Stop buying flat-faced dogs! RSPCA reports a 3800% increase in French Bulldogs coming into its care over the last 10 years - as owners struggle to cope with the repercussions of their 'cute' features

The RSPCA has recorded a dramatic surge in the number of French Bulldogs entering its care, with the figure jumping by 3,800 per cent over the past decade. In 2016, the charity received just six French Bulldogs or Frenchie crosses, but this number climbed sharply to 234 in the previous year, nearly double the total from the period spanning 2016 to 2019. This sharp increase highlights a growing crisis among pet owners struggling with the financial and physical burdens associated with keeping flat-faced dogs. The rise in abandonment reflects the challenges faced by owners of brachycephalic breeds, which include French Bulldogs, Pugs, and British Bulldogs. These breeds are characterised by their flattened facial structure, which leads to a host of health complications. Issues such as breathing difficulties, chronic pain, and limited mobility are common due to the anatomical abnormalities bred for aesthetic appeal. According to the RSPCA, these health problems often result in substantial veterinary expenses, placing a heavy financial strain on pet owners. Dr. Rowena Packer, an expert in canine welfare, explained that the breeding practices over the past few decades have pushed these dogs to the brink of physiological dysfunction. She noted that the extreme features, such as short snouts and bulging eyes, contribute to serious medical conditions including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition causes severe breathing difficulties and necessitates costly interventions to improve the dogs' quality of life. The RSPCA’s latest report underscores the increasing burden on both pet owners and veterinary services. With the average cost of corrective surgery for BOAS reaching approximately £2,500, many families find themselves unable to afford necessary treatments. A recent survey conducted by the charity revealed that over half of pet owners expressed concerns about managing veterinary costs, with nearly a quarter admitting to skipping regular checkups to cut expenses. Beyond the immediate health and financial implications, there is a broader societal concern regarding the ethics of breeding for aesthetics. Influencers and celebrities have played a role in making French Bulldogs one of the most popular breeds in the UK, contributing to their widespread ownership. However, this popularity comes at a steep price, both for the dogs and their human companions. The RSPCA has also observed a similar trend with other flat-faced breeds. The number of British Bulldogs surrendered to the charity has nearly doubled since 2016, while the number of English or ‘Old Tyme’ Bulldogs has risen by 1,400 per cent. These figures indicate a pattern of increasing abandonment across multiple brachycephalic breeds, suggesting a systemic issue within the pet ownership community. The organisation has issued a call for greater awareness and responsible breeding practices. It urges potential owners to consider the long-term commitments and potential health risks associated with these breeds before deciding to adopt or purchase a flat-faced dog. As the demand for these breeds continues to grow, so too does the need for education and advocacy to ensure the well-being of both pets and their caregivers.