Vets highlight welfare issues for short-nosed dogs
MEDIA RELEASE
Published on 21 July 2025.
New Zealand veterinarians are highlighting the importance of choosing dogs with healthy, moderate features, following new international guidance on the welfare concerns affecting short-nosed breeds.
The International Collaborative on Extreme Conformations (ICECDogs), which includes representatives from New Zealand, has released new guidance warning about noisy breathing in popular short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds.
“Breathing in all dogs should be quiet and effortless — especially at rest or during light activity,” says Dr Becky Murphy, ICECDogs member and President of the Companion Animal Veterinarians Branch of the New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA).
“In short-nosed breeds, noisy breathing when relaxed— like snorting, snoring, or raspy airflow — is not normal and can be a sign of airway compromise and suffering.”
Dr Murphy says brachycephalic breeds such as the French bulldog, English bulldog, and pug have become increasingly popular in New Zealand. These breeds — and others with extreme body shapes such as excessive skin folds — have individuals selectively bred for exaggerated physical features often at the expense of their welfare.
“Unfortunately, the rising demand for brachycephalic dogs has been met by a surge in irresponsible breeding focused on appearance over welfare.
“Veterinarians across Aotearoa are seeing dogs affected by Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — a condition caused by structural deformities such as narrowed nostrils, compressed nasal passages, and elongated soft palates.
“While panting is normal after exercise or in warm weather, breathing that sounds laboured or harsh when a dog is relaxed should always be checked by a vet. Early recognition and care can improve quality of life.”
ICECDogs co-founder Dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at the Royal Veterinary College (UK) and Chair of the UK Brachycephalic Working Group, says brachycephalic dogs can experience a lifetime of suffering.
“Owners should also be aware that breathing problems in short-nosed dogs generally worsen with age, if their dog is overweight and during hot weather. While surgery and lifestyle management can alleviate some symptoms, BOAS is not curable.”
Dr Murphy says people who own brachycephalic breeds need to keep them lean, monitor their breathing closely, seek regular veterinary care and avoid heat and overexertion, especially during warmer weather.
“And if you’re looking to get a dog, choose dogs with healthier, more moderate features, and only buy from breeders who screen for inherited diseases and use the results to make responsible, evidence-based breeding decisions that prioritise welfare.
Responsible breeders are actively working to improve the welfare of these breeds. Tools such as the Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading Scheme allow breeders to assess the breathing of potential breeding dogs and make informed decisions that avoid perpetuating airway compromise. With consistent use across generations, these tools support gradual improvement in breed health.
“We want to protect dogs from avoidable suffering by encouraging thoughtful breed selection — and supporting responsible breeders who prioritise welfare.”
ENDS
For further information, please email media@vets.org.nz
About ICECDogs
The International Collaborative on Extreme Conformations in Dogs (ICECDogs) is a global group of veterinary, academic, welfare and breeding experts working to reduce the health and welfare impacts of extreme physical traits in dogs.
New Zealand is one of nine countries with national stakeholders engaged in this collaboration.
