Why are the days of some dog breeds in Europe numbered?

Understanding why some breeds are banned in Europe (Image: Image Bank)

Dog breeds are often the subject of controversy. But when we talk about them, we think about those that some consider violent. However, the Netherlands’ position on the ban concerns flat-faced breeds, such as Pugs and French Bulldogs.

To better understand the reason for this decision and why it is being praised across Europe, see the report.

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The origin of the ban

First, we need to understand the big issue surrounding these animals. Flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, and shih tzus have become very popular in recent decades due to their cuteness. However, these breeds often suffer from health problems due to their physical characteristics.

At first it may seem that this ban is recent, but in the Netherlands specifically, this project has been discussed for almost a decade. A 2014 law prohibits the breeding of dogs called “brachiocephalic” in veterinary circles, specifically those with flat snouts.

According to Dutch experts, the quality of life of these breeds and even their health is harmed due to their physical characteristics. The law was approved in 2014, but only five years later, in 2019, the Dutch government decided to put it into effect.

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Reasons for the ban

In addition to thinking about animal welfare, these animals are known to suffer a lot in basic activities. There is a whole problem that takes into account the mutation of dog species.

In 2019, a study conducted by canine geneticist Jeffrey Schoenbeck of the Royal University of Edinburgh in Scotland found the genetic characteristics that give these dogs their physical appearance. Ultimately, this was evidence that the presence of brachycephaly puts the entire canine population at risk.

Since then, the Dutch government has begun creating a system similar to a dog traffic light. This is because breeds with a snout larger than a third of the skull are prohibited from breeding.

In early 2023, the Dutch Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, Piet Adema, went further and banned the breeding and display of these animals. “We make life miserable for innocent animals because we think they are cute. Today we are taking a big step towards a Netherlands where no animal should suffer because of its appearance.” Adema made the announcement in an official statement.

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The Dutch leadership has already been followed in European countries

The Netherlands is a country that is always remembered for its progressive bias and is always innovative on these issues. When it came to banning flat-snouted dogs, it was no different.

Animal welfare associations in the United Kingdom praised the position of the Dutch and the controversy began to gain more ground in British territory. However, this topic has sparked controversy as veterinarians believe this could generate more demand and illegal animal smuggling.

On the other hand, the ban has already been approved in Norway. Residents can no longer adopt English Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. The justification is the difficulty of breathing in these animals.