In the world of veterinary medicine, an ongoing battle is being waged against the breeding of flat-faced dogs and cats. In this eye-opening VETChat podcast episode, Cat shares her journey advocating for change in the UK and sheds light on the underlying medical problems faced by these breeds and Kelly covers common health issues and the laws and regulations that are starting to be put in place against these animals.  

The crux of the matter lies in the extreme suffering these animals endure, all in the pursuit of a certain aesthetic. From breathing problems, skin folds and allergies to spinal problems and hip dysplasia, flat-faced pets often face a lifetime of health challenges, making it harder to justify their existence based solely on appearance. 

In the UK, the Kennel Club has limited control over breeds, leaving breed clubs with the power to change standards. Despite efforts by the Brachycephalic Working Group, progress has been minimal, and the challenge remains to improve health within the constraints of breed aesthetics. 

Kelly delves into the Netherlands' groundbreaking legislation, where a new 'traffic light' criteria is set to ban the breeding of dogs with a flat face. This criteria mandates that the muzzle should be at least half the length of the skull, promoting healthier breeding practices. 

The criteria for a dog are:

• has a normal, healthy snout. This means: the muzzle is at least as long as half of the skull (see figure) 

• has nicely rounded and open nostrils with no skin fold 

• does not snore, neither when inactive nor after exercising 

The criteria for a cat are:

• has a snout that is not flat, but protruding 

• has no tear marks 

• does not squint 

• does not look cross-eyed 

• has nicely rounded and open nostrils. If you look from the front, the nose is not in between but well below the eyes 

The Dutch model, in effect for over a decade, initially served as a warning but has now transitioned into strict law enforcement. With a focus on the snout criteria – red, medium, or green – breeders are held accountable for adhering to these standards. Breeding with a brachycephalic dog against the law is now considered a serious violation. 

However, enforcement in the Netherlands was only initiated after criteria publication in 2019. It took persistent efforts from organizations like Dier & Recht to push for inspections and enforce the law, showcasing the need for global advocacy. 

Emphasizing the Netherlands' approach, it's crucial to note that it's criteria ban, not a breed ban. Bulldogs that meet the criteria are still allowed to be bred, challenging the notion that certain breeds must be eradicated. 

In January, the Netherlands will further tighten regulations, banning the sale and purchase of dogs that don't meet the criteria, even if they come from other countries. Discussions are also underway to change the use of images of these dogs in advertisements, aiming to highlight their suffering and reshape public opinion. 

Key campaigns in the Netherlands, like the 'Don't Buy a Flat-Faced Dog or Cat' initiative, are making strides in creating awareness and encouraging responsible ownership. Moreover, an ongoing campaign urges companies to stop using flat-faced animals in advertisements, with over 230 companies having already pledged their support. 

This global issue requires international collaboration, and campaigns like 'Don't Buy a Flat-Faced Dog or Cat' are transcending borders, involving veterinarians, organizations, and animal lovers worldwide. Veterinarians have played a pivotal role in drafting legislation criteria and advocating against the health risks associated with brachycephalism. 

In clinics, veterinarians are taking a stand by refusing pre-mate tests for brachycephalic breeds, advising against purchasing these animals, and abstaining from showcasing them on social media or in ads. The priority is clear – health over aesthetics. 

As the movement gains momentum, veterinarians and animal welfare organizations globally are united in their battle against the unhealthy breeding practices that lead to extreme features in pets. The suffering of these animals must stop, and veterinarians are at the forefront of this crucial fight for change. 

About the campaign