This position paper developed by FECAVA, the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations, and FVE, and supported by WSAVA, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, comes as a response to the explosion in popularity of dog breeds with exaggerated traits or genetic disorders and, in particular, those with extreme brachycephalic conformation, such as French and English bulldogs and pugs. While these breeds are increasingly popular with owners, they can suffer severe health and welfare issues. The Position Paper calls for health and welfare to be given priority over looks and offers detailed recommendations to address both the rising demand for these dogs and the increase in supply.
FVE and FECAVA Infographic explaining the causes and consequences of extreme breeding and listing a number of recommendations.
For more resources on extreme breeding of companion animals, see FECAVA website.
FVE strongly supports European legislation prohibiting surgery for cosmetic reasons. Issues such as tail docking, ear cropping, devocalisation, defanging should not be done by veterinarians for cosmetic reasons.
‘Health and welfare should go before looks’, vets urge
