New designer bulldog breeds are being sold for up to £10,000 but face a lifetime of pain and suffering, a top vet has warned.
Daniella Dos Santos, the vice-president of the British Veterinary Association, said social media sites are driving a trend of new “extreme” breeds.
She said: “What we are seeing now is a growing number of irresponsible breeders breeding extreme dogs, often called exotic bullies, muscle tone pocket bullies, long rope French bulldogs and toadline bullies.
“We do have a real concern about the increase in popularity of these dogs, the health consequences that come with them as well.
“Instead of being realistic about what these deformities mean, they are advertised as glamorous, rare and desirable.
Are you concerned about the craze? Have your say in the comments below
“There is a link between this - people wanting the most unusual dogs - and these health problems.”
She explained that different breeds of bulldogs are also being overbred, she warned, coming with a catalogue of health problems, including trouble breathing, skeletal issues and being unable to fully close their eyes.
New breeds being advertised include “exotic bullies”, bred from the American bully - favoured for a fearsome look and strong jaw, and costing as much as £10,000 a puppy.
Another example is the “toadline bully”, which has extremely short legs and a very muscular body.
They often develop face skeletal problems, as well as other health issues.
The designer dog was bred with an aim of creating the smallest in size but biggest boned bulldog possible.
They often sell for as much as £6,000 each.
