In America for the past several years, the Labrador Retriever has been the most popular dog breed. But this year the French Bull Dog has not only won all the events at the American Kennel Club, but is the most popular dog breed in America. 

French Bulldogs, or Frenchies, took the top spot for the first time in 2022 as announced on March 15. 

But this new spot for Frenchies has come with some controversy. Veterinarians caution people when buying the breed because potential owners  while might me contributing to their suffering, albeit unwittingly. Dogs such as Pugs and Bull Dogs with scrunched faces, like Frenchies, have a range of health problems due to their distinctive shape. From spinal issues and skin issues, the breed is known for many health problems. Some airlines including American have banned all Bull Dogs and other snub-nosed breeds from flying in their cargo holds due to respiratory concerns. As the popularity of French Bull Dogs, rises the price and demand have also skyrocketed. 

“Selective breeding for an exaggerated short nose has created dogs whose health, in many cases, is compromised for the sake of perceived ‘cuteness.’ It is simply unethical to breed dogs which struggle to breathe,” said Dr Peter Sandoe, Director of Centre for Companion Animal Welfare at the University of Copenhagen. 

Besides having health issues, French Bull Dogs’ wide eyes and short, stocky stature that makes all pet owners want to have one, they still make great companions. 

Frenchies make all sorts of noises such as snorting, snoring and grunting. But it may come as a surprise that they don’t bark as much as other small dog breeds.  Frenchies’ silky coats require minimal maintenance are as they tend to shed less than other dog breeds. They also are also great companions for a single person or families with children, by being low maintenance and needing minimal exercise.