The American Kennel Club (AKC) sets breed standards that influence how millions of dogs are bred across the country. But for many popular breeds — like French bulldogs, pugs, and bulldogs — these standards prioritize looks over health, encouraging traits that lead to serious medical issues like breathing difficulties, joint problems, and chronic pain.

These dogs didn’t choose to suffer. We made them this way.

The AKC has the power to stop this. By updating breed standards to discourage extreme physical traits and focus on overall canine well-being, the AKC can help ensure that future generations of dogs are healthier and happier. Other countries have already taken steps to address this issue—why not the U.S.?

We’re calling on the AKC to reform its breed standards now. No animal should have to struggle just to breathe, walk, or live comfortably—especially not because of human decisions made in the name of appearance.

Let’s put dogs’ health first. Sign this petition to demand humane, science-based breed standards from the AKC.