Canine charities are warning prospective owners of flat-faced dogs to beware of potential health issues, as the popularity of these breeds soars.
New statistics revealed by the PDSA and the Brachycephalic Working Group show that Google searches for ‘Finding a puppy’ increased by 175% in just one month of UK lockdown compared with the average. Of these searches, those for the French bulldog were the most popular.
Brachycephalic breeds, such as French bulldogs, bulldogs and pugs – often referred to as flat-faced dogs due to their short muzzle – can suffer from a number of health problems such as breathing, eye, spine, dental and skin-fold issues.
In addition, unscrupulous breeders and traders have been cashing in on the high demand by farming them in huge numbers and often poor conditions – whether bred in the UK or imported from abroad.
WELFARE ISSUE
Now the BWG is warning these twin problems have created one of the most pressing welfare issues for dogs right now in the UK.
Members of the BWG include the major stakeholders in dog welfare in the UK such as the Kennel Club, PDSA, Dogs Trust, RSPCA, the Royal Veterinary College, the University of Cambridge, the British Veterinary Association, the British Small Animal Veterinary Association, DEFRA, and breed clubs.
Dan O’Neill, chair of the BWG said: “We are concerned that some puppy buyers might not be fully considering, or be aware of, the long-term responsibility and commitment that comes with getting a dog, especially a flat-faced dog.
“It’s vital that people stop and think. Getting a flat-faced puppy without being aware of the potential health and welfare issues they might face, especially if they are bred indiscriminately to meet demand, will have a devastating and long-lasting impact for thousands of dogs and owners in the UK.”
