The Netherlands
announced on Friday, January 20, that it wants to ban the ownership of some
pets that suffer from health problems due to genetic mutations
that nonetheless give them a look that is often liked, such as
dogs with blunt snouts
.
It thus seeks to join the decision of
Norway, which declared the ban in February 2022.
The Dutch Minister of Agriculture, Piet Adema, stated that he will try to make
the possession of some breeds illegal and prohibit the dissemination of photos
of them in advertising or on social networks.
"We make life miserable for these innocent animals, just because we like them and they look cute," Adema said.
"Owners have the best of intentions, but are often unaware of the darker side of their pets' appearance," she added.
The pug, one of the breeds that the Netherlands seeks to prohibit its breeding.
The government will draw up a list of affected breeds, Adema said, but public broadcaster NOS noted that
pugs or pugs could be among the prohibited breeds.
"Dogs with muzzles that are too short are constantly out of breath," Adema stressed, adding that cat breeds with folded-back ears also suffer from health problems.
"This issue affects me as a minister, but also as a human being," he said.
The ban would take effect after a transition period.
Those who currently own one of these pets
will be able to keep it until they die
.
According to recent studies, pugs and other dogs bred to have short muzzles, such as French and English bulldogs, are more prone to health problems, especially respiratory problems.
Norway's decision
The Scandinavian country banned the breeding of
English bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
in February 2022 due to concerns about the health of these dogs.
Baby pug dog.
And those for whom a pet is part of their lives will wonder: which breeds have the most health problems?
According to the ruling of the Oslo District Court, the selective breeding of dogs violates animal welfare laws, since none of the animals of these breeds can be considered "healthy", reports the
Independent
site .
The case was taken to court by animal rights group Animal Protection Norway, who said the landmark ruling was "first and foremost a victory for our dogs."
These are some of the breeds that have the most health complications, according to the survey of organizations and specialists.
english
bulldog
English bulldogs often develop health problems as a result of their short muzzles and skull shape, which makes them prone to serious respiratory problems.
In addition, eye conditions and infections in the folds of their skin are also common.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their small heads, and English bulldogs for their wrinkled, squashed muzzles, traits their owners love.
Norway has banned the breeding of these dogs.
(Photo by Petter Berntsen/AFP)
cavalier king charles spaniels
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to heart disease, eye problems like cataracts and dry eye syndrome, and joint problems, a result of selective breeding.
Although the historic Norwegian court ruling only applies to these two breeds, they are not the only dogs that often develop health problems, as multiple breeds have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing certain diseases.
look also
Infinite sadness: a veterinarian's plea to owners who "put their dogs to sleep"
The five most dangerous dog breeds in the world
