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English bulldogs twice as likely to suffer health issues
The study found that British bulldogs are 38 times more likely to develop skin fold dermatitis than other dog breeds.

Prospective owners urged to 'stop and think' before buying breed.

English bulldogs are twice as likely to develop health complications in a single year when compared to other dogs, according to a study led by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).

The study, published in Canine Medicine and Genetics, compared the health of more than 2,000 English Bulldogs with other dog breeds. 

Researchers found that British bulldogs are 38 times more likely to develop skin fold dermatitis, 27 times more likely to become infected with cherry eye, and 19 times more likely to get brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome.

In light of their findings, researchers are calling on prospective owners to 'stop and think' before buying an English bulldog. 

Study lead Dr Dan O’Neill, an associate professor in companion animal epidemiology at the RVC said: “Every dog deserves to be born with equal and good innate health by having a natural ability to breathe freely, blink fully, exercise easily, have healthy flat skin, mate and give birth.

"For breeds such as English Bulldogs where many dogs still have extreme conformations with poor innate health, the public have a huge role to play by demanding dogs with moderate and healthier conformations. Until then, prospective owners should ‘stop and think before buying a flat-faced dog’.”

Researchers are also calling on people who already own an English bulldog to monitor them carefully for breed-related health issues, such as eye problems, difficulty breathing and skin fold infections, and to seek veterinary advice early if worried. 

Dr Alison Skipper, co-author and veterinary historian, said: "This new research provides strong evidence that modern Bulldogs remain troubled by many diseases linked to their body shapes, most of which have been recognised for more than a century. It confirms the need to follow the example of more responsible breeders who prioritise health in breeding decisions to improve the welfare of this popular and iconic breed in the future.”

Vicky Collins-Nattress, Bulldog Breed Council health coordinator, added: “We are fully committed to improving and protecting Bulldog health, so any new data which informs this is valuable.
 
“The Bulldog Breed Council Health Scheme is to encourage breeders to carry out the relevant breed-specific health tests including the University of Cambridge/Kennel Club Respiratory Function Grading Scheme; we are working with The Kennel Club on various health initiatives; and are involved in the Brachycephalic Working Group.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.