Brachycephalic dogs: The popularity of flat-faced dogs shows no signs of waning in the United Kingdom

Two British studies, conducted by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), examine brachycephalic dog breeds, which face serious health and welfare issues directly linked to their physical conformation. The first study* explores the reasons behind the ever-growing popularity of these hypertype dogs. In 2017, the French Bulldog is expected to take the top spot in the UK’s top ten most popular breeds, surpassing the Labrador Retriever for the first time in 27 years of unchallenged reign. The second study** reveals that brachycephalic dogs have the highest risk of complications during parturition.   According to the first study, appearance is the primary reason that leads prospective dog owners to choose brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, English and French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, etc.), drawn to their large, round eyes and flat, rounded faces. However, these sought-after morphological characteristics are associated with numerous hereditary diseases. These dogs with hypertype physical traits often suffer from severe respiratory, ocular, digestive, and skin conditions, which are accompanied by a reduced quality of life, obesity due to exercise intolerance, and a significantly shorter life expectancy compared to other dog breeds. Yet the study reveals that breed-specific health predispositions are not a primary consideration for buyers of brachycephalic dogs such as the pug or the French bulldog, compared to those who instead opt for a long-snouted dog such as the Labrador Retriever or the Cocker Spaniel. The study then sought to determine what influences the choice of a flat-faced breed and, once the decision is made, how prospective owners go about acquiring a puppy. Owners of pedigree dogs belonging to one of the ten most popular breeds in the United Kingdom were surveyed about their selection criteria, in order to compare the various factors that influence breed selection and the purchasing process. Ultimately, several factors play a key role in the decision to buy a brachycephalic dog. The small size of these dogs appears well-suited to a lifestyle that most often involves living in an apartment. They are also perceived as good companions, gentle, and affectionate with children in the household. Prospective owners, who tend to be young, choose them as their first dog, likely influenced by the media and advertising, which frequently highlight these dogs’ distinctive appearance. Furthermore, when looking for a puppy, they tend to buy online without seeking to see both parents or requesting access to the medical records. As a result, potential buyers are neither emotionally nor financially prepared to welcome a pedigree dog that carries a high risk of health complications. In light of this, the authors make several recommendations:

• select and promote healthy breeds that are suited to the lifestyles of brachycephalic dog owners;
• reduce the use of images of hypertyped dogs in the media;
• raise public awareness of the consequences of breeding animals based on physical appearance rather than long-term health and animal welfare;
• promote responsible pet ownership for all dog breeds.

  An Increased Risk of Dystocia According to the second study, conducted in the field at veterinary clinics, brachycephalic breeds have the highest risk of complications during parturition. Compared to other breeds, female French Bulldogs are 16 times more likely to experience complications during parturition, particularly dystocia. Of the 20,000 female dogs hospitalized for emergency veterinary care across the Channel, 3.7% were treated for difficulties giving birth. The breed most frequently affected is the French Bulldog (16 times more likely), followed by the Boston Terrier (13 times), the Pug (11.3 times), and the Chihuahua (10.4 times). This health issue adds to the long list of conditions observed in these breeds. Owners are advised to carefully weigh the risks before deciding to breed their female dogs, especially brachycephalic dogs. As for prospective buyers, they are encouraged to choose a responsible and reputable breeder if they wish to avoid high veterinary costs and a poor quality of life for their pet.   * Dr. Rowena Packer (RVC) et al.: Purchasing popular purebreds: Investigating the influence of breed-type on the pre-purchase attitudes and behavior of dog owners. Animal Welfare, 26:191-201.** The VetCompass research project, led by the RVC, collects clinical data on more than six million pets from veterinarians across the United Kingdom.   See also: The petition aimed at veterinarians and veterinary assistants, posted online by Vet Help Direct in May 2016 to call on veterinary professional organizations and dog breeders’ associations to address the problem of hypertype and take urgent action, has gathered 43,154 signatures from veterinarians and veterinary assistants worldwide.