Common French bulldog health problems
French bulldogs are a beloved breed of dog that can make wonderful companions. While they certainly bring lots of joy to their owners, they also come with a few common health problems. Knowing what to look out for can help you spot health issues early, leading to better outcomes and a longer, healthier life for your French bulldog.
One of the most common conditions associated with French bulldogs is a condition called brachycephalic syndrome. This is caused by the breed’s short snout and flattened face, which can lead to an obstruction of their airways. This can cause difficulty breathing, snoring, snorting, and other breathing difficulties. If your French bulldog is showing signs of breathing difficulties, be sure to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Eye problems are also a common concern for French bulldog owners. These dogs are prone to a condition known as entropion, which is when the eyelids are reversed and the eyelashes curl inwards, causing the eyelids to rub against the eyes. This can lead to eye irritation, discharge, and even ulceration. Other eye issues in Frenchies include cherry eye, dry eye, and cataracts. If you observe any of these problems, take your Frenchie to the vet right away.
Another issue that can occur in French bulldogs is patellar luxation, a condition in which the knee cap moves out of its normal position. While it may not seem like a big deal, this condition can cause major discomfort and lameness. Early treatment and surgical correction can help alleviate your Frenchie’s discomfort.
Finally, French bulldogs are prone to spinal problems such as disk herniation, which occurs when a disk herniates and presses on the spinal cord. This may cause pain, paralysis and even incontinence. Hemivertebra, butterfly vertebra, block vertebra, transitional vertebra and other issues are also common, dogs are now able to submit spine X-rays to OFA to be scored. It is important to remember that just because they have a deformity does not mean they are going to have issues. Most Frenchies have at least 1 spine deformity and live happy healthy lives. It is important that Frenchies wear harnesses and avoid jumping on and off furniture/stairs to help reduce the risks. If your Frenchie experiences any of these symptoms, they should be examined by a vet right away.
While these issues can be daunting, they are all manageable with proper care and attention. There are also ways to curb these issues, genetic health testing, OFA testing, and family history can greatly reduce these risks. Asking a breeder for the testing on the parents and any history from the parents/grandparents can give you peace of mind. It is important for breeders to recognize the health issues the breed is dealing with and breed with care and caution to correct these issues. Personally my goal for Watercolor French Bulldogs is dogs that can breathe, run and play and even hike and just be dogs.
If you observe any changes in your French bulldog’s behavior that could signify a problem, be sure to take them to the vet as soon as possible. With love, care, and consistency, your French bulldog will reach their full potential and continue to bring joy for many years.
