Dogs are one of the most popular animal companions in the world. Each and every Dog is a wonderful energetic creature who will undoubtedly flourish in a safe, healthy, loving environment. Some of these canines are sought after because of their rather unique appearance, such as the Bulldog.
In a 2022 article written by Jan Raisen for the American Kennel Club, both the French and the American Bulldog made the top ten Dog breeds. They came in second and sixth, respectively. The Bulldog is undoubtedly
one of the most popular canines in the world, so why is it that Norway has banned the breeding of Bulldogs in the country?
The answer lies in the health and safety of the animal.
An article written by Jilly Beatie for Belfast News states that “Oslo District Court ruled in the trial on unethical breeding.” Since the law has been passed, the breeding of these Dogs is now illegal under the Norway Animal Welfare Act 25.
The Bulldogs, with their scrunched-up faces, short legs, and rotund body,
are susceptible to various illnesses and hereditary disorders due to the way they are bred. They cannot walk long distances due to their small, compact bodies, as well as their narrow nasal passages. They cannot run and jump and enjoy the environment around them as well as other Dogs can since they were born into this world without the facilities to do so.
“EXTREME ENGINEERING”
In the article for Belfast News mentioned earlier, it is said
that the Norwegian Society for Protection of Animals (NSPA) has been working on this ban as early as 2018. NSPA CEO Åshild Roaldset touches on how she hoped that the passing of the law would “end the extreme genetic engineering of the breeds, the suffering of poorly bred litters of puppies, and the heartache of many owners.”
The passing of this law revealed how the world is making huge strides in terms of animal rights. Despite the fact that this breed of Dog is considered one of the most popular, spreading information about the realities of breeding them just might mean that animals would be cared for and loved beyond their appearances.
ADOPTION SAVES LIVES
Empathy doesn’t have to be something that we show fellow humans only. Since animals have feelings, it would be unfair if we were to ignore their capacity for suffering.
That said, the Bulldogs who are already living in this world deserve as much care as possible. If you feel like you want a Bulldog as an animal companion, we urge you to adopt.
Regardless of the Dog breed, adoption is always the best option. No breed deserves more love than others, and no breed should ever be commodified.
