There are warnings that urgent action is needed to protect the health of dogs like English bulldogs and pugs.
New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has found that flat-faced dog breeds are more likely to suffer health conditions than other dogs, due to their 'problematic' characteristics.
Vets say that the features that so many people find 'cute' - such as deep wrinkles and noisy breathing - are actually major welfare issues rather than desirable novelties, The Manc reports.
The research found that English Bulldogs are more likely to suffer health conditions like breathing problems, skin and ear diseases and eye disorders.
English Bulldogs are more likely to suffer health conditions than other breeds. Credit: Unsplash
The breed has risen sharply in popularity in the last few years but its distinctive short muzzle and stocky body shape could be putting these adorable dogs at serious risk.
Similar research recently found that the 'extreme body shape' of pugs is causing the breed health problems, and that pug health is now so poor they can no longer be considered 'typical dogs'.
Like Bulldogs, pugs are characterised by their flat, wrinkled faces, as well as bulging eyes and a tendency towards obesity.
The RVC has warned that urgent action is required to protect both breed.
Vets say 'urgent action' is needed to stop the health issues plaguing flat-faced breeds like pugs. Credit: Unsplash
Vets hope that the data will discourage people from breeding and buying animals with 'extreme conformations', saying that the power really lies with the public to stop the demand.
Those looking to buy English Bulldogs, pugs or other flat-faced breeds should look for a longer face, smaller head, and non-wrinkled skin - a more moderate and healthier conformation.
People who already own such dogs are encouraged to monitor them carefully for breed-related issues, such as eye problems, breathing difficulties, and skin fold infections.
Dr Dan O’Neill, lead author of the paper and Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC said: "Every dog deserves to be born with equal and good innate health by having a natural ability to breathe freely, blink fully, exercise easily, have healthy flat skin, mate and give birth.
"For breeds such as English Bulldogs where many dogs still have extreme conformations with poor innate health, the public have a huge role to play by demanding dogs with moderate and healthier conformations. Until then, prospective owners should ‘stop and think before buying a flat-faced dog'."
Dr Alison Skipper, co-author and veterinary historian, said: "Around 1900, some Bulldog breeders were already concerned that the exaggeration of ‘certain typical points’ was ‘intensifying predispositions to disease’ and producing ‘cripples and deformities’ with ‘a sadly shortened duration of life’.
"This new research provides strong evidence that modern Bulldogs remain troubled by many diseases linked to their body shapes, most of which have been recognised for more than a century.
"It confirms the need to follow the example of more responsible breeders who prioritise health in breeding decisions to improve the welfare of this popular and iconic breed in the future."
'Careful, responsible breeding can help address health problems' for pugs and English bulldogs. Credit: Unsplash
Bill Lambert, Health, Welfare and Breeder Services Executive at The Kennel Club, said: "This research, funded in part by The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, enables us and all those who care about improving Bulldog health to understand more about these complicated issues.
"Careful, responsible breeding can help address health problems and progress has been made to improve and protect Bulldog health by those reputable breeders and caring owners who make use of evidence-based tools, like The Kennel Club/University of Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading Scheme.
“However, as this research shows, there are increasing numbers of Bulldogs bred outside any sphere of influence and in a certain way because it is perceived to be ‘cute’, with little regard for health and welfare.
"A collaborative approach to tackling these issues is crucial; we must continue to work together with breeders, vets and welfare organisations to reduce and ultimately eliminate the health problems faced by brachycephalic breeds, asFoo Fighters announce line-up for Taylor Hawkins tribute concert, including Liam Gallagher well as reduce mass demand for these dogs."
Featured image: Unsplash
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What is going to be included in the UK’s planned under-16s social media ban?
In case you missed the landmark announcement yesterday, it has been confirmed that social media is to be banned for under-16s in the UK.
That’s right – in what is said to be a bid to ‘give kids their childhood back’ and set ‘a new normal’ for future generations by kickstarting a cultural shift, the Government has announced that social media platforms will be banned from offering their services to under-16s – meaning less time for scrolling and more time for play.
The Government says it plans to use the same model for a social media ban as Australia, which was introduced back in 2024.
But what exactly does that mean? And what social media platforms are set to be included within the upcoming ban and which ones aren’t?
Well, according to the Government and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall, the UK’s ban would capture user-to-user platforms, whose purpose is to enable social interaction, allow users to post their own material, alongside algorithms.
The Government has announced a social media ban for under 16s / Credit: Julian Christ (via Unsplash)
The ban will, therefore, include popular social media platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X.
But crucially, at this time, it is not intended for messaging services like WhatsApp to be included.
The Government says it is also planning to go even further than any other country, as on top of a blanket ban on social media, world-leading blocks on harmful functions – such as livestreaming and stranger communication with children – will also be blocked for under-16s, and will apply to a wider range of online services, including on gaming sites.
Restrictions on these functionalities will also be on by default for 16- and 17-year-olds to prevent what ministers are calling a ‘cliff-edge’ at 16.
And to go even further, the Government says it will be ‘looking in more detail’ at the potential to introduce overnight curfews and breaks in infinite scrolling for those under 18 – with more information to be provided on this next month.
“This is a decisive first step which marks a clear choice to put children’s wellbeing first and give them a healthy life online,” the Government said in a statement. “We stand ready to take further measures in the future.”
Speaking on the upcoming ban and further restrictions, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever.
“I’ve heard first hand from families crying out for change and we will do right by them.
“That’s why we’re going further than any country in the world by banning social media for under-16s and putting wider protections in place to give kids their childhood back.
“This is a line in the sand. Tech giants had their chance and failed, but we’re stepping in to protect children, back parents and set a new normal for future generations.”
Five of the BEST places in Sheffield to watch the World Cup
Thomas Melia
Whether it's coming home or not, we've rounded up five of the best pubs, bars and cultural hubs in our home for you to watch the World Cup.
After getting eliminated in the quarter-final four years ago at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the England team are back with a vengeance as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup across USA, Canada and Mexico.
Just like every football tournament, there's always high hopes for our lads, and rightly so as this team has won once, placed fourth twice and reached the quarter-final stage a whopping 7 times.
This time round, the football frenzy is kicking off right in the middle of the British Summertime, and weather-depending we'll be enjoying a crisp pint or two with the sun beaming on us.
Failing that, we're sure there's plenty of indoor room at these five Sheffield spots where we can comfortably watch the match, and maybe grab a bite to eat too.
Where are some of the best places to watch the World Cup in Sheffield?
Riverside
Images: The Sheff
Self-appointed 'Friendly local pub' Riverside is located in Kelham Island and is hosting matches throughout the pub and to ensure everyone gets a good seat, they're showing England games in their function room and courtyard too.
It's no surprise that this notable South Yorkshire watering hole is screening as many football games as they can, as it's recognised for hosting all sorts of activites including a Cowgirls and Cocktails night recently with painting, limbo and drinks.
Known for its iconic neon sign which adorns the side wall of the pub that overlooks its accompanying beer garden, this Sheffield pub is encouraging footy lovers to make bookings to avoid disappointment, although walk-ins where possible will be welcomed.
Cambridge Street Collective
Images: The Sheff
If you didn't know already, Cambridge Street Collective is Europe's largest purpose-built food hall with a variety of bars and some seriously tasty scran being served up by 20 diverse kitchens.
In case that wasn't enough to tempt you, it's launching some deals just in time for this football celebration with £10 entry securing you a nice seat and a pint valued up to £7.
There's even £5 Pravha an hour before England match kick-offs, live DJs to give the space a more fan zone-esque feel as well as a retro footy shirt pop-up on Sunday 14 June from 12pm to 4.30pm.
Kapital
Images: The Sheff
This 'promised land of European drinking and dining' is obviously getting involved in all the World Cup action with free entry and no bookings required.
This booze-filled institution is even giving away free pints of Paulaner for you to enjoy during England's first match against Croatia through the link in their bio.
After a beer? There's definitely no short supply as you can grab a one litre stein. Prefer a cocktail? You're in luck as this Sheffield pub is pouring frozen margs too.
Also joining in on the generosity with a giveaway is Neepsend Social, who are offering a free pint for you and a mate during any of the upcoming World Cup matches.
Although not much is listed about their plans for the World Cup, considering this social club is always running a variety of events, it's more than likely they're getting involved in showing the footy.
This venue is walk-in only and dog friendly, meaning you really can bring everyone you know including your friend's nan's dog - pawfect.
BOX Sheffield
Images: The Sheff
This designated sports bar is obviously making the most of the World Cup celebrations, even hosting an orchestra take-over at their London Piccadilly location playing iconic anthems.
All their sites across the UK are getting booked up fast, so if you're after watching England with a few pals here, it's better to get this booked sooner rather than later.
Not in the mood for football but still up for a party? Their Sheffield location has a couple of karaoke pods available to hire too - We're sure 'Three Lions' will be on the playlist regardless.
Daisy Jackson -
15th June 2022 
