In recent years, there has been a huge surge of demand for buying squashed-face dogs. Dogs like Bulldogs, French bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and Pugs. Just from 2007 to 2016 the registration of French bulldogs has increased by 20,778 dogs. That’s over 2,000 more dogs per year.
The reason that these dogs are in such high demand is because they are so adorable and are awesome companions. There is just something about that squished face that people find endearing. It could be the round, wide set eyes or the baby-like face they have that influence people to purchases these adorable friends. Because of the rising popularity of these pooches, breeders have been taking these identifying traits and breeding them to the extreme, to the point where it no longer is safe for the dogs health. And there in-lies the problem.
Popularity of the squished-faced dog
Selective breeding and careless trait prioritizing has lead these squashed faced dog breeds to be predisposition to skin disorders, eye ulcers, dangerous breathing difficulties, and other life threatening problems. They are paying a big price for their cuteness.
Popularity for these breeds of dogs has increased immensely due to that numerous amount of social media and ads that promote them. Countless celebrities, like Lady Gaga, post daily about their relationship with dogs. This is not even to mention all of the Instagram accounts dedicated to the breeds, like @DougthePug. 43% of people who own a squashed-face dog say that celebrity ownership was one of the contributing factors in their decision to buy one.
Most people are unaware of the suffering of these animals before they make their puppy purchases. 75% of owners had no clue about the high maintenance their dog would require while 10% of owners were aware of the issues, but thought them to be “normal.” These health problems that brachycephalic, or squashed face dogs, suffer from are serious. It is not normal for a dog to snort or snuff. Like humans, dogs should be able to breathe clearly without any problems.
Puppy Farms Mass Breeding Puppies for Profit
Puppy farms do not really care about the quality of their dogs just so long as they are making a profit. They do not take proper precautions in order to ensure the long term health of their puppies. Carolina Kisko, the secretary of the Kennel Club, urges people considering these breeds to do their homework before making the big commitment of buying any squashed face breed pup. She said, “As soon as you get a market drive then the puppy farms just say ‘ooh we’ll breed those now.” Before buying a dog, make sure you find a reputable breeder.
It is really sad that these dogs have to suffer because they really are a wonderful breed. They are friendly and make great companions. It is hard because many of them really do struggle to have a good quality of life.
Conclusion
Not all of these cute pups suffer from breathing issues or worse, however. Health problems vary among all dogs, but it is suggested that those who are wanting to invest in a brachycephalic dog consider going for a heather version, one with a longer snout etc, or look into getting a cross breed. Prospective owner should be aware that brachycephalic dogs are an expensive commitment, they should be prepared for the emotional and financial hardship that these lovely creatures bear for the duration of their lives.