Veterinarians raise the issue of the need to change the breed.
Many are aware of the health problems faced by pugs. Unfortunately, no measures have yet been taken to improve the condition of these dogs.
The study showed that pugs suffer significantly more often from diseases related to the respiratory system and eyes. Experts believe that the breed needs to change to improve the health of pugs through a 'new body shape.'
As part of the study, researchers compared veterinary records of 4,308 pugs with data from 21,835 other breeds. It was found that pugs are approximately 1.9 times more likely to suffer from one or more diseases compared to other dogs, indicating poor overall health among members of this breed.
Out of the 40 most common disorders affecting all dogs, pugs had a higher risk of developing 23 of them (57.5%). A lower risk was recorded only among seven diseases out of 40 (17.5%).
Pugs have the highest risk of developing brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BAOS), with the likelihood of this disease in this breed being almost 54 times higher than in other dogs. BAOS includes a range of respiratory problems faced by brachycephalic breeds with short noses and flattened faces. Pugs are also at increased risk of nostril narrowing, skin fold infections, and obesity.
Experts state that this leads to 'serious consequences for the welfare of affected dogs, including reduced lifespan, decreased quality of life, and increased risk of developing osteoarthritis, diabetes, and neoplasia.'
Scientists and veterinarians believe it is time to focus on the health of dogs rather than the whims of owners. For example, Norway already banned the breeding of flat-faced dogs earlier this year.
