If you’re thinking about getting a French Bulldog, it’s wise to have a good idea of the kind of health problems this breed can suffer from.
Today, we’re going to look at common French Bulldog health problems and how to spot and treat them.
Most French Bulldogs could suffer from more than one health problem, which could be mild to severe. Before purchasing one, you might want to do your due diligence before to avoid spending your time and finances on vet bills. Let’s take a look at some common health issues in Bulldogs.
Many French Bulldogs, like all flat-faced breeds, often have trouble breathing. The snorty, noisy breathing that they’re known for is a symptom of their breathing difficulties which are the unfortunate result of selective breeding to give them their distinct look.
BOAS is the result of a combination of abnormalities which includes an elongated soft palate, a shortened snout compressing tissue in the nose and throat and narrow nostrils. These result in several respiratory issues such as nasal congestion and breathing problems.
The only accepted fix is a surgical procedure to correct one of the issues causing the condition. This could be an operation to widen the nostrils or to remove extra tissue from an elongated soft palate.
These procedures are not without risks, although laser surgery is now available at many veterinary practices, reducing the risk and recovery time involved in these precarious surgeries.
This bacterial skin infection in French Bulldogs occurs between their skin folds when pockets of moisture are left to become irritated. Other dog breeds with folds in their skin like Shar Peis and Pugs are commonly affected by skinfold dermatitis.
The first sign of Skin Fold Dermatitis is red or smelly skin on the affected area. If you notice your Frenchie scratching, biting or rubbing the same spot on their body, then it’s worth taking a closer look.
Bacterial and viral infections are common with a French Bulldog’s skin, so it’s essential to check their coat regularly; grooming them is an excellent opportunity to do this.
Pay close attention to their tail pocket, paws and ears, all of which are spaces where infections can develop and where they’re harder to notice.
Your vet may provide you with saline water or an anti-microbial shampoo to prevent bacterial and viral infections. If you’re cleaning their paws or tail pocket, use a cotton ball and be gentle around the affected skin.
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts negatively to any number of external factors such as food, drug-related issues, and seasonal changes, which can lead to a series of chronic health problems.
Food-related allergies can be detected via several symptoms, including:
Food allergies can be detected by putting your Frenchie on an 8-10 week elimination diet to detect what ingredients upset your pooch so you can avoid buying unsuitable food in the future. Getting your dog’s blood work done can also reveal what your dog is sensitive to.
Environmental allergies can cause bacterial skin infections or oily and flaky skin, resulting in grumpy behaviour. Be sure to identify any sore, red skin and to take the time to check for ear infections.
Absolutely. French bulldog puppies are an expensive investment, so it’s important to get pet insurance for assurance that your designer dog won’t continually be costing you in vet fees.
As well as the illnesses we’ve mentioned today, Frenchies are also known to suffer from upper respiratory tract infections, hip dysplasia, and intervertebral disc disease, to name just a few complaints. It’s common sense both for your pooch and your pocket to be insured.
A lifetime insurance policy with comprehensive cover is your best option. When it comes to insurance, the cheapest is rarely the best, so take your time to ensure that the plan you choose is suitable.
A healthy French Bulldog can expect to live between 10-12 years.
The French Bulldog temperament makes them charming, loveable family dogs. However, their high price tag comes along with a host of medical issues you need to look out for.
With the right amount of preparation and a little extra work, there’s no reason why a few extra steps towards your dog’s health should keep you from joining the French bulldog club.
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