Many of today's pedigree bulldogs can no longer mate or give birth unassisted because their shape has changedPhotograph: Yann Arthus-Bertrand/CorbisA 19th-century bulldog Photograph: GettyToday's bassett hounds have stomachs hanging low to the ground, looser skin, longer ears and shorter legsPhotograph: Corbis
Bassett hounds in 1894Photograph: GettyCavalier King Charles spaniels suffer from heart problems and one-third have syringomylelia, a condition caused by their skulls being too small for their brainsPhotograph: Martin Rogers/GettyAn 18th-century King Charles spaniel Photograph: GettyPugs suffer from joint problems and and breathing difficulties due to their facial shape and small nosesPhotograph: Allison Michael Orenstein/GettyA 19th-century pugPhotograph: Getty
Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.