Crufts has introduced a major rule change for three breeds that could have seen them banned from the prestigious dog show.
The major rule change at Crufts, the world’s most prestigious dog show, means that French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and Pugs will now need to pass a breathing assessment before they can compete.
This year’s event took place from March 6 to March 9[/caption]
Golden Retrievers are shown at the Crufts dog show in Birmingham[/caption]
Under the new rule, all French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and Pugs must undergo a vet check before competing at Crufts[/caption]
The Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) system has been introduced to protect the health of brachycephalic breeds, dogs with short skulls that are prone to breathing difficulties.
The test aims to raise awareness about Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a common condition affecting these breeds.
Under the new rule, all French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and Pugs must undergo a vet check before competing at Crufts.
Dogs that receive a grade 3 score, meaning they have severe BOAS and show clear signs of breathing distress, will be banned from the competition.
The new rule has been introduced to address the growing popularity of brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, and Pugs, whose flat faces make them susceptible to serious breathing issues.
The rule aims to ensure that only healthy dogs participate in competitions, promoting responsible breeding practices and health testing.
This significant change comes as Crufts, run by The Kennel Club, continues to evolve in its commitment to dog welfare and responsible breeding.
As the largest and most famous dog show in the world, Crufts has been a prestigious event since it was first held in 1891.
Each year, it attracts thousands of competitors from across the globe, celebrating dog breeding, agility, obedience, and companionship.
The event showcases the best pedigree dogs, with winners often becoming highly sought-after breeding champions.
Held annually at the NEC Birmingham, Crufts is more than just a competition, it features trade stands, dog training demonstrations, and rescue dog showcases.
This year’s event takes place from March 6 to March 9, 2025.
The rule aims to ensure that only healthy dogs participate in competitions, promoting responsible breeding practices and health testing[/caption]
The event showcases the best pedigree dogs, with winners often becoming highly sought-after breeding champions[/caption]
The test aims to raise awareness about Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), a common condition affecting these breeds[/caption]
