Are dogs with breathing problems common in Australia?
There are many Brachycephalic (short-skulled) breeds living in Australia such as the English Bulldog, Pekingese and Pugs. These dogs experience breathing difficulties due to their selectively bred flat/short face (features required by the breed standard). Some require surgery to alleviate these breathing problems just like “Danny’ the Pekingese ‘best in show’ in the documentary. As in the documentary, Pugs in Australia can also have such serious breathing problems that they may faint or collapse due to a lack of oxygen (especially when exercising or if they get excited). Given that Pugs are the 7th most popular ‘registered’ breed in this country, this is a significant welfare problem. Breathing problems have also been reported in English Bulldogs in Australia.
