The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is urging the public to reconsider purchasing flat-faced dog breeds, such as French Bulldogs and Pugs, due to a dramatic increase in the number of these animals entering the charity's care. Over the past decade, the RSPCA has seen a 3,800% rise in French Bulldogs surrendered by owners.

In 2016, the RSPCA took in six French Bulldogs or their crosses. By last year, that number had risen to 234, nearly double the combined total from 2016 to 2019. This surge is attributed to owners struggling to manage the significant health problems and associated veterinary expenses linked to the breeds' exaggerated physical features.

Flat-faced, or brachycephalic, breeds are susceptible to a range of inherited conditions stemming from traits bred for aesthetic appeal, including short snouts, bulging eyes, and wrinkled skin. These features can lead to serious quality-of-life issues.

"This is one of the biggest welfare problems pets face today, and it's impacting far more animals than people realise," said Ashleigh Brown, RSPCA Scientific and Policy Manager and lead author of the charity's report. "Too often, loving owners take on these dogs with the best intentions, but don't realise what caring for one of these breeds can involve until they're dealing with repeated vet visits, expensive treatment and seeing their pet struggle on a daily basis."

Health Complications

Dr. Rowena Packer, an expert in canine welfare at the Royal Veterinary College, explained that decades of selective breeding for extreme appearances have pushed these dogs' anatomy beyond functional limits. This can result in difficulties breathing, reduced exercise capacity, increased susceptibility to overheating, and sleep disturbances due to airway obstruction. Conditions such as painful eye ulcers, chronic skin disease, and spinal disorders can cause persistent discomfort, and some dogs may lose their vision or mobility.

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a common issue, where a dog's shortened snout and narrow nostrils obstruct airflow, leading to severe breathing difficulties. Surgical intervention is often required to correct BOAS, with costs typically around £2,500 at a private veterinary practice.

The RSPCA's report, "The Shape of Suffering," indicates that many owners find these costs prohibitive. A recent survey revealed that over half of pet owners worry about affording vet bills, with nearly a quarter admitting to skipping annual checkups to save money.

IMAGE2: The number of French Bulldogs coming into care of the RSPCA has increased by a staggering 3,800 per cent in the last 10 years

Rising Abandonments Across Breeds

French Bulldogs are not the only flat-faced breed experiencing increased abandonment rates. The number of British Bulldogs entering RSPCA care has nearly doubled between 2016 and 2025. Similarly, abandoned English or 'Old Tyme' Bulldogs have increased by 1,450%, and Pugs by 192% in the same period.

Brown described these animals as "essentially being bred to suffer," highlighting their rising popularity as a significant concern. Despite their known health issues and often shorter lifespans, breeds like the French Bulldog have gained popularity, partly due to celebrity and influencer endorsement.

IMAGE3: The RSPCA says that the number of flat-faced dogs being abandoned has increased as pet owners are overwhelmed by the cost of vet bills

In some severe cases, dogs are surrendered with such debilitating health conditions that euthanasia is deemed the most humane option. The report notes the case of Bruno, a Chow Chow admitted to RSPCA care in 2024. Despite multiple surgeries to address eyelid issues, soft palate reduction, and skin fold removal, Bruno continued to suffer from his extreme breeding and was put to sleep in February of the following year on welfare grounds.

IMAGE5: Bruno (pictured), a Chow Chow who came into RSPCA care in 2024, had to be put to sleep last year after multiple surgeries failed to stop the suffering caused by his extreme breeding

"We will always try our hardest to give every animal the best outcome, and to find them a new home where appropriate," Brown stated. "But sadly some dogs are suffering on a daily basis to such an extent that, even with surgery, they wouldn’t have a life worth living - and the kindest option is then to put them to sleep. It’s so tragic."

The RSPCA advises potential pet owners to conduct thorough research and avoid breeds with exaggerated physical features unless considering adoption from a rescue organization.

IMAGE6: Flat-faced dogs like Pugs (pictured) and French Bulldogs suffer from health conditions that prevent them from breathing, sleeping, playing, communicating with other dogs, and living a pain-free life