Germany Considers Ban on Breeding Certain Dog Breeds: Dachshunds, Beagles, and More Impacted

The German Ministry of Food and Agriculture has proposed a draft bill that could potentially impact multiple dog breeds in the country. The bill aims to address the issue of “torture breeding,” which involves breeding animals for certain characteristics that may not be beneficial for their health.

According to reports from The New York Times and CNN, the ban could affect breeds with specific health issues, such as spine problems in dogs with short legs and long backs, like dachshunds. Other breeds that may be impacted include beagles, Jack Russell terriers, and miniature schnauzers.

Dachshunds, in particular, have a rich history in Germany, with famous figures like Napoleon Bonaparte, Kaiser Wilhelm II, and Pablo Picasso owning these beloved dogs. The breed even served as the official mascot for the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich.

However, the draft bill has sparked concerns among dog breeders and enthusiasts. The V.D.H., Germany’s kennel club, has raised objections to the proposed legislation, citing vague and undefined disease characteristics that could potentially lead to the banning of popular and healthy dog breeds.

In response to the backlash, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food has clarified that the focus of the bill is on addressing breeding practices that result in deformities and overall animal welfare, rather than targeting specific breeds. Despite this clarification, the V.D.H. has launched a petition to save the affected breeds, garnering over 15,000 signatures as of Wednesday.

As the debate continues, dog lovers and breeders in Germany are closely monitoring the developments surrounding the draft bill and its potential implications for their beloved canine companions.