A Welsh rescue centre is feeling the brunt of the increase in French Bulldog breeding over the last few years.
Cardiff Dogs Home posted four pictures of Frenchies currently in their care in a Facebook post, with a caption written from the dogs’ perspective.
It said, “South Wales, especially within the Cardiff area is rife with Frenchie breeding. On occasions we have been the most popular breed at the hotel.
“Gone are the days where Staffies and large Bull Breeds were most popular, it’s now us Frenchies.
“We may look cute, but we suffer from allergies, breathing problems, ear problems, skin problems.. the list goes on. Some of us that find ourselves at the hotel have been purely bred to make money.”
French Bulldog breeding is a growing concern across the UK, with a 2964% increase of Frenchie registrations in 10 years with The Kennel Club from 2008 to 2018.
In 2020, The Kennel Club reported another 17% rise in Frenchie registrations bringing their total up to 39,266 - which they predict only accounts for around 30% of UK wide registrations.
A spokesperson from the French Bulldog Welfare Trust said, "Unfortunately South Wales has always had a reputation for puppy farms.
"In recent times with the popularity of Frenchies growing and prices becoming ridiculous, more pet breeders are showing up in the area.
"The way to stop this is removing council licenses and more inspections of puppy farms and limits on puppies produced all breeds within one year."
The RSPCA reported a 1,567% increase in the number of French Bulldogs admitted to their national animal centres in 2020 compared to 2015, the biggest increase in any breed by over a thousand.
French Bulldogs particularly are likely to be unregistered due to illegal importing and puppy farms.
The fashionable breed has grown in popularity after being the companion of choice for celebrities like the Beckhams, Lady Gaga and Hugh Jackman.
They've also been used in adverts from big brands like HSBC, Heinz, Costa Coffee, Comic Relief and Halifax, all cashing in on the latest trend of designer dogs.
All of this leads to the growing demand for French Bulldogs, with breeders quick to cash in.
RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said, “While the number of Staffies, Lurchers and crossbreeds seem to be declining, the number of French Bulldogs are really increasing.”
Dr Gaines explained she suspected this was a result of the surging demand for the breed which was fuelling bad breeding practices and the puppy trade.
She said there was an increase in owners giving up dogs for adoption because they cannot afford vet bills necessary for looking after flat-faced breeds.
“We are urging people to stop and think if they want to buy a flat-faced dog and to consider an alternative breed or crossbreed with a lower risk of health problems. If they are determined to get a flat-faced breed then we would ask that people adopt rather than buy.”
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