Research shows that due to serious genetic problems, pugs and bulldogs may undergo significant changes in the next ten years. This is reported by the New York Post.
Pugs, as well as French and English bulldogs, have been bred for many years with characteristic flat faces, large eyes, and skin folds. However, such traits often lead to health issues: dogs experience breathing problems, movement difficulties, and become more susceptible to infections.
To improve the situation, experts have developed a new dog health assessment program called IHA. It analyzes ten key aspects related to the appearance and anatomy of the animals. Only those individuals that receive a high score will be allowed to breed. In the future, requirements will be tightened to ensure the health of newborn puppies.
According to specialists, the extreme physical traits of these breeds will lose their popularity over time, and they will change significantly.
The introduction of new standards is expected to improve dog health; however, this may lead to the disappearance of the familiar appearance of popular breeds within the next decade.
