Three facts every pet lover should know about 'world's most popular dog breed'

All dogs have different qualities (stock image) (Image: Getty)

If you're a pet owner, you'll know how much people can love their dogs.

After all, they offer essential companionship, are great to go on walks with and are just fun to be around. But, according to one vet, you should always do your research before buying them.

Amir Anwary recently turned his attention to what he says is the "most popular dog breed in the world". Data shows that the Labrador Retriever was the most popular dog breed in the United States for many years, until the French Bulldog took the lead in 2022.

Amir said the French Bulldog is actually the "most owned dog" around the world, but he said there are some things people need to know about them. He totally understands why they're so popular, as they're affectionate, cute and they also have huge personalities, according to the expert.

But he noted there are three things everyone should know about them too. He detailed this in a recent TikTok video.

Snoring 

French Bulldogs are known to snore due to their brachycephalic (shot-nosed) anatomy. This can lead to airway compression and difficulty breathing.

If you struggle to cope with noise, Amir said this is something you need to consider. They snore loudly, so it's worth noting if you're a light sleeper.

They don't love exercise

While they love lots of things, exercising isn't one of their strong points. While they aren't known for being lazy, they also don't need as much exercise as other breeds.

They can also overheat quite easily, so they might not always be excited about going on long walks. If you're hoping to go on jogs, or take your dog on long walks in the summer, this breed may not be for you.

Medical disability

Again, due to their brachycephalic (shot-nosed) anatomy, French Bulldogs can be prone to many health issues. This could include respiratory issues, spinal problems and eye conditions.

All these things can lead to disabilities, so it's important to know this before opting for the breed. Amir said they can also experience allergies and breathing issues too.

What to know about French Bulldogs

While they may not be for everyone, French Bulldogs have many pros. As well as being friendly and social they are quite low-energy dogs, which means they are suitable for apartment living or for owners with busy schedules.

Generally, they get along well with children and other pets, which means they can be a good choice for families. As well as this, they are good at adapting to different living situations - whether it's a small apartment or a house with a garden.

They also tend to be quite calm, and are easy to groom, but there are some things you need to know about them too. For one, they are prone to certain health problems, including brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS), hip dysplasia and skin allergies.

The dogs can also be very stubborn and may need a lot patience and consistency during training. As a result of their brachycephalic features, they can overheat easily so they need to be monitored during hot weather.

Not to mention, they can be expensive to purchase, especially from reputable breeders, and their health issues can lead to pricey vet costs. A lot should be considered before you opt for one.