Using the law to address harmful conformation in dogs - is a breed-specific breed ban the answer?

The health and welfare issues suffered by dogs who are bred to possess extreme physical traits are well-evidenced but voluntary measures to address this problem have had limited impact. This article asks how we could use the law more effectively to help reduce the number of dogs suffering from conformation-related disorders. It assesses the current scope of UK law to regulate breeding and argues for a more robust interpretation of existing rules. It draws on developments in other European countries, including the Norwegian ban on breeding certain breeds, to suggest some potential options for future reform.