The world’s biggest dog show is cracking down on flat-faced designer dogs that struggle to breathe.
New Respiratory Rules at Crufts
Crufts, run by the Kennel Club, will now demand respiratory fitness tests for three popular breeds: bulldogs, French bulldogs, and pugs. Any pooch failing with a grade two or three on the Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) assessment will be banned from competing.
Kennel Club’s Push for Healthier Dogs
The Kennel Club said: “From 2026 onwards, all bulldogs, French bulldogs, and pugs with a grade two or grade three RFG Scheme assessment will not be eligible to attend Crufts. Previously this exclusion applied only to grade three dogs.”
This move aims to improve the health and welfare of brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs by cutting out those with serious breathing problems.
