Humanity transformed the mighty wolf into the yipping lapdog in a mere few thousand years. Dogs are incredible products of selective breeding, acting as hunters, herders, and man’s best friend. However, as people often do, we may have taken things a step too far in regard to certain breeds. It’s an unfortunate fact that many pedigree or “purebred” dogs have more documented health issues than their “mutt” counterparts. This mostly is due to breeders prioritizing desired physical traits over health. From pugs to bull terriers, here are some of the popular dog breeds that have undergone dramatic changes in recent history.
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| PUG: Initially favored by Chinese royalty, so many of the pug's quality were seen as desirable that it’s become a caricature of its former self. These features have led to a number of alarming problems within the breed. Their curly tails, for instance, have led to painful spinal deformities, and their notoriously saggy coats can contribute to skin infections and frequent eye injuries. As is the case with any flat-faced breed, pugs are also prone to breathing problems and overheating. |
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| DACHSHUND: The dachshund — affectionately referred to as the “wiener dog” — is a breed known for its short legs and long body. Originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers, the dachshund’s features were perfect for digging into burrows and chasing after their underground prey. The same build that helped dachshunds hunt has since been exaggerated because pet owners find it so cute. Today, the breed is vulnerable to inter-vertebral disc disease, which can lead dogs to become paralyzed if they’re not given the proper care. |
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| BULL TERRIER: Bull terriers were first bred in the 19th century as a cross between bulldogs and English terriers. They were strong and agile, perfect for controlling the era’s not-so-glamorous vermin problems. The breed is now known for its egg-shaped head — a trait that didn’t become standard until the early 20th century. While their profile makes them unique, it can also contribute to their misaligned bite, which makes it harder for the dogs to open and close their mouths. |
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BASSET HOUND: Bred for chasing small game, the basset hound first appeared in France in the 6th century. Their signature long ears and wrinkly skin served an important purpose by wafting and trapping scents around the dog’s snout. Of course, as these features became more exaggerated, health problems began to appear within the breed. Their signature ears promote infection, and their elongated spines and short legs are connected to back problems.
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