The Royal Kennel Club (RKC) announced new breeding limits for Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs after a study of over 4,000 pedigree dogs showed a strong genetic link to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). The move follows similar restrictions in the Netherlands and comes amid growng public concern over the health of these popular breeds.

RKC’s new Grade 2‑3 BOAS breeding restriction

The RKC will now prohibit mating between dogs classified as Grade 2 or Grade 3 for BOAS,a grading system that rates the severity of breathing difficulty. according to the report, this policy aims to prevent the most severely affected animals from passing on the condition to their offspring.

21‑49% heritability of respiratory health in flat‑faced breeds

Scientists found that between 21 and 49 per cent of the variation in a dog’s respiratory health is genetic, while 31 to 39 per cent of nostril‑size differences are also inherited. the RKC’s analysis of more than 4,000 dogs revealed that Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs suffer significantly higher rates of BOAS compared with healthier breeds.

Dutch ban on excessively flat‑faced dogs as a precedent

The Netherlands has already prohibited breeding of dogs deemed excessively flat‑faced, setting a regulatory benchmark for the UK.. As the source notes, the Dutch ban demonstrates that outright restrictions are politically feasible and can be enforced without eliminating the breeds entirely.

Owners still prize wheeze despite health risks

Even with well‑documented health impacts, many owners consider the characteristic wheezing and snorting of flat‑faced breeds enderaing or normal. the source points out that this cultural acceptance complicates reform, as breeders and enthusiasts may resist changes that limit traditional breed standards.

Will the restriction curb BOAS prevalence?

It remains unclear whether limiting Grade 2‑3 pairings will significantly lower BOAS rates in the next generation. Critics argue that without broader genetic screening and public education , the policy may only marginally improve outcomes.