People are being urged to "stop and think" before buying fashionable flat-faced dog breeds, such as French Bulldogs, as fresh fears reveal purchasing such breeds will fuel criminal activity.
New figures published by the Kennel Club found that flat-faced dogs had record-high puppy registrations in 2020, rising by 17% compared with 2019. With a booming UK market for these dogs, the Brachycephalic Working Group (BWG) believes this will lead to imposed further welfare problems around poor quality breeding practices.
The brachycephalic breeds, which have shortened heads and noses, already suffer a plethora of health issues including breathing difficulties, skin fold infections, eye disease, difficulty giving birth and spinal disease.
"The UK public has been sold a fantasy that 'flat-faced' breeds are cute, but the suffering endured by many of these dogs has been ignored," Dan O'Neill, BWG chairman, told the Vet Times.
"As well as health issues such as struggling to breathe, many puppies sold in the UK are bred indiscriminately and many are farmed in appalling conditions, often outside the UK. With this in mind, we ask the UK public to 'stop and think' before buying a flat-faced dog. As a caring society, we must take action now to put the needs of these dogs above our human desires to own dogs just because of how they look."
This isn't the first time experts have issued a warning, either. Back in March, vets warned that French Bulldogs and Pugs are at risk of going blind due to over-breeding. Despite their growing popularity, researchers found that changes in skull shapes are causing ulcers and erosion of the eyeball, leaving many dogs unable to close their eyes.
Previous research also found that many are struggling to breathe and walk, with vets urging owners to stay vigilant when adopting or buying the dogs.
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The best dog nail clippers to keep paws neat and tidy
Pet supplier Petstoreo was founded by two working veterinarians who have created an extensive range of high-quality and sustainable pet products, including these sturdy nail clippers.
An adjustable claw guard allows you to change the size of the clipping area to more precisely accommodate your dog's nails. It has a safety guard for storage and non-slip rubber handles.
Using an electric grinder is effective, but loud noises may faze more nervous dogs. This one has been designed to be extra-quiet to avoid causing any upset. It has a four-hour charge and two speeds; a slower one for trimming to length and another for filing smooth afterwards.
Another affordable pair, but guillotine-style instead. Their ergonomic design is easy to use and will get the job done efficiently, delivering sharp clean cuts.
This cordless nail grinder comes with five file attachments that can be switched out. Two sanding drums are also included to keep the files at their best. It’s one of the cheaper nail grinders we’ve seen, but bear in mind that it is battery-powered rather than rechargeable.
This cordless grinder has LED lights, providing a clearer view of claws. It has a two-hour charge and a low vibration.
Designed to clip just the tip of the nail, these clippers have a unique patent-pending conical blade that doesn't crush the nail. Recommended by veterinarians and groomers, they also come in a range of sizes so you can find the right one.
If you're nervous about cutting your pooch's nails for the first time, try these clippers. An anti-slip handle helps you maintain a firm grip so you can comfortably cut their nails, while a spring-loaded safety stop prevents over-cutting.
This electric nail grinder is suitable for all breeds. It has two speeds and three grinding ports, so you can choose the right setting for your pet. It also has a two-hour charge.
We love this handy nail trimmer, which comes with four practical LED lights. It also has a replacement blade and a nail trapper which helps catch nail clippings for an easy clean-up.
Designed to cut any type or thickness nail safely, this clipper set also comes with a handy file so you can get your dog's nails just right.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
