Vet urges pet owners to avoid getting popular dog breed amid health concerns

Dogs are the most beloved pets in the UK and there's one breed that's particularly popular.

The French Bulldog is one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK, although according to The Kennel Club, figures have dipped slightly in recent years. Taking a look at registrations of French bulldog puppies between early 2018 and mid-2019, there was an 8% drop. That being said, the breed remains of of the nation's favourites.

This dog breed is recognised for being playful, intelligent and adaptable, thriving with couples, families and single people. Despite the broad appeal, a vet named Ben has urged dog-lovers not to get a French Bulldog in the future.

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He regularly shares pet advice, information and his own opinions on social media. In a recent post on TikTok he said: "I am a practising small animal vet and I want to use the time that I have your attention for in this video to convince you never to get a French Bulldog, a bulldog or a pug.

"Yes, they make wonderful companions but the fact that the French Bulldog is the most popular dog breed in America right now is a massive animal welfare issue because these breeds are not anatomically, physiologically or behaviourally normal dogs, and that causes a lot of suffering."

Ben noted that studies have documented the lifespan for French Bulldogs to be as low as four-and-a-half years and seven to seven-and-a-half for bulldogs and pugs. The animal expert explained that these breeds are "not a wise choice" for those wanting a long-term canine companion, adding: "They're really expensive not just to buy but to own. Pet insurance premiums are extremely high because of all of their predictable, well documented health problems."

He claimed that due to the costly insurance, many owners opt out and when a major health issue arises, they can't afford treatment, often resorting to large loans or credit card debt.

The small animal vet further revealed that male dogs of this breed often have difficulty mating, leading to breeders resorting to artificial insemination. He added that many French Bulldogs cannot give birth naturally, meaning if you get one of these puppies, it's likely the mum has had to be "anaesthetised and cut open just for you to have the dog that you want to have."

In his TikTok video caption, he wrote: "America's most popular dog breed is a health disaster. But information is power.

"This is my attempt to convince as many people as possible who see this video not to get one of these dogs in future."

Despite this, he recognised that there are dogs of the breeds he mentioned in his video that need rescuing and require loving homes. He encouraged owners to care for their flat-faced dogs as best they can.

The PDSA backs this up, saying: "Frenchies are a flat-faced breed, which can often cause breathing problems and means they overheat quickly especially when they exercise in warmer weather. If you’re looking for a dog to go on long walks with, a Frenchie probably isn’t the best breed for you. In general, we’d recommend considering a different breed or a cross-breed to try and reduce some of the problems Frenchies have. If you’re still looking specifically for a Frenchie, always make sure the parents of your pup have had all the necessary screening and try to pick a dog with a longer nose and wider nostrils."

Several dog owners responded to the video, with one sharing: "I had my beautiful Frenchie Luna put to sleep in May just shy of her 14th birthday. Too many back street breeders around because they increased in popularity. I wouldn't buy one now, but don't regret the wonderful life we had together."

It's crucial to conduct your own independent research before deciding on any specific breed.