Crufts becomes embroiled in row after nostril-less French bulldog ‘with no discernible nostrils’ wins for second year, but competition bosses hit back

Crufts is embroiled in a fresh row after a French bulldog with “no discernible nostrils” won a prize for the second year.

The winning dog named Elton took home the Utility Group’s best canine and Best of Breed awards, but animal welfare advocates criticized the judges’ decision.

Campaigners warned that the three-year-old French bulldog’s victory would encourage extreme breeders to continue creating dogs with health problems.

However, the Kennel Club, which organizes Crufts, said the winning dog had passed all veterinary checks and was not suffering from any health problems.

The father-daughter duo who watched their French bulldog win said they were “speechless.”

Dean and Abbie Cund from Birmingham said: “It’s just a dream beyond a dream come true.”

Concern about flat-faced breeds, including pugs and bulldogs, has increased in recent years due to health complications associated with them.

One of the main concerns is that these squished-faced dogs will have difficulty breathing.

Experts have warned that noisy breathing, snoring, and fainting after exercise are signs that a dog is having difficulty breathing.

Charlotte McNamara, head of health at the Kennel Club, confirmed the three-year-old dog did not have any respiratory problems.

She said: “The health and welfare of the dogs at the show is our priority, and the winning French bulldog, Elton, has passed all the relevant veterinary health assessments he has undertaken in and out of the ring.”

Jemima Harrison, an advocate for dog breeding health reforms and award-winning producer of scientific documentaries, came to X to share her concerns.

She wrote: ‘This French Bulldog, with no discernible nostrils and an almost concave face, today won not only Best of Breed at Crufts, but also the Utility Group.

A terrible day for the race. I’m gutted.

RSCPA commented below the post: ‘We are very disappointed that a French bulldog with a short snout and tight nostrils received the Best of Breed award at Crufts yesterday.

“We should not celebrate these traits that can cause suffering.”

Mandatory breathing tests for pugs, bulldogs and French bulldogs will be introduced from next year in an effort to limit the number of flat-faced dogs competing at dog shows.