Breathing problems in dog breeds: “This isn’t how a dog is meant to be”

An article in De Volkskrant draws attention to serious respiratory problems in several dog breeds. The article was written in response to recent research by the University of Cambridge. The research explains how physical characteristics that have been amplified by selective breeding practices can lead to structural health problems, with significant consequences for the animals’ welfare and health.

Hille Fieten, head of the Centre of Expertise in Veterinary Genetics, was interviewed for this article. She explains how hereditary factors and breeding choices contribute to health problems, and why structural changes are needed to improve the welfare of these dogs.