Animal welfare charity figures reveal a significant rise in the number of flat-faced dog breeds being abandoned and surrendered due to health problems and the high costs of veterinary care. Data from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) shows French bulldogs, commonly known as Frenchies, have seen a 3,800 percent increase in admissions over the past decade.

In 2016, the RSPCA took in six French bulldogs, a figure that soared to 235 in 2025. Other brachycephalic breeds have also experienced notable increases, with pugs rising from 25 to 73 admitted dogs and British bulldogs going from 21 to 38 during the same period. These breeds are characterized by their distinctive flat faces, a trait deliberately selected to appeal to human preferences.

However, the flat facial structure has been linked to serious health complications, including bulging eyes, chronic breathing difficulties, skin infections, and spinal issues. These conditions often result in lifelong suffering and can significantly reduce the animals’ lifespan. The RSPCA warns that the ongoing medical care required for these ailments frequently involves expensive treatments that contribute to the rise in pets being given up to shelters.

According to the RSPCA’s Animal Kindness Index, more than half of pet owners (56%) express concerns about their ability to afford veterinary bills. Ashleigh Brown, the charity’s scientific and policy manager, emphasized that many owners initially take in these dogs with good intentions but find themselves unprepared for the challenges of managing chronic health problems. Brown noted the emotional toll on owners who witness their pets’ struggles and face difficult decisions regarding treatment and end-of-life care.

The RSPCA’s latest report, titled *The Shape of Suffering*, highlights the broader issue of extreme breeding practices not only affecting dogs but also other pets such as cats and rabbits. The organization calls for a collective effort among pet owners, breeders, and policymakers to phase out such breeding standards that prioritize appearance over animal welfare.

“This is essentially breeding pets to suffer because societal preferences dictate how they should look,” Brown stated. The charity urges a shift in attitudes to prevent the ongoing breeding of animals with traits that compromise their health and wellbeing.