Norway Bans Bulldogs (and Cavies) - My Thoughts

#vet #bulldog #cavalier #norway
How's it going everyone. Couple people asked me about my thoughts on Norway banning the future creating of bulldogs and cavaliers, so I figured I should make a video about it. This issue is not as complicated as some would have you believe, but let's get into it!
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[@DVMCellini]

Being brachycephalic creates inherit morbidity. In the absolute best case scenario dogs will breathe abnormally but won't have clinical illness. But even then, they are breathing abnormally and are not leading what I would consider a fully healthy, thriving life. They can still smell but they can't move air into their lungs because the air doesn't flow without significant turbulence. More practically, brachycephaly greatly raises the risk of BOAS and all that entails. This can range from sleep apnea, exercise intolerance, high risk of heat stroke, pneumonia, and outright death from respiratory compromise and over heating. This also includes significant gastrointestinal issues because the increased effort in trying to breathe leads to swallowing air (aerophagia). This in turn causes esophageal inflammation, reflux (heartburn), and hiatal hernias (stomach herniates into the esophagus). In addition, the genes that give way to brachycephaly also raise the risk of malignant brain cancer (gliomas). This is why Boxers, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers come in over and over and over with the same types of (uncurable) tumors. In fact I just diagnosed a 6 year old frenchie with one a few days ago. Just ask yourself - would this happen in any possible scenario, through natural selection? Would any animal with a nose and muzzle, prefer to not have one, and not have their normal anatomy, if they could communicate that? The answer is assuredly no. So why are we doing it to them?

[@crypto_radio9653]

With this being said, do you know why do multiple veterinary schools use the bulldog as their mascot?

[@DVMCellini]

Yeah - they started using them multiple decades ago before anyone knew about this.

[@crypto_radio9653]

@@DVMCellini Thanks for the reply! How often do you see corgis? Any plans of a video on their neurological issues?

[@BK-is5fj]

@@crypto_radio9653Not sure about Cardigans, but Pembroke Corgis are generally pretty healthy if you go to an ethical breeder, you just have to watch their weight. They have a life expectancy of 15. Any bad breeder can cause a breed health issues, the Corgi is definitely not up there like pugs and Dachshunds are.

[@e.agoraphobicdickinsonpoet660]

Why don’t they have dogs like pugs on their ban list? I love pugs & had 2 13 yr old litter mate male pugs until 12/20/24 when one of them died in my arms. He was being worked up for chronic coughing, vomiting, GERD & pneumonia . It was heartbreaking. The best dog a person could ever have but the meds that were working months prior , completely stopped working. Anyone with a brain & heart can see it’s not right to breed these beautiful but terribly unhealthy dogs into existence for our human pleasure. I’ve learned first hand . Thank goodness I had insurance for him so I could afford to make things as comfortable as I possibly could for him. I might add he & his brother were inseparable since birth & now his best friend & constant companion Kirby is desperately lonely for him & developing other health issues from his loss. RIP Milo❤️🐾🐾❤️

[@Silkytoaster]

As a practicing vet I totally agree with Norway’s new law . As for those folks who talk about wanting to maintain breed purity - look at paintings or photos of the original breed specimens from 150 yrs ago - they look nothing like the breed standard today . They have the sweetest personality but their bodies are a genetic nightmare .

[@BritBit89]

As a cavalier owner, I fully support careful outcrossing. I love this breed. Their temperament is unmatched as a family lap dog. But their health conditions can be devastating. Breeders and breed enthusiasts’ hyper focus on ‘breed purity’ is so frustrating. The AKC is also part of the problem. Why wouldn’t you want to try to eliminate genetic conditions that cause suffering? CKCS are so inbred, the only way to do that is outcrossing. Breed for health first, then temperament, and lastly looks.

[@DVMCellini]

They're INSANELY inbred, as it turns out (from what I've researched).

[@siriusley13]

I agree wholeheartedly! I love the breed but so tragic the level of health problems. Epilepsy is also very common

[@Antsandy96]

I agree. They are lovely breed. But when I heard they were on the banned list I understood. I'd like to see how the cross breeding is going and to get that breed to a healthier state.

[@purpleamber1]

Fellow Chicago veterinary professional here - I once had a client that kept bringing in bulldog puppies from the same breeder. They all had hip dysplasia and horrible airways; they all had to be euthanized before they were 1 year. I am also haunted by the screams of a Cavalier. I support this 👏🏼

[@DVMCellini]

those are the worst ugh

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

I remember joining a frenchie fb group a while ago and i swear everyday some person would be posting about how their young dog was diagnosed with some serious medical condition. I ended up leaving it because i honestly found it depressing. I dont own a french bulldog and probably wont ever have one because of the medical conditions that come along with them but i still think theyre adorable.

[@nonaoik]

This reminds me that one reproduction vet professor told us how most english bulldogs were born by cesarean and that she had never seen a bulldog giving birth naturally. I think this also ilustrates how extreme the situation is for these animals.

[@melissarecord7102]

I totally agree and don’t understand why they limited it to just those two breeds. Pugs for sure should have been included. We should be breeding dogs for a job not just appearance. At the very least they should be able to breathe freely.

[@DVMCellini]

I think if the court was presented with french bulldogs they would have made the same decision too. They just happened to have english bulldogs and cavies brought up.

[@Finkeldinken]

Tbh I think it's fine they started there because I could see it happen that the breed associations for other brachycephalic breeds and other breeds with serious issues get "scared straight" and finally start righting their wrongs on their own before a new law hits.

[@marizzakachelhoffer9088]

I'm a vet too, I agree with it and wish they could implement this law in my country

[@sophialouise2521]

I am so happy Norway has done this! Inam a vet nurse in the UK and know first hand the trouble these breeds especially bulldogs have with regards to there breathing. If I have a bulldog under GA I love watching them breath freely on recovery with the tube in, I just want to keep it there forever. I am slightly shocked that they haven't also banned French Bulldogs and Pugs as these too have major major issues.

[@DVMCellini]

I totally agree!

[@catladyfromky4142]

Until the official breed standards change, I agree with Norway's stance. I wish they would also include Frenchies too.

[@DVMCellini]

Me too

[@imle9279]

The reason why frenchies wasn't included in the ban was because there's still genetic diversity within the breed. Meaning that they can fix the breed without outcrossing (I'm Norwegian, and I followed the whole thing and wanted the ban to go through)

[@joshuahorner2639]

100% agree as I mentioned to you in a prior comment. It probably will never occur here in "MERICA" with people wanting to flex their individual liberties. Far and away, Europe is light years ahead of us in the area of humane treatment of animals. Ear cropping, cat declawing, tail docking were all brought under scrutiny there first.

[@amberrider7275]

I could not agree more! I got a Boston terrier for my 14th birthday and we specifically got one with a “long” nose meaning it actually stuck out from his face a good 2-3 inches because we didn’t want one that would be struggling to breath his whole life. He lived to be 15 we lost him to cancer. He was the goofiest guy and so lovable. He was my last purebred dog. I now have had 4 rescue dogs since then and they are just as wonderful!

[@ninnik]

The Finnish Kennel Club started (separate) cross-breeding projects for Cavaliers and Frenchies last year.

[@kohinaario]

Yes, they did, and a few litters have already been born.

[@GabrielDeafBlindPupFamily]

I am so with you on this. Many years ago I read an article called Pedi-GREED. We have intentionally bred anomalies into dogs for our own pleasure. These dogs would have never evolved in nature. I rescue homozygous australian shepherds (completely preventable!!!) and the dilute gene affects so many breeds. I have mixed feelings on breeders, some breeds I love, some I pity. Like your opinion of Norway's bans, I completely agree and applaud the country for taking a stand against cruelty. There are so may brachiocephalic breeds out there, their work is cut out for them. Here in the US the AKC purportedly stands for the "betterment of the breed" This obviously should read for the "betterment of the breeder". When I asked them to disqualify any offspring of a merle to merle bred birth, they sent me back to the breed club. The breed club, at the time, had a culling qualifier on their webpage. That disappeared a long time ago after a lot of us called them out on it. Intentionally breeding dogs to kill them is an obscenity. Thank you for this good video and I look forward to more.

[@Finkeldinken]

YES. 100% on your side here! I know the cavies are very susceptible to a specific kind of heart issues, and I have heard that an astounding number of them are living with chronic headaches due to the conformation of their skulls. I'm not sure about the last one, but I have heard vets talk about the heart issues and it is atrocious. I am in full support of the slapping on those breeders' hands because they have been given chances and warnings from vets and animal welfare activists at least since I was a kid 30 years ago. I hope they do the same in Denmark where I live. I am happy to say that the Danish national veterinarian association finally officially spoke out about brachycephalic dog breeds just a few years ago. I was very happy to see that. And can I just say: I know there is a small amount of breeders here who have been working to get the English Bulldog breed back to looking like it looks in 100+ year old photos, and the one dog I've met from that program was GORGEOUS and healthy. More of those! Okay, sorry for a long rant, but thank you SO much for taking a clear stance. These are wonderful dogs. They don't deserve a life of torture.

[@danettehartsock6366]

Great idea! Should've happened here many years ago here in the USA. It would also be great to help some of the big dog's that on average live 5 years. Like The Great Dane.

[@gabynicolex]

As someone that’s in the process of adopting their second medically challenged frenchie, I approve this message

[@billiefreitas6621]

Are their nose bigger?

[@Ashfleigh]

I really like these videos on veterinary controversial/hot topics. I'm in vet school now, and they definitely don't touch on these topics very often. As a vet, would you feel morally obligated to talk owners out of breeding or buying bulldogs? Also conveniently our school mascot is a bulldog (not the "uga"ly one...). I remember attending a meeting years ago with his handler about how they pay a lot of attention to the health of their breeding line (idk the lingo, but that's essentially what she said). But now I'm curious how much of that was true and what she was actually referring to because it doesn't sound like there's any good way to breed a "healthy" bulldog.

[@DVMCellini]

I explain these issues to owners and almost to a person, they are completely unaware of the facts.

[@christyt3949]

Look at pictures of breeds from 100 years ago. They were less extreme and look healthier. I'm surprised that nobody mentioned the German Shepherd. Have you ever seen some of the "well bred" ones try to walk?

[@cw4608]

You are absolutely correct, thank you.

[@piche090391]

Also, the inbound comments from “profesional” dog breeders are going to be 🔥. Great video Dr. Cellini

[@SuneOli4]

Sending this video to every breeder who says "but my bulldogs are perfectly healthy"

[@jodymichelle4965]

Seems like that ban would also have to include French bulldogs and pugs. Because this ban makes room for breeding them with more reasonable physical traits, I think this is great legislation. Breeders in the US by law are held to very poor standards making it easy for them to make a lot of money while spending very little on their care and breeding them irresponsibly on top of that. Controlling the breeds is a roundabout way of controlling the crap breeders that are about quantity not quality and exacerbating traits a breed may be known for but that causes physical problems. As a vet tech at a specialty facility I have seen AKC breeders that came in for a consult and refused to not breed dogs with hereditary issues. That English bulldog likely also has elbow and hip dysplasia that can become crippling when overweight and when they are older. If you could keep their great personality traits and slightly modify the physical appearance in a way that makes it obvious it’s an English Bulldog but without the significant health problems why would you not want to. In the US the problem seems to be getting lawmakers to pass legislation regarding companion animals. I think the US will likely be one of the last 1st world countries to pass similar legislation. And last, calling it a ban is misleading. It makes it sound like an English Bulldog will never be seen in Norway again. Unfortunately a large number of people seem to react to particular words (mandate, ban) before they ban have a chance to really educate themselves on what it entails. In the US at least they would have to find another way to advertise or publicize that type of legislation. People with no stake or sincere interest would protest simply because it includes the word ban.

[@DVMCellini]

my sense is that breeders are more interested in "purity" rather than actual health. they have this odd desire to preserve something that didn't even naturally occur in the first place. i just can't understand it.

[@jodymichelle4965]

@@DVMCellini yeah but the “breeders” version of purity seems to change along with what public wants. Chihuahuas getting smaller along with getting MPL and hydrocephalus. German Shepherds “Americanized” with sloping backs and smaller frames prone to hip problems, sharpeis have more wrinkles and skin problems. The “breeders” have screwed over the very breeds they profess to love and some of them don’t even know it. How many “breeders” do you think would be able to positively identify the breed when it was actually set apart as a specific breed and named? My guess would be a dishearteningly small number.

[@maritveeber9397]

‘Maybe try mourning for the actual animals themselves.’ 💀 Great video Dr Cellini! As a veterinarian, I applaud Norway for having the cojones and kind of wish a couple of other Brachy breeds had been included as well.

[@belgadog99]

Thank you for breaking it down for everyone. Bulldogs(French+English) existed fora long time. How did the early bulldogs were able to breed without AI and give birth without a c-section ? No antibiotics till WW2..how did the breeders cope ? im sure the extreme dogs just died and did not get to reproduce=did not pass on their extremely short noses, huge heads and narrow hips. I am not a bulldog owner. I love dachshunds and they suffer too. What the heck happened to my other favourite breed, the German shepherd ?? Are people(breeders) making these breeds "better" ?? no, just being selfish. Start doing outcrosses ! Did you read about the Dalmatians and the kidney disorder they have? I like your videos..most breeders are not veterinarians and deny+hide how much health problems their breeds have. I don't have a dachshund at this time..no German shepherd either. Just 1 malinois. I miss having a dachsie.

[@kennikitty]

Dogs just looked much different back in the days. Many breeds were bred for purposes: guarding or hunting for example. Only dogs that were useful and healthy were bred. The Dachshund was not bred with short legs to look cute, but rather to fit into badger holes. Beauty was not important at all. A dog with such a small nose it can't breath properly and can barely move more than half a mile, was not useful and therefore didn't exist 80 years ago. Today, most dogs are pets. They don't need to fulfill a job anymore and are bred mainly for their beauty/apperance. The snouts got shorter and the faces rounder, because humans think it's cute. Unfortunately, most dogs are bred for looks and not health today. So the snouts of the bullies gor shorter, the Dachshund's legs got shorter, the German Shepherds hips got lower, the Great Dane grew taller and so on. Characteristics were breat to the extreme in the last 50 years.

[@juliac3933]

I wish the public was better educated about this. So much needless suffering. Also, I literally started laughing out loud reading the bulldog club statement. “Healthier than ever”!

[@DVMCellini]

Right? Like how can you POSSIBLY say that???

[@nadinabbott3991]

I have had serious fights with fanciers. After Dexter, if we adopt, it will be another pound dog…but serious, I got to see this when my brother used to breed great Danes. When the new standard for German Shepherd came out, a few people left…starting the working dog standard. Those dogs are very different than the fancy. And a lot less hip dysplasia. But this is why malinois are used a lot more these days. Watching that as a kid literally turned me against the fancy. And yes, all breeds have issues…some more, some less (my chi mix has the dental issues of chihuahuas…six more extractions last week, for example. His back and AD I think came from service). This is why imo the fancy needs to get called on their malpractice. And it is malpractice.

[@jennawhite5466]

I fully support Norway’s position. I wish this would be taken up in the US, and include other brachycephalic breeds. People forget about the big scaries in Cavs - syringomyelia and mitral valve disease. Yes they are also brachy, but the other two kill Cavs more than being brachy. Ethical breeders will keep these dogs back and have them tested for both before selling, usually. The first vet I worked for as a tech was a passionate Cav breeder, and had them tested for those two diseases, as well as having their joints OFA certified. I also think the “micro” bully (an APBT with cross into an English Bulldog) also should be outlawed, as well as Munchkin Cats.

[@BuzzyStreet]

Thank You, Norway!

[@coles5243]

Years ago I really really wanted a Cavalier king Charles Spaniel! They are smart, great size (for me) and beautiful! I just could not bring myself to buy one after researching their overbreeding issues/ heart problems.

[@DVMCellini]

i gotta tell ya, i'm quite tempted to still get one. i won't but man they are soooooo sweet

[@rawexplorer8373]

Get a rescue cavvie

[@inuchan74]

Wow it has never occurred to me that bulldogs leave their tubes alone because they can breathe so well. I am all for crossing these guys with other breeds to make their bodies healthier. That is how all breeds are created in the first place - mixing puppies like paint to get the desired features. I worked with a tech who was a huge breed snob. She would comment how a new shipoo or puggle coming in wasn't worth what the person paid for it because they are just mutts. And I'd always have the same comment - at least this dog can breathe. Those guys are generally overall healthier and have better quality of life. We do a lot of surgeries on the nares to widen them, mostly in Shi Tzus and it's amazing the difference it makes right away. My biggest problem is with English bulldogs, Frenchies, ect who cannot birth on their or and very often can't even reproduce on their own. If we were not allowed to assist them with both, the breeds would die off. If a dog is so malformed that it can't even reproduce then it shouldn't. But again, bringing other breeds in is something I could get behind. It's interesting to see photos of some of these breeds from the early 1900s and how different they look.

[@kathleengross8164]

I love the vids! Im studying to be a large animal vet tech, but I work at a small animal hospital right now and I hate so see these breeds suffer. Its really annoying when friends or family think the breed standards are really cute and don't see all the problems that come with it :(

[@kathleengross8164]

I also looooove the sassiness towards irresponsible breeders

[@lchaconxo7932]

Thank you for spreading awareness and information!

[@solstice3190]

I watched this after class and reminded myself to come back and comment lol! I totally stand with you and Norway. I think it’s a foot in the right direction. I’m a receptionist at a popular doggie daycare here in my beach city. Me and my coworkers are really iffy towards brachycephalic breeds because of all of their health issues and we’re constantly getting new clients. They usually have to stay inside all day since they can overheat so quickly and already struggle to breathe so it’s not like they can keep up with the pack which defeats our facility’s purpose since we’re cage-free and don’t have separate areas or ‘condos’ for individual dogs. It’s really sad, especially when you can hear them struggling to breathe and it sounds like they’re slurping through their noses just barely being able to breathe. I’m shocked that I didn’t know King Charles were considered a brachycephalic breed! Of course they have shorter faces but I guess I never thought it since they’re not as severe as bulldogs. I think the ban on King Charles is kind of unnecessary though and there are probably other breeds that are predisposed to more health issues than them. I was looking to purchase one (king charles) as my service dog in training but the price tag is what sold me as a “no” lol.

[@leftymind2977]

I completely agree, and I even grew up along side a bulldog as a close family member had one.

[@thepaganapostate3208]

This kind of thing is why I wanted to create the Alternative American Kennel Club. The AAKC.

[@51Saffron]

I feel bad for all the dogs that have been genetically engineered. There are some really horrible people making money off of "trendy" pets. The healthiest dogs that we have owned were "mutts". They only went to the vet a few times in their lives, to be fixed and vaccinated. They all lived for a long time. We have had a lot of rescue dogs, mainly seniors, and they were either mixed or purebreds had all had multiple medical issues. Never heard of dogs with diabetes until we adopted a three legged, blind min pin. However, I have to admit, the best dog in temperament, funny, and loved everything was our American Cocker Spaniel. We had him as a pup, and he died at 12 years old. He did have medical issues, but not that bad. We also adopted a 10 year old female cocker spaniel and she was just like him. She died at 13 years old. Our last dog was a mixed breed, he just died at 17 years old. He was diabetic, senile and blind.

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

My sister has boston terriers, one is a purebred the other is a boston x chihuahua. The cross ended up undergoing surgery to widen her nasal airways because her nostrils were squished together like the english bulldog you showed in the video.

[@billygoat7060]

Great stuff this channel’s growing so much!!

[@DVMCellini]

😁

[@marinerullier7373]

Hi, Thanks for the video, it's great. I wonder where did you get the stenosis chart, I think I will print it and put it in our examination room!

[@DVMCellini]

journals.plos.org/plosone/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0181928&type=printable

[@KimberlyLPruitt]

So well explained. Thank you!

[@DVMCellini]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Heyitshahahanna]

Thank you for the informative video!

[@kennikitty]

I think this is amazing, more countries should follow and more breeds should be included in the ban.

[@DVMCellini]

there's a couple i could think of...

[@kennikitty]

@@DVMCellini Pug, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Great Dane, New Foundland, Dachshund, Bloodhound, Chinese Crested... Anything that looks extreme: extremely short, extremely tall, extremely short noses or long backs or long ears and naked dogs. Same goes for cats

[@rca6576]

I searched for someone speaking up on Cavies. They're suffering. It's time to breed away from the "standard" and towards health. Such a sweet natured breed. I've always wanted one but, I won't get one until breeders acknowledge how terrible their health issues are and do something to address it.

[@jacellhs9644]

I 100% agree with you. Surely the well-being must come first. Does pugs suffer same breathing difficulties?

[@DVMCellini]

yup absolutely

[@bonniewagg5711]

I’m always sad when I see beautiful German Shepherds who have a pronounced slump in their back ends, instead of lovely long strong legs. I’m not a vet, just someone who loves dogs. They must develop back issues, no?

[@ChrisCapoccia]

Does the Norway's ban also apply to brachycephalic cats like Persians?

[@DVMCellini]

No just bulldogs and cavies

[@kellydorazio]

And Persians...please give me a Persian with a NOSE.

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

Also just the breeding of a lot of these dogs isnt even natural. Like english and french bulldogs have to be artificially inseminated and then have c-section birth. Having said that i have heard that there is movement among french bulldog breeders in europe that are trying to bring the characteristics of the "old" dog back. If you look at older pictures of the frenchie, the dog looks completely different because it actually has a nose and muzzle where as now it's like it walked into a wall one too many times (and i say that as someone who loves them so i'm not hating on them when i describe them like that). So breeders are actively trying to improve the breed by selecting dogs that have a facial profile instead of the flattened face.

[@DVMCellini]

i've seen some of those frenchies and they look great! big muzzles/noses, tails, etc. i'd get one!

[@nancymav5674]

I wonder why they banned breeding just these two breeds. Bulldogs I get - they are extreme and have lots of issues. But what about all the other brachycephalic dogs such as Pugs, Frenchies, Bussells Griffons, etc. With the Cavaliers, it doesnt appear to be so much the form breeders are aiming for as an unfortunate (and not simple) genetic inheritance. Careful breeders test hearts and try to reduce those issues. I have had two Cavaliers with no SM issues (one verified by MRI) and only one developed a heart murmur at age 9 and was well managed until almost 12 year old.

[@TheMattBaker]

Agreed completely. Wish similar things would happen in Denmark. The only downside might be that this inhibits certified breeders continueing, while backyard breeders might continue, worsening the situation?

[@DVMCellini]

I don’t think that’s going to worsen things. The “backyard breeder” problem is already prevalent and honestly any bad actors in this space are going to do their thing regardless.

[@brissygirl4997]

I've noticed in recent years that Frenchies are starting to be bred with a longer muzzle and not with smooshed in faces. Granted they are few and far between atm but I hope it's a continued step in the right direction.

[@Andreajv27]

Do Boston Terriers have similar issues? My bulldog passed away in November at age 14 and we are in the process of researching our next breed (as much as I loved my bulldog, I would not get another). Any suggestions on a small-medium breed with the best chance of being healthy and happy?

[@DVMCellini]

Yes they do however I don't think the airway problems are quiet as prevalent and/or severe compared to bulldogs.

[@DVMCellini]

i love my 10 lbs terrier mutt i found in a gutter. healthiest dog ever. he's 11 and literally 0 problems.

[@sherrydawson6253]

Wow I didn't know any of this. Why were breeders aloud to cont for so long? How sad they suffer from birth. How could u stand to watch your dog suffer like this. Glad to know this. Thank u very much.

[@DVMCellini]

its gonna start being regulated more, is my guess. breeding this poor dogs into poor health oblivion has to stop at some point. ......right?

[@zoefzoef700]

In the Netherlands there have been official laws that prohibit breeding with dogs that have a sbout shorter than 1/3 of their skull. Too bad the government body that is supposed to enforce these rules has not, they say because of covid

[@nadinabbott3991]

It is time to literally embarrass the fancy…it is them, and breed standards that we are where we are. These characteristics could be bred out

[@lenitaa7938]

There is an already improved Olde English Bulldogge! Natural birth, longer necks and faces, smaller chest, etc etc! More active and happier dogs! They breathe! The big issue is the people that keep buying the deformed English Bulldogs!

[@iaiabestfriend8106]

Well done Norway 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@cw4608]

Kudos to Norway, now the US needs to look at banning a few breeds and trends. Breeding giant dogs for instance

[@thepaganapostate3208]

Winter is a stud there. Not a bitch. Poor dog though.

[@jessicadevries5457]

What is your opinion on the breeding of the spider ball python morph. They always have mild to severe neurological issues. I know you deal with dogs and cats primarily it I am interested to know what a veterinary neurologist perspective is.

[@DVMCellini]

I don’t know anything about that issue

[@jessicadevries5457]

@@DVMCellini I don’t know how much research has been done on the subject but basically they tend to ‘wobble’ their heads have severely impaired righting reflexes and they stargaze. They sometime can’t eat because of the issues and starve to death. I would try to find some research on the subject but I know you’re probably pretty busy. Thanks anyways :)

[@DVMCellini]

Isn’t that a neuro-degenerative disease? Something is ringing a bell deep in my brain…

[@jessicadevries5457]

@@DVMCellini there is a neuro-degenerative disease in pythons and boas thats thought to be caused by a reptarenavirus , but this is just a certain pattern of ball python that is born with neurological deficits. People continue to breed them for their looks, even though some of them never eat on their own and need to be force fed which in snakes is forcing a rat down their throat.

[@qa377]

I would ban dogs with a certain dimension of head maybe, rather than specific breeds, that way people can't just go create another breed from the previous ones or something

[@anpanmomdesu]

The main priority of these clubs is $ 💰.

[@bendietrees]

My boyfriend's family love English bulldogs and have owned quite a few. Honestly I find them to be disgusting to live with. My boyfriend's dog got so winded on a walk that he had to pick him up and walk him home.

[@DVMCellini]

probably shouldn't have to happen with a....you know....dog

[@LisaLehtinen]

Here in Sweden it is illegal to breed animals in a way that can lead to suffering for either the parent or the offsping. And it is not OK to breed animals that can't give birth in a natural way due to anatomical reasons. Which should mean that we should ban these breeds as well (and pugs, amongst others), but apparently we aren't as brave as our neighbouring country Norway. /Vet. Nurse

[@DVMCellini]

I bet it'll change just wait.

[@jean-sebastienlatouche3678]

As a veterinary professional, I wholeheartedly support your opinion. For the quality of life of our furry family members hybrid vigor is far superior to inbreeding... the same applies to people ;) . This topic unfortunately will be as divisive as talking about politics, religion or sports!!!

[@tjwilsonster]

Totally agree. We had an English bulldog (she was so sweet!) but she came about via artificial insemination and birthed through c-section. We actually had her bred ONCE (had 6 live pups, 1 didn’t last more than 24 hours) and by what she went through we chose to not put her through it again. She lived for almost 12 years, had to put her down Christmas Eve. Within in a few hours she struggled to get a breath, x-rays looked like covid lungs! Funny but not, I had stereo snoring by which to fall sleep. Hubby on one side and Cleo (bulldog) on floor on my side of the bed. Yes, she snored her whole life. I try to share my story to those thinking about getting one and will now share your YT episode as well! Thank you!!

[@Uncharted95]

Do French Bulldogs have the exact same issues as an English Bulldog?

[@piche090391]

Yes!

[@DVMCellini]

Yes but more problems believe it or not.

[@Uncharted95]

@@DVMCellini Ouch.

[@runningonempty6679]

Pugs have the same issue as well. I am surprised they weren't banned, too.

[@emrem6354]

LAWDY but please also ban the breeding of Frenchies, too. JEEBUS.

[@DVMCellini]

yeah i'd have to agree

[@extrememojo8387]

This is a very difficult question. Although I agree with you that these types of dogs should be discouraged, once we accept the gov banning one type of dog for reason A, it will not take long before other breeds get banned for reason B. You can easily see the banning of larger dogs under the auspices of safety, then the ones that make noise due to public nuisance, and so on. So while I agree with you that breeding deformed dogs on purpose is cruel, we need to find a better way to deal with that than legislation

[@jasperclydeinsd592]

Scandinavian countries continue to lead in issues of animal welfare and social and environmental progress.

[@DemstarAus]

What does breed purity even mean? What a strange argument.

[@guiltriple]

I wonder how this kind of thing can be practically enacted. If you just, say, ban the sale of a particular breed, might that lead to unscrupulous breeders either killing their dogs or just going underground with fudged documentation or whatnot? What would be a good way to encourage outcrossing?

[@DVMCellini]

Outcrossing

[@emmamemma4162]

I believe Norway will prosecute breeders for animal welfare crimes if it can be proven in the court that they have been breeding these dogs (which can easily be shown via a DNA-test). As for encouraging outcrossing, it's already happening within some breed clubs. The clubs themselves just need to change their rules to allow for outcrossing and make sure the resulting dogs have a chance to make it in the conformation ring.

[@fionaforward3358]

My two cavaliers did not have this.Every vet I encountered was surprised by this.Ethical breeders eliminate it.I am awaiting a new cavalier puppy.There is no other breed for me.This is overkill. These dogs are amazing.

[@FranciscaAVior]

They could cross breed Cavaliers with Cocker Spaniels and they would be wonderful.

[@eiloen]

No nose? That dog barely had eyes either.

[@lisaenglert3202]

It’s sad how they’ve been so overbred. I think it’s a good idea. Let them be proper dogs who don’t suffer because of our desires for a certain look. Not to mention the birthing problems!

[@labsnabys]

You'd think when a dog can neither get pregnant nor give birth without medical intervention, it would be a red flag for breeders. Nope!

[@labsnabys]

Breeders and breed clubs can put a spin on anything. The spin is almost always to blame the backyard breeders, when in fact we in veterinary medicine see dogs from all walks of life and 100% of English Bulldogs we see have been bred to the point that they have serious malformations in their respiratory and skeletal systems. It doesn't matter how cute they look or whether you love their wrinkles and funny snoring...the bottom line is the dogs are suffering and it's inhumane to continue to promote the breed in its current form. We could extend this to the ridiculously popular French Bulldog and plenty of other breeds, but this is a good start! Thanks for tackling another important and difficult subject.

[@kaylad2058]

Even 100 years ago many dogs looked *very* different. The bulldog had a more pronounced snout and was still stock and 'barrel' chested- but was much more lean, agile, and not like what we see today. And I'm sure they were even better 100 years before that. The dogs we see today didn't even take that long for people to mess up.

[@willieverusethis]

Thank you. Since the AKC will not regulate itself, it is essential for the government to step up to the plate and regulate the breeding of dogs. I feel the same way about Persian, Siamese, and other cat breeds that are currently being deformed with little concern for their health.

[@DCampy34]

Similar happened in Bull Terriers recently they were breeding for turn of head and it got so extreme that dogs bites were destroyed, and the parent clubs have stepped in and it is getting better. It is unfortunate but many breeds have gone to extremes like this that have hurt the dogs, I understand is outcrossing is creating mutts ... but we created these dogs by our selective breeding and need to start moving the other direction to more sound dogs.

[@rawexplorer8373]

Cavaliers are pretty much ok in terms of conformation. The problem here is with genetic diversity. The rates of MVD and SM are out of control. We need to outcross them

[@catladyr33]

As a former vet tech, I completely agree with bulldog outcrossing. In addition to breathing issues, they (more often than not) cannot give birth or even mate without human intervention. As an owner of multiple CKCS over the years, I feel that they should be bred back to the “old type” Cavalier that had a longer nose and larger skull, which would help with the SM issues…but then that would still leave the issue of MVD. Cavaliers & Bulldogs are breeds with wonderful and fun personalities that, if carefully outcrossed, could still be delightful. Outcrossing of both breeds could result in much healthier, happier, longer lived dogs. The AKC has set their standards for many dogs that are far from how the old type of each breed started. If one looks up pictures of certain dog breeds back 50 to 100 or more years ago, those dog body types and features are far healthier than how the standard for them is defined today. German Shepherds are another breed that the AKC standard has ruined. The hips of GSD’s years ago were much healthier than the hips of the GSD of today. Great video!

[@DVMCellini]

outcrossing is key, imho

[@zhvanrekani1408]

Thank you so much for taking care of the healthiness if animals 👍

[@DVMCellini]

thanks zhvan i try

[@alexsimon3877]

You should make a video about the best breeds to have! I am thinking about getting a dog in the upcoming future, and would be curious as to what breeds you think are “best”

[@DVMCellini]

Thanks for the idea!

[@gracelessmaggie9677]

super well said! I'm a vet nurse - not aside from the english bulldogs, the frenchies and the pugs... goodness, breaks my heart :(

[@alcurtis93]

The breeding of these sickly dogs for aesthetic reasons is messed up.

[@alcurtis93]

Are there many other breeds which tend to have a lot of issues? Sausage dog with their long back and short legs?

[@runningonempty6679]

@@alcurtis93 Yep, dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease. Another example are german shepherds, which are prone to hip dysplasia.

[@scottishgirl1100]

@@alcurtis93 all pure bred have their own health issues. I have mini schnauzers so that’s what I know best.. in my breed I really have to watch their diet and keep them on a low fat one due to the risk of diabetes and pancreatitis. They are also prone to epilepsy but I hear more about diabetes and pancreatitis in them. The difference is if you get from a good breeder and do your research and keep them on a low fat diet they usually won’t have issues. I also have a good relationship with the breeder so if I have issues she’s 1 call away

[@marilia.l]

what small-sized breed do you recommend?

[@DVMCellini]

I don’t recommend specific breeds per se. I typically tell people who ask, to just avoid breeds with extreme features. Whether it be shape or size.

[@tn2378]

AKC should be banned

[@DrChristineMackenzie]

Great video. Will share. I thought same when at dog Nationals in NZ and bulldog won best in group! That was 10 years ago. Keep up the good work sharing knowledge! 🤩

[@thepaganapostate3208]

Cavies are also what Guinea Pigs are called... so that's interesting that Cavaliers are called the same.

[@DragonflyGlitter]

"Breed purity" is nothing more than bottlenecked genetics. Standardized breeds are a very recent thing, basically taking a subsection of a land race and exaggerating common traits via an arbitrary written standard and restricted genetics. An example in a human platform would be...let's say Norway since it is Norway under examination in this video...and taking just a very small part of the population that is determined to "look the most Norwegian" and only allowing these individuals to intermarry and even encouraging inbreeding of related individuals, further selecting for even more exaggeration of the physical characteristics that were determined to be "true Norwegians." Now would you want to claim the rest of the people of Norway are not true Norwegians? That they are not "pure" and are not up to standard? That they don't look right, do not have the proper hair or eye color, nor that they have the proper size and physical proportions? Would you keep them from reproducing because they don't represent the standard? Which would limit any reproduction to the standardized population. Eventually all genetics that were prevented from reproducing would die off leaving only the standardized subsection with no way to outcross for genetic diversity...except for "crossbreeding" with a similar standardized population. But we do that with dogs (and many other domesticated animals) and everyone thinks it's correct and healthy. Breeding similar traits to similar traits is understandable when breeding for a purpose or for companionship, but restricting the genetic diversity of dog breeds just to make sure every single individual purebred "looks right" is contributing to the health issues seen in many popular breeds of dogs.

[@donnajohnson9324]

My be they should stop the inbreeding of pedigree dogs, I think that has a lot to do with health problems also people should start treating them like dogs,. not babies 😢

[@meganelizabethmoon]

I have to wonder what the breed standards are in Europe or Norway vs. the U.S., since the AKC is an American organization?

[@scottishgirl1100]

I have mini schnauzers. They are the best breed ever! 1 little boy and 1 little girl. Barky yes issues with diabetes and pancreatitis but amazing dogs

[@maritveeber9397]

Mini Schnauzers are the best :-)

[@LisaDriscoll]

At this point with breeds like this, the continuation of the breed IS creating unhealthy dogs. The "standards" are reinforcing and encouraging unhealthy dogs and the AKC should take a hard look at the standard. People need to be much more educated on these breeds - if they knew that their snoring, wheezing dog was actually suffering and not "cute" maybe the demand would stop. Dachshunds, Pugs, Chihuahuas should also be given a hard look at.

[@DVMCellini]

the "standards" are a joke, tbh

[@nadinabbott3991]

My chi…is likely a mix. We still are seeing the dental issues. He has AD, special needs dog we adopted at the pound. But dental issues are serious. I will not adopt a brachyocephalic breed….

[@edz6388]

I would thank you if you could make a video about salaries in small animal specialities

[@thebulldogfarm]

Most healthy creatures….can mate and give birth without help….😬 (and I love bulldogs, but I’m not blind to their issues). Outcrossing would be a blessing for these dogs.

[@sleepyhead61]

My question is why did they not include pugs or Frenchies?

[@DVMCellini]

My guess is they would have if those breeds were brought before the court. They just weren’t for whatever reason.

[@kellydorazio]

Bulldogs...seeing that in my schedule causes anxiety 🙃. The Spaniels,,,I'm sorry,,,I love them...😁

[@DVMCellini]

i kinda feel the same way

[@TheJbird858]

Please please please do a video reviewing over the video trends of feeding raw foods to dogs, such as livers, chicken feet, and eggs. I would love to hear your perspective! - from a future veterinarian

[@DVMCellini]

i did it a little bit in a previous video reacting to my favorite tiktoks. but yeah i'm gonna do a whole interview with dr. bullen again and just talk about raw food.

[@TheJbird858]

@@DVMCellini I can’t wait to watch it! I I watched your other collab video and it was interesting to hear about how she got into her field of work. I love your content, please keep posting. It really helps educate the public and makes me work harder so I can be a veterinarian!

[@dandefoe]

Very informative. Thanks. I’m not a fan of the bulldog nor do I own either breed. But, I kept watching the video and am glad that I did. My canine is a 5 year old labradoodle. She’s a mix of standard poodle, lab, and golden. She’s sweet and calm, now, and is a great companion. She helps me get exercise. Thanks for your channel.

[@DVMCellini]

Thanks for watching! There's a lot of anti-doodle sentiment out there which I think is completely unfounded.

[@dandefoe]

@@DVMCellini our world would be nicer, gentler, and kinder if more of us had doodles…..

[@dandefoe]

Pickles’s vet would approve her message😃

[@thefattestninjaever]

Curious as to how they arrived at Cavies while skipping pugs and especially Frenchies. I think the conversation on Cavies is worth having, but they're a distance back from the hard-core brachycephalics on the priority list to me.

[@carolynk.9856]

Also Boston terriers.

[@Finkeldinken]

The cavies have serious heart issues, for one.

[@nadinabbott3991]

I will NOT adopt any brachyocephalic breed

[@crystalkarlson5491]

Agreed, maybe they are not as popular there as in the US? Not to mention our government would not even contemplate trying this.

[@thefattestninjaever]

@@Finkeldinken Fair point- my list was very much shaped by my neuro bias.