A new survey from the RSPCA shows that the British public are turned off by the health problems that can come with flat-faced breeds
A poll has revealed three-quarters of potential “buyers” would reconsider purchasing designer breeds once they are aware of the health issues caused by their exaggerated features, according to new research from the RSPCA.
The world’s oldest animal welfare charity discovered that over 76 per cent of those interested in buying pugs or French bulldogs would rethink their decision once informed about the potential suffering due to their designer breeding.
The RSPCA poll indicates that dog lovers were deterred by the idea of endorsing selective breeding to create extreme brachycephalic (flat-faced) traits—which include shortened muzzles, protruding eyes, and skin folds. These survey results were released on the eve of Crufts 2025 at Birmingham’s National Centre, which features flat-faced breeds amongst other competitors.
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RSPCA experts are making it their mission to encourage prospective owners to choose dogs with more natural physical features over the ‘designer’ pets who face so many welfare challenges.
New polls reveal that 76.58 per cent of individuals considering getting a pug or French Bulldog would reconsider and opt for another breed if they were informed about the compromised breathing, mobility, and shorter lifespan these animals typically endure.
The survey, in collaboration with Magpie, indicates that dog lovers thinking of getting a pug or French bulldog may be deterred by the likely welfare issues and are cautious of the additional costs tied to owning such pets with complex health needs.
Additionally, the findings arrive amid a spike in abandoned flat-faced dogs. The number of pugs and Frenchies relinquished to the RSPCA’s care skyrocketed ninefold from 19 to 172 between 2015 and 2024.
Ashleigh Brown, RSPCA Scientific & Policy Manager for Companion Animals, commented on how the research shows that compassionate animal lovers alter their stance on extreme breeding upon learning the painful reality.
She expressed: “We know dog-lovers want the best for their animals. So we were encouraged to learn that when people understood the welfare impacts and potential suffering faced by pugs and French bulldogs due to their exaggerated physical features, they were less likely to want to purchase these breeds.
“However, too many people aren’t aware of the significant problems these animals face – which can even include difficulty with basic daily activities such as breathing freely, sleeping in a natural position, play or exercise.
“We believe the popularity of these dogs has been fuelled by social media – where ‘cute’ photos of French bulldogs and pugs are widespread, but the reality about the welfare challenges is often omitted.
“And with Crufts about to get underway in Birmingham, we fear some breeds of brachycephalic dogs may be highlighted in the public eye again – fuelling more demand – without people having clear understanding of the welfare risks.”
She further added: “We understand and share the love of dogs and the desire to celebrate them.
“However, we remain concerned about the welfare implications of selective breeding for exaggerated features that are highly unnatural for the species.
“They can predispose dogs to many significant health disorders, prevent them from expressing important behaviours and sadly reduce their quality of life – in addition to being distressing and hugely expensive for owners.”
She suggested that owners should instead choose a “mixed breed” or a pet without extreme features, stating: “We know these dogs are far more likely to live healthier and longer lives.”
Ashleigh went on to say that the RSPCA animal centres are seeing an increase in certain breeds with brachycephalic features – because owners are shocked by the suffering their features cause and the associated vet bills.
“For those who have their heart set on a dog of a particular breed, we urge you to ‘adopt don’t shop’ – rather than fuelling problematic commercial breeding and trade.
“People looking to add a dog to their family should always consider giving one of our rescue dogs another chance at a happier life.
“We provide our pet adopters with tailored guidance and ongoing support to ensure the best possible quality of life for these breeds with additional health and care needs.”
The RSPCA research reached out to thousands of people who searched the web for pugs and Frenchies on sale or interacted with social media posts about brachycephalic dogs.
They would then encourage respondents – typically under-35s living in urban areas – to take a quiz which educated them on the impacts of designer breeding on dog welfare..
