Whether you’re a new Frenchie owner, a long-time pet lover with an aging French Bulldog, or anyone in-between who is concerned about recent changes in their small furry friend, there are a variety of health issues common to French Bulldogs at every stage of their lives. We will dig into 6 of the most common health problems that many French Bulldogs experience.
6 Common Health Problems in French Bulldogs
Hip Dysplasia
A common ailment for French Bulldogs occurs when the ball and socket joint of their hips is not properly formed, which can cause a limp or make it painful to walk for your Frenchie. Oftentimes genetic, this is a condition that is degenerative over time and has no cure, though pet owners can lower their dog’s chances of developing hip dysplasia by keeping them from jumping off high objects and helping them maintain a healthy weight and diet.
Allergies
Many Frenchies suffer from allergies both environmentally and food-based, which may pose a challenge for owners. Allergies often cause itchy and watery eyes, inflammatory bowel disease, and diarrhea, and can show up at any point in their lives. Plus, given that they are a flat-faced breed, Frenchies have a greater chance of developing allergies compared to other dog breeds.
Deafness
You may notice your Frenchie becoming unresponsive to your voice or other noises, which is very common for the breed. French Bulldogs are more genetically disposed to deafness, and it is even noted that white-coated dogs are at a higher risk. Whether your dog was born deaf or it develops over their lifetime, there is currently no cure for this ailment, though your vet can help you discover ways to make living with deafness easier for you and your pup.
Cherry Eye
Unfortunately, many French Bulldogs fall victim to cherry eye, the condition that occurs when the fibrous membrane located in the inner corner of your dog’s eye detaches and becomes red and inflamed. Although the cause of this condition isn’t well known and can be very painful for your pet, it is an easily treatable ailment by almost any vet.
Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Given that French Bulldogs are a flat-faced breed, they often suffer from a condition known as brachycephalic airway syndrome, which is a respiratory disease that can lead to narrowed nostrils or an elongated soft palate. This disease often makes exercise and breathing difficult for Frenchies, and in more extreme cases, their airways may become deformed or collapse. Fortunately, keeping your pet at a reasonable weight can help this disease from progressing.
Heat Stress
Another common ailment for Frenchies comes from high temperatures and the resulting heat stress they may experience. Given the other prevalent conditions for French Bulldogs based on their genetics and build, it is often difficult for Frenchies to breathe properly and deal with warmer weather, making it easy for them to overheat.
Aside from the above conditions, there are numerous other ailments that are common in French Bulldogs, including intervertebral disc disease, ear infections, and conjunctivitis, among others. Given the unique biology of French Bulldogs and their genetic disposition to many of these diseases, as a Frenchie owner, you are often left wondering what your pet is dealing with and what can be done to treat it. If you recognize any changes in behavior or the symptoms listed above, consult with your veterinarian to discuss the best course of action to make your Frenchie healthier and more comfortable in their day-to-day activities.
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Bailey Schramm is a writer in partnership with home furniture retailer Bauhaus2Yourhouse.
