Due to their short and wide skulls and short snouts, British bulldogs are prone to Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome, and a range of other health problems.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, meanwhile, suffer heart defects, headaches, and eye and joint problems.

The popularity of flat-faced dogs has grown in recent years, with The Kennel Club reporting a 2,747 per cent rise in ownership in the last 17 years. Owners often do not realise their pets are in pain. 

In its judgement, the court stressed that the ban on breeding the dogs would not extend to breeders seeking to end the animals’ health problems. 

“A conviction does not imply a ban on serious breeding of Bulldog or Cavalier, as serious and scientifically based cross-breeding could be a good alternative,” it ruled.