This week we’re joined by retired Orthopedic Surgeon, Gordon Maclellan. As the founder of the Pupscan Project, he’s talking about hip dysplasia in dogs and whether dysplasia is congenital or caused by environmental factors. The research, studying over 70 breeds and hundreds of litters, suggests in line with ground breaking studies in Sweden that the evidence reveals that there is no genetic influence on dysplasia in dogs. This has already been confirmed in people! Plus we chat about ‘flat faced breeds and their breathing issues, which Gordon discusses is not a result of a short muzzle, but rather related to the width of their nostrils and the efficacy of their airway passages. Also relating to whether the dogs are porky or slim, with obesity having a body burden affecting respiration.

For more information go to the pupscanproject.co.uk

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For more about Anna go to annawebb.co.uk

Music and production by Mike Hanson for Pod People Productions

Cover art by Jaijo

Cover photo by Rhian Ap Gruffydd at Gruff Pawtraits