3 Major French Bulldog Health Issues: Expert Insights by BlueHaven

Author : Lacey Max | Published On : 20 Nov 2024

Bringing a pet home can completely change your life. Their adorable nature, selfless love, and unmatched companionship bring immense joy and comfort to your daily routine, especially if you are considering French Bulldogs; you will surely make the right decision.

However, bringing a Bulldog puppy may seem easy these days, but raising a healthy and happy Frenchie needs some key information about this adorable breed. Why? Let us explain.

No matter how lovable they are, French Bulldogs are prone to specific health issues. As per a study conducted by the Royal Veterinary College, it revealed that more than 72% had at least one health condition when they examined over 2,000 French Bulldogs.

As an expert breeder, BlueHaven is here to shed light on three very common French Bulldog health issues, their symptoms, and treatments. So, if you are considering Bulldog or have one at home, this article is just for you.

French Bulldog health issues

Common French Bulldog Health Issues and How to Deal With Them

BlueHaven is one of the oldest breeders of French Bulldogs and has run a facility for quite a few years now. We have noticed some common health issues these breeds are prone to, and every pet owner should be aware of them and identify the symptoms at an early stage to raise a happy and healthy pet.

Here are three common issues:

1. Breathing Issues in French Bulldogs

Frenchi’s compact body, flat face, and small snout make them everyone’s favourite. However, these adorable features are the cause of various respiratory problems, such as BOAS, prone to heat stroke. Let’s learn how to deal with it.

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)

The most common French Bulldog health issue is brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). As per a report, “50% of all French Bulldogs exhibit clinically significant symptoms of BOAS.” In these conditions, Frenchies have minor to severe breathing trouble.

Heat Stroke

Another really common health issue for French Bulldogs is heat stroke. Did you know dogs don’t sweat like we do to cool down? They regulate their body temperature through quick, shallow breathing.

But because French Bulldogs have narrow nostrils, they can’t breathe as fast and can easily overheat. That’s why they’re prone to heat strokes if they’re out in the sun for a long time or get too much exercise.

What BlueHaven FrenchBulldogs’ Suggest

So let's check out some expert advice

Health Issuees

Symptoms

BlueHaven Expert’s Advice

BOAS

Noisy breathing

Snoring when sleeping or relaxed

Coughing and raspiness

Reverse sneezing

Keep your pup away from overheating.

Avoid overexercising.

Maintain a moderate body weight.

Do a regular vet checkup if you notice any BOAS symptoms. Ideally, every one or two years.

If your pup is severely suffering, you may have to clear his airways through surgery.

Heat Stroke

Rapid breathing

Dry, sticky gums

Seizures

Keep an eye out if your pup is panting excessively.

Set an exercise routine after consulting with a vet.

If any of the above symptoms are visible, give him a bath or place a cool towel on him.

If the symptoms are severe, admit them under medical supervision. Intravenous (IV) fluids and oxygen therapy may be required.

2. Allergies and Infections in French Bulldogs

The second most common French Bulldog health issue is various allergies and infections. The folded skin is the main culprit for these allergies, infections, and rashes. These skin problems can lead to discomfort and irritation if not addressed.

Skin Problems & Ear Infections

Sweat and bacteria easily accumulate under their folded skin and cause skin issues. Other than sweat, French Bulldogs also tend to suffer from different skin allergies due to various extreme environmental conditions and food intolerance.

The next common issue on this list is ear infections. The super-adorable bat-like folded ears are mainly responsible for this condition. The ear canals are quite narrow, so dirt and debris can easily accumulate and log into the canal easily.

Health Issuees

Symptoms

Suggestion

Skin Problems

Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing

Red and inflamed skin

Patchy fur loss

Swollen face

Regularly clean your pup’s skin and tail folds.

Do not skip grooming sessions

Keep your pups away from pollen, dust mites, grass, mould spores, and environmental allergic elements.

Ear Infections

Excessive head shaking

Scratching the ears frequently

Rubbing ear on the floor or furniture

Take him for regular grooming sessions.

If any symptom is visible, go for a vet checkup

Keep your pup clean and fresh

3. Eye Issues in French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs have adorable, large, and expressive eyes, but their unique facial structure makes them prone to several eye problems.

Here are two very common eye problems and what our experts suggests:

Problems

Symptoms

What We Suggest

Cherry Eye

Red or pink swelling in the corner of the eye.

Discomfort or frequent pawing at the eye.

Regular vet check-ups are mandatory to detect the condition early. And in extreme conditions, surgery needs to be done to reposition or remove the affected gland.

Corneal Ulcers

Squinting and redness.

Discharge from the affected eye

Eye drops or ointments prescribed by a vet for mild cases; surgery for severe cases. Keep sharp objects away, supervise when they play, and protect the eyes from injury

Final Word

French Bulldog health issues are a serious concern for many prospective pet owners. However, if you choose a reputable breeder like BlueHaven, who follow ethical breeding practices and prioritize quality over quantity, you can be sure to get a healthy pet, free from any genetic disorder, and prevent any health issues with confidence.

So, choose a breeder like us who can equip you with proper guidelines to nurture your pet properly, identify any issue before they get worse, and take necessary steps to maintain their wellbeing.