Health Issues You Should Know Before Buying a French Bulldog

Frenchies make great companion dogs and excel in agility, obedience, rally and as therapy dogs.

As long as they meet the minimum requirements, they are allowed to be anyplace they want.

However, their huge popularity has brought forth a lot of backyard breeders and puppy mills. This can cause health problems for the breed.

Ears

French Bulldogs are affectionate and playful, making them excellent companion dogs. But, like all breeds, they have some health issues that are particular to their breed. Knowing these can make you a more responsible pet owner and make the best decision for your family.

Spinal problems are one of the main health concerns for French Bulldogs. They are susceptible to developing hemivertebrae, an incomplete vertebrae in the spine. This condition can trigger various issues, such as weakness in the hind legs and fecal and urinary incontinence. In severe cases, the hemivertebra can require surgery.

Another health concern that is often overlooked is respiratory problems. Because of their short lungs, these breeds struggle to breathe in hot weather and are at risk for overheating. To prevent this, make sure your French Bulldog is able to get access to a cool space and regularly walks outside in cooler temperatures.

Skin allergies are a common issue for this breed. They usually develop these issues as puppies and can be difficult to diagnose and manage. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to help manage your dog's allergies, however they are usually permanent treatments.

Frenchies are prone to ear infections due to their ear canals being narrower than normal. This means that water and dirt can easily enter which can cause inflammation. You can stop this from happening by cleaning your dog's ears and keeping his ear clean.

These dogs are also predisposed to eye problems, particularly cataracts. Cataracts, which is a cloudy form of the eye's lenses that can lead to blindness if untreated is caused by cataracts. Keep your Frenchie's weight under control and remain attentive to any eye problems he might be suffering from.

While the French Bulldog has become extremely popular, you should never buy one solely because of its appearance. This adorable dog has a lot of personality. You'll have to spend time and effort in training it to ensure that it is well behaved and responds to your instructions. A good trainer can help you teach your Frenchie basic agility and obedience skills, and also socialization so that it gets used to being around other dogs and people.

Nose

Frenchies are loyal and affectionate companions. They are playful, affectionate and athletic for their size because of their love of attention. While they might not be the best choice for active families with small children, they work well with older children and enjoy the companionship of cats and dogs.

Frenchies, as flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs are more susceptible to respiratory disease. The ear canals of Frenchies are smaller and more prone to infection. It is essential to keep their ears dry after a bath or going outdoors.

Because of their skulls' shortness, Frenchies are predisposed to various skin conditions, including dermatitis in the folds of the skin (intertrigo) and interdigital pyoderma as well as demodicosis. They also are prone to the Patella luxating, which can cause pain and discomfort causing the kneecaps to slip out of place. Breeders who are responsible will be required to have their breeding stock X rayed in order to check for this issue.

Frenchies, like other brachycephalic dogs, can be more sensitive than other breeds to heat. They are also susceptible to various eye problems, including corneal dystrophy and cataracts.


They can have back problems also due to their short spines and increased weight. Herniated discs can cause back pain and stiffness in Frenchies.

Like all dogs, Frenchies can develop allergies. It is important to watch the symptoms of allergies that could include itching, diarrhea and breathing difficulty. It's also recommended to avoid food items and environments that can trigger allergies.

The "rat-like" motion is the result of skulls that are shorter in Frenchies. This is due to the way their front legs are set when they walk. This can lead to joint issues, such as chondrodystrophic arthritis. Fortunately, there are solutions available to prevent and manage these problems. The skulls that are shorter in French Bulldogs can increase their risk of developing respiratory illnesses. They also can suffer from a range of digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea. They are also at risk of regurgitation following anesthesia, and may develop aspiration pneumonitis.

Mouth

As with other brachycephalic breeds, Frenchies are prone to obstruction of the airways. Their shortened skull and face reduce their anatomy, making it harder for air to flow through the nose and lower lungs. This is also known as brachycephalic obstruction airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition can cause noisy, labored breathing and difficulty swallowing. It can also affect the lungs and digestive tract.

Breathing issues can be found in French Bulldogs of any age however, they are more common in young puppies. To avoid issues, select the right puppy from a reliable breeder that screens for BOAS and hemivertebrae. They should be able to show proof that both parents are free from the disorder.

The breed standard stipulates that the bite of a French Bulldog must be "well below." The front teeth should cover the back teeth when the dog is lying down. Keep in mind that the bites of puppies will continue to change until they reach the age of adulthood. While a bite that is cut with scissors is a fault according to the standard for breeds, it is not a reliable gauge of how a French Bulldog behaves as an adult.

Due to their shortened jaws and their underbite, Frenchies are more likely to develop tartar more than other dogs. Brushing your Frenchie's mouth on a regular basis using a soft-bristled toothbrush and specialized dog toothpaste can help reduce this issue. It is also recommended to take your Frenchie to a professional cleaning every few months.

Finally, Frenchies are prone to a condition known as entropion which is a rolling inward of the upper and/or lower eyelids. This can lead to irritation, tearing and corneal ulcers. The problem can be addressed through surgery.

Despite the many health issues associated with this wonderful breed, Frenchies are generally healthy and happy dogs. They are easy to care for and have a low risk of genetic diseases. Take into consideration the personality of the French Bulldog as well as its appearance when selecting one. You want a dog who is loyal, loving, and sweet.

Eyes

Frenchies are affectionate, loving dogs that make wonderful companions. Their uniqueness and devotedness have earned them the title of America's most loved breed. This breed has a few special requirements that should be taken into consideration prior to deciding to adopt. This includes the necessity to exercise, groom, and have a healthy diet. Also, because of their brachycephalic facial structure they have a number of health issues that have to be considered.

French Bulldogs can suffer from back issues like intervertebral disk disease, which can cause herniated disks. This is due to the flattened face and neck which puts pressure on the spinal cord. If your dog is unnaturally hunched back, is suffering from pain and is unable to jump up or climb stairs or coughs or whines often it is recommended that he be examined by a vet.

The eyes of a French Bulldog are large and dark with curious and alert eyes. Their ears are bat-like, and wide-based which makes them look cute. The face is round and has an elongated, slightly flattened skull. They have a long, wide nose. This breed has a low level of activity and is able to adjust to any living situation. However they should not be left alone for prolonged periods of time because they tend to develop separation anxiety. This can lead them to destructive behavior and excessive chewing.

The grooming requirements for the French Bulldog are modest. Their sleek, short single-layer coats are simple to groom. Regular brushing removes loose hairs and keeps the coat healthy and glossy. They also need frequent baths, but they should be towel dried rather than blow-drying. They are susceptible to weight gain so it is important to monitor their intake of food and limit treats. Additionally, they don't take heat well. Exercise should be limited in the heat of the afternoon.

French Bulldog s are available in various patterns and colors including brindle. These color variations, called Merle, feature an spotted body pattern that is characterized by spots of either black or white. However, it is important to remember that the merle pattern is not a color. Merle can cause serious health issues if bred with other merles, which is why it is important to buy only purebred Frenchies.