Trade Me bans sale of Pugs, British Bulldogs and French Bulldogs

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) dramatically impacts the quality of their life. Research shows that 90-95 per cent of these dogs have BOAS to varying degrees.

Here at the SPCA we are thrilled that Trade Me are taking a stand against the breeding of these dogs who suffer from considerable welfare issues. We believe that it isn’t fair to breed animals with such shortened snouts simply because we find them cute. Without corrective surgery, large numbers of these dogs live with chronic pain and distress, with many owners unaware that their dog is suffering.

Many dogs suffer so severely from BOAS that they have trouble exercising for longer than three minutes. Furthermore, they cannot give birth naturally, which means each litter requires the mother to undertake a risky Caesarean section to produce puppies for sale. It is also said that, for these breeds, every breathe they take feels like they are breathing through a pillow.

SPCA chief executive Andrea Midgen says that these dogs deserve better. “Pugs, British bulldogs and French bulldogs are lovely little dogs, but their exaggerated physical features cause them considerable welfare issues.”

Years ago, these breeds did not look the way that they do now. Their skulls were differently shaped, and their snouts notably longer. Over time, people have bred these dogs to have a shortened snout, which can cause breathing difficulty.We believe that it isn’t fair to breed animals with such shortened snouts purely for aesthetic reasons. They may look cute but they also suffer to look the way they do.

Without corrective surgery, large numbers of these dogs live with chronic pain and distress, with many owners unaware that their dog is suffering.

This is a great opportunity to educate owners who want to add a furry friend to their family. We ask that Kiwis consider adopting one of the thousands of rescue dogs in New Zealand instead.