Vets issue warning over 'flat-faced' dogs

'Flat-faced': Breeds including pugs, bulldogs, shih-tzus and Cavalier King Charles spaniels often have underlying health problems.
Rex
Francesca Gillett21 September 2016

Animal-lovers should avoid buying “flat-faced” dogs and instead choose other breeds because of concerns over their welfare, vets have warned.

Experts said the surge in popularity of dogs with squashed faces and wrinkled noses has “increased animal suffering” – including health problems like eye ulcers and breathing difficulties.

Pugs, bulldogs, French bulldogs, shih-tzus and Cavalier King Charles spaniels have all become fashionable in the UK in recent years.

But Sean Wensley, president of the British Veterinary Association, said would-be dog owners need to realise breeds such as these can suffer from health issues.

He said: “We strongly encourage people to choose a healthier breed or a crossbreed instead."

The BVA’s warning has been backed by the PDSA, Royal Veterinary College, RSPCA and the Kennel Club.

On top of this, evidence shows an increasing number of the flat-faced dogs are being abandoned by their owners, the BBC reported.

Six dog rescue companies including Battersea Dogs Home said the breeds – known as brachycephalic or short-muzzled dogs – were being handed over in higher numbers.

Battersea Dogs Home and Bluecross Animal Rescue received a total of 314 "flat-faced" dogs in 2015, compared to 226 in 2014, a rise of 39 per cent.

A recent Royal Veterinary College survey suggested many owners of these fashionable dog breeds were not aware of the health problems – with many thinking noise from the dogs’ airways is normal.

The typical broad head shape found in pugs and bulldogs is not natural but developed as a result of selective breeding.

The RSPCA has since called for an urgent review of breed standards, which are determined by the Kennel Club.

"The breed standards were set many years ago,” said Caroline Kisko, the Kennel Club secretary.

“If you look back through history there are some dire things that went on, and undoubtedly we would accept all responsibility for that."

"But I would say that in the here-and-now, after all of the changes to the standards that were made in 2009, we would expect dogs to be far healthier if they are winning prizes at dogs shows."

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