Dr Alex Crow, a veterinary expert and adviser for Pooch & Mutt, has revealed five dog breeds he genuinely adores but would never own himself due to the severe health problems associated with selective breeding. Speaking on his TikTok channel, he emphasised that his concerns are not aimed at the dogs or their owners but at the breeding practices that have prioritised appearance over health.
Breed 5: Dachshund
Dachshunds have a long spine that carries real risks. About one in four develops intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a spinal condition that can cause severe pain and, in some cases, paralysis.
Breed 4: Pug
Pugs are brachycephalic, meaning their flat faces lead to narrowed airways and significant breathing difficulties. Their protruding eyes are prone to ulcers, and many suffer from spinal abnormalities. These conditions can make even routine activities challenging.
Breed 3: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This breed was particularly difficult for Dr Crow to mention because of his fondness for them. However, many develop syringomyelia, a condition where the skull is too small for the brain, placing pressure on the spinal cord. Additionally, most are likely to develop mitral valve disease by the age of 10, meaning serious health issues are common throughout the breed.
Breed 2: French Bulldog
As the UK's most popular dog breed, French Bulldogs have been identified by the Royal Veterinary College as having higher rates of multiple chronic health conditions than nearly any other breed. Common problems include breathing difficulties, slipped discs, eye disorders, and skin conditions.
Breed 1: English Bulldog
Taking the top spot, the English Bulldog's physical traits have become so extreme that some are unable to give birth naturally. They struggle with exercise, overheat easily, and their skin folds make them prone to infections. The breed was effectively banned in Norway in 2022 due to animal welfare concerns, as reported by The Independent.
Vet's Advice for Potential Owners
Dr Crow stressed that none of these issues mean these dogs cannot have a lovely life. He advised: "If you've got your heart set on one of these breeds, buy from health-tested parents and go in knowing what you're taking on." He added that the real issue is that we have put looks ahead of health for generations.
Bad Breath in Dogs: A Health Warning
In a separate video on the Pooch and Mutt TikTok channel, Dr Crow warned that bad breath in dogs can signal underlying health conditions. He explained: "Most of the time, bad breath in dogs is a sign of dental disease. Plaque and bacteria build up on the teeth, harden into tartar and start to irritate the gums. Over time, that can lead to infection, pain, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss if not managed."
Brushing your dog's teeth at home is the most effective preventive measure, even a few times a week. If the smell is suddenly worse or accompanied by red or bleeding gums, drooling, or difficulty eating, a vet visit is needed. Dr Crow added that bad breath can also be linked to digestive issues, heart disease, or kidney disease.
