Flat-faced dogs have higher risk of shorter life, study finds
Flat-faced dogs, like the French bulldog, have a 40 per cent increased risk of shorter life.
New research has discovered that brachycephalic dogs have a 40 per cent increased risk of living a shorter life than dogs with typically shaped faces.
The study, led by Dogs Trust, highlights that French bulldogs have an average lifespan of 9.8 years, compared to the border collie life expectancy of 13.1 years.
The researchers assessed data from over half a million dogs, including over 150 breeds and crossbreeds, to consider which types of dog were more at risk of an early death. The data was collected from 18 different UK sources including breed registries, veterinary practices, academic institutions, animal welfare charities and pet insurance companies.
The statistics also revealed that large-sized breeds have a 20 per cent increased risk of a shorter lifespan. Female dogs also have a slightly higher median life expectancy than males.
The median life expectancy of all dogs was found to be 12.5 years. The longest living breeds were the Lancashire heeler (15.4 years), Tibetan spaniel (15.2 years) and the miniature dachshund (14 years).
Meanwhile the breeds with the lowest median lifespan were the Caucasian shepherd (5.4 years), the presa Canario (7.7 years) and cane corso (8.1 years).
Dr Kirsten McMillan, data manager at Dogs Trust and the study’s lead author, said: “The findings have important implications for the canine pedigree health debate: although this study does not determine risk factors for early death, it does highlight groups that require further investigation.
“We hope this study can help breeders, policymakers, funding bodies, and welfare organizations make informed decisions to improve the welfare of companion dogs, as well as helping owners understand the range of factors that influence health and longevity, especially when acquiring a dog.”
Dr Dan O’Neill, chair of the Brachycephalic Working Group (BWG), said: "This new research underlines these major health issues by revealing that flat-faced dogs live 1.5 years shorter lives than typical dogs.
“It is crucial that the public prioritises health over what they might think looks ‘cute’ and we urge anyone considering getting a flat-faced breed to ‘Stop and think’ and to ensure that they acquire a dog with the best chances of a long and happy life.”
The full study can be found in the journal Scientific Reports.
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The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.
