Battersea is highlighting the need to address extreme breeding practices as the charity continues to see the negative impact on the health and welfare of dogs like Coco, a two-year-old French Bulldog and Pekingese cross.
Coco was recently brought to Battersea when her previous owners could no longer afford the medical care she required. As a cross of two brachycephalic, or "flat-faced", breeds, Coco suffers from numerous health issues that stem from extreme breeding practices designed to achieve a specific look, often at the expense of a dog’s wellbeing.
With bowed front legs and a waddling gait, Coco faces lifelong mobility challenges, likely caused by congenital deformities. Her flat-faced features mean she can struggle with her breathing, causing her to tire easily and overheat quickly. Coco also has a suspected heart arrhythmia, likely linked to the genetic vulnerabilities of her breed mix. These issues highlight the risks of breeding two unhealthy breeds together without considering the health consequences to achieve a certain appearance.
Battersea’s Head Veterinary Surgeon, Shaun Opperman, said: “It’s deeply concerning that animals like Coco are still being bred with such exaggerated traits that directly affect their ability to live a comfortable and healthy life. Beyond the many health issues, extreme breeding practices also often take away an animal’s ability to behave naturally – many flat-faced dogs can even struggle to go for long walks due to breathing difficulties. It’s so sad, as these traits are solely the result of human demand for certain looks, without consideration of the welfare consequences.”
In 2023, Battersea’s vets carried out 78 complex BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) surgeries to widen the airways of flat-faced breeds and ease their health problems.
While in Battersea’s care, Coco quickly endeared herself to staff with her sweet, affectionate nature. Despite her health challenges, she enjoyed socialising with other dogs and was always ready for a belly rub from her favourite people.
Although Coco has now found a new home where she’ll receive the ongoing care she needs, Battersea believes no dog should have to suffer due to exaggerated characteristics that compromise their welfare. The charity is calling on the Government to tighten regulations and utilise existing enforcement powers to ensure breeding practices prioritise animal health over aesthetics.
Battersea has long advocated for stricter breeding standards and welcomes the fact that animal welfare is back on Parliament’s agenda. The charity urges MPs and the Government to support the reintroduced dog and cat smuggling Bill by MP Danny Chambers, which addresses issues surrounding the importation of animals bred under poor conditions abroad, as well as other harmful practices, like ear cropping. Battersea’s message to prospective pet owners is to thoroughly research any breed they are considering, focusing on understanding the inherent health issues and costs involved. The charity recommends choosing a pet from a reputable rescue or a licensed breeder who prioritises the health of their animals.
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Notes to editors
- At Battersea we offer our love and expert care to dogs and cats who need us by rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals at our centres, and by sharing our knowledge and resources with other organisations around the world. We do this because we want to help every dog and cat, everywhere.
- In 2023 Battersea directly cared for 2,529 dogs and 2,450 cats at our three centres. We also helped thousands more through campaigning work, supporting other rescues and animal welfare advocates, and sharing knowledge and advice with pet owners.
- In addition to the site in South West London, Battersea also has two other centres based at Old Windsor, Berkshire, and Brands Hatch, Kent.
- To find out more visit our website or follow Battersea on X @battersea_, Instagram @battersea or facebook.com/Battersea.