Earlier this year, Norway banned the breeding of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the British Bulldog. This was obviously not due to a problem with aggression – the Cavalier King Charles is one of the friendliest dogs you could meet. They were banned because of health issues perceived as endemic in the breeds. The Cavalier has long been prone to heart disease, but they also often suffer from Syringomyelia/Chiari-like malformation.

This condition affects the neurological tissue of the brain and spinal cord, and is a result of abnormalities in skull and neck confirmation. Affected dogs suffer from neck and back pain, can have difficulty with coordination and movement, and the condition can be progressive and difficult to manage.

British Bulldogs have a catalogue of common disorders, from life-threatening breathing issues to skin and eye problems, joint disease and, ironically, breeding difficulties. Despite the efforts of some responsible breeders, these health issues are still frustratingly common. Norway’s decision to ban these breeds reflects a belief that it is cruel to breed dogs with so many predisposed health problems.

Many breeds face health issues

There has been increased media awareness of breathing problems in brachycephalic dogs (short-nosed dogs like the Pug), but the public are often unaware of the extent of health issues certain popular breeds face. The Flat-Coated Retriever and Boxer are overly prone to cancer, the West Highland White Terrier to allergic skin disease, the Dachshund to intervertebral disc disease, the Yorkie and Poodle to dental issues.

Responsible breeding has made a difference to some inherited disorders. Hip scoring (radiographic assessment of the hip joints of breeding dogs prior to mating) in Labradors and German Shepherds has greatly reduced the incidence of severe hip problems in these breeds. Genetic testing is now possible for some conditions and actively encouraged by the Kennel Club.

I’m always a little surprised that so few people ask for recommendations prior to selecting a puppy. The aesthetics of a breed sadly often rate more highly than the potential health problems.

It would be sad to lose a gentle breed like the Cavalier, but unless dogs can be bred healthy and happy, perhaps it’s time to say enough to a lifetime of suffering for these dogs. If you are thinking of adding a furry friend to your family, perhaps consider a quick call to your local vet to get their advice. It could save you a lot of money and heartache.