Health Issues You Should Know Before Buying a French Bulldog
Frenchies are great companion dogs and excel in obedience, agility and rally as well as being great therapy dogs.
As long as they meet the minimum requirements, they can live anyplace they want.
Unfortunately, their popularity has brought forth a lot of backyard breeders and puppy mills. This can lead to health problems for the breed.
Ears
French Bulldogs are adorable and fun-loving, making them great companion dogs. Like all breeds, French Bulldogs suffer from their own health issues. Knowing these can assist you in being a responsible pet owner and make the right decision for your family.
One of the biggest health concerns for the French Bulldog is spinal issues. They are susceptible to developing hemivertebrae. This is an incomplete vertebrae inside the spine. This condition can lead to numerous issues like weakness in the back leg muscles and fecal or urinary incontinence. Severe cases of the hemivertebra can require surgery.
Another health concern that is often overlooked is respiratory problems. They are at risk of overheating because of their short lung capacity. To avoid this happening, ensure that your French Bulldog is able to access cool places and takes frequent walks outdoors during cooler temperatures.
Skin allergies are common for this breed. These allergies can be difficult to recognize or treat and typically occur in puppies. Your veterinarian might prescribe medication to manage your dog's allergy, but this treatment is usually lifelong.
Frenchies are more susceptible to ear infections because of their smaller ear canals than normal. This means that dirt and moisture can easily get in and cause inflammation. You can stop this from happening by cleaning your dog's ear and keeping his ears clean.
Additionally, these dogs are predisposed to eye problems including cataracts. Cataracts, a cloudy formation of the lens of the eye that can cause blindness if untreated and are caused by cataracts. Keep your Frenchie's weight under control and be vigilant in screening for any eye problems he may be suffering from.
The French Bulldog is a very popular breed, but you should not buy one just because it looks good. This adorable little dog has a big personality, and you'll need to invest in training to make sure that it is well-mannered and responds to commands. A qualified trainer can help you teach your Frenchie basic agility and obedience skills, and also socialization to ensure that he is used to being around other dogs and people.
Nose
Frenchies are loyal and affectionate companions. Their love of attention makes them affectionate, fun and athletic for their size. While they may not be a good option for families with active small children, they do well with older kids and enjoy the companionship of other dogs and cats.
Frenchies as flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs are more susceptible to respiratory diseases. The ear canals of Frenchies are more narrow and prone to infection. It is important to keep their ears clean particularly after bathing or when they go outside.
Frenchies have a short skull which makes them prone to skin diseases such as dermatitis (intertrigo) interdigital demodicosis, and Pyoderma. They are also prone to luxating Patella, which can cause pain and discomfort making the kneecaps slide out of place. Breeders that are responsible for this condition will be required to have their breeding stock checked for this issue.
Like other breeds of brachycephalic, Frenchies have reduced hearing and are more sensitive to heat. They're also at risk for a variety of eye issues that include corneal dystrophy as well as cataracts.
They can also suffer from back pain as well, due to their short spines and weight increase. Herniated discs can cause stiffness and back pain in Frenchies.
All dogs can develop allergies and allergies, including Frenchies. It is essential to watch for allergy symptoms such as itching, diarrhea and breathing issues. It's also a good idea to avoid food items and environments that can cause allergies.
Because of their shortened skulls, Frenchies have a unique motion that is referred to as the "rat-like" gait. This gait is caused by the way they position their front legs when they walk. It can lead to joint problems, such as chondrodystrophic osteoarthritis. There are solutions available to prevent and manage these problems. The shortened skulls of French Bulldogs may also increase the likelihood of developing respiratory diseases. They can also suffer from several digestive problems, such as diarrhea and constipation. Additionally, they are susceptible to regurgitation following anesthesia, and could develop aspiration pneumonia.
Mouth
Frenchies as well as other brachycephalic dogs, are susceptible to respiratory diseases that cause obstruction. Their skulls and faces that are shortened compress their anatomy into smaller spaces, making it difficult for air to flow freely through the nasal and lower airways. This is also known as brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition can cause loud, labored breathing as well as difficulty swallowing. It can also affect the lungs and digestive tract.
Breathing issues can be found in French Bulldogs of any age, but are more common in puppies that are young. Select a puppy from a reputable, screened breeder to avoid any issues. They should also be able to show proof that their parents were not guilty of the condition.
The breed standard states the bite of a French Bulldog must be "well below." This means that the front teeth are supposed to protect the back teeth when the dog is at rest. When looking at puppies, bear in mind that their bites are likely to change until they're fully grown. While a bite that is cut with scissors is a fault in accordance with the standard of the breed, it is not a reliable gauge of how a French Bulldog behaves as an adult.
Due to their jaws being shortened and their underbite Frenchies are more likely to develop tartar than other breeds. Brushing your Frenchie's mouth on a regular basis with soft-bristled brushes and dog toothpaste can reduce the likelihood of developing this problem. It is also recommended to take your Frenchie to a professional cleaning every few months.
Entropion is a disorder that causes the upper or lower eyelids to roll inward. This can cause irritation, tearing corneal ulcers, and irritation. The problem can be addressed through surgery.
Despite the many health concerns associated with this wonderful breed, Frenchies are generally healthy and happy dogs. They are easy to care for and have a low rate of genetic diseases. Consider the personality of a French Bulldog as well as its appearance when picking one. You want a dog that is loyal, loving and sweet.
Eyes
Frenchies are affectionate, loving dogs that make great companions. Their devotion and unique traits have made them the most popular breed in America. However, this breed has a few specific requirements that must be considered before adopting one. This includes the requirement for adequate exercise, grooming, and eating a balanced diet. Also, because of their brachycephalic facial shape, they have a number of health issues that need to be considered.
French Bulldogs may suffer from back issues, such as intervertebral disk disease that can cause herniated disks. This is caused by a flattened neck and face, which puts pressure on the spine cord. If your dog has a back that is hunched, hurts and is unable to jump or climb stairs or coughs or whines often it is recommended that he be examined by a veterinarian.
The eyes of a French Bulldog are large and dark with an alert and curious expression. Their ears are bat-like and wide-based, which makes them look cute. They have a broad short nose, and their face is rounded, with an elongated skull. This breed has a low level of activity and can adjust to any living situation. They must not be left alone for during long periods of time as they can develop separation anxiety. This can lead to destructive behavior and excessive chewing.
The French Bulldog has modest grooming requirements. They have short coats that are smooth and single-layer. Regular brushing will help to remove hair that isn't being used and keep the coat shiny and healthy. They also require frequent baths. However drying with towels is preferred over blow-drying. It is recommended to limit their sweets and keep track of their food intake since they are prone towards weight gain. Also, they do not tolerate heat very well. Exercise should be restricted during the summer heat.
French Bulldogs come in many designs and colors, including brindle. The variations in color, referred to as Merle, feature a spotted body pattern with spots of either black or white. It is important to keep in mind that merle isn't a particular color, but rather it is a pattern. The merle gene can cause serious health issues when it crosses with other merles, so it is crucial to only purchase purebred Frenchies.
