Animal welfare concerns rise over extreme dog breeding in Germany

In Germany, the practice of breeding dogs for specific aesthetic traits that compromise their health, known as ‘Qualzucht’ (extreme breeding), is drawing scrutiny from animal welfare advocates.

Breeds with extremely short muzzles, such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, are particularly vulnerable to respiratory issues. Veterinarian Lisa Hoth-Zimak of the German Animal Welfare Federation (Deutscher Tierschutzbund) notes that many of these dogs suffer from breathing difficulties and impaired heat regulation. This often leads to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), characterized by noisy breathing and a high risk of overheating during physical activity or in warm temperatures.

Beyond facial structure, other breeding traits are identified as problematic. These include certain types of hairlessness and the Merle gene. The German Animal Welfare Federation warns that specific genetic combinations, such as mating two Merle carriers, can result in significant eye and hearing impairments. The organization emphasizes that any inheritable trait causing pain, suffering, or physical damage should be avoided in breeding practices.