Pugs, also known as Mopshond in Dutch, have been popular pets in the Netherlands for many years. However, there is growing concern among animal welfare groups and veterinarians that breeding these dogs is causing them serious health problems. As a result, there have been discussions about whether or not the Dutch government will ban the breeding and sale of pugs shortly.
The history of Pugs in the Netherlands
Pugs have been popular in the Netherlands for many years with the breed’s popularity increasing over the past few decades. The Dutch Kennel Club the Read van Beheer reports that the number of pugs registered in the Netherlands has risen from 1,189 in 2007 to 2,287 in 2021. The breed’s popularity can be attributed to its cute and playful appearance and its affectionate and loyal nature.
Health problems associated with Pugs
Despite their popularity, pugs are prone to various health problems related to their unique physical characteristics. One of the most significant issues is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) caused by the breed’s short flat noses. This condition can make breathing difficult for pugs leading to breathing difficulties snoring and snorting. BOAS can also cause serious health problems such as heat stroke which can be fatal.
Another health issue commonly found in Pugs is eye problems. Due to their large and prominent eyes Pugs are at a higher risk of developing eye infections, ulcers and even blindness. Skin allergies, ear infections and joint problems are also common in this breed.
The role of breeding in Pugs’ health problems
Breeding pugs have been identified as a major factor in the breed’s health problems. Pugs are bred to have short flat noses and wrinkly faces which are traits that many potential buyers highly value. However these physical characteristics also contribute to the breed’s health problems as they can cause breathing difficulties and eye problems.
In addition many pugs are bred from a limited gene pool which can increase the likelihood of genetic disorders. Some breeders may also prioritize physical characteristics over the dog’s health and well-being leading to inbreeding and the propagation of genetic health issues.
Animal welfare concerns regarding Pugs
Animal welfare groups have raised concerns about the breeding of pugs and Mopshond, arguing that it is cruel to continue breeding dogs with serious health problems. Many of these groups call for a ban on the breeding and sale of pugs and Mopshonds in the Netherlands, similar to the ban on the breeding and sale of certain dog breeds in other countries.
The Royal Dutch Society for Veterinary Medicine (KNMvD) has also expressed concerns about the welfare of pugs and Mopshonds and has called for a ban on breeding dogs with severe BOAS. The KNMvD argues that breeding pugs and Mopshonds with severe BOAS violates animal welfare standards, as it causes unnecessary suffering and poor quality of life.
The Dutch government’s response
The Dutch government still needs to take action to ban the breeding or sale of pugs. However there have been discussions about the issue in the Dutch parliament with some members calling for a ban on the breeding and selling of pugs with severe BOAS.
In addition the Dutch Kennel Club has introduced measures to improve the health of pugs such as requiring breeders to test for BOAS and other health issues before breeding. The Raad van Beheer has also created breeding guidelines to reduce the incidence of BOAS in pugs.
Conclusion
Pugs are popular pets in the Netherlands but their breeding has led to serious health problems that are causing concern among animal welfare groups and veterinarians. While the Dutch government has not yet taken action to ban the breeding or sale of pugs there have been discussions about the issue and some members of parliament have called for a ban on the breeding and sale of pugs with severe BOAS.
