Flat-faced dog breeds are declining in popularity in the UK, with breed registration data showing significant drops for French bulldogs, bulldogs, and pugs.

Royal Kennel Club data shows French bulldog registrations fell 37% (to 1,400), bulldog registrations dropped 34%, and pug registrations fell 43% (to 126) in Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025, with experts crediting campaigns highlighting health issues such as breathing difficulties, skin disorders, and spine abnormalities in brachycephalic breeds.