Germany Considers Outlawing Dachshunds Due to Breeding Practices Causing Suffering

Germany’s iconic Dachshund, also known as the sausage dog, is facing the possibility of being outlawed in the country due to a new draft law aimed at preventing breeding practices that cause animals to suffer. The German Kennel Club (VDH) is pushing back against the proposed law, calling for Germans to stand up against the potential ban on their favorite dogs.

The law, which targets dogs with “skeletal anomalies,” has sparked controversy, with the VDH launching a petition to oppose the ban. The VDH president, Peter Friedrich, emphasized the need for clarity on what defines an anomaly to prevent healthy dogs from being affected by the law.

Dachshunds are known to suffer from a range of health problems related to their unique body shape, with the British Veterinary Association highlighting the chronic issues that all six varieties of the breed are at risk of. These health issues may require costly surgical intervention, making the breed particularly vulnerable.

While Germany’s agriculture ministry denies that the proposed law would ban specific breeds, it aims to eliminate “torture breeding” practices that could cause pain and suffering to future generations. The debate over the fate of the Dachshund reflects broader concerns about breeding-related issues in dogs, with other breeds like the pug and bulldog also facing health challenges due to selective breeding for exaggerated features.

As the future of the iconic Dachshund hangs in the balance, the VDH’s petition and the ongoing debate over breeding practices in dogs continue to garner attention and spark discussions about animal welfare and responsible breeding practices.