Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World

Pedigree dogs: How breeding has changed them

Bulldog
Many of today's pedigree bulldogs can no longer mate or give birth unassisted because their shape has changed Photograph: Yann Arthus-Bertrand/Corbis
Bulldog old
A 19th-century bulldog Photograph: Getty
bassett hound
Today's bassett hounds have stomachs hanging low to the ground, looser skin, longer ears and shorter legs Photograph: Corbis
Bassett hounds old
Bassett hounds in 1894 Photograph: Getty
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles spaniels suffer from heart problems and one-third have syringomylelia, a condition caused by their skulls being too small for their brains Photograph: Martin Rogers/Getty
King Charles Spaniel old
An 18th-century King Charles spaniel Photograph: Getty
pug
Pugs suffer from joint problems and and breathing difficulties due to their facial shape and small noses Photograph: Allison Michael Orenstein/Getty
pug old
A 19th-century pug Photograph: Getty
Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.