Charities criticise flat-faced dog’s Crufts win
RSPCA says the dog's short muzzle and pinched nostrils would cause it suffering.
Leading dog charities have criticised Crufts, after it awarded a French bulldog, known as Elton, first place in the Utility Group 2024.
The charities, Blue Cross and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), took to the social media platform X to condemn the win, with Blue Cross warning it would ‘glamourise’ extreme breeding.
RSPCA also drew attention to the French bulldog’s exaggerated features, mentioning his short muzzle and pinched nostrils. It said that those traits could cause a dog suffering.
It says that, as well as breathing difficulties, dogs resulting from extreme breeding can suffer from skin, dental, spinal, brain and eye problems.
RSPCA has launched its 'Born to Suffer' campaign, encouraging supporters to pledge online against extreme breeding.
Dr Samantha Gaines, RSPCA dog welfare experts, said: “We are hugely disappointed that a French bulldog with an extremely short muzzle and pinched nostrils has been awarded Best in Breed at Crufts on Thursday.
“The breed standard states these dogs should have a well-defined muzzle and wide open nostrils, so awarding Best of Breed and Group as well as allowing this dog to compete for Best in Show sends completely the wrong message.”
However, Crufts Kennel Club has said that the French bulldog had passed all relevant veterinary health assessments. It said that the health and welfare of dogs is a priority.
Charlotte McNamara, head of health at The Kennel Club, said: “He has a grade 0 score on The Kennel Club/University of Cambridge breathing assessment that was carried out prior to the show - and which from Crufts 2025 will be mandatory for all French bulldogs, pugs and bulldogs before they compete - meaning he is clinically unaffected by brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
“Elton has also passed the show vet check, which is given to all dogs before group judging, and to some breed winners to ensure there are no visible signs of health concerns.”
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Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
