Vets settle debate on which breeds first-time dog owners should never get

If you're thinking of getting yourself a new pet, don't be tempted by just their cute faces to help you decide which breed of furry companion you should get. Vets have revealed that four of the UK's most popular dog breeds are a bad choice for first-time owners.

According to new research from Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary, pugs, French bulldogs, Boston terriers and Cavalier King Charles spaniels are harder to train, less likely to come when called and more reactive to guests.

Researchers say these flat-faced breeds may be naturally calm and bold but those traits often fail to develop without consistent training.

The research team examined more than 5,000 purebred dogs and their owners. They found that many owners of these breeds were young women living alone who had never had a dog before and who chose their pet mainly for companionship.

These dogs were often described as spoiled, untrained and kept exclusively indoors, with many allowed to sleep on their owner's bed.

Despite serious and incurable health issues such as breathing problems and musculoskeletal pain, brachycephalic breeds remain hugely popular in Britain.

A 2022 study from the Royal Veterinary College found French bulldogs made up 7 per cent of all puppies under one year old in 2019. Kennel Club figures show the number of newly registered French bulldog puppies increased by 34 per cent between 2010 and 2021.

Owners often praise these dogs for their friendly and playful personalities.

Earlier research has shown they are good at making eye contact with humans and following gestures. However, without firm and consistent training, experts say they can become poorly behaved and overly reactive.

"Calmness, boldness and poor recall response are all traits specific to short-headed dogs," said lead author Dr Borbála Turcsán. "If you are not ready to train thoroughly or you tend to overindulge your dog, you will not get the best out of them."

Co-author Professor Enik Kubinyi said differences in brain structure and the impact of chronic health conditions may also affect behaviour. She added that physical discomfort could lead these dogs to move less and seek comfort, which owners often mistake for calmness.

The researchers advise first-time dog owners to look for breeds that are easier to train and manage to avoid frustration and behavioural problems.