LANCASHIRE bulldog lovers today defended their beloved animals after the breed was branded a genetic freak.

Vet Emma Milne, of TV's Vets In Practice, told BBC1 current affairs show Real Story: "We cannot go on breeding bulldogs the way we are now.

"At present I doubt you would speak to any vet who would say bulldogs are a healthy dog.

"They can't run, they can't breathe and they can't give birth."

The dogs, who have long been an example of true British grit and spirit, are also under attack from Europe.

The Council of Europe putting Britain under pressure to sign up to bulldog breeding control.

Although the dogs are prone to respiratory problems, local bulldog owners say that their pets are receiving bad press.

Laura Christopher, of Whalley New Road, Blackburn, has a bulldog called Mable. She said: "Every breed of dog has its own set of genetic problems particular to that breed. It really feels like they have got it in for bulldogs.

"Mable is a happy, healthy dog. What it comes back to is caring for your pet and getting them from a responsible breeder.."

The Kennel Club said they were shocked at such harsh criticism of the much loved breed.

A spokesperson said: "We have been working very hard over the last few years with bulldog clubs to ensure the health and well being of these lovely dogs.

"The comments made by Emma Milne were very sensationalist and not based on recent research."

Breeder Dawn Mantle, of Dawnstar Bulldogs, Hesketh Bank, said responsible kennels only bred dogs with no inherited defects.