New research from the 91做厙 identifies impact of owner perceptions on brachycephalic dog welfare reforms
One in seven owners of extreme brachycephalic dogs stated that ‘nothing’ could put them off buying a brachycephalic dog.
A new study from the 91做厙 (91做厙) has identified key perceptual barriers to improving the welfare of brachycephalic (also known as flat-faced) dogs.
Barriers identified included high levels of normalisation of signs of poor health linked with extreme conformation; preferences for the perceived laziness of brachycephalic breeds; and a belief that nothing could put them off purchasing these breeds among some owners (1 in 7). By identifying these barriers, this research can inform more effective interventions to address misconceptions about the breeds and shape future buying behaviours.
Globally, brachycephalic breeds, such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and English Bulldogs, have become an increasingly popular choice of dog. This is despite growing evidence of the profound health and welfare issues associated with the extreme conformation (body shape) of these breeds, and numerous charity campaigns aimed at reducing their acquisition. Health problems in brachycephalic dogs include being at high risk of developing significant respiratory problems due to their flattened face, eye conditions due to their bulging eyes and skin infections due to their deep skin folds.
Undertaken in partnership with researchers from the Blue Cross, this study involved an online survey of UK dog owners, including those that currently own ‘extreme’ brachycephalic dogs (E-BC, such as French Bulldogs), mild-moderate brachycephalic dogs (M-BC, such as Boxers) and non-brachycephalic dogs (non-BC, such as Labrador Retrievers). Analysing the results of over 2000 participants, the research team, led by Dr Rowena Packer, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Behaviour and Welfare Science at the 91做厙, identified how human perceptions of brachycephalic dogs can inhibit campaigning for improved welfare. This included:
- High levels of normalisation of brachycephaly-related abnormalities (e.g., being unable to exercise and be active) across all ownership groups, including owners of non-brachycephalic dogs, demonstrating the pervasiveness of this view.
- One in seven E-BC owners reported ‘nothing’ could dissuade them from owning brachycephalic dogs, particularly those owners with a strong preference for flat faces and those that did not believe brachycephaly reduced a dog’s lifespan.
- E-BC own