12-07-2025
Ban bulldogs from new notes, Bank of England urged
English bulldogs should not feature on new banknotes because they are 'inherently unwell Frankendogs', an animal rights charity has claimed.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) has appealed to the Bank of England after it launched a consultation into plans to redesign part of the nation's currency, urging the public to submit suggestions.
But in a letter to the Bank, Yvonne Taylor, Peta's vice-president of corporate projects, wrote: 'Brits are renowned for their love of dogs, but our involvement in the selective breeding of these 'Frankendogs' is a national shame.
'As a 'breathing-impaired breed', British bulldogs have been deliberately bred to have extremely flattened snouts and tiny heads, which severely affect their health.
'These unfortunate animals cannot draw enough air into their narrowed nostrils and often need to breathe through their mouths, leading them to snort, snore, and gasp. This condition can sometimes be fatal.'
Ms Taylor added: 'Bulldogs and others bred to be inherently unwell are frequent visitors to the vet and, during the cost-of-living crisis, are at even greater risk of physical deterioration, neglect, abandonment, and even death if their guardians can't afford to keep addressing the maladies borne of their mutations.'
The bulldog has long been seen as an emblem of Britain and its culture, featuring in art, postcards and cartoons, as well as being a common mascot in the Army and Navy.
However, the breed suffers from a range of health conditions, linked to extreme breeding for its trademark flat face, short snout and wide skull.
A study by the Royal Veterinary College found that bulldogs were twice as likely to face health problems as other breeds.
The Bank has invited the public to share their views on what should feature on the latest iteration of banknotes across six potential themes.
A portrait of King Charles will also be included on all the designs.
However, the consultation, which closes on July 31, has received criticism.
Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, the former Brexit minister, has accused the central bank of undermining the nation's currency.
He told The Telegraph: 'The whole idea of a redesign is foolish.
'Fiat currencies depend upon confidence, which is undermined by silly or cheap designs. This is bad for the Bank's credibility. Bank of England reform is looking increasingly important.'
A Bank spokesman said: 'The consultation asks the public what broad themes – rather than specific imagery – they would like to see on the design of the next series of banknotes.
'These responses will help inform the next steps. Their views will make sure the final banknote designs reflect the values that people across the UK resonate with. We have set out criteria that any successful theme should not involve imagery that would reasonably be offensive to, or exclude, any groups.
'Banknote re-designs do not undermine the currency. New designs allow us to increase the strength of the security features and maintain trust in banknotes.'
