Flat-faced dogs have become extremely desirable pets in recent years. With the likes of celebrities and social-media stars all owning flat-faced dogs, owning breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs and British Bulldogs has become a trend. Only 692 French Bulldogs were registered in 2007, compared to 21,470 in 2016. However, behind the adorable exterior of these dogs are potentially life-threatening health problems.
Potential Owners Need to Know About Health Risks
Vets are urging potential pet-owners are rethink decisions to buy flat-faced dogs. This comes after many aspiring owners were previously unaware of the health problems such breeds experience. These dog breeds that have small, infant-like faces and large, wide set eyes are they key attractions for owners. As a result, those traits have been specifically bred for over time.
To raise awareness, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) has launched the ‘#breedtobreath’ campaign. The organisation revealed results from a survey of 671 vets. 75% of pet owners had no knowledge of the health problems faced by flat faced dogs prior to choosing them. Only 10% of owners could identify potential problems related to such breeds. For example, most owners thought that their dogs snorting was a normal occurrence.
Just Because They’re Cute, Doesn’t Make Them Healthy
By prioritising the appearance of a dog during breeding, their health has often suffered. Skin disorders, eye ulcers and breathing difficulties are just some of the issues that come from selective breeding.
Vets believe the surge in owning flat-faced dogs can be blamed on social media and advertising (49%). Another 3% of vets thought that celebrity ownership is also to blame. Veterinary surgeons are also discovering an increasing number of flat-faced dogs being admitted with health problems related to their breeding.
Selective Breeding Has Put Dogs in Danger
Without action being taken to prevent future selective breeding, the BVA fears that the number of corrective surgeries for flat-faced dogs will dramatically increase. Furthermore, when these breeds overheat and struggle to breath it can be fatal. Potential owners are being urged to do their research first.
Owning a flat faced dog may seem appealing, but it is a lot of physical and mental strain for both dogs and their owners when dealing with these health problems. Owners are being encouraged to opt for a different breed or at least a healthier version where the dogs have longer snouts or are mixed breed.
Big brands such as Heinz, Costa and Halifax have agreed not to use flat-faced dogs in their future advertising. Although this action and raising awareness is a good start, the issue needs to be addressed by breeders themselves. The problem lies in the physicality of these dog breeds. Without any significant change here, there won’t be any progress.