Australians prefer small dogs

Australians prefer small dogs according to analysis by University of Sydney

French bulldog and Pug

Australian pedigree dog lovers are choosing small dogs (pugs and bulldogs) over Labradors and German Shepherds, analysis by University of Sydney researchers shows.

Australian fans of purebred dogs now favour small, brachycephalic breeds – with shorter and wider heads – which are more susceptible to a number of health problems.

Published in Canine Genetics and Epidemiology the findings reveal Australian fans of purebred dogs now favour small, brachycephalic breeds – with shorter and wider heads – which are more susceptible to respiratory problems, skin and eye conditions, and digestive disorders. The data on numbers of each breed registered are published each year by the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), and suggest veterinarians may need to prepare to treat more dogs with these conditions.

The study investigated changes in the AKNC’s registration statistics between 1986 and 2013, examining trends in demand for Australian purebred dogs of various height, size and head shape.

The preference for smaller dogs correlates with a trend towards more high density living, says one of the lead researchers Professor Paul McGreevy from the University’s Faculty of Veterinary Science. Professor McGreevy co-authored the research with PhD candidate Kendy Teng.