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French Bulldogs Are Officially The UK's Top Dog Breed

French Bulldogs Are Officially The UK's Top Dog Breed

The nation has spoken!

Lucy Devine

Lucy Devine

French Bulldogs are officially the UK's top dog breed for 2020.

Holiday company Parkdean Resorts has analysed Google search data from the last 10 months, to find Brits' favourite dog breeds - and the Frenchie has taken the top spot!

They are *very* adorable...

The French Bulldog is the UK's top dog breed (
Unsplash)

In the past two months, searches for French Bulldogs have increased by over 22 per cent (that's an incredible 450,000 searches since August).

The breed has been increasing in popularity over the last few years, due to their adaptable, affectionate and friendly nature. But if you are considering making a Frenchie part of your family, there are some very important factors to consider.

Due to breeding, French Bulldogs are prone to certain health conditions and as a flat faced pooch, they have a tendency towards brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (aka BOAS) - which means they can develop breathing issues in later life.

Frenchies are also more prone to other health conditions, such as eye problems. This is because they have very prominent (and more exposed) eyes, meaning they are more at risk of developing infection.

Other disorders include hip dysplasia. Pet Plan explains: "This occurs when the ball-shaped end of the leg bone becomes displaced. It can occur in varying degrees of severity, with effects ranging from limping to lameness."

Now, this isn't to say you shouldn't welcome a French Bulldog into your family, but it's essential to read up on the breed beforehand.

The breed is prone to some health conditions (
Pexels)

It's also worth considering adopting a Frenchie, or - if you are set on buying a pup - making absolutely sure that the breeder is reputable.

PDSA vet Anna Ewers Clark told Tyla: "Taking on a dog is a huge responsibility and it's important that new owners do their research before making a decision about whether they can meet a dog's needs.

"Worryingly, our latest PDSA PAW Report found 4.6 million owners (21%) did absolutely no research before taking on their pet.

"This is vital, especially when taking on a flat-faced breed such as the French bulldog, as tragically many new owners don't realise the serious health conditions that they can suffer from due to their body shape, including breathing, eye, spine and dental issues.

"The PAW Report also found that fewer than a quarter (23%) of owners made sure the breeder they purchased from was part of an accredited breeding scheme. And a shocking 3.4 million owners (16%) would consider buying from a puppy farm.

If you are set on buying a pup, make absolutely sure that the breeder is reputable (
Unsplash)

"We'd suggest using the Puppy Contract and contacting a reputable breeder (for example one registered with the Kennel Club Assured Breeder Scheme or the SSPCA Assured Breeder Scheme).

"It's essential that anyone wanting a puppy checks that both parents have scored well on the recommended health tests for that breed, and that they see the pup with their mother and littermates, in the home where they were bred, more than once before purchasing.

"This will help to avoid unintentionally buying from unscrupulous breeders or illegal traders. It's also important to consider responsible rehoming charities who often have loving dogs in needs of good homes."

When it comes to other favourite breeds, the study revealed Cockapoos came in second, followed by Cocker Spaniels in third place and German Shepherds fourth.

Golden Retrievers are the fifth most popular choice, while Labradors are a close sixth and Pugs seventh.

Meanwhile, the Chihuahua bagged eighth place, while Dachshunds came in ninth and Shih Tzus tenth!

Alongside the study, Parkdean Resorts also determined each breed's favourite type of holiday - after all, 2020 is the year of the staycation.

From lakeside getaways, to city breaks and spa days, you can read all about your dog's dream hol here.

Featured Image Credit: Unsplash

Topics: Life News, Pets, Animals, Dogs