The Role of Speciesism and Social Dominance Orientation in the Brachycephalic Dog Breeding Paradox

Paradoxically, despite increased recognition of extreme welfare issues, brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeding retains a social license to operate. Related psychological research suggests human attitudes consistent with speciesism and social dominance orientation are associated with problematic treatment towards animals. Using an online survey with 545 participants, this study explored the role of these attitudes on the relationship between knowledge of health issues associated with brachycephalic dogs and support for changing brachycephalic dog breeding practices. Unexpectedly, 70% of participants supported changing brachycephalic dog breeding practices. Moderated and mediated multiple regression indicated that speciesism is a stronger predictor of support for change than knowledge and that speciesism attitudes uniquely relate to animal use acceptance, above and beyond social dominance orientation. Results further support the notion that speciesism is a form of prejudice and that these attitudes are likely to perpetuate social acceptance of breeding dogs destined to experience a low quality of life.