David Attenborough’s advice to owners of 15 million dogs in the UK

Sir David Attenborough has issued a stark piece of advice for all dog owners. The natural historian shared his own thoughts on the breeding of certain dogs “for man’s vanity”.

Britain has a thriving population of over 15 million dogs, with 41% of households owning one, according to UK Pet Food. The dog population has increased in recent years, especially among younger people, as ownership has risen from 41% to 58% in 25 to 35-year-olds. Yet with so many dogs, there are challenges in breeding.

Sir David was asked back in 2014 if he would ever do a show about dogs, and it seemed the iconic presenter had plenty to say on the topic.

Speaking to Radio Times, he said: “As it happens, we don’t do anything about dogs, but we could well do something about dogs.

“I love dogs, but I don’t necessarily admire some of the things that human beings have done to dogs in terms of breeding.”

Issuing his advice, Sir David added: “There are some breeds of dogs that I think the poor things are crippled because of man’s vanity.

“Because man wanted to manipulate them so asked ‘Wouldn’t it be fun to have a dog with a flat face?’ The answer is, ‘No, it wouldn’t actually.'”

Sir David revealed his favourite breed of dog is a Labrador or an Irish Setter. Battersea Dogs and Cats Home has also issued a warning for those wanting flat-faced or brachycephalic pets.

The organisation explained that the “extreme features” can come with “serious health and welfare challenges”. It explained: “Flat‑faced, or brachycephalic, pets have been bred to have extremely squashed or smushed faces, with very short noses and wide, rounded heads.

“This look is common in dogs such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, but it also appears in some cat breeds like Persians. While these features may look cute, they leave pets with narrow airways and much less space to breathe, eat and cool themselves.”

As a result, these pets can struggle with everyday activities, including breathing. Battersea said: “The panting and snorting noises are often mistaken for a cute or quirky part of the breed, but they can be a sign that a pet is working much harder than they should just to breathe.

“When pets can’t run, play or sleep comfortably, they miss out on the simple things that help them enjoy life. Many owners find it upsetting to see their pet struggle like this.”

The health issues are a result of selective breeding for extreme facial features, with some breeders choosing to focus on looks over welfare.

The animal rescue centre urged anyone considering getting a flat-faced pet to take time to understand the potential health challenges and associated costs.

Always ensure you are buying from a responsible breeder who health tests their animals, avoids extreme features and is open about their well-being.

Battersea is campaigning to raise awareness of these issues and encourage the public to understand the risks linked to flat faced animals.