Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'

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Seven dog breeds experts warn are
Seven dog breeds experts warn are 'cruelly bred' (Image: Getty Images)

Losing a dog is something no owner ever wants to think about, but there are certain breeds that don't live as long as others.

Dogs are called a 'man's best friend' for a reason and any owner will do all they can to help prolong their dog's life for as long as possible - but according to experts, certain breeds are 'cruelly bred' which means they won't live as long.

Experts at Dogs Trust have urged people to think about the breeds of dogs they will buy after sharing their findings from data from over 580,000 dogs in the UK. They investigated how breed, body size, face shape, and sex can influence the lifespan according to The Express.

Breeds such as Caucasian Shepherd Dogs, Presa Canarios, and Cane Corsos will face a "higher risk" of premature death, whereas Lancashire Heelers, Tibetan Spaniels, and Bologneses tend to have longer lives. Other breeds at risk are pugs, dachshunds, and boxers, these dogs all suffer from a condition called "extreme conformation" which is where an exaggerated body shape "negatively affects their health and welfare". Here are seven breeds at risk of early death.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred' eiqrriqddieeprwThey've been named as one of the 'unhealthiest' breeds (Getty Images)

Despite admiration from King Charles I and II, the appearance of these spaniels has significantly changed since the 17th century, and this is due to interbreeding with other flat-nosed breeds. According to The Express, PETA has even named them as one of the "unhealthiest" breeds - as they can suffer from several genetic issues such as breathing difficulties, impaired hearing and vision, joint issues, and a too-small skull for their brains.

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British Bulldog

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'Although they are adorable, Bulldog's face a lot of breathing issues (Getty Images/Westend61)

Also known as the "English Bulldog" these loveable pooches suffer the risk of obesity, exacerbating joint, metabolic, and digestive problems. They also have misshapen skulls which is why they appear to have "bulging" eyes which makes them prone to infections, as well as their wrinkles which can lead to dermatitis. Vets have stated this is due to "centuries of interbreeding" which has resulted in these deformities - especially their now narrowed nostrils which can make it difficult to breathe.

Pug

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'Pugs are at risk of obesity (Getty Images)

Pugs are part of the "brachycephalic" breed (flat-faced) and this means similarly to bulldogs, their skull bones are shortened which means their face appears flat and their eyes bulging. They also have a risk of obesity, and these features can lead to a whole host of health issues down the line.

Boxer

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'Boxer's are one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK (Getty Images)

One of the most popular breeds in the UK with around one in 100 dogs bred being a Boxer, they are known for their patience and protective traits. However, these dogs are prone to breathing difficulties, ear infections and hip dysplasia - which can result in arthritis. There is also a risk of cancer in Boxers as The UK Kennel Club estimates that "38.5 per cent of Boxers may develop some form of cancer" and this could be down to their genetics. Other implications include eye ulcers and gum issues.

Dachshund

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'These dogs suffer from a lot of back issues from their elongated spine (Getty Images/EyeEm)

Also known as a "sausage dog" these adorable pocket-sized pooches are instantly recognisable and have been bred to emphasise their features such as their long sausage bodies. However, this means they suffer from severe back problems due to their elongated spine which can result in issues with walking.

As well as their backs, they can also have leg and joint issues and an eye disorder associated with achondroplasia.

Paul Manktelow, chief vet at Blue Cross told MailOnline : "Dachshunds (also known as sausage dogs) are a breed that are characterised by disproportionately long backs compared to their short legs. While they often have lovely personalities and cute looks, they can suffer from health problems due to their body shape.

"Their long backs make them prone to intervertebral disc disease (slipped discs), which can lead to back pain, spinal cord damage, problems walking and paralysis."

Bull Terrier

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'Their distinct look is due to selective breeding in the 1800's (Getty Images/EyeEm)

Bull terriers have a very distinct look, and this is due to the selective breeding of the English Terrier and Bulldogs. This was to give them "enhanced fighting abilities" when dog fighting was popular in the 1800s. These dogs now have distorted skulls and thicker abdomens.

Bassett hound

Experts warn against buying popular dog breeds that have been 'cruelly bred'Basset hounds suffer from various skin issues (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

These adorable yet sad-looking dogs suffer a whole host of issues related to the excessive skin on their faces that can trap in dirt and moisture - as well as suffering ear inflammation. Their saggy eyelids can lead to primary glaucoma and a condition known as ulcerative keratitis. They were originally bred with shorter ears and less saggy skin but human intervention has enhanced these features.

Niamh Kirk

Dogs, Animals, Arthritis, Back pain, Blue Cross

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