Many of us would admit swooning over adorable pups with heart-melting eyes and fluffy coats. But there is a growing concern among animal welfare experts who argue that selecting a dog based solely on looks can lead owners to overlook associated health problems and behavioural needs.
The booming popularity of breeds like the French Bulldog, Pomeranian, and Shih Tzu, known for their photogenic features and compact size, has led to a surge in demand, often overshadowing the essential aspects of health and temperament. These breeds are not just Instagram-worthy; they come with a baggage of behavioural quirks and health ailments.
Even the UK’s most popular UK breed, the Labrador Retriever, is often hailed as the ideal family dog. But many can be high energy, destructive when bored and suffer from breed specific health problems like hip-dysplasia. TikTok-famous Good Boy Ollie, is a placid Lab who lives with his opposite in personality, and much bouncier Lab brother, Tato. https://www.tiktok.com/@good.boy.ollie
The health implications of choosing a breed for its appearance can be both heart-wrenching and bank-breaking. Breeds bred for specific aesthetic features often suffer from a host of health issues. Brachycephalic breeds like the French Bulldog face respiratory distress due to their squished faces and dogs with excessively long backs or dwarfism, like the Dachshund, are prone to painful and debilitating spinal issues. Not knowing about these potential issues can mean owners facing heart-breaking decisions later down the line.
A recent survey of 2,000 UK dog owners, commissioned by Petsure.com found 22% of owners said they used social media to research their dog’s breed, with 10% using Wikipedia. 18% of owners admitting to not doing very much research before choosing the particular dog breed and 9% say they did no research at all.
When asked why they chose their breed of dog, 41% said ‘for their temperament’, a third (30%) admit to choosing the breed ‘for their looks’, and 25% for the breed’s compatibility with their family and children. Over half (52%) of owners admit to choosing a dog because of its ‘cute’ or ‘fluffy’ looks. One third (33%) of dog owners said they later regret choosing their dog for its looks.
Veterinary professionals and animal behaviourists warn that a dog’s aesthetic appeal should never eclipse the necessity of understanding their health needs and behavioral traits. Some of these ‘cute breeds’ are notorious for their stubbornness and high-strung nature, traits that can challenge even the most patient of dog owners. The lack of research into a breed’s temperament can lead to a mismatch between owner and pet, often resulting in the rehoming or abandonment of the dog.
When it comes to the temperament of their chosen breed, the Petsure.com survey revealed 53% of owners say they weren’t completely confident they knew how their dog may behave. 56% said they were not fully aware of associated breed health problems, such as flat-faced dogs being more likely to have breathing problems. Only 27% said they now think of themselves as ‘very knowledgeable’ about the breed of their dog.
Expert vet, Dr Scott Miller says: “Whether you’re looking to buy or adopt a dog, you need to be responsible. Ethical breeders know so much about the animals they raise, including the good and bad of their health and behaviour. They want them to go to the right homes.
“Lots of people make massive mistakes when choosing a dog. Always think: Is the dog right for the family, or do I just like the look of them or feel sorry for them? Can I afford to look after them? Can I manage the progress and setbacks of training and settling them in?”
Moreover, the unethical breeding practices fuelled by the demand for ‘cute’ dogs have led to a rise in puppy mills, where dogs are bred in appalling conditions with little regard for their health or well-being. The pursuit of the ‘perfect look’ often results in inbreeding, leading to a vicious cycle of health problems.
The survey asked dog owners whether their experience of owning their dog aligned with the reality, half of dog owners (47%) admit they were not fully aware of how well their dog would fit their lifestyle and 48% were unsure of the associated costs such as vet bills and food.
64% of owners say they have pet insurance, to help during the times they need it. But with 36% of owners admitting not having dog insurance, many of them could be putting their pet’s health and finances at risk. The RSPCA claims the average vet bill is £848, with private vets charging more compared to not-for-profit organisations.
Rebecca Gardiner, spokesperson for Petsure.com, adds: “With so much information available online, it can be hard to know who to trust when it comes to choosing the right dog for you and your family.
“Think about seeking help from professional organisations like the Kennel Club, and speaking to current owners of the breed you are interested in. With careful financial planning and being fully informed about the healthcare needs of different breeds, dog owners can look forward to a long and happy time together with their pet.”
This narrative unveils a stark reality – a cute face is not a ticket to a happy home. It’s the well-informed and responsible choice that paves the way for a harmonious and loving relationship between humans and their four-legged friends. So next time those puppy eyes beckon, remember, there’s more to a dog than just a cute face.