggerated physical features often encountered massive costs associated with medication, surgery, and specialised and ongoing vet care.
‘For example, surgery for a Dachshund with spinal problems will cost upwards of $5000, while surgery to correct a pug’s obstructed airway could set you back $8000. Plus, these dogs usually need ongoing extra daily care from their owners,’ she said.
‘I understand why people are drawn to these breeds. They are very cute and often have gorgeous temperaments, which just makes it all the more heartbreaking if they are suffering.
‘If you’re looking to welcome a dog into your life, please choose a healthy dog. It’s worth doing your research which will reveal, for example, that a flat-faced dog is 150 per cent more likely to suffer heatstroke than other breeds.’
RSPCA WA said exaggerated features to avoid when getting a dog included very flat faces, very large and protruding eyes, disproportionately short legs, and excessively wrinkled skin. Advice is available at RSPCA’s Smart Puppy and Dog Buyer’s Guide. Better yet, give a dog a second chance by adopting.
The RSPCA continues to campaign for a fundamental shift in the way purebred dogs are selected and bred. To get behind our push for a better future for purebred dogs with exaggerated features, see Love is Blind.
