All dog lovers will not be able to resist the adorable Frenchie! If you are thinking of getting one, you are probably well acquainted with this dog breed’s main characteristics. Another thing essential for you to know are French Bulldog health facts.
Some dogs are expected to live longer than some others. Some are considered as healthier dog breeds, while some others are more prone to developing different sorts of diseases.
However, every dog might get sick at some point of their love. This is why it is important for you to be prepared if, in the future, your French Bulldog develops a certain disease.
So, continue reading to find out more about French Bulldog health in general.
Most Important French Bulldog Health Facts
A French Bulldog is not among the healthiest dog breeds. So, this dog is likely to have some health problems.
Does this mean you should rather think of getting another dog? Not necessary! With adequate care and regular veterinarian check-ups, you will have a good chance to enjoy many years with your Frenchie.
Let’s see what you should know about the French Bulldog’s health.
1. A Brachycephalic Dog Breed
Our adorable French Bulldogs are one of the brachycephalic dog breeds. What does this mean exactly?
Brachycephalic dogs have narrower nostrils, a shorter muzzle, and an extended soft palate. Due to these characteristics, brachycephalic dogs have difficulty breathing, and they also have difficulty swallowing.
In addition to the French Bulldog, this group of dogs also includes the English Bulldog, Boxer, Shih Tzu, Pug, etc.
Brachycephalic dogs like the French Bulldog also have an increased risk of overheating. Such dogs do not tolerate too intense physical activity well since they have narrowed airways.
If you’ve ever wondered why your Frenchie snorts, it’s most likely because the Frenchie is brachycephalic.
Your French Bulldog will breathe through his mouth, and he will usually want to sleep on his back, and he will also snore.
Is there a solution that would make it easier for brachycephalic dogs to breathe? It is possible to perform a surgical procedure to correct the narrowed nasal openings, to allow more air flow and to remove the excess soft palate.
2. Problems With Allergies
Many French Bulldogs suffer from food or environmental allergies.
Some of the most common environmental allergies in Frenchies are allergies to pollen, mold, and dust mites.
Regarding the food, Frenchies are usually allergic to dairy products, corn, soy, and some types of fish.
Typical allergy symptoms in Frenchies are scratching, coughing, sneezing, diarrhea, and vomiting.
If you notice these symptoms in your French Bulldog, you should take it to the vet’s to undertake the testing for allergies.
When a veterinarian determines the type of allergy in your dog, he will prescribe the best treatment.
3. Skin Problems
Some French Bulldogs will also develop certain skin problems. Some of the most common skin problems in Frenchies are skin fold dermatitis, pyoderma, and canine acne.
If you notice rash, hot spots, and general distress in your dog, you should take it to the veterinarian.
If you are thinking of trying to solve your dog’s skin problems with a product like a Sudocrem, which, I believe, you have in your home, I suggest you not do this.
You can use such products with smaller cuts in your Frenchie, but, since these dogs are prone to developing skin problems, a rash or hot spots might show you some more serious issue in your dog.
So, the only safe and smart decision in these situations is to take your dog to the vet’s.
4. Eye Problems
Many French Bulldogs will have eye problems.
The Cherry eye could be one of the eye problems in French Bulldogs. It is still not known exactly why this medical condition occurs, and it involves a condition when the fibrous membranes located in the lower corner of the dog’s eye protrude from the eyelid.
This bulging mass resembles a cherry, which is how this eye disease got its name.
This condition will be quite uncomfortable for Frenchie, so he will probably scratch his eye, which can make the situation even worse.
A Cherry eye can be clearly recognized by red eyes, tears that flow excessively from the dog’s eyes, and the dog’s constant scratching.
It is possible to cure this eye disease without surgery – with a massage technique, and also with surgery.
One of the more serious eye problems in French Bulldogs are corneal ulcers, which, if left untreated, can even cause blindness.
A Frenchie can get a corneal ulcer after suffering eye trauma, or, by intense scratching the eye with a paw. It is even possible for the French Bulldog’s cornea to be damaged during bathing, for example, if too aggressive shampoos are used.
Ulcers on the dog’s cornea are treated with eye ointment and antibiotics.
Many French Bulldogs will also have dry eyes, which means they have reduced tear production. Eye problems in Frenchies can be very serious, so, if you notice any changes in your dog’s eyes, contact your veterinarian immediately.
5. Joints Issues
One final, but equally important Frenchie health fact, is related to joint issues.
Many French Bulldogs might develop joint problems, such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and Luxating patella.
How can you recognize your French Bulldog has joint problems? Pay attention to your dog’s behavior. If your dog avoids stairs and jumping, limps, and seems to be in pain after a short walk, it is very likely that your Frenchie has a certain joint issue.
One thing that can worsen your dog’s joint issues is obesity. Obese dogs have difficulty moving, and are more prone to other health issues, together with joint problems.
This is why it is so important to keep your French Bulldog on a healthy weight. You can find useful information in our article on the French Bulldog growth chart.
You should ensure your Frenchie is inside the optimal weight range in all his developmental stages.
What Is The Best Way To Take Care Of Your Frenchie’s Health?
Regular veterinarian visits are a must with all dogs, but this is even more important with dogs like French Bulldogs.
As we have seen, these adorable pooches are prone to breathing problems and overheating due to them being a brachycephalic dog breed.
You should provide your Frenchie with exercise, but, you should ensure your dog’s everyday activities will not undermine its health.
If you have had another dog breed before, one that was quite active, and enjoyed all kinds of activities, you should know Frenchies are a lot different. An everyday short walk will be great for their health, and will not deteriorate this dog’s breathing problems.
Also, you should always choose the food of top-quality for your Frenchie. This way, you will prevent obesity, and, therefore, the joint problems in your dog.
I will mention one essential thing all future French Bulldog owners should keep in mind. If you are searching for French Bulldog puppies for sale, always check thoroughly the breeder you are about to buy a dog from.
Reputable French Bulldog breeders will give you all information on your dog’s health and genetics. This is the best way to start your life with your new dog, and to know what to expect when it comes to your dog’ health.
Final Words
I hope these words on the most important French Bulldog health facts will be helpful for you.
French Bulldogs are wonderful family dogs, but they might be prone to different health issues. This should not be a reason to give up on these dogs, but rather, a motivation to educate ourselves on potential health problems in Frenchies, and their solutions.
The truth is French Bulldog might have different health issues, such as eye problems, breathing difficulties, and joint problems.
But, we can do a lot to prevent these problems with a healthy dog diet, regular exercise, and consultation with our veterinarians.
With our effort, French Bulldogs can live a long and wonderful life!