Crufts has banned pugs with breathing problems from competing in what critics say is an “unfair” exclusion of designer breeds.
The world’s largest dog show, run by the Kennel Club, has announced that from 2026 any bulldog, French bulldog or pug assessed to have moderate or severe breathing difficulties will not be allowed to compete.
All three breeds will be forced to undergo a respiratory function grading (RFG) scheme assessment, and any dog graded a two or a three will be excluded from the competition.
Until now, only grade three dogs – the most severely affected – were barred.
Dog owners have criticised the ban, and claimed it targets pugs and other flat-faced dogs while overlooking health conditions common in many other breeds.
The Kennel Club said in new guidance: “The Kennel Club has announced an update to the respiratory function grading scheme entry criteria for Crufts 2026, as part of its commitment to monitoring and improving brachycephalic dog health.
“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.”
The RFG scheme, developed with the University of Cambridge, assesses the breeds for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), a respiratory disorder linked to flat faces.
Dogs are examined before and after exercise, and graded from zero, meaning no signs of the condition, to three, the most severe.
Owners of these breeds will be required to submit assessments as part of their entry.
Crufts 2026 will take place from March 5 to 8 at the NEC in Birmingham.
‘Many breeds prone to health conditions’
Angela Taylor, from Staffordshire, who owns four Pugs, said the breed is no more prone to problems than others.
“There are many breeds of dogs that are prone to health conditions. West Highland white terriers usually get skin conditions, Cavalier King Charles spaniels are prone to heart conditions and breathing health issues,” she said.
“Labradors with hip and elbow dysplasia, Great Danes and bone cancer, dachshunds with spinal issues and border collies with behaviour issues. The list can go on and on with different breeds having their own common health issues.”
She argued that singling out pugs and French bulldogs sets a dangerous precedent.
“All dogs that attend shows and Crufts must be fit and healthy to enter the competition, but if you’re going to ban certain breeds, then where does it stop?
“I don’t agree with the actions they have currently announced, unsure what compromise they would be willing to agree on.
“Pugs are such lovely dogs, I wouldn’t be without a pug or two in my life.”
Sue Smith, another pug owner, said the move was “unfair”.
“It’s so sad just because of the way they look. They wouldn’t do it to a human being and they can’t help it. No one has a right to say they shouldn’t compete. It’s a very sad situation, “ she said.
“I think it’s so unfair, give them a chance.”
The rule change follows news that breeds with flat faces, wrinkly skin and bulging eyes will disappear in the next 10 years under new plans to eradicate extreme traits in dogs.
A new innate health assessment was launched this week, scoring dogs across 10 physical traits including flat faces, wrinkly skin and bulging eyes. Only dogs scoring eight or above would be permitted for licenced breeding under the voluntary scheme, which has support from the Kennel Club.
The Kennel Club has been contacted for comment.