Brachycephalic Breed Bans in Europe - Can It Happen in the US?

In January 2022, Norway approved a legal ban on breeding Bulldogs and Cavaliers, citing animal welfare violations. A similar ban and breeding restrictions has growing support from UK and other European veterinary organizations. Could the US be next to ban brachycephalic breeds?

Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT weigh the pros and cons of brachycephalic breed bans - and whether American dog lovers and veterinary professionals would support such mandates and regulations in this week’s episode.

Beckie shares the recent Norwegian court ruling and how this could affect other countries, including the US. Dr. Ward cites several studies that validate increased health risks of brachycephalics and how this impacts their welfare.

Viewfinders, this is a very tough topic for both our hosts and you may feel some of the same personal conflict! It’s a good discussion!

Dr. Ward challenges us to view the issue both from the pet parents’ perspective of increased cost, care, and medical conditions associated with these breeds, but also from the pet’s welfare: how it feels to struggle to breathe, walk, or play.

Both hosts agree we need to do a better job encouraging more responsible breeding, promote cross-breeding of these at-risk breeds, and educate the public about the health - and welfare - risks associated with brachycephalic.

Both stop far short of breed bans, but believe we can improve the overall health and wellbeing of brachycephalics by being more proactive on this issue.

Viewfinders, what do you think about this issue? How can we inspire conversations in both the veterinary profession and breeders? Why aren’t more veterinary professionals talking about this issue! Now’s your chance!

Additional resources:

First legal ban on breeding Bulldogs and Cavaliers announced

The law came into place in Norway this week and could have consequences world-wide

https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/first-legal-ban-breeding-bulldogs-22943414

Unravelling the health status of brachycephalic dogs in the UK using multivariable analysis

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-73088-y

British Veterinary Association (BVA) position on brachycephalic dogs

https://www.bva.co.uk/media/4231/bva-position-on-brachycephalic-dogs-full.pdf

https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/brachycephalic-dogs/

#EndTheTrend petition: We're calling on Britain's top brands to stop using brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds in their advertising

https://www.bluecross.org.uk/end-the-trend-brachycephalic-petition