French Bulldog welfare crisis: a preliminary descriptive survey on caregivers' awareness of breed-specific health issues and behavioral impact

Abstract

The longstanding popularity of the French Bulldog, despite recognized significant health hazards associated with genetic selection, underscores a critical dichotomy between caregivers’ information and purchasing decisions. This preliminary Italian study sought to examine caregiver motives for obtaining a French Bulldog, their level of health awareness, and the subsequent impact on future adoption plans. An online survey was conducted with 121 Italian French Bulldog caregivers to evaluate demographics, acquisition sources, primary motivations (temperament versus aesthetics), health awareness, and intentions for future repurchase. The primary incentive for adoption was found to be temperament. A significant level of awareness was observed, with 97.5% of caregivers recognizing potential health difficulties and 81% admitting that genetic selection induces suffering.  Notably, most French Bulldog necessitated surgical intervention or specialist consultations for breed-specific concerns. Notwithstanding these factors, 71.1% of caregivers expressed their plan to acquire the breed once more. The elevated repurchase intention is driven by robust breed loyalty and the expectations regarding favorable behavioral traits of the dogs. The findings reveal a notable awareness paradox: factual knowledge of health dangers does not inhibit purchasing behavior, indicating a normalization of sickness in which non-health variables predominantly influence decision-making. Proactive pre-purchase consultation by veterinary behaviorists is essential to close this educational gap and facilitate genuinely informed adoption.