French Bulldog Health Issues: What You Need To Know

Common French Bulldog Health Problems

• Allergies
• Brachycephalic respiratory syndrome
• Cardiovascular issues
• Cataracts
• Cherry eye
• Cleft palate
• Colitis and Chronic Diarrhea
• Conjunctivitis
• Deafness
• Ear infections
• Gastroenteritis
• Heat sensitivity
• Hip dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
• Patellar luxation
• Spinal disorders

A friendly and lively breed of dog is the French Bulldog. No matter how old they are, they are also adorable. French Bulldogs often have health problems, which is sad. Many French Bulldogs suffer from one or more health conditions that commonly affect this dog breed.

If you are considering getting a French Bulldog, it is essential to be aware of some common health problems these dogs can. These health problems can range from being easy to treat to more severe issues that may require ongoing veterinary care and medication. Breeding has unfortunately resulted in genetic anomalies that can lead to health difficulties like hip dysplasia, respiratory problems, and eye and ear infections.

Why Are There So Many Health Problems With French Bulldogs?

No matter which type of French Bulldog you want to adopt- a Micro French Bulldog or a standard Frenchie- you might have to deal with some common health problems. All breed variations are prone to allergies, breathing problems, and severe disease.

The most common health problems for French Bulldogs are often caused by how they are bred. French Bulldogs have smashed-in noses and short, stubby bodies. That’s what people want in the breed. Still, it also causes many health problems that the Frenchie suffers from, like cleft palate, spinal cord deformities, and brachycephalic syndrome.

The traits that give French Bulldogs their short nose and bulky body can be passed down for many generations. That can cause health problems that are already present to become worse. A study found that 72.4% of French Bulldogs had at least one disorder common in the breed.

Before Adopting A French Bulldog, Consider These Health Issues.

Frenchies can have health issues at the same time or none. The following are some of the most prevalent French Bulldog health problems you may encounter:

1. ALLERGIES

Frenchies are prone to environmental and skin allergies. Environmental stimuli are frequently responsible for itching, scratching, and licking, which leads to skin problems. Untreated, it may result in a skin infection. Dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are common allergens that can induce an allergic reaction.

Additionally, French bulldogs may suffer from food allergies, resulting in serious digestive and nutritional disorders. Frenchies can be allergic to various foods, including chicken, lamb, wheat, and dairy products. It can make feeding time a challenge.

2. BRACHYCEPHALIC RESPIRATORY SYNDROME

Dogs with short noses often risk brachycephalic respiratory or brachycephalic airway syndrome. The French Bulldog is an example of a breed that commonly suffers from this syndrome, which affects the dog’s respiratory system.

The brachycephalic syndrome affects the respiratory system by causing narrow nostrils and problems getting enough air. It can also lead to the larynx collapsing. The syndrome can also affect other body parts because of its stress on organs.

3. CARDIOVASCULAR ISSUES

Some of the health problems common in French Bulldog breeds involve the cardiovascular system. For example, heart murmurs are common in this breed. They are when the heart makes an abnormal noise. Some murmurs are not a problem, but others can be serious if caused by another condition or an abnormality in the heart.

Another heart condition to watch for in French Bulldogs is dilated cardiomyopathy. This disorder is genetic, and it can be passed down through generations. Dilated cardiomyopathy causes the heart chambers to enlarge and makes it difficult for the heart to contract correctly. It can cause irregular heartbeats and weakened heart muscle.

4. CATARACTS

Cataracts are a common eye problem affecting many dogs, especially older ones. However, French Bulldogs are also at risk of developing cataracts, especially if they come from a line of dogs with this problem. Cataracts often develop in French Bulldogs earlier than in other breeds.

Cataracts can cause your dog’s vision to become blocked or blurry. If a severe case of cataracts isn’t treated, your dog could go blind. Surgery is the only technique to treat cataracts in dogs. It is expensive, especially if you combine the costs of a veterinary visit, anesthesia, surgery, and post-surgery medications.

5. CHERRY EYE

Cherry eye is a condition that affects many different dog breeds. Dogs have a third eyelid that helps keep their eyes healthy and clean. But if the attachment area of this eyelid is weak, the eyelid can prolapse or pop out.

Cherry eye often produces irritation and redness in the affected eyes. Also possible are swelling and increased tear production. A dog with the cherry eye may also exhibit recurrent facial scratching and bulging third eyelid tissue surrounding the cornea.

6. CLEFT PALATE

Cleft palate is a common condition in the Frenchie dog breed. It occurs when the roof of the mouth does not form correctly before birth, leaving two halves of the palate separate.

Dogs with an unresolved cleft or soft palates may experience difficulty eating, breathing, and producing mucus. Additionally, a cleft palate may damage the dog’s dentition and general health. Some cleft palates do not require surgical correction. Still, serious cases require surgical correction for the dog to eat correctly and avoid sinus problems.

7. COLITIS AND CHRONIC DIARRHEA

Due to a genetic food allergy predisposition, French Bulldogs may have gastrointestinal distress and more serious digestive conditions like colitis, persistent diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. It’s possible that French Bulldogs’ inability to digest food as effectively as other dog breeds cause them major digestive problems.

Colitis is a potentially severe illness. It causes the bowel to become inflamed, which leads to severe stomach pain and diarrhea. To help a dog with colitis, you must consult a veterinarian and find a diet that works for your pet.

8. CONJUNCTIVITIS

Conjunctivitis is more frequently known as “pink eye.”Bacteria usually cause this condition, which can easily be spotted because it causes extreme redness on the eyeball and a watery or gunky discharge.

Conjunctivitis is a condition that affects a dog’s eyes. It can be itchy, painful, and uncomfortable for the dog. It is also contagious, so that it may spread to other dogs in the home or pet owners. It may potentially result in eyesight difficulties for the dog if left untreated.

9. DEAFNESS

Some French Bulldogs have health problems like hearing loss and deafness. It can happen when they are born, or they might lose their hearing as they get older because of an illness or infection.

White Frenchies are more likely to have hearing loss or deafness than other Frenchies because of a genetic defect. Hearing issues typically appear within the first six weeks of a dog’s life. These signs include sleeping through loud noises, not responding to you calling their name, and not tilting their head to respond to sounds.

10. EAR INFECTIONS

French Bulldogs frequently experience ear infections. Because their ears are shaped differently from other breeds, the ear canals are narrower, which makes it difficult for the wax to move around and function properly. If you notice that your Frenchie has an ear infection, taking care of it as soon as possible is crucial to prevent any long-term damage.

11. GASTROENTERITIS

Gastroenteritis is another digestive problem that sometimes affects French Bulldogs. It isn’t usually as bad as colitis or inflammatory bowel disease. However, it can still cause a lot of stomach problems and discomfort for a dog.

Many dogs with short noses, like the Frenchie, commonly experience gastroenteritis. When eating, many dogs have difficulty breathing via their noses. Therefore, they will live via their mouths. This procedure causes individuals to inhale a great deal of air, resulting in excess gas in the digestive tract that causes stomach discomfort and bloating.

12. HEAT SENSITIVITY

A brachycephalic dog breed is a French Bulldog. The Frenchie’s tiny nose and short muzzle make it difficult for them to cool themselves in the summer heat. It can be a problem for the Frenchie, especially during hot summer days when they might suffer heat stroke if left in hot air for too long, even on a short walk.

It is best to walk French Bulldogs in the shade when possible. It will help them avoid getting too hot. Additionally, you should closely observe them in the heat for overheating signs, including excessive or loud panting, vomiting, or confusion.

13. HIP DYSPLASIA

French Bulldogs frequently inherit hip dysplasia due to selective breeding practices that emphasize the Frenchie’s unique body type. However, sometimes Frenchies may get hip dysplasia later in life if they’ve been injured or overweight.

This genetic condition is degenerative and will undoubtedly worsen as the dog ages. Current treatments focus on reducing the severity of the issue and addressing the related pain and inflammation. There are various surgical treatments for hip dysplasia. Still, physical therapy, joint supplements, and weight reduction are often more favorable non-invasive treatments.

14. HYPOTHYROIDISM AND HYPERTHYROIDISM

Hypothyroidism is a condition that happens when a dog doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. This hormone helps to regulate the dog’s body temperature and metabolism. A dog with hypothyroidism may gain weight, seem tired often, and get cold even in mild temperatures.

Dogs with hyperthyroidism may produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. Dogs with this illness may be hyperactive, frequently desire to drink and eat, and struggle to gain weight.

15. PATELLAR LUXATION

Patellar luxation is a condition that can cause the kneecap to slide out of place. It can cause pain and make your dog lame. Frenchies and other breeds with stubby bodies are more likely to have this condition, usually present from birth. You may not notice symptoms until the problem becomes more severe as your dog ages.

There are many different treatments for patellar luxation. Diet control, weight management, and massage therapies are some natural remedies. Corrective surgery is usually the best solution if the condition is caught early.

16. SPINAL DISORDERS

Some health problems that French Bulldogs may have to include those that affect the spine. It can cause pain, lameness, and low quality of life for the dog. These issues include intervertebral disc disease, degenerative myelopathy, and hemivertebrae.

Hemivertabrae is a condition in which the spine’s bones do not form correctly. It can lead to pain and problems with the spinal cord. Experts believe French Bulldogs are especially susceptible to this problem because of their screw-tail.

Adopt A Royal Frenchel

The Royal Frenchel is a distinct dog breed that has several morphological traits with the French Bulldog. Still, it doesn’t have the common health problems in French Bulldogs. This breed mixes the Frenchie and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Still, other breeds mixed in also contribute to its great health, trainability, and personality.

The Royal Frenchel is a great alternative to the French Bulldog. They come in different sizes, but the Micro Mini Royal Frenchel is one of the most popular. They look like French Bulldog puppies and stay small when they grow up. They also have different traits and are healthier than other breeds.:

What Makes A Royal Frenchel? Breed Traits Of The Royal Frenchel

The Royal Frenchel breed is known for being very trainable and reliable. They also have personality and intelligence, which makes them great family pets. Some other traits of this breed include:

• A Royal Frenchel may be the most loving dog you’ve ever encountered. These dogs love people and are always ready for a hug or some praise.
• Healthy: Royal Frenchels are bred with longevity in mind, living between 16 and 20 years on average!
• Intuitive: Royals are very intuitive, which makes them good service dogs. They can sense when someone needs help or needs a bit of affection.
• Confident: Most Royal Frenchels are outgoing and secure, allowing them to meet new people and dogs quickly.
• People-Pleasing: Royal Frenchels want to please the people they are close to. They desire your satisfaction with them. It makes them good service dogs because they are easy to train.

Families that adopt Royal Frenchels display some of the characteristic Royal Frenchel Traits! The members of royal families are friendly, creative, and perceptive, and they enjoy forming bonds with others.

The Royal Frenchel Health And Breeding Transparency

A Royal Frenchel is an excellent dog because it has good health. That’s why we list this breed’s health information on our website. We want you to see that a well-cared-for Royal Frenchel can live a long, healthy life without any health problems that French Bulldogs have.

Most Royal Frenchels don’t have the same health problems as French Bulldogs. Spinal problems, allergies, and digestive issues are ten times less common in Royals than in French Bulldogs.

Read more: Exploring the Health Benefits of Pets

Best Bulldog Care Kit