What is an extreme characteristic?
A physical feature that’s been selectively bred in by humans to achieve an exaggerated and ‘cute’ look in a dog or cat. Many of these have become so common we often think it’s natural for the breed:
- Flat faces
- Bulging eyes
- Under or overshot jaws
- Corkscrew tails
- Folded ears
- Hairlessness
- Dwarfism
- Disproportionately short legs and long spines
- Eyelids that roll inwards, or outwards and droop
- Teacup sizes
- Double merle colouration
- Other unusual fur types not typical to the breed
Dogs and cats with these features are really popular. But many people don’t realise these looks come with a hidden and often devastating cost.
The real cost of cute
Breeds with these ‘cute’ yet harmful features are now some of the most popular pets in the UK.
Dogs and cats with extreme characteristics have a much higher risk of illness and injury, shorter lifespan, and simple things like breathing, walking, playing, eating and sleeping can become a challenge, making it harder for them to live normal, happy lives.
Owners often end up paying expensive vet bills and going through the heartbreak of seeing their pet suffer and struggle. And many of these dogs and cats end up in rescue centres like Battersea when their owners can no longer cope with their complex and costly needs.
The problem is, most people are unaware that the look they love is causing animals to suffer. We’re raising awareness to help people make informed choices; not make anyone feel guilty for choices they may have made in the past, without knowing the full picture.
We want to reduce the demand for puppies and kittens to be bred with these features in the first place, so that more pets can live long, happy lives with their owners.
Bonny and Freya's Story
Take a look at Freya and Bonny’s story. Their experience might inspire you to share your own.
What's driving this trend?
Our research shows that social media is changing how people expect dogs and cats to look, behave and be treated. Our feeds are full of pet content, exposing us to dogs and cats with unusual, exaggerated and unique looks – but rarely showing the associated problems.
When we see something all the time, it becomes normal and acceptable. But an animal’s health and welfare is never an acceptable trade-off for an on trend look.
Stories from Battersea
Sadly, we see many dogs and cats with extreme features at Battersea. In fact, it’s a growing trend for rescues across the UK.
How you can help
- Learn more about extreme characteristics and the problems they can cause is the first step.
- If you’re planning to get a dog or cat, make sure you prioritise health and do your research using reliable sources, so you get an animal who won’t suffer because of how they’ve been bred to look. There are lots of healthy breeds and mixed breeds out there, and many rescue animals who need rehoming.
- Always think twice before liking or sharing content featuring dogs and cats with extreme characteristics online. Instead, let’s celebrate healthy, happy dogs and cats – quirks and all!
Join the movement and sign the pledge
Together, our actions can prevent animal suffering. You can join our movement for healthy pets over harmful trends by signing our Cost of Cute pledge.
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