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.”
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This move aims to improve the health and welfare of brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs by cutting out those with serious breathing problems.
